Which place is cheaper, Lancaster or Chicago?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
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 Chicago and Lancaster can help you decide which place is right for you.
Chicago is a vibrant, multicultural, and edgey city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.
Lancaster is a picturesque, scenic, and traditional town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.
Tourists will generally find more to do in Chicago than Lancaster. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Chicago is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Lancaster attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Chicago is more touristy than Lancaster and is popular for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile. It is also well known for The Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower). Lancaster is famous for its history and long running Amish community.
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lancaster and Chicago. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Lancaster is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.
With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Chicago has many famous sights for visitors. There are countless landmarks, museums, and iconic sights in the area. Some of the most famous are the Art Institute of Chicago, Adler Planetarium, and the Museum of Science and Industry. Notable landmarks include the famous Willis Tower - formerly the Sears Tower, Buckingham Fountain, and the iconic Cloud Gate (the bean).
You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Lancaster. Filled with history and local culture, there are many educational opportunities in the area where you can learn about Amish traditions. The Amish Village has tours and unique experiences. The town also has James Buchanan's Wheatland, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, the National Toy Train Museum, the Ephrata Cloister, and the National Watch & Clock Museum, among many others.
Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Lancaster is not a theatre destination.
Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in Chicago. Theater is big here with many of the major Broadway productions visiting the city. There is also an endless list of smaller, local theaters to choose from.
Lancaster is not a theatre destination.
Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Lancaster is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.
Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Chicago is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. With everything from award-winning luxury restaurants to local dives, this city has something for everyone. It also has very distinct local flavors and dishes that create an identity and bring great pride to the locals. While you're in town you have to try the famous deep dish pizza, Chicago style hot dogs, and Italian beef.
Lancaster offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You can sample authentic Pennsylvania Dutch dishes at one of the Amish restaurants in the area. Many places serve food family-style and dishes include chicken pot pie, ham balls, and pork and sauerkraut. Whoopie pies also originated in the area.
Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. However, Lancaster is not known for nightlife.
Chicago has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It has a wide range of activities at night, with everything from theater and comedy clubs to dance venues, sporting events, and local bars. It's easy to fill many evenings with whatever activity appeals to you. Popular bars and clubs include the Smart Bar, Beauty Bar, and Le Nocturne.
Most people don't head to Lancaster specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town, but you'll still find local pubs and cozy bars where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back atmosphere.
Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Lancaster is not a live music destination.
Chicago has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.
Lancaster is not a live music destination.
Chicago is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Lancaster is not a beach destination.
Chicago has a beach worth visiting. While you don't immediately think of beaches when you think of Chicago, there are some nice beaches by the lake. If the weather is nice, it's a great area to spend some time.
Lancaster is not a beach destination.
Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Lancaster is not as popular, but is still a nice town for shopping.
Many people travel to Chicago specifically to go shopping. There are countless neighborhoods that are filled with boutiques, local vendors, and art galleries. The city has some of the country's best shopping opportunities, and the most notable area is the famous Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile.
Lancaster is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Many visitors pick up hand-crafted Amish items while they're in town. Furniture and Amish quilts are particularly popular. Farmers markets and antique shopping are both unique in the area and there are also art galleries and several outlet stores that you can visit.
Chicago is a great city for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Lancaster does not offer Christmas activities.
Chicago is a very popular destination during Christmas. There's a number of seasonal celebrations, ice skating, and excellent shopping.
Lancaster does not offer Christmas activities.
Chicago is a nice place to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Lancaster does not offer Christmas markets.
Chicago has Christmas markets worth visiting. Shopping is a highlight of a trip to the city, and the Christkindlmarkt is not to be missed.
Lancaster does not offer Christmas markets.
Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Lancaster is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.
Chicago is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. The city has a large number of activities for kids, including zoos, Shedd Aquarium, impressive children's museums, and large and elaborate playgrounds in Millennium Park. It's easy to keep kids entertained in this very kid-focused city.
Lancaster is a very family-friendly place to visit. In you area you'll find farms and petting zoos, amusement parks, and train rides. They can learn about a unique lifestyle at the Amish Experience or soak up the local beauty and farmland in the surrounding countryside.
Lancaster is a great destination for couples. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.
Couples visit Lancaster frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This region is known for it's local beauty and serene farmland, making it a relaxing and peaceful destination for couples. There are walking trails, outdoor activities, buggy rides, and a variety of dining experiences. You can also stay at a bed and breakfast or local inn.
Chicago is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy exploring the city's vibrant theater scene and diverse neighborhoods. There are many varied restaurants and entertainment options that make for a great date night. There are also sporting events, parks, and gardens where couples can explore.
Chicago is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lancaster is not known for backpackers.
It's common for backpackers to visit Chicago. The city doesn't have a huge backpacker vibe, but it does have a number of hostels that help keep costs in check.
Lancaster is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's often overlooked by backpackers, the region offers a unique cultural experience.
Chicago is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Lancaster is not popular with students.
Chicago is a great destination for students. The city has a large number of universities that bring in students from around the country and around the globe. It's a huge international city with economic ties and many opportunities connected to the universities.
Lancaster is not popular with students.
Chicago is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Lancaster is not known for its public transit.
Public transit in Chicago is top-notch. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.
Public transit is generally limited in Lancaster. The city has buses and several transportation options, but once you're outside of the urban core, your options are limited.
Chicago is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Lancaster is not known for its walkability.
Chicago is a very walkable destination. The city has many restaurants, sights, and hotels that are easily accessible on foot.
Lancaster is generally not very walkable. While the city itself has walkable areas, most visitors want to get out and explore the countryside, which requires a car.
For even more information, also check out Is Chicago Worth Visiting? and Is Lancaster Worth Visiting?.
Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chicago and Lancaster. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Chicago than in Lancaster. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Chicago, and 2-3 days is enough time in Lancaster.
Families should spend more time in Chicago than Lancaster. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Chicago, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Chicago than Lancaster. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Chicago that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chicago than Lancaster 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 Chicago.
People visit Chicago because there is so much to do. 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.
In Lancaster, you'll find museums and food. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.
People visit Chicago because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.
In Lancaster, 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 Lancaster has to offer.
People visit Chicago because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.
Lancaster 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.
Chicago 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.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lancaster. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Lancaster. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
The average daily cost (per person) in Chicago is $288, while the average daily cost in Lancaster is $183. 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 Chicago and Lancaster in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Chicago or Lancaster? 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.
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.
Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Chicago:
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Chicago:
Prices for flights to both Lancaster and Chicago 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.
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Chicago:
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Chicago.
For Lancaster, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
Here are a few typical costs in Chicago for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:
Here are a few actual costs in Chicago for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Lancaster.
For more ideas for your next trip, check out The Best Free Things to Do in Chicago, Chicago Bucket List: The Best Places to See, and The Best Museums in Chicago.
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Chicago:
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Lancaster:
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chicago and Lancaster, we can see that Chicago is more expensive. And not only is Lancaster much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lancaster would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lancaster 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 Chicago would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chicago than you might in Lancaster.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Chicago Expensive? and Is Lancaster Expensive?.
Chicago has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Lancaster. When comparing the sizes of Chicago and Lancaster, 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.
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.
Both Lancaster and Chicago during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Chicago this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lancaster for the family-friendly experiences.
Chicago is around the same temperature as Lancaster in the summer. The daily temperature in Chicago averages around 77°F (25°C) in July, and Lancaster fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).
In Lancaster, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Chicago. In the summer, Chicago often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lancaster. Chicago gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 310 hours of full sun.
It rains a lot this time of the year in Chicago. Chicago usually gets more rain in July than Lancaster. Chicago gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain this time of the year.
The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Chicago and Lancaster. Many travelers come to Chicago for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Lancaster in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.
In the autumn, Chicago is around the same temperature as Lancaster. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chicago in October average around 56°F (14°C), and Lancaster averages at about 56°F (13°C).
Chicago usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lancaster during autumn. Chicago gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.
In October, Chicago usually receives less rain than Lancaster. Chicago gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.
The winter brings many poeple to Chicago as well as Lancaster. Many visitors come to Chicago in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Lancaster for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.
Lancaster can be very cold during winter. Chicago can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Chicago is generally much colder than Lancaster. Daily temperatures in Chicago average around 25°F (-4°C), and Lancaster fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).
In the winter, Chicago often gets less sunshine than Lancaster. Chicago gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 153 hours of full sun.
Chicago usually gets less rain in January than Lancaster. Chicago gets 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.
Both Lancaster and Chicago are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Chicago for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Lancaster because of the natural beauty.
Chicago is around the same temperature as Lancaster in the spring. The daily temperature in Chicago averages around 52°F (11°C) in April, and Lancaster fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).
It's quite sunny in Lancaster. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chicago. Chicago usually receives less sunshine than Lancaster during spring. Chicago gets 218 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 237 hours of full sun in the spring.
It's quite rainy in Chicago. In April, Chicago usually receives more rain than Lancaster. Chicago gets 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the spring.
Chicago | Lancaster | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 25°F (-4°C) | 1.9 inches (47 mm) | 30°F (-1°C) | 2.8 inches (72 mm) |
Feb | 29°F (-2°C) | 1.4 inches (35 mm) | 33°F (0°C) | 2.9 inches (75 mm) |
Mar | 41°F (5°C) | 3.7 inches (93 mm) | 42°F (6°C) | 3.3 inches (83 mm) |
Apr | 52°F (11°C) | 4.3 inches (108 mm) | 53°F (12°C) | 3.2 inches (82 mm) |
May | 63°F (17°C) | 3 inches (75 mm) | 63°F (17°C) | 4.3 inches (108 mm) |
Jun | 73°F (23°C) | 3.9 inches (100 mm) | 72°F (22°C) | 3.9 inches (98 mm) |
Jul | 77°F (25°C) | 3.9 inches (100 mm) | 77°F (25°C) | 3.6 inches (91 mm) |
Aug | 76°F (24°C) | 3.5 inches (90 mm) | 75°F (24°C) | 3.3 inches (84 mm) |
Sep | 68°F (20°C) | 3.8 inches (96 mm) | 68°F (20°C) | 3.5 inches (89 mm) |
Oct | 56°F (14°C) | 2.2 inches (56 mm) | 56°F (13°C) | 2.9 inches (75 mm) |
Nov | 44°F (7°C) | 2.2 inches (56 mm) | 46°F (8°C) | 3.5 inches (90 mm) |
Dec | 31°F (-1°C) | 2.8 inches (71 mm) | 35°F (2°C) | 3.2 inches (82 mm) |