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

Should you visit Charlotte or Memphis?

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 Memphis can help you decide which place is right for you.

Charlotte

Charlotte is a evolving, up-and-coming, and growing city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Memphis

Memphis is a laid-back, soulful, and creative city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Charlotte and Memphis: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Charlotte or Memphis?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Memphis. Although Charlotte and Memphis are about the same size, Memphis has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Memphis is very popular for its nightlife and music, while Charlotte attracts visitors for its shopping. Charlotte is famous for its banking industry and growing Uptown area. Memphis is famous for its influential music scene and its southern barbecue. It is also well known for Elvis Presley's Graceland.

How is Charlotte different from Memphis?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Memphis 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 Memphis?

Charlotte
Memphis

You'll find a number of nice museums and attractions in both Memphis 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.

Memphis is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Many attractions in town are related to the city's history in music. There is the famed Graceland as well as the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The city also has several art museums that are worth checking out.


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

Charlotte
Memphis

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Charlotte and Memphis.

Charlotte is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Memphis offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The town has grown into a foodie destination with excellent barbecue and ribs. There are many award winning barbecue joints, but you'll also find casual bars that serve nachos, pizza, and other quick bites.

Is Charlotte or Memphis Better for Nightlife?

Charlotte
Memphis

Memphis is great for its evening party scene. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Many people head to Memphis for the nightlife scene. Music is at the heart of the nightlife scene. Head to Beale Street in Memphis's downtown for the most active nightlife that usually stays open the latest. You'll also find a lot of bars and clubs in Midtown around Overton Square.

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.

Is Charlotte or Memphis Better for Music?

Charlotte
Memphis

Memphis is terrific for its music scene. However, Charlotte is not a live music destination.

Memphis has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. There are plenty of live music venues in the downtown area that you can explore. Several of the most famous include B.B. King's Blues Club, Handy Park Pavilion, and Blues City Cafe. The city is known for its influential role in several music genres including the blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll. There are also many music related museums and attractions in town like Graceland, the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music.

Charlotte is not a live music destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Charlotte or Memphis?

Charlotte
Memphis

Charlotte is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Memphis is not known for shopping.

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.

Memphis is a good destination for shopping. The city has plenty of malls and chain stores where you can grab anything you might need.

Is Charlotte or Memphis Better for Families?

Charlotte
Memphis

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either Charlotte or Memphis.

Charlotte offers lots of family activities. 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.

Memphis is a family-friendly place to visit. The town has some great activities for kids including a zoo, several museums, petting farms, and a botanical garden.

Is Charlotte or Memphis Better for Couples?

Charlotte
Memphis

Both Charlotte and Memphis are nice destinations to visit as a couple.

Charlotte is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Memphis is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy good music and southern food will enjoy a weekend here. There are many music related landmarks including Graceland and the Rock 'n' Soul Museum. Live music is very popular as well.


Is Charlotte or Memphis Better for Students?

Charlotte
Memphis

For students, both Charlotte and Memphis are nice places to visit.

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

Memphis is a good city to visit for students. The live music scene and great food options make this is a fun town for students.

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

Charlotte
Memphis

Charlotte is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Memphis is not known for its public transit.

While Charlotte offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Memphis. There is a trolley and bus system that the city operates, but a car is really helpful for getting around.

Is Charlotte or Memphis a more walkable city?

Charlotte
Memphis

Charlotte and Memphis are nice when it comes to walkability.

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

Memphis is somewhat walkable. Most of the touristy parts of town are walkable, but if you want to explore further out you'll need a car.


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

Should I spend more time in Memphis or Charlotte?

How long in Charlotte or Memphis?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Charlotte and Memphis. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Charlotte, and 2-3 days is enough time in Memphis.


  • How many days in Charlotte or Memphis? Ideal Length of Stay
    Charlotte 1-3 
    Memphis 2-3

One day in Charlotte or Memphis?

In Charlotte, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find food and museums around the city of Memphis. 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.

A weekend in Charlotte or Memphis?

In Charlotte, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Charlotte has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the creative destination of Memphis. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Charlotte or Memphis?

Charlotte is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the laid-back city of Memphis. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the live music. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Charlotte or Memphis?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Charlotte. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Charlotte. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Memphis is a popular choice for travelers. 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, Memphis 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 Memphis is $167. 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 Memphis in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Charlotte $118
    Memphis $84
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Charlotte $236
    Memphis $168
Compare Hotels in Charlotte and Memphis

Looking for a hotel in Charlotte or Memphis? 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 Memphis


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 Memphis Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Charlotte $33
    Memphis $59

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Charlotte

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

  • Charlotte Round Trip Chauffeur Driven Airport Transfer by Sedan: $150
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) to Charlotte City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $134
  • Arrival Transfer: Charlotte Douglas Airport CLT to Charlotte in Business Car: $132
  • Departure Transfer: Charlotte to Charlotte Douglas Airport CLT in Business Car: $132
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT): 1-Way Transfer to Charlotte: $99
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) to Charlotte City - Arrival Private Transfer: $67
  • Private Departure Transfer to Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT): $54

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Memphis

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

  • Guided Tour with Riverboat Cruise & Hotel Transfers: $339
  • Memphis Airport MEM to Hot Springs Resorts Round-Trip Transfer: $282
  • Memphis Airport (MEM) to Memphis City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $133
  • Private Departure Transfer to Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Memphis Airport Transfers: $60

Is it cheaper to fly into Charlotte or Memphis?

Prices for flights to both Memphis 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
    Memphis $43
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

Typical Food Prices in Memphis

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


  • Baskin Robins (for 2)
    $6.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Memphis

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

  • Taste of Downtown Memphis Food Tour: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Charlotte $43
    Memphis $45

Tours and Activities in Charlotte

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

  • 2.5 Hour Black History Van Tour-Perseverance, Power, and Progress: $59
  • 90 Minute Historic Uptown Neighborhood Segway Tour of Charlotte: $75
  • Big Bite Brew Tour in Charlotte's LoSo District: $150
  • Carolina History and Haunts Charlotte Historical Ghost Walking Tour : $27
  • Charlotte Ghost Walking Tour - Smartphone guided audio/gps Tour at your own pace: $6.75
  • Charlotte Ghost Walking Tour: Smartphone Audio & GPS Tour: $6.50
  • Charlotte Haunted Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour: $35
  • Charlotte Historic : Queen Bee City Tour: $39
  • Charlotte Historical City Tour: $45
  • Charlotte Indoor Skydiving Experience with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate: $90
  • Charlotte Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Charlotte's Only Southern Charm Haunted/True Crime Golf Cart Tour: $48

Tours and Activities in Memphis

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

  • 2.5 Hours Essence of Memphis African American History Tour: $72
  • Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure - Memphis: $44
  • Beale Street & Sun Studio: Private Half-Day Walking Tour: $160
  • Beale Street Experience Audio App Self Guided Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Beale Street Guided Walking Tour: $22
  • Best of Memphis Walking Tour: $149
  • Downtown Memphis : Ultimate Party Experience - Public: $35
  • Downtown Memphis : Ultimate Private Party Experience: $387
  • Elvis Presley's Childhood Home Sightseeing Daytrip from Memphis: $111
  • Elvis Unleashed: Private Elvis Walking Tour: $150
  • From Tupelo Elvis Presley's Upbringing Tour: $102
  • Guided Memphis City Tour with Riverboat Cruise along Mississippi River: $85

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Charlotte $20
    Memphis $26

Sample the Local Flavors in Charlotte

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

  • Charlotte Brewery Crawl Tour: $48
  • 3-Hour Brewery Crawl on 7 passenger Cart: $48
  • Original Charlotte Brewery Tour - Craft Beer Experience : $125
  • Bar Crawl on a Rollin Disco Ball Golf Cart in Charlotte: $240

Sample the Local Flavors in Memphis

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

  • Drinking Spirits with Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $27
  • Haunted Pub Crawl in Memphis: $27
  • Memphis Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $59
  • Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $62


When comparing the travel costs between Charlotte and Memphis, we can see that Charlotte is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Charlotte or Memphis?

Memphis has a larger population, and is about 9% larger than the population of Charlotte. When comparing the sizes of Charlotte and Memphis, 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 Memphis?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Charlotte or Memphis in the Summer?

Both Memphis and Charlotte are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Charlotte this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Memphis for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Charlotte is around the same temperature as Memphis in the summer. The daily temperature in Charlotte averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Memphis fluctuates around 83°F (29°C).

It's quite sunny in Memphis. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Charlotte. Charlotte usually receives less sunshine than Memphis during summer. Charlotte gets 289 hours of sunny skies, while Memphis receives 328 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Charlotte. In July, Charlotte usually receives more rain than Memphis. Charlotte gets 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Charlotte 81°F (27°C) 
    Memphis 83°F (29°C)

Should I visit Charlotte or Memphis in the Autumn?

Both Memphis and Charlotte during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Charlotte for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Memphis in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In the autumn, Charlotte is around the same temperature as Memphis. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Charlotte in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Memphis averages at about 64°F (18°C).

In Memphis, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Charlotte. In the autumn, Charlotte often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Memphis. Charlotte gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Memphis receives 240 hours of full sun.

Charlotte usually gets more rain in October than Memphis. Charlotte gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Charlotte 63°F (17°C) 
    Memphis 64°F (18°C)

Should I visit Charlotte or Memphis in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Charlotte and Memphis. Many visitors come to Charlotte in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Memphis for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Memphis can be very cold during winter. In January, Charlotte is generally a little warmer than Memphis. Daily temperatures in Charlotte average around 42°F (6°C), and Memphis fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

Charlotte usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Memphis during winter. Charlotte gets 173 hours of sunny skies, while Memphis receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Charlotte usually receives more rain than Memphis. Charlotte gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 2.4 inches (62 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Charlotte 42°F (6°C) 
    Memphis 40°F (5°C)

Should I visit Charlotte or Memphis in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Charlotte as well as Memphis. Most visitors come to Charlotte for the activities around the city during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Memphis because of the activities around the city.

Charlotte is around the same temperature as Memphis in the spring. The daily temperature in Charlotte averages around 63°F (17°C) in April, and Memphis fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Memphis. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Charlotte this time of the year. In the spring, Charlotte often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Memphis. Charlotte gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Memphis receives 254 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Memphis. Charlotte usually gets less rain in April than Memphis. Charlotte gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 4.3 inches (109 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Charlotte 63°F (17°C) 
    Memphis 64°F (18°C)

Typical Weather for Memphis and Charlotte

Charlotte Memphis
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 42°F (6°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 40°F (5°C) 2.4 inches (62 mm)
Feb 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Apr 63°F (17°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 64°F (18°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm)
May 71°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 80°F (27°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 83°F (29°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 82°F (28°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)
Nov 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
Dec 46°F (8°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)