A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Clearwater vs. Cleveland for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Clearwater or Cleveland?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Clearwater and Cleveland. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Clearwater

Clearwater is a beautiful, outdoorsy, and adventure-filled coastal city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Cleveland

Cleveland is a under-rated, diverse, and authentic city. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and shopping.

Clearwater and Cleveland: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Clearwater or Cleveland?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Clearwater than Cleveland. While Cleveland is larger than Clearwater, Clearwater has more sights and attractions for tourists. Clearwater is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Cleveland is known for its music. Clearwater is more touristy than Cleveland and is popular for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. It is also home to Clearwater Beach. Cleveland is popular for being the home to "rock 'n roll" as well as its friendly and hard working people.

How is Clearwater different from Cleveland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Clearwater or Cleveland?

Clearwater
Cleveland

Both Clearwater and Cleveland have great landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Clearwater. Perhaps most well known is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, but there are also a surprising number of museums nearby such as the Dalí Museum, the impressive Chihuly Glass Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts.

Cleveland offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are diverse museums around town such as the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Museum of Contemporary Art (moCa), and the Great Lakes Science Center. Music lovers will appreciate a visit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.


Is the Food Better in Clearwater or Cleveland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Clearwater
Cleveland

Clearwater is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Clearwater. Head to the waterfront for some of the best seafood. Unfortunately this is also where you'll find the highest prices. Shrimp, crab, and a fresh catch of the day are common on many menus.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Cleveland. Casual dining with comfort food is the way most residents prefer to eat. There are local foods that have made a name for themselves such as gourmet hot dogs and deli sandwiches. The food is also influenced by the city's German, Irish, Polish, and Italian roots. Pierogis, bratwurst, and chicken paprikash are all common.

Is Clearwater or Cleveland Better for Nightlife?

Clearwater
Cleveland

Evening events are good in both Clearwater and Cleveland.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Clearwater. You'll find laid back beach clubs, glitzy wine bars, and relaxed bars where you can spend a nice night out.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Cleveland. Breweries have become a popular nighttime activity. There are also comedy clubs, music venues, and several theaters.

Is Clearwater or Cleveland Better for Music?

Clearwater
Cleveland

Cleveland is notable for live music. However, Clearwater is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Cleveland. Home to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, it has long been a destination for music enthusiasts. There are many independent music venues and it's the perfect place to catch a show.

Clearwater is not a live music destination.


Is Clearwater or Cleveland Better for Resorts?

Clearwater
Cleveland

Clearwater is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Cleveland is not a resort destination.

Clearwater is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. You'll find a number of nice resorts along the coastline. Some of the most popular are the Sandpearl Resort, the Opal Sands Resort, and the Clearwater Beach Marriott.

Cleveland is not a resort destination.

Is Clearwater or Cleveland Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater
Cleveland

Clearwater is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Cleveland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Clearwater has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There's both snorkeling and diving nearby. Some of the best dive spots are within and hour of the shore and you'll find diving shops that offer trips.

Cleveland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Cleveland Better for Beaches?

Clearwater
Cleveland

Clearwater is an amazing coastal city to visit for its beaches. However, Cleveland is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Clearwater are among the best in the world. Clearwater Beach is on many lists as one of the best beaches in America. It's the most popular beach in the area and it spreads out over 2.5 miles. Sand Key Beach is another popular destination as is the pristine Caladesi Island State Park.

Cleveland is not a beach destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Cleveland?

Clearwater
Cleveland

Both Clearwater and Cleveland are good shopping destinations.

Clearwater is a great destination for shopping. You'll find all of the standard shopping options in the area such as malls, shopping centers, and outlets. Westfield Countryside Mall is a popular destination as is the Cleveland Street District.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cleveland. Large shopping malls offer plenty of selection. There's also West Side Market, which is the oldest public market in the city. Other interesting shopping areas include Little Italy and the Cleveland Flea.

Is Clearwater or Cleveland Better for Families?

Clearwater
Cleveland

Clearwater is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Clearwater is a very family-friendly destination. Check out the playground and activities around Pier 60. Less crowded and family-friendly Sand Key Park is another favorite spot and the playgrounds at New Coachman Park and Crest Lake Park are also fun. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is another popular attraction for visitors with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cleveland. Kid-friendly activities in the area include the Children’s Museum of Cleveland, the Great Lakes Science Center, and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. There's also the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo as well as the smaller Akron Zoo.

Is Clearwater or Cleveland Better for Couples?

Clearwater
Cleveland

Clearwater is a very popular place for romance. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Clearwater makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are beautiful parks and beaches as well as romantic activities like sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. Couples will also enjoy dining on local seafood and shopping at the local venues.

Most people don't think of Cleveland as a couple's destination. There are several romantic date night activities like boat rides on Lake Erie or dining at a nice restaurant.


Is Clearwater or Cleveland Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Clearwater
Cleveland

Both Clearwater and Cleveland offer decent public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Clearwater. The Clearwater Jolley Trolley connects some of the area's highlights. There are also public buses that run several routes through town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cleveland. There are bus, trolley, and train lines through the city, but a car is the most efficient way to get around.

Is Clearwater or Cleveland a more walkable city?

Clearwater
Cleveland

Clearwater is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

Clearwater is somewhat walkable. The waterfront and downtown areas are surprisingly walkable.

Cleveland is generally not very walkable. While some neighborhoods are more walkable than others (Downtown, Ohio City and Buckeye - Shaker), most visitors need a car to easily access everything they wish to do.

For even more information, also check out Is Clearwater Worth Visiting? and Is Cleveland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cleveland or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Cleveland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Clearwater and Cleveland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Clearwater than in Cleveland. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Clearwater, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cleveland.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Clearwater than Cleveland 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 Clearwater.


  • How many days in Clearwater or Cleveland? Ideal Length of Stay
    Clearwater 3-5 
    Cleveland 1-3

One day in Clearwater or Cleveland?

You'll find nightlife and food around the coastal city of Clearwater. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

With museums and nightlife around the under-rated city of Cleveland, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cleveland, one day is sufficent for most.


A weekend in Clearwater or Cleveland?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the beautiful destination of Clearwater. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With nightlife and live music around the destination of Cleveland, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Clearwater or Cleveland?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the relaxing coastal city of Clearwater. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

Cleveland, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Clearwater or Cleveland?

Clearwater is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Cleveland is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


Which place is cheaper, Cleveland or Clearwater?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Clearwater is $309, while the average daily cost in Cleveland is $132. 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 Clearwater and Cleveland in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Clearwater $141
    Cleveland $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Clearwater $282
    Cleveland $150
Compare Hotels in Clearwater and Cleveland

Looking for a hotel in Clearwater or Cleveland? 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 Clearwater


Hotels in Cleveland


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: Clearwater Hotel Prices and Cleveland Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Clearwater $221
    Cleveland $19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Clearwater

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Clearwater:

  • St. Petersburg to St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) - Departure Private Transfer: $64
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to St. Petersburg - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $129
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to St. Petersburg - Arrival Private Transfer : $64
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to Clearwater Beach - Arrival Private Transfer: $103
  • St Petersburg to Tampa Airport (TPA) -Departure Private Transfer: $89
  • Private Transfer from St Petersburg Clearwater Airport to St Pete Beach: $75
  • Private Transfer from Clearwater to Tampa Airport: $120
  • Private Airport Transfer to St. Petersburg or Clearwater Beach : $105
  • Pete–Clearwater Airport to Clearwater Beach Round-Trip Transfer: $146
  • From Orlando: Clearwater Beach Day with Transfers and Lunch: $100
  • Clearwater Beach to Tampa Airport (TPA) - Departure Private Transfer: $89
  • Clearwater Beach to St.Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) -Departure Private Transfer: $103

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Cleveland

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Cleveland are as follows:


  • Taxi to Airport
    $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cleveland

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

  • Private Departure Transfer to Cleveland Airport (CLE): $64
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Cleveland Airprot (CLE): $64
  • Cleveland to Cleveland Hopkins Airport (CLE) - Departure Private Transfer : $91
  • Cleveland Hopkins Airport (CLE) to Cleveland - Arrival Private Transfer : $91
  • CLE Airport Transfer to Downtown Cleveland: $135
  • Cleveland Hopkins Airport (CLE) to Cleveland - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $182

Is it cheaper to fly into Clearwater or Cleveland?

Prices for flights to both Cleveland and Clearwater 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
    Clearwater $46
    Cleveland $36

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Clearwater

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

  • 2 Hours Beach Bites & Brews Food Tour in Gulfport, Florida: $69

Typical Food Prices in Cleveland

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


  • Coffee
    $1.79
  • Sandwich
    $9.75
  • Large Pizza
    $15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cleveland

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

  • West Side Market Food Tour: $49
  • Little Italy Neighborhood Food Tour of Cleveland: $74
  • Tremont Neighborhood Food Tour: $75
  • Ohio City Neighborhood Food Tour of Cleveland: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Clearwater -
    Cleveland $40

Tours and Activities in Clearwater

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

  • 1-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Adventure Cruise from Madeira Beach: $28
  • 1.5 Hour Tiki Tour with Open Bar in Clearwater Beach: $49
  • 2 Hour Guided Kayak Tour in Boca Ciega Bay - St. Pete: $55
  • 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour of Downtown St Pete: $59
  • 2 Hour Sunset Cruise in Clearwater, Florida: $35
  • 2 Hour Sunset Kayak Tour: War Veterans Memorial Park: $59
  • 2 Hour Tandem Kayak Tour (Price for 2 People): $110
  • 2 Hours Kayak Eco Tour in Tarpon Springs: $49
  • 2-Hour Sunset Cruise Tour in St. Petersburg: $67
  • 3-hour Food Tasting Walking Tour of Dunedin: $100
  • 4-Hour St. Pete Pier to Egmont Key Experience by Ferry: $67
  • 90 Minute Axe Throwing Guided Experience in Clearwater at Hatchet Hangout: $50

Tours and Activities in Cleveland

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

  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Cleveland by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Cleveland Cavaliers Basketball Game Ticket: $12
  • Skip the Line: Cleveland History Center Admission Ticket: $14
  • Cleveland History Center General Admission Ticket: $15
  • Cleveland Cavaliers Basketball Game Ticket: $15
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Cleveland with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Cleveland by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Cleveland Guardians Baseball Game Ticket at Progressive Field: $23
  • Downtown Cleveland Public Art Walking Tour : $24
  • Erie Ghosts Haunted Walking Tour: $24
  • Guided Walking Tour: Downtown Highlights: $24
  • Cleveland From the Inside Walking Tour: $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Clearwater -
    Cleveland $45

Sample the Local Flavors in Clearwater

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Clearwater:

  • The Tour and Wine Tasting Experience at Aspirations Winery: $32

Typical Alcohol Prices in Cleveland

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Cleveland are as follows:


  • A Night of Shots
    $36


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

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


Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Cleveland?

Cleveland has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Clearwater. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater and Cleveland, 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 Clearwater or Cleveland?

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 Clearwater or Cleveland in the Summer?

Both Cleveland and Clearwater during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Clearwater in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Cleveland for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Clearwater is a little warmer than Cleveland in the summer. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Cleveland fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

In Cleveland, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the summer, Clearwater often gets less sunshine than Cleveland. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cleveland receives 307 hours of full sun.

Cleveland gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually gets more rain in July than Cleveland. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 4 inches (101 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Clearwater 82°F (28°C) 
    Cleveland 75°F (24°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Cleveland in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Cleveland. Most visitors come to Clearwater for the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Cleveland because of the shopping scene and the music scene.

In the autumn, Clearwater is much warmer than Cleveland. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Clearwater in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Cleveland averages at about 56°F (13°C).

In Clearwater, it's very sunny this time of the year. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Cleveland during autumn. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Cleveland receives 165 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Clearwater usually receives more rain than Cleveland. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 1.9 inches (49 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Clearwater is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Clearwater 75°F (24°C) 
    Cleveland 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Cleveland in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Cleveland. The winter months attract visitors to Clearwater because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cleveland this time of year.

It's quite cold in Cleveland in the winter. In January, Clearwater is generally much warmer than Cleveland. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 60°F (15°C), and Cleveland fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Clearwater this time of the year. In the winter, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Cleveland. Clearwater gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cleveland receives 95 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets more rain in January than Cleveland. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 1.5 inches (39 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Clearwater 60°F (15°C) 
    Cleveland 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Cleveland in the Spring?

Both Cleveland and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches are the main draw to Clearwater this time of year.

Clearwater is much warmer than Cleveland in the spring. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and Cleveland fluctuates around 51°F (10°C).

It's quite sunny in Cleveland. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Cleveland during spring. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Cleveland receives 213 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Cleveland. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Clearwater is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Clearwater 71°F (22°C) 
    Cleveland 51°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Cleveland and Clearwater

Clearwater Cleveland
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Feb 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 40°F (5°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 51°F (10°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 61°F (16°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 71°F (21°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 75°F (24°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 67°F (19°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 45°F (7°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 34°F (1°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)