A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Clearwater vs. Fort Lauderdale for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

North America / Comparisons /
Jump to  down-arrow

Should you visit Clearwater or Fort Lauderdale?

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 Fort Lauderdale. 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.

Where Should I go: Clearwater or Fort Lauderdale?

Clearwater

Clearwater is a city in Florida's Tampa Bay area known for its sunny weather and gulf coast beaches. Its most famous beach (Clearwater Beach) is located on a barrier island with white sands and crystal waters - a perfect setting for activities such as fishing, sailing, kayaking, jet skiing, dolphin and sunset tours, parasailing, and more.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is located on the Atlantic coast of Florida, not far from Miami, and is famous for its beaches and boating culture. An elaborate system of canals runs through the city, adding to the charm and coastal lifestyle. Plenty of restaurants, shops, watersports, and other things to do can be found here in addition to the beautiful beaches. The city is family-friendly and also caters to older travelers as well as younger generations. While it's not an inexpensive place to visit, the prices are on par with other cities in southeastern Florida. The beach is lined with high-rise condos and hotels that tend to be expensive, while a few blocks back from the shore you'll find plenty of nice houses along with shops, restaurants, and fun activities for all ages. And since Fort Lauderdale is part of the Miami metro area, you can easily get to all of the other beach areas, cities, and activities in the nearby metropolitan areas as well.

Which place is cheaper, Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale is $182. 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 Fort Lauderdale in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Clearwater $141
    Fort Lauderdale $96
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Clearwater $282
    Fort Lauderdale $192
Compare Hotels in Clearwater and Fort Lauderdale

Looking for a hotel in Clearwater or Fort Lauderdale? 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 Fort Lauderdale


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 Fort Lauderdale Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Clearwater $221
    Fort Lauderdale $51

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Clearwater

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Clearwater:

  • From Orlando: Clearwater Beach Day with Transfers and Lunch: $100
  • Private Transfer from Clearwater to Tampa Airport: $120
  • Private Transfer from St Petersburg Clearwater Airport to St Pete Beach: $70

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Fort Lauderdale

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Fort Lauderdale:

  • Private Transfer in Florida: $35
  • Fort Lauderdale to Miami Airport (MIA) - Departure Private Transfer: $37
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Fort Lauderdale - Arrival Private Transfer: $40
  • Transfer Private Vehicle from Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) -City: $40
  • Port Everglades to Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) - Departure Private Transfer : $41
  • Port Everglades Private Transfer from Weston: $58
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Miami - Arrival Private Transfer: $58
  • Private Transfer in Fort Lauderdale (FLL & FXE) Airport/Home/Hotel/Work : $59
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport Private Transfer (Up To 14 Passengers): $60
  • Port Everglades Private Transfer from Las Olas Beach Area: $60
  • Miami Airport and Seaport Private Transfer (up to 14 passengers): $60
  • Port Everglades to Miami Airport (MIA) Departure Private Transfer: $61

Is it cheaper to fly into Clearwater or Fort Lauderdale?

Prices for flights to both Fort Lauderdale 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
    Fort Lauderdale $49

Typical Food prices in Fort Lauderdale

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Fort Lauderdale:


  • Quick Lunch
    $12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Fort Lauderdale

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

  • Hollywood Florida Walking Food Tour : $99
  • Food Tour: $99
  • Fort Lauderdale Food Tour: $104
  • Beach Food Tour: $109
  • Fort Lauderdale Beach Food Tour: $114

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Clearwater -
    Fort Lauderdale $15

Tours and Activities in Clearwater

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

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Clearwater by Operation City Quest: $10
  • St. Petersburg Jungle Prada Site History Tour: $14
  • Daytime Yacht Sightseeing Cruise with Optional Dining : $27
  • Shark Teeth and Shells, Dolphin and Shelling Tour Boat Clearwater Beach : $28
  • 1-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Adventure Cruise from Madeira Beach: $28
  • Mega Bite Dolphin Tour Boat in Clearwater Beach: $28
  • Clearwater Dolphin Exploration Tour: $29
  • Clearwater Sunset Celebration Cruise: $29
  • Tour with Dolphins and Sight Seeing: $29
  • Dolphin Quest - Sightseeing/Eco Cruise, John's Pass, Madeira Beach, FL : $29
  • St. Pete Beach Dolphin Racer Speedboat Adventure: $30
  • Haunted History Tour: $30

Tours and Activities in Fort Lauderdale

Here are a few actual costs in Fort Lauderdale for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Audio Walking Tour of Las Olas Riverwalk: $7.33
  • Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk Self-guided Audio Walking Tour: $7.99
  • Skip the Line: Flamingo Gardens Admission Ticket in Fort Lauderdale: $24
  • 1-Hour Interactive Pirate Cruise in Ft. Lauderdale (arrive 30 minutes early): $25
  • Ghosts and Ghouls Haunted Walking Tour: $26
  • Florida Everglades Airboat Adventure and Wildlife Encounter: $29
  • Fort Lauderdale Ghost Tour: $30
  • Carrie B Venice of America Fort Lauderdale Sightseeing Tours: $30
  • Jungle Queen Riverboat 90-Minute Narrated Sightseeing Cruise in Fort Lauderdale: $36
  • Everglades Admission Ticket with Airboat Ride and Wildlife Show: $40
  • 2 Hours Electric Bike Experience on Ft Lauderdale: $40
  • Everglades Airboat Tour in Fort Lauderdale: $44

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Clearwater -
    Fort Lauderdale $33

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 Fort Lauderdale

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


  • Beer
    $7.30

Sample the Local Flavors in Fort Lauderdale

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Fort Lauderdale:

  • Ft Lauderdale Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $37
  • Pedibus Pub Crawl in Fort Lauderdale: $69
  • Party Bike Bar Crawl: $69

How are these travel costs calculated?

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Clearwater and Fort Lauderdale, we can see that Clearwater is more expensive. And not only is Fort Lauderdale much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Fort Lauderdale would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale.

Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Fort Lauderdale?

Fort Lauderdale is bigger, and its population is about 58% larger than the population of Clearwater. When comparing the population of Clearwater vs. Fort Lauderdale, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit and the activities that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Clearwater or Fort Lauderdale?

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 Clearwater or Fort Lauderdale in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Fort Lauderdale. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Fort Lauderdale this time of year.

Clearwater is around the same temperature as Fort Lauderdale in the summer. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Fort Lauderdale fluctuates around 83°F (28°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Fort Lauderdale this time of the year. In Clearwater, it's very sunny this time of the year. Clearwater usually receives less sunshine than Fort Lauderdale during summer. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Fort Lauderdale receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

Fort Lauderdale receives a lot of rain in the summer. Clearwater gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Clearwater usually receives more rain than Fort Lauderdale. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Fort Lauderdale receives 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Clearwater 82°F (28°C) 
    Fort Lauderdale 83°F (28°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Fort Lauderdale in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Fort Lauderdale. Also, many travelers come to Fort Lauderdale for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Clearwater is around the same temperature as Fort Lauderdale. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Clearwater in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Fort Lauderdale averages at about 78°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Clearwater this time of the year. In the autumn, Clearwater often gets less sunshine than Fort Lauderdale. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Fort Lauderdale receives 275 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Fort Lauderdale. Clearwater usually gets less rain in October than Fort Lauderdale. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Fort Lauderdale receives 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Clearwater 75°F (24°C) 
    Fort Lauderdale 78°F (26°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Fort Lauderdale in the Winter?

Both Fort Lauderdale and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Also, many visitors come to Fort Lauderdale in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In January, Clearwater is generally cooler than Fort Lauderdale. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 60°F (15°C), and Fort Lauderdale fluctuates around 67°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Fort Lauderdale. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives less sunshine than Fort Lauderdale during winter. Clearwater gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Fort Lauderdale receives 243 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Clearwater usually receives around the same amount of rain as Fort Lauderdale. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Fort Lauderdale receives 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Clearwater 60°F (15°C) 
    Fort Lauderdale 67°F (20°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Fort Lauderdale in the Spring?

Both Fort Lauderdale and Clearwater during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, most visitors come to Fort Lauderdale for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Clearwater is around the same temperature as Fort Lauderdale in the spring. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and Fort Lauderdale fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

In Fort Lauderdale, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the spring, Clearwater often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Fort Lauderdale. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Fort Lauderdale receives 300 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets less rain in April than Fort Lauderdale. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Fort Lauderdale receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Clearwater 71°F (22°C) 
    Fort Lauderdale 75°F (24°C)

Typical Weather for Fort Lauderdale and Clearwater

Clearwater Fort Lauderdale
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Feb 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 72°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 79°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 83°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)


Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
About BudgetYourTrip.com
More City Comparisons
Washington vs. Clearwater
Washington vs. Fort Lauderdale
Clearwater vs. Gainesville
Clearwater vs. Jacksonville
Clearwater vs. Miami
Clearwater vs. Orlando
Clearwater vs. Saint Petersburg
Clearwater vs. Tallahassee
Clearwater vs. Tampa
Clearwater vs. Atlanta
Clearwater vs. Savannah
Clearwater vs. New Orleans
Clearwater vs. Baltimore
Clearwater vs. Kansas City
Clearwater vs. Saint Louis
Clearwater vs. Asheville
Clearwater vs. Charlotte
Clearwater vs. Durham
Clearwater vs. Greensboro
Clearwater vs. Raleigh
Clearwater vs. Winston-Salem
Clearwater vs. Cincinnati
Clearwater vs. Columbus
Clearwater vs. Dayton
Clearwater vs. Philadelphia
Clearwater vs. Charleston
Clearwater vs. Columbia
Clearwater vs. Chattanooga
Share This Page
Pin This Page
Clearwater vs. Fort Lauderdale Travel Comparison

Some of the links on this website are sponsored or affiliate links which help to financially support this site. By clicking the link and making a purchase, we may receive a small commission, but this does not affect the price of your purchase.