A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Boston vs. El Paso for Attractions, Families, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Boston or El Paso?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Boston and El Paso. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Boston

Boston is a proud, loyal, and historic city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Boston is a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater. See Boston travel costs.

El Paso

El Paso is a laid-back, low-key, and undiscovered city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See El Paso travel costs.

Boston and El Paso: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Freedom Trail
Pros
  • Active nightlife
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Boston or El Paso?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Boston. Although Boston and El Paso are roughly the same size, Boston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Boston is more touristy than El Paso and is popular for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also home to The Freedom Trail. El Paso is popular for its Spanish missions and its outstanding Mexican food.

How is Boston different from El Paso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between El Paso and Boston. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Boston or El Paso?

Boston
El Paso

Boston is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Boston from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

El Paso offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Visitors can learn about local art, culture, and history at the El Paso Museum of Art, the El Paso Museum of History, the 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss Museum, and the Eduardo Pedregón Memorial Veterans Museum.


Is Boston or El Paso Better for Theater?

Boston
El Paso

Boston is a very popular place for theatre. However, El Paso is not a theatre destination.

Boston has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

El Paso is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Boston or El Paso? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Boston
El Paso

Boston is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Boston. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in El Paso. Mexican food and barbecue are popular around town but you'll also find burgers, pizza, and other American favorites.

Is Boston or El Paso Better for Nightlife?

Boston
El Paso

Boston is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Boston has a large number of nightlife venues. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

El Paso has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are a number of bars, nightclubs, and lounges around town where you can enjoy a fun night out.


Is Boston or El Paso Better for Music?

Boston
El Paso

Boston is very good for live music. However, El Paso is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Boston. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

El Paso is not a live music destination.

Is Boston or El Paso Better for Beaches?

Boston
El Paso

Boston is a decent place to visit for its beaches. However, El Paso is not a beach destination.

Boston is a good spot to see the beach. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

El Paso is not a beach destination.

Is Boston or El Paso Better for its Old Town?

Boston
El Paso

Boston is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, El Paso does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Boston offers plenty to see. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

El Paso does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Boston or El Paso?

Boston
El Paso

Both Boston and El Paso are good shopping destinations.

Boston is a great destination for shopping. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting El Paso. There are a number of malls and outlet centers around town. One of the most well known is Bassett Place, but other options include Cielo Vista Mall and the Fountains at Farah.

Is Boston or El Paso Better for Christmas?

Boston
El Paso

Boston is a very popular place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, El Paso does not offer Christmas activities.

Since it has plenty to do, Boston is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

El Paso does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Boston or El Paso Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston
El Paso

Boston is a very popular place for visiting Christmas markets. However, El Paso does not offer Christmas markets.

Boston has a large number of Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

El Paso does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Boston or El Paso More Beautiful?

Boston
El Paso

Boston is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, El Paso is not a destination known for its beauty.

Boston is a gorgeous place to visit. The history, architecture, and world renowned university campuses all give this city its unique beauty.

El Paso is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Boston or El Paso Better for Families?

Boston
El Paso

Boston is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Boston is one of the most popular family destinations. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in El Paso. There are adventure parks, playgrounds, outdoor centers and nature activities that families can enjoy.

Is Boston or El Paso Better for Couples?

Boston
El Paso

Boston is very good for romance. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Boston is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Most people don't think of El Paso as a couple's destination. Couples can enjoy dinner and a show or taking a romantic drive up to the overlook.


Is Boston or El Paso Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boston
El Paso

Boston is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Boston is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

El Paso is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's little in the area that appeals to backpackers.

Is Boston or El Paso Better for Students?

Boston
El Paso

Boston is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, El Paso is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Boston. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

El Paso is not popular with students.

Is Boston or El Paso Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Boston
El Paso

Boston is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Visitors in Boston can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Public transit is generally limited in El Paso. While there are some bus routes in town, you shouldn't rely on them and must have a private vehicle to efficiently visit the city.


Is Boston or El Paso a more walkable city?

Boston
El Paso

Boston is an unbeatable place for its walkability. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Boston. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

El Paso is generally not very walkable. You really need a car to get around town.

For even more information, also check out Is Boston Worth Visiting? and Is El Paso Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in El Paso or Boston?

How long in Boston or El Paso?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Boston or El Paso to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Boston than El Paso because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Boston, and 1-2 days is enough time in El Paso.

Families should spend more time in Boston than El Paso. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Boston, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Boston than El Paso. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Boston that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boston than El Paso if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Boston.


  • How many days in Boston or El Paso? Ideal Length of Stay
    Boston 3-5 
    El Paso 1-2

One day in Boston or El Paso?

Because Boston is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of El Paso. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Boston or El Paso?

Because Boston is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

El Paso is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Boston or El Paso?

Boston is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Boston has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in El Paso. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Boston or El Paso?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boston. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Boston. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the laid-back destination of El Paso. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, El Paso or Boston?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Boston Prices
    USA Prices
    El Paso Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Boston $291
    El Paso $200

The average daily cost (per person) in Boston is $291, while the average daily cost in El Paso is $200. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Boston and El Paso in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Boston $166
    El Paso $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Boston $332
    El Paso $162
Compare Hotels in Boston and El Paso

Looking for a hotel in Boston or El Paso? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Boston


Hotels in El Paso


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Boston Hotel Prices and El Paso Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Boston $37
    El Paso $37
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Boston

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Boston are as follows:


  • Taxi
    $35
  • Subway Daily Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Boston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Boston:

  • Round Trip Private Transfer Boston Airport BOS to Boston Downtown: $83
  • Private Transfer: between Manhattan and Boston: $976
  • Private Transfer from Boston to Flynn Cruiseport Boston: $114
  • Private Transfer from Boston City Hotels to Newport Cruise Port: $86
  • Private Transfer between Boston Logan Airport and Boston City: $150
  • Private Transfer Boston Airport BOS to Boston by Business or Luxury Vehicle: $122
  • Private Transfer Boston Airport BOS to Boston Downtown: $42
  • Private Departure Transfer to Boston Airport BOS: $28
  • Limo Private Transfer Logan International Airport to Boston: $160
  • Limo Private Transfer Boston to Logan International Airport : $160
  • Flynn Cruiseport Private Transfer to Boston: $676
  • Flynn Cruiseport Boston to Boston city Arrival Private Transfer: $114

Hired Cars and Shuttles in El Paso

Also for El Paso, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • El Paso International Airport (ELP) to El Paso - Arrival Private Transfer : $40
  • El Paso to El Paso International Airport (ELP) - Departure Private Transfer: $40
  • El Paso International Airport (ELP) to El Paso - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $80
  • El Paso Airport (ELP) to Truth or Consequences Arrival Transfer: $118
  • El Paso Airport to Truth or Consequences Round Trip Transfer: $235

Is it cheaper to fly into Boston or El Paso?

Prices for flights to both El Paso and Boston change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Boston $86
    El Paso $93

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Boston

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Boston.

  • AM Coffee Walks with Salem Food Tours: $34
  • Boston's North End Pizza & History Walking Food Tour: $55
  • North End Pizza Walking Tour with 3 Slices & Cannoli: $55
  • Pizza Beer and Paul Revere Tour: $60
  • North End Food Experience with Pizza, Meats & Cheese: $68
  • Boston's North End Small Group Food Tour : $69
  • Union Square, Somerville Neighborhood Food Tour: $100
  • Devour North End Guided Food Tour & Market Visit: $109
  • Ultimate Food Tour of North End & Public Market: $109
  • Local Gems of the South End Neighborhood Food Tour: $110
  • Boston Food Tour: Food and Cultural Tour of Boston's Chinatown: $115
  • Boston Food Tour: Local Gems of Boston's South End: $115

Typical Food Prices in El Paso

For El Paso, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Rudy's BBQ (family of 4)
    $40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Boston $33
    El Paso $27
Typical Entertainment Prices in Boston

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Boston are as follows:


  • Two Tickets to Celtics Game
    $101
  • Duck Tour
    $32

Tours and Activities in Boston

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Boston are as follows:

  • Boston Massachusetts Private Photography Tour: $130
  • "Ghosts of Boston" Walking Ghost Tour: $25
  • "Witch Trials" Walking Tour in Salem: $25
  • 1 If By Land Walking Tours: $45
  • 1 If By Land Walking Tours: History Walking Tour of Boston: $45
  • 1 or 2 Day Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Trolley Tour of Boston: $48
  • 1692 Salem Day Tour: $32
  • 1692 Salem Night Walking Tour: $32
  • 2 Hour Boston Historical and Heritage Walking Tour: $5.00
  • 2 Hour North End 'Little Italy' Walking Tour : $35
  • 2-Hour Beacon Hill True Crime Expert Guided Tour: $35
  • 2.5-Hour Salem History & Sightseeing Guided Walking Tour: $40

Tours and Activities in El Paso

For El Paso, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Sun City Ghosts Haunted Cowboys and Outlaws Tour: $20
  • El Paso Prowl Amazing Race & Tour: $24
  • Sun City Ghost Walking Tour: $32
  • Pikes Peak Tour: $110
  • Colorado Springs: Pikes Peak Jeep Tour: $115
  • Downtown Historic Walking Tour: $120
  • Jeep Tour - Pikes Peak or Bust: $190
  • UTV Adventure Tour / Rental: $249

For more ideas for your next trip, check out Free Things to Do in Boston, Must-See Monuments and Memorials In Boston, and The Best Things To Do in Boston with Kids.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Boston $27
    El Paso $27

Sample the Local Flavors in Boston

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Boston:

  • Boston Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl : $23
  • Salem Booze and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl by US Ghost Adventures: $28
  • Haunted Pub Crawl of Historic Pubs and Taverns: $30
  • Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • History Pub Crawl Tour Along the Freedom Trail: $59
  • Boston Small-Group Freedom Trail History Tour Pub Crawl: $60
  • Freedom Trail: History Tour & Brewery Taste: $70
  • Freedom Trail History Tour & Brewery Taste: $70
  • Guided Craft Brewery Tour with a Snack: $105


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Boston and El Paso, we can see that Boston is more expensive. And not only is El Paso much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to El Paso would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in El Paso and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Boston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boston than you might in El Paso.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Boston Expensive? and Is El Paso Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Boston or El Paso?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 5% larger than the population of El Paso. When comparing the sizes of Boston and El Paso, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.