A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cozumel vs. Cleveland for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cozumel or Cleveland?

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 Cozumel and Cleveland can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cozumel

Cozumel is a active, colorful, and scenic island. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Cleveland

Cleveland is a under-rated, diverse, and authentic city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music.

Cozumel and Cleveland: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Cozumel or Cleveland?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Cozumel than Cleveland. While Cleveland is larger than Cozumel, Cozumel has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Cozumel is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Cleveland is known for its museums and music. Cozumel is more touristy than Cleveland and is known for its beautiful beaches and world class dive sites. It is also home to Palancar Reef. Cleveland is popular for being the home to "rock 'n roll" as well as its friendly and hard working people.

How is Cozumel different from Cleveland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cozumel
Cleveland

Cleveland is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Cleveland specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Cozumel offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Check out the Island Museum, the Coral Reefs Monument, and some of the local Mayan ruins. Also worth a visit is Cozumel's Lighthouse.


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

Cozumel
Cleveland

Cozumel is a nice place to visit for its restaurants. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Cozumel. You'll find a mix of tourist restaurants and hidden gems that serve up authentic Mexican dishes. Wander off the main streets to find the restaurants that are tucked away from the cruise ship crowds.

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 Cozumel or Cleveland Better for Nightlife?

Cozumel
Cleveland

Cozumel is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Cozumel has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene is filled with cocktail lounges, beachfront bars, and wild weekend parties. There is something for everyone, whether you'll looking to sip wine by the ocean or party into the early morning.

Cleveland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Breweries have become a popular nighttime activity. There are also comedy clubs, music venues, and several theaters.

Is Cozumel or Cleveland Better for Music?

Cozumel
Cleveland

Cleveland is a great city for live music. However, Cozumel is not a live music destination.

Cleveland has a thriving music scene. 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.

Cozumel is not a live music destination.


Is Cozumel or Cleveland Better for Resorts?

Cozumel
Cleveland

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

Cozumel is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are hotels in the city center, and resorts by the beaches. For diving and snorkeling, stay in Southern Cozumel. Golfing and waterfront properties are popular in Northern Cozumel.

Cleveland is not a resort destination.

Is Cozumel or Cleveland Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cozumel
Cleveland

Cozumel is an amazing island to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Cleveland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Cozumel specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. Many people visit Cozumel specifically for the world class diving. Palancar Reef is one of the best dive spots in the area, and thanks to conservation efforts it is rebounding and offers a diverse environment.

Cleveland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cozumel or Cleveland Better for Beaches?

Cozumel
Cleveland

Cozumel is an amazing island to visit for its beaches. However, Cleveland is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Cozumel are among the best in the world. The island is lined with beautiful beaches and you'll find great snorkeling and tourist-friendly amenities. Some of the best beaches are Playa Punta Morena, Playa El Cielo, and Playa Chen Rio.

Cleveland is not a beach destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Cozumel or Cleveland?

Cozumel
Cleveland

Cozumel is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cozumel. For the best shopping head to Plaza del Sol, the Royal Village Shopping Center, or Los Cincos Soles. Expect cruise ship crowds and no shortage of tourists.

Cleveland offers some nice shopping areas. 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 Cozumel or Cleveland Better for Families?

Cozumel
Cleveland

Cozumel 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.

Cozumel is a very family-friendly destination. The area is filled with water parks, snorkeling opportunities and, of course, fun-filled beaches. There are also wildlife reserves and Mayan ruins that aren't too far away.

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 Cozumel or Cleveland Better for Couples?

Cozumel
Cleveland

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

Cozumel makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Beaches, resorts, and adventure sports make this the perfect couples destination. There are also great restaurants and plenty of interesting places to explore.

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 Cozumel or Cleveland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cozumel
Cleveland

Cozumel is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Cozumel is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a few hostels in town and it's a safe and easy place to explore independently.

Cleveland is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There's little in the area that attracts the backpacker crowd.

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

Cozumel
Cleveland

Cozumel and Cleveland both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cozumel. Local buses don't efficiently travel to the beaches or the hotel areas, so most tourists don't use them.

Public transit is generally 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 Cozumel or Cleveland a more walkable city?

Cozumel
Cleveland

Cozumel is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

Cozumel is very walkable. It's easy to walk around the downtown as it's compact and fun to explore on foot.

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 Cozumel Worth Visiting? and Is Cleveland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cleveland or Cozumel?

How long in Cozumel or Cleveland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cozumel and Cleveland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cozumel than in Cleveland. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Cozumel, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cleveland.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cozumel 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 Cozumel.


  • How many days in Cozumel or Cleveland? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cozumel 3-7 
    Cleveland 1-3

One day in Cozumel or Cleveland?

You'll find nightlife and food around the island of Cozumel. 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.

In Cleveland, you'll find nightlife and live music. 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.

A weekend in Cozumel or Cleveland?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the lively destination of Cozumel. 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 island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Cleveland, you'll find live music 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 Cleveland has to offer.

Five days in Cozumel or Cleveland?

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

Cleveland 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.


A week in Cozumel or Cleveland?

Cozumel is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cozumel, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best Adventure Tours to Mexico, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cleveland or Cozumel?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cozumel is $118, 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 Cozumel and Cleveland in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cozumel $70
    Cleveland $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cozumel $140
    Cleveland $150
Compare Hotels in Cozumel and Cleveland

Looking for a hotel in Cozumel 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 Cozumel


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: Cozumel Hotel Prices and Cleveland Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cozumel $23
    Cleveland $19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cozumel

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

  • Wild Jade Cavern Private ATV Tour With Transfer: $86
  • Private Transfer from Cozumel hotels to Cozumel Cruise Port: $44
  • Private Transfer from Cozumel Airport: $110
  • Private Transfer between Cozumel Airport or Ferry, and Hotels: $40
  • Private One Way Transfer in Cozumel Airport To/From Cozumel: $29
  • Mexico Cozumel Airport (CZM) to Cozumel -Arrival Private Transfer: $44
  • Mexico Cozumel Airport (CZM) Cozumel - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $87
  • Cuban Cigar Master Class & Beach Break® with transfer: $153
  • Shared Transfer from Airport to Hotel: $30
  • Cozumel to Mexico Cozumel Airport (CZM)Departure Private Transfer: $44
  • Cozumel Private Airport Transfer: $150
  • Cozumel Port to Cozumel Airport CZM Departure Private Transfer: $44

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:

  • Cleveland Hopkins Airport (CLE) to Cleveland - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $180
  • CLE Airport Transfer to Downtown Cleveland: $135
  • Cleveland Hopkins Airport (CLE) to Cleveland - Arrival Private Transfer : $90
  • Cleveland to Cleveland Hopkins Airport (CLE) - Departure Private Transfer : $89
  • Private Departure Transfer to Cleveland Airport (CLE): $64
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Cleveland Airprot (CLE): $64

Is it cheaper to fly into Cozumel or Cleveland?

Prices for flights to both Cleveland and Cozumel 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
    Cozumel $24
    Cleveland $36

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cozumel

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

  • Authentic Mayan Cooking Class in Cozumel: $61
  • Cozumel Food Tour: $90
  • Cozumel Cooking Class: $115

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
  • Ohio City Neighborhood Food Tour of Cleveland: $91

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cozumel $44
    Cleveland $40

Tours and Activities in Cozumel

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

  • Private Cozumel Jeep Tour & Jade Caverns Cenote: All-Inclusive: $85
  • Romantic tour in Cozumel: $127
  • 1 Hour and Half Private Tropical Fitness Experience in Cozumel: $6.00
  • 15-minute Private Parasailing Experience in Cozumel: $69
  • 2 Hour Discover Mermaid Experience : $20
  • 2 Hour Diving Experience in San Miguel de Cozumel: $88
  • 2 Hours ATV Jungle, Caverns and Mayan Ruins Tour: $80
  • 4 Hour Snorkeling Tour in Cozumel: $65
  • 4 Hours Experience the turtle sanctuary on La Chula Catamarán : $78
  • 4-Hour Jeep and ATV Tour with Snorkel in Cozumel with Lunch: $99
  • 4-Hour Private Tour in Cozumel with Pickup: $70
  • A Pirate's Adventure in Cozumel with Captain Draco : $80

Tours and Activities in Cleveland

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

  • CLE Mini Bus Group Tour: $55
  • Cleveland Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $44
  • Cleveland From the Inside Walking Tour: $24
  • Cleveland Ghosts Tour: $32
  • Cleveland Guardians Baseball Game Ticket at Progressive Field: $28
  • Cleveland Romance: A Walking Tour for Couples: $471
  • Cleveland Romance: A Walking Tour for Couples: $241
  • Cleveland History Center General Admission Ticket: $15
  • Eerie Ghosts Haunted Walking Tour: $24
  • Escape Room Game Entry Ticket with Host: $39
  • Downtown Cleveland Public Art Walking Tour : $24
  • Enchanted Cleveland Holiday Walking Tour: $296

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cozumel $11
    Cleveland $45

Sample the Local Flavors in Cozumel

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Cozumel:

  • Chocolate Seaside Workshop & Wine Tasting: $49
  • Cozumel 5-Hour Private Bar Crawl Tour: $110

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 comparing the travel costs between Cozumel and Cleveland, we can see that Cleveland 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 Cozumel Expensive? and Is Cleveland Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cozumel or Cleveland?

Cleveland has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Cozumel. When comparing the sizes of Cozumel 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.