A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Charleston vs. Los Angeles for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Music

Should you visit Charleston or Los Angeles?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Charleston or Los Angeles, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Charleston

Charleston is a picturesque, charming, and southern coastal town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a sprawling, energetic, and dynamic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Charleston and Los Angeles: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Cons
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less active music scene
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less popular for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Charleston or Los Angeles?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Los Angeles than Charleston. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Los Angeles is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Charleston attracts visitors for its historical sights, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Los Angeles is more touristy than Charleston and is popular for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. It is also well known for Hollywood. Charleston is famous for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses.

How is Charleston different from Los Angeles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Charleston or Los Angeles?

Charleston
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Los Angeles on the map. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

Charleston is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. This city is famous for its many historic churches and plantations. The plantations are open to visit and will educate you on the city's past, which is heavily involved in slavery. You can also visit Fort Sumter National Monument by boat or take a tour of the USS Yorktown.


Is Charleston or Los Angeles Better for Theater?

Charleston
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is notable for its shows and theatre. However, Charleston is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Los Angeles. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Charleston is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Charleston or Los Angeles? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Charleston
Los Angeles

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Charleston and Los Angeles can be difficult as they are each world-class in their own way.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Charleston is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Food lovers will enjoy the city's low country classics. There are many local restaurants in town that serve southern specialties. You can also head a bit out of the town center if you want a waterfront restaurant. Local favorites include she crab soup, shrimp and grits, cornbread, and fried green tomatoes.

Many restaurants in Los Angeles have been singled out for their culinary prowess. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

Is Charleston or Los Angeles Better for Nightlife?

Charleston
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for nightlife.

Los Angeles has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Charleston. As a college town, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs around town. There's also a lively music scene. Head to the areas near the college for the most affordable and active nightlife. Popular clubs in town include Cure Night Club, Deco Nightclub, and Mynt.


Is Charleston or Los Angeles Better for Music?

Charleston
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for live music.

In Los Angeles you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

You'll find some good live music in Charleston. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Is Charleston or Los Angeles Better for Resorts?

Charleston
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is notable for its resorts. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its luxury resorts.

Los Angeles is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Charleston has a handful of resorts to choose from. The town has mostly hotels and bed and breakfasts in the downtown area, but nearby Kiawah Island has a number of nice resorts to choose from. Kiawah Island is particularly kid-friendly if you're looking for a family beach vacation. If you have a bit more money to spend and want something more residential, check out nearby Seabrook Island.

Is Charleston or Los Angeles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Charleston
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Charleston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Los Angeles has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Charleston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Charleston or Los Angeles Better for Beaches?

Charleston
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for the beach. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its beaches.

The beaches in Los Angeles are among the best in the world. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

The beaches at Charleston attract visitors from all over. The area has a number of beautiful and fun nearby beaches including Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Folly Beach is an active and quirky beach area, while Kiawah is more family-friendly. Seabrook is more residential and more expensive.

Is Charleston or Los Angeles Better for its Old Town?

Charleston
Los Angeles

Charleston is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Los Angeles does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Charleston is one of the most recognized in the world. Charleston's downtown is one of the most charming and well preserved Old Town's in the United States. It's easy to see why it's become a world class destination.

Los Angeles does not have a historic old town.

Is Charleston or Los Angeles Better for Hiking?

Charleston
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Charleston is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Los Angeles draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

Charleston is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Charleston or Los Angeles?

Charleston
Los Angeles

Both Charleston and Los Angeles are world-class shopping destinations.

Charleston is a world class destination for shoppers. The city is famous for its historic market in the center of town. Local goods, foods, and crafts are sold daily here. There are also many clothing and local shops throughout town, particularly along King Street, which has boutiques and high end outlets. Outside of town, stop by Tanger Outlet Mall if you want name brands at a discount price.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Los Angeles. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

Is Charleston or Los Angeles Better for Christmas?

Charleston
Los Angeles

Charleston is a very popular place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Los Angeles does not offer Christmas activities.

Since it has plenty to do, Charleston is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. During the Christmas season there are a number of festivals, light shows, and even a boat parade that everyone can enjoy.

Los Angeles does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Charleston or Los Angeles Better for Christmas Markets?

Charleston
Los Angeles

Charleston is a good destination for visiting Christmas markets. However, Los Angeles does not offer Christmas markets.

Visiting the Christmas markets is popular in Charleston. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.

Los Angeles does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Charleston or Los Angeles Better for Families?

Charleston
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Los Angeles is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

Charleston is a family-friendly coastal town. The city has a number of family-friendly activities like carriage rides and boat rides. There's also an aquarium, a waterfront park, and many kid-friendly museums. The nearby beaches also make it a wonderful place to visit with kids.

Is Charleston or Los Angeles Better for Couples?

Charleston
Los Angeles

Charleston and Los Angeles are both world-class to visit as a couple.

Charleston has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This beautiful city is one of the most popular wedding destinations in America. It's a very romantic setting with beautiful hotels and bed and breakfasts that are perfect for couples on their honeymoon or looking for a romantic setting.

Los Angeles is a great coastal town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

Is Charleston or Los Angeles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Charleston
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is notable for backpackers. However, Charleston is a mediocre coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Los Angeles is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

Charleston is a good destination for this activity. Hotels in the old town tend to be pricey and there isn't the backpacker community that you find in many other destinations. Still, there are a couple of hostels.


Is Charleston or Los Angeles Better for Students?

Charleston
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for students. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Los Angeles is a great destination for students. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

Plenty of students visit Charleston. The city is a college town with a young vibe that is perfect for students. There's a nice university area where you'll find cheaper places to eat and a good nightlife scene.

Is Charleston or Los Angeles Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Charleston
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Charleston is a mediocre coastal town for times when you don't have a car.

Los Angeles has a few public transit options. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

Public transit is mostly limited in Charleston. While there are some buses, you really must have a car to fully experience the entire area.

Is Charleston or Los Angeles a more walkable city?

Charleston
Los Angeles

Charleston is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Charleston is a very walkable destination. The downtown area is very walkable, but once you leave the historic heart, it's best to have a car.

Los Angeles is somewhat walkable. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.


Should I spend more time in Los Angeles or Charleston?

How long in Charleston or Los Angeles?

Both Charleston and Los Angeles have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Los Angeles has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Los Angeles than Charleston. In general, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Charleston, and 5-7 days is enough time in Los Angeles.

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

Couples should spend more time in Los Angeles than Charleston. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Los Angeles that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles than Charleston 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 Los Angeles.


  • How many days in Charleston or Los Angeles? Ideal Length of Stay
    Charleston 2-7 
    Los Angeles 5-7

One day in Charleston or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the charming coastal town of Charleston. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

When visiting Los Angeles, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Charleston or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Charleston. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This coastal town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

When visiting Los Angeles, people usually allow for lots of time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Charleston or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the quaint coastal town of Charleston. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Los Angeles, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Charleston or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the quaint destination of Charleston. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most people come for the beaches. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this coastal town.

Los Angeles is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Which place is cheaper, Los Angeles or Charleston?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Charleston is $170, while the average daily cost in Los Angeles is $258. 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 Charleston and Los Angeles in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Charleston $90
    Los Angeles $140
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Charleston $180
    Los Angeles $280
Compare Hotels in Charleston and Los Angeles

Looking for a hotel in Charleston or Los Angeles? 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 Charleston


Hotels in Los Angeles


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: Charleston Hotel Prices and Los Angeles Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Charleston $33
    Los Angeles $42

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Charleston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Charleston:

  • Private Transfer From/ to Charleston International Airport (CHS) : $50
  • Private Departure Transfer to Charleston Airport (CHS): $64
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Charleston Airport (CHS): $64
  • Charleston Airport: One-Way Transfer to Charleston: $153

Typical Local Transportation prices in Los Angeles

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Los Angeles:


  • Hotel Parking for a Day
    $22
  • Taxi to Airport
    $55

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Los Angeles

Also for Los Angeles, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • One Way Transfer: Los Angeles from /to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) : $26
  • Hollywood Private Transfer to or from Universal Studios.: $26
  • Long Beach Private Transfer to or from Los Angeles/Hollywood.: $33
  • Anaheim Resort Private Transfer to or from Hollywood.: $35
  • Private Departure Transfer to Los Angeles Airport LAX: $39
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Los Angeles Airport LAX: $39
  • San Pedro Cruise Center Private Transfer from or to Los Angeles: $47
  • Transfer in private car from Los Angeles Airport (LAX) - Los Angeles Downtown: $50
  • Los Angeles/Hollywood Private Transfer to or from San Diego.: $63
  • Private transfer from Anaheim to Los Angeles airport LAX: $67
  • Private transfer from Los Angeles airport LAX to Anheim: $67
  • Shared Airport Arrival Transfer: LAX International Airport to Anaheim, Buena Park or Garden Grove: $68

Is it cheaper to fly into Charleston or Los Angeles?

Prices for flights to both Los Angeles and Charleston 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
    Charleston $58
    Los Angeles $60
Typical Food prices in Charleston

Some typical examples of dining costs in Charleston are as follows:


  • Lunch in downtown Charleston for two
    $21
  • Breakfast
    $26

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Charleston

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

  • Charleston Sunset Blues & BBQ Dinner Cruise: $63
  • Historic Downtown Food Tour with Tastings: $75
  • Charleston Food Tour: $75
  • Southern Charm Walking Food Tour with Tastings: $85
  • Luxury Harbor Dinner Cruise: $86
  • Charleston Harbor Luxury Dinner Cruise with Live Music: $93
  • Savor the Flavors Upper King Street Food Tour: $95
  • Small Group Food Tour – Savor the Flavors: $95
  • Charleston Upper King Street Food Tour: $95
  • Charleston's Savor the Flavors of Upper King Street Walking Food Tour: $95
  • Savor the Flavors of Charleston Walking Food Tour: $95
  • Downtown Charleston Food Tour: $95

Typical Food prices in Los Angeles

For Los Angeles, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Mexican Dinner (family of 4)
    $32
  • Burritos for Two
    $15
  • Coffee and Danish
    $7.70

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Los Angeles

For Los Angeles, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Underground Donut Tour – Santa Monica (Artisan Donut Food Tour): $55
  • Downtown Los Angeles Food Tour: $75
  • Venice Beach Food Tour with Tastings: $75
  • 3-Hour Secret Food Tour: $78
  • LA Venice Beach Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $85
  • Venice Beach LA Food Tour: $89
  • West Hollywood Food Tour: $89
  • Downtown Food Tour: $89
  • Venice Beach Food Tour: $89
  • Las Angeles: Vegan African Dinner Party in Playa Del Ray: $111
  • Night Cruise in Marina del Rey with Dinner: $140
  • LA Food Tour: Exploring America’s Culinary Frontier w/ Culinary Backstreets: $175

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Charleston $22
    Los Angeles $82
Typical Entertainment prices in Charleston

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


  • Patriots Point (for 2)
    $60

Tours and Activities in Charleston

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

  • 1.5-Hour Charleston Harbor Cruise with Live Narration: $39
  • 2 Hours Shem Creek Safari Kayak Tour: $52
  • 2-Hour Guided Kayak Eco Tour in Charleston: $54
  • 2-Hour Historic Charleston Guided Walking Tour: $25
  • 2-Hours Roaring 20s Premium Cocktail Walking Tour: $110
  • 300 Years of War and Peacetime in A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • 90-Minute Charleston City Sightseeing Bus Tour : $31
  • African-American History Tour in Charleston: $45
  • Afternoon Schooner Sightseeing Dolphin Cruise on Charleston Harbor: $46
  • Behind the Scenes of Shem Creek Shrimp Walking Tour: $25
  • Boone Hall Plantation Admission & Tour with Transportation from Charleston: $78
  • Boone Hall Plantation All-Access Admission Ticket: $28

Typical Entertainment prices in Los Angeles

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Los Angeles's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Santa Monica Pier Rides (family of 4)
    $37
  • Bowling
    $13
  • Hollywood Tour for Two
    $30
  • Six Flags for 2
    $96

Tours and Activities in Los Angeles

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

  • Los Angeles Private Movie Tour: Lights Camera Distraction : $5.00
  • The Heart of Los Angeles’ Dreamland: A Self-Guide Tour in Culver City: $5.99
  • Lost Souls of Hollywood Smartphone Ghost Tour: $7.38
  • Pacific Coast Hwy (LA Santa Maria): Smartphone Audio Tour: $7.38
  • Pacific Coast Highway: a Smartphone Audio Tour between LA & Santa Maria: $7.99
  • Pacific Coast Highway Smartphone Driving Tour between LA & San Diego: $7.99
  • Hollywood: Self-Guided Driving Tour and Interactive Quiz: $7.99
  • The Sunset Strip: A self-guided audio tour of Tinseltown’s playground: $9.99
  • Downtown Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $12
  • TCL Chinese Theatre VIP Tour: $14
  • L.A. Movie Location Tour: Lights Camera Distraction: $14
  • Hollywood Celebrity and Star Homes Self-Guided Driving Tour: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Charleston $36
    Los Angeles $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Charleston

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Charleston:

  • Charleston Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Guided Pub Crawl and Haunted History Tour: $30
  • Bay Street Bastards Pub Crawl Shared Tour in Charleston : $35
  • Speakeasy Sagas - Charleston Prohibition Pub Crawl: $35
  • Speakeasy Sagas Prohibition Pub Crawl: $35
  • Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $35
  • Historic District Haunted Pub Crawl Tour: $36
  • Haunted Pub Crawl of the Market: $37
  • Wadmalaw Island Wine Tasting and Tea Garden Trip: $122
  • Charleston Winery, Brewery & Sightseeing Tour: $125

Sample the Local Flavors in Los Angeles

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Los Angeles:

  • LA Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl By US Ghost Adventures: $35
  • LA Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $40
  • Salsa Lesson and Burlesque Show: $129
  • Malibu: Vintage VW Sightseeing Tour and Wine Tasting: $199
  • From Vineyard & Coastal Wine Tasting Tour: $299
  • Santa Barbara Wine Tasting Day Tour from Los Angeles: $349


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Charleston and Los Angeles, we can see that Los Angeles is more expensive. And not only is Charleston much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Charleston would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Charleston 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 Los Angeles would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Los Angeles than you might in Charleston.

Which is Bigger, Charleston or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is bigger, and its population is about 38.2 times larger than the population of Charleston. When comparing the population of Charleston vs. Los Angeles, 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 and the activities that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Charleston or Los Angeles?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Charleston or Los Angeles in the Summer?

Both Los Angeles and Charleston during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Charleston for the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Los Angeles in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Charleston is a little warmer than Los Angeles in the summer. The daily temperature in Charleston averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Charleston. Charleston usually gets more rain in July than Los Angeles. Charleston gets 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Charleston 82°F (28°C) 
    Los Angeles 72°F (22°C)

Should I visit Charleston or Los Angeles in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Charleston and Los Angeles. Many visitors come to Charleston in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Los Angeles for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In the autumn, Charleston is around the same temperature as Los Angeles. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Charleston in October average around 67°F (19°C), and Los Angeles averages at about 64°F (18°C).

In October, Charleston usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Charleston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Charleston 67°F (19°C) 
    Los Angeles 64°F (18°C)

Should I visit Charleston or Los Angeles in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Charleston as well as Los Angeles. Most visitors come to Charleston for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

In January, Charleston is generally much colder than Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in Charleston average around 47°F (9°C), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Charleston usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Los Angeles. Charleston gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Charleston 47°F (9°C) 
    Los Angeles 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Charleston or Los Angeles in the Spring?

Both Los Angeles and Charleston are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Charleston because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Los Angeles this time of year.

Charleston is a little warmer than Los Angeles in the spring. The daily temperature in Charleston averages around 64°F (18°C) in April, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

In April, Charleston usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Charleston gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Charleston 64°F (18°C) 
    Los Angeles 61°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for Los Angeles and Charleston

Charleston Los Angeles
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 47°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Feb 50°F (10°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Mar 58°F (14°C) 4.3 inches (110 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Apr 64°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 61°F (16°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
May 72°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 63°F (17°C) 0.4 inches (10 mm)
Jun 78°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0 inches (0 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0 inches (0 mm)
Sep 76°F (25°C) 4.8 inches (121 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Oct 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.6 inches (15 mm)
Nov 58°F (15°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
Dec 51°F (10°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)


Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
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