A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Charlotte vs. Beaufort for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Charlotte or Beaufort?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Charlotte and Beaufort can help you decide which place is right for you.

Charlotte

Charlotte is a up-and-coming, growing, and evolving city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a southern, charming, and historic town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches.

Charlotte and Beaufort: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Charlotte or Beaufort?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Charlotte than Beaufort, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Charlotte is better known for its nightlife and big city activities, while Beaufort is more popular for its food, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Beaufort is more touristy than Charlotte and is popular for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes. Charlotte is well known for its banking industry and growing Uptown area. Also, Charlotte is famous for the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

How is Charlotte different from Beaufort?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Charlotte or Beaufort?

Charlotte
Beaufort

You'll find a number of notable museums and attractions in both Beaufort and Charlotte.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Charlotte. The Mint Museum is a popular place to visit, as is the Gantt Center for African American Arts. Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and sports enthusiasts will enjoy a stop at the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

Beaufort is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The town's museums highlight the region's past. There are four popular museums that you can visit - the Beaufort History Museum, Parris Island Museum, Verdier House Museum, and York W. Bailey Museum.


Is the Food Better in Charlotte or Beaufort? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Charlotte
Beaufort

Beaufort is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Beaufort has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Soak up the charming atmosphere by dining at one of the local restaurants. Many serve Lowcountry cuisine which includes She-crab soup, fried green tomatoes, shrimp burgers, and barbecue.

Charlotte offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The food scene continues to grow and change around town. You'll find the latest trendy restaurant changes regularly, but dishes often include upscale southern faire or classic American. There are also many international restaurants, particularly Mexican, Thai, and Chinese.

Is Charlotte or Beaufort Better for Nightlife?

Charlotte
Beaufort

Charlotte is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Charlotte. Head Uptown for some of the best nightlife. The city has many bars and clubs that keep things fun late into the night.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Beaufort. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.

Is Charlotte or Beaufort Better for Beaches?

Charlotte
Beaufort

Beaufort is very good for the beach. However, Charlotte is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Beaufort to enjoy the beach. The town has a nice waterfront, but you have to head about half an hour out of town for a real beach. One of the best options is Hunting Island State Park.

Charlotte is not a beach destination.


Is Charlotte or Beaufort Better for its Old Town?

Charlotte
Beaufort

Beaufort is great for its historic old town charm. However, Charlotte does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Beaufort. Historic homes, some that were built before the Civil War, offer a glimpse into the past. Beaufort is the second oldest town in South Carolina and it holds on to much of its charm and character.

Charlotte does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Charlotte or Beaufort?

Charlotte
Beaufort

If you're looking to go shopping, Charlotte and Beaufort both offer plenty of notable spots.

Charlotte has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shopping malls such as SouthPark Mall or Carolina Place offer all of the standard retailers. Concord Mills is another favorite mall in the area. Aside from the malls, there is no shortage of shopping centers around town.

Beaufort is a great destination for shopping. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Is Charlotte or Beaufort Better for Families?

Charlotte
Beaufort

Charlotte is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Charlotte is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a number of museums for kids, with one of the best being Discovery Place. It has many hands-on science based exhibits that kids will love. Another unique experience is a visit to the U.S. National Whitewater Center. Carowinds Amusement Park is also in the area as are many great parks, playgrounds, and natural areas.

Beaufort is not always a place people visit with their families. There are parks and outdoor activities in the area, but one of the best options is to head out of town to the beach.


Is Charlotte or Beaufort Better for Couples?

Charlotte
Beaufort

Beaufort is great for couples. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Beaufort is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. There are many charming and romantic spots around town as well as historic inns where you can stay. Couples will enjoy the waterfront area or exploring one of the nature parks that are nearby. There are also quaint local restaurants that make for a nice date night.

Charlotte is a nice destination for couples. There are a number of date night activities around town, particularly Uptown. You can see a show or concert at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center or hit up one of the trendy bars or restaurants. There are also sporting events and other festivals that are fun to experience.

Is Charlotte or Beaufort Better for Students?

Charlotte
Beaufort

Charlotte is a nice place to visit for students. However, Beaufort is not popular with students.

Charlotte is a good city to visit for students. There are a number of smaller colleges in town, but the biggest university is the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

Beaufort is not popular with students.

Is Charlotte or Beaufort Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Charlotte
Beaufort

Charlotte is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Charlotte has a few public transit options. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.

Public transit is quite limited in Beaufort. There is no reliable public transportation system in the area.


Is Charlotte or Beaufort a more walkable city?

Charlotte
Beaufort

Beaufort is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Beaufort is a very walkable destination. The quaint downtown is walkable and offers easy access to art galleries, restaurants, and shops.

Charlotte is somewhat walkable. The Uptown area is the most walkable part of the city.

For even more information, also check out Is Charlotte Worth Visiting? and Is Beaufort Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beaufort or Charlotte?

How long in Charlotte or Beaufort?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Charlotte and Beaufort. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charlotte than Beaufort 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 Charlotte.


  • How many days in Charlotte or Beaufort? Ideal Length of Stay
    Charlotte 1-3 
    Beaufort 1-3

One day in Charlotte or Beaufort?

The city of Charlotte offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Even though Beaufort is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beaufort has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Charlotte or Beaufort?

Charlotte is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Charlotte, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Beaufort is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Charlotte or Beaufort?

Charlotte is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Beaufort is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Charlotte or Beaufort?

Charlotte is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Beaufort 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Beaufort or Charlotte?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Charlotte is $191, while the average daily cost in Beaufort is $131. 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 Charlotte and Beaufort in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Charlotte $118
    Beaufort $100
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Charlotte $236
    Beaufort $200
Compare Hotels in Charlotte and Beaufort

Looking for a hotel in Charlotte or Beaufort? 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 Charlotte


Hotels in Beaufort


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: Charlotte Hotel Prices and Beaufort Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Charlotte $33
    Beaufort -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Charlotte

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

  • Private Departure Transfer to Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT): $54
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT): 1-Way Transfer to Charlotte: $99
  • Arrival Transfer: Charlotte Douglas Airport CLT to Charlotte in Business Car: $133
  • Departure Transfer: Charlotte to Charlotte Douglas Airport CLT in Business Car: $133
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) to Charlotte City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $136
  • Charlotte Round Trip Chauffeur Driven Airport Transfer by Sedan: $150

Is it cheaper to fly into Charlotte or Beaufort?

Prices for flights to both Beaufort and Charlotte 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
    Charlotte $46
    Beaufort $31
Typical Food Prices in Charlotte

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Charlotte:


  • Pizza at Airport
    $4.03
  • Cracker Barrel Lunch (family of 4)
    $29

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Charlotte $43
    Beaufort -

Tours and Activities in Charlotte

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Charlotte.

  • Charlotte Ghost Walking Tour: Smartphone Audio & GPS Tour: $6.50
  • Charlotte Ghost Walking Tour - Smartphone guided audio/gps Tour at your own pace: $6.75
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Charlotte by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • Self-Guided City Highlights Audio Tour: $12
  • Uptown A Self-Guided Audio Tour to the Heart of Queen City: $12
  • Uptown Funk: 1 Hour Guided Walking Tour of Charlotte: $15
  • UPTOWN FUNK: 1 Hour Guided Historical Walking Tour in Charlotte: $15
  • UPTOWN AT SUNDOWN: 1 Hour Guided Arts Walking Tour in Charlotte: $15
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Charlotte by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Charlotte Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Sea Life Charlotte Concord Aquarium Admission Ticket: $25
  • Charlottesville: Ghosts of Court Square Walking Tour: $26

Tours and Activities in Beaufort

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

  • Beaufort Tipsy Tour: $55
  • Gullah Heritage Tour: $49
  • Historic City Tour by Bus: $29
  • Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart: $40

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Charlotte $20
    Beaufort -

Sample the Local Flavors in Charlotte

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

  • 3-Hour Brewery Crawl on 7 passenger Cart: $48
  • Charlotte Brewery Crawl Tour: $48
  • Bar Crawl on a Rollin Disco Ball Golf Cart in Charlotte: $240


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

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


Which is Bigger, Charlotte or Beaufort?

Charlotte has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Charlotte and Beaufort, 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.


When is the best time to visit Charlotte or Beaufort?

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 Charlotte or Beaufort in the Summer?

Both Beaufort and Charlotte during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Charlotte this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Charlotte is around the same temperature as Beaufort. Typically, the summer temperatures in Charlotte in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Beaufort averages at about 82°F (28°C).

In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Charlotte. In the summer, Charlotte often gets more sunshine than Beaufort. Charlotte gets 289 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 267 hours of full sun.

Beaufort gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Charlotte. Charlotte usually gets less rain in July than Beaufort. Charlotte gets 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Charlotte 81°F (27°C) 
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Charlotte or Beaufort in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Charlotte and Beaufort. Many travelers come to Charlotte for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Beaufort in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Charlotte is generally cooler than Beaufort. Daily temperatures in Charlotte average around 63°F (17°C), and Beaufort fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beaufort this time of the year. In Charlotte, it's very sunny this time of the year. Charlotte usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort during autumn. Charlotte gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 223 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Charlotte usually receives around the same amount of rain as Beaufort. Charlotte gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Charlotte 63°F (17°C) 
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Charlotte or Beaufort in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Charlotte as well as Beaufort. Many visitors come to Charlotte in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Beaufort for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Charlotte is much colder than Beaufort in the winter. The daily temperature in Charlotte averages around 42°F (6°C) in January, and Beaufort fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In the winter, Charlotte often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort. Charlotte gets 173 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 176 hours of full sun.

Charlotte usually gets more rain in January than Beaufort. Charlotte gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Charlotte 42°F (6°C) 
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Charlotte or Beaufort in the Spring?

Both Beaufort and Charlotte are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Charlotte for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Charlotte is cooler than Beaufort. Typically, the spring temperatures in Charlotte in April average around 63°F (17°C), and Beaufort averages at about 67°F (19°C).

It's quite sunny in Beaufort. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Charlotte. Charlotte usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort during spring. Charlotte gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 275 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Charlotte usually receives more rain than Beaufort. Charlotte gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Charlotte 63°F (17°C) 
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Beaufort and Charlotte

Charlotte Beaufort
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 42°F (6°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Feb 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
Apr 63°F (17°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
May 71°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Nov 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Dec 46°F (8°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)