Which city is cheaper, San Diego or Boston?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Boston vs. San Diego for Attractions, Beaches, Families, and Food
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Should you visit Boston or San Diego?
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 San Diego. 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 traditional, classic, and historic classic. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.
San Diego
San Diego is a outdoorsy, idyllic, and fun-filled coastal city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for beaches, hiking, and shopping.
How is Boston different from San Diego?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Is Boston or San Diego better for Museums and Historical Sights?
Both Boston and San Diego have interesting landmarks and museums for visitors.
Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Boston that are not to be missed. 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.
Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around San Diego. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.
Is Boston or San Diego better for Food?
Dining out in both Boston and San Diego can be an enjoyable experience.
With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Boston makes for a great culinary experience. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans.
San Diego has a delicious food scene that relies on local flavors. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.
Is Boston or San Diego better for Nightlife?
Evening events are similar in both Boston and San Diego.
Boston has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events.
Many people head to San Diego for the nightlife scene. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues.
Is Boston or San Diego better for Music?
Both Boston and San Diego offer a variety of live music venues.
You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Boston. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.
The music scene in San Diego draws a good crowd. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.
Is Boston or San Diego better for Beaches?
San Diego provides a better beach experience than Boston.
San Diego offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Popular beaches include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.
You can check out the beach in Boston. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.
Is Boston or San Diego better for Shopping?
Both Boston and San Diego are good shopping destinations.
Boston is a great destination for shopping. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops.
Shopping is a popular activity when visiting San Diego. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping.
Is Boston or San Diego better for Families?
Both Boston and San Diego are family-friendly destinations.
Boston is a very family-friendly place to visit. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the history, gardens, and parks around town.
With a huge array of activities for kids, San Diego is very family-friendly. It has a number of kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more.
Is Boston or San Diego better for Couples?
Boston and San Diego both fun destinations for a couple.
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.
San Diego makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.
Is Boston or San Diego better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Both Boston and San Diego are popular destinations for backpackers.
Boston is a good classic to visit for backpackers. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.
It's common for backpackers to visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.
Is Boston or San Diego better for Students?
Boston and San Diego are both good destinations for students and younger travelers.
Boston is a very popular place to visit for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT.
San Diego is a very popular place to visit for students. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego.
Is Boston or San Diego better for Public Transit?
While San Diego and Boston both provide public transit, overall the system in Boston is considered to be better.
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 mostly limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around.
Is Boston or San Diego a more walkable city?
Boston is generally more walkable than San Diego.
It is easy to get around Boston on foot. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.
San Diego is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.
Boston and San Diego: Pros and Cons
Boston
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Good music scene
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Good public transit
- Very walkable
- Big city activities
- Less attractive beach
San Diego
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Good music scene
- Popular beach
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Public transit not as usable
- Less walkable
Should I spend more time in San Diego or Boston?
How long in Boston or San Diego?
In either Boston or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. You can fill a similar amount of time in either place.
The ideal length of time for a trip to Boston is 3-5 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to San Diego is 3-5 days.
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How many days in Boston or San Diego? Ideal Length of StayBoston 3-5San Diego 3-5
One day in Boston or San Diego?
People visit Boston because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.
Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the destination of San Diego. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.
A weekend in Boston or San Diego?
People visit Boston because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This classic offers a variety of activities to choose from.
San Diego is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.
Five days in Boston or San Diego?
People visit Boston because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this classic makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this classic has to offer.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Diego. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.
A week in Boston or San Diego?
Boston is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.
Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fun-filled destination of San Diego. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayBoston $203San Diego $161
The average daily cost (per person) in Boston is $203, while the average daily cost in San Diego is $161. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Boston and San Diego in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personBoston $132San Diego $91
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomBoston $264San Diego $182
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Boston $28San Diego $19
Typical Local Transportation prices in Boston
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Boston are as follows:
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Taxi$35
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Subway Daily Pass$9.00
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Boston
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Boston:
- Private transfer: Boston to Boston Airport (BOS): $622
- Private transfer: Boston Airport (BOS) to Boston: $622
- Boston’s Logan International Airport to Providence - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $361
- Boston Airport Transfer Arrival And Departure: $340
- Round trip Airport Transfer: Logan - Boston: $181
- Boston’s Logan International Airport to Providence – Arrival Private Transfer: $180
- Boston Airport Private Sedan Transfer: $143
- Boston Logan Airport (BOS) to Boston - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $142
- Round trip transfer in private vehicle from Boston city -to Boston Airport (BOS): $138
- Private Boston Transfer: Cruise Port to Airport or Hotel: $136
- Private Boston Transfer: Airport to Hotel or Cruise Port: $136
- Private arrival OR departure transfer in Boston (hotel OR airport pick-up): $132
Hired Cars and Shuttles in San Diego
Also for San Diego, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Private Airport Transfer: from San Diego to San Diego Int. Airport (SAN): $35
- Private Departure Transfer from San Diego to SAN San Diego Airport: $46
- Private Airport Transfer: San Diego International Airport (SAN) to San Diego: $46
- Private Arrival Transfer from San Diego Airport SAN: $48
- Private Departure Transfer to San Diego Airport SAN: $48
- Private Arrival Transfer from SAN San Diego Airport to San Diego City: $49
- San Diego Airport (SAN) to San Diego hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $60
- San Diego hotel/address to San Diego Airport (SAN) - Departure Private Transfer: $60
- Transfer from San Diego International Airport to San Diego: $62
- Departure Private Transfer San Diego to San Diego Airport SAN in Business Car: $63
- Private Airport Transfer San Deigo Arrival And Departure: $67
- Private Airport Transfer: Hotel to and from San Diego International Airport: $70
Is it cheaper to fly into Boston or San Diego?
Prices for flights to both San Diego 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
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Food Meals for one dayBoston $40San Diego $36
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Boston
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Boston.
- Boston's North End "Little Italy" Pizza, Cannoli, and Freedom Trail Walking Tour: $49
- Boston's North End Small-Group Walking Food Tour: $71
- Fenway Neighborhood Food Tour (Boston): $79
- Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on Boston Harbor: $81
- Private Tour: Secret Food Tours Boston North End: $103
- Spirit of Boston Sunset Dinner Cruise with Buffet: $105
- Boston Odyssey Dinner Cruise: $118
- Lunch or Dinner Cruise on the Odyssey: $122
- North End Neighborhood Food Tour: $150
Typical Food prices in San Diego
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to San Diego:
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Mexican Lunch for Two$27
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Breakfast at Starbucks$20
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in San Diego
For San Diego, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- San Diego North Park Food Tour: $49
- Liberty Station Food Tour: $49
- Market and Guacamole Cooking Class in Tijuana Mexico: $89
- Private Cooking Demonstration of Indian Fusion Cuisine in San Diego: $96
- Farmers Market Tour & Social Cooking With A Chef: $100
- San Diego Harbor Dinner Cruise: $111
- Private Tour: Secret Food Tours San Diego: $129
- Secret Food Tours San Diego w/ Private Tour Option: $277
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Boston $26San Diego $38
Typical Entertainment prices in Boston
Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Boston are as follows:
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Two Tickets to Celtics Game$101
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Duck Tour$32
Tours and Activities in Boston
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Boston are as follows:
- 2-Day Trip Philadelphia City Tour from Boston: $519
- 6-Day Economy East Coast Tour ( Boston Departure) ( BOAP6E): $448
- 6-Day Economy East Coast Tour (Boston departure)(BO6E): $448
- 6-Day Tour East Coast Tour ( Boston Departure) ( BOAP6D): $560
- 6-Day Tour East Coast Tour (Boston Departure)(BO6): $560
- 6-Day U.S East Coast Tour (Boston departure) BO6U: $560
- 7-Days Tour US east coast and Canada tour (Boston Departure) (BO7C): $706
- Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure: Boston Harbor: $44
- Beer Tour: $80
- Best of Boston Tour - Private Safe Tour: $185
- Boston Back Bay Tourist Scavenger Hunt: $36
- Boston Chocolate Tours w/ Private Tour Option: $204
Typical Entertainment prices in San Diego
For San Diego, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:
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San Diego Zoo$15
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Sea World Parking$12
Tours and Activities in San Diego
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for San Diego.
- La Jolla: Explore California's Riviera on a self-guided audio tour: $5.40
- La Jolla: Ultimate Self-Guided Combo Tour: $12
- San Diego Zoo Hunt: Roar with Rex Adventure at the San Diego Zoo: $12
- San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter Historic True Crime Tour: $16
- San Diego Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
- San Diego Balboa Park Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
- Behind-the-Scenes at Petco Park Tour: $23
- San Diego Gaslamp District Ghost Tour: $24
- Ghost-Themed Walking Tour: $25
- Skip-the-Line: USS Midway Museum Entry Ticket: $26
- San Diego Harbor Cruise: $28
- Tijuana Walking Tour from San Diego: $28
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
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayBoston $22San Diego $17
Sample the Local Flavors in Boston
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Boston:
- Haunted Boston Ghost and Pub Walking Tour: $27
- Historic Pub Crawl Tour along the Freedom Trail: $56
- Sip of Boston Guided Brewery Tour: $90
Sample the Local Flavors in San Diego
Also in San Diego, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
- San Diego Bar Hunt: Slammin' San Diego Bar Crawl: $12
- Wine Tasting Or Beer Tasting: $15
- San Diego Brewery Tour: $85
- San Diego Micro Brewery Tour: $91
- The San Diego Downtown Craft Brewery Tour: $95
- The San Diego Downtown Craft Brewery Tour: $101
- Private San Diego Brewery Tour: $107
- All inclusive brewery tour-Fire Truck: $189
- Luxury Private Wine Tasting Tour to Guadalupe Valley from San Diego.: $249
- Private Wine Tour of Temecula from San Diego: $475
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Boston and San Diego, we can see that Boston is more expensive. And not only is San Diego much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to San Diego would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in San Diego 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 San Diego.
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