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

Should you visit Cozumel or Milwaukee?

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

Cozumel

Cozumel is a colorful, scenic, and lively island. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Milwaukee

Milwaukee is a friendly, welcoming, and undiscovered city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Cozumel and Milwaukee: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cozumel or Milwaukee?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Cozumel than Milwaukee. While Milwaukee is larger than Cozumel, Cozumel has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Cozumel is more touristy than Milwaukee and is known for its beautiful beaches and world class dive sites. It is also well known for Palancar Reef. Milwaukee is famous for its many breweries and its baseball culture.

How is Cozumel different from Milwaukee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cozumel
Milwaukee

Spend time exploring the nice sights and museums in either Cozumel or Milwaukee.

Cozumel is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Check out the Island Museum, the Coral Reefs Monument, and some of the local Mayan ruins. Also worth a visit is Cozumel's Lighthouse.

Milwaukee offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several unique museums like the Harley-Davidson Museum, the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum, and the Milwaukee Public Museum. There's also the Milwaukee Art Museum and the Grohmann Museum as well as outdoor sculpture parks and other cultural and historic museums.


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

Cozumel
Milwaukee

Cozumel is a island with good options for its restaurants. However, Milwaukee is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Cozumel has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

Milwaukee may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The Midwest is known for its artery clogging comfort foods, and Milwaukee is no exception. Cheese curds, fried fish, fruit dumplings, and frozen custard are all popular.

Is Cozumel or Milwaukee Better for Nightlife?

Cozumel
Milwaukee

Cozumel is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Milwaukee is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Cozumel has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Milwaukee has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find a decent number of breweries around town. There are also wine bars, nightclubs, and live music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Cozumel or Milwaukee Better for Resorts?

Cozumel
Milwaukee

Cozumel is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Milwaukee is not a resort destination.

In Cozumel, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Milwaukee is not a resort destination.


Is Cozumel or Milwaukee Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cozumel
Milwaukee

Cozumel is terrific for its diving and snorkeling. However, Milwaukee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Cozumel is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Milwaukee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cozumel or Milwaukee Better for Beaches?

Cozumel
Milwaukee

Cozumel is terrific for the beache. However, Milwaukee is not a beach destination.

Cozumel is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Milwaukee is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cozumel or Milwaukee?

Cozumel
Milwaukee

Cozumel is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Milwaukee is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Cozumel is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Milwaukee to go shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers and shopping malls around town, but if you want some more local vendors, check out the areas around the Historic Third Ward and The Village in Wauwatosa.


Is Cozumel or Milwaukee Better for Families?

Cozumel
Milwaukee

Cozumel is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Milwaukee is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cozumel is very family-friendly. 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 Milwaukee. Kids will enjoy a visit to Discovery World, which is a science center with hands-on exhibits. There's also the Milwaukee County Zoo and the Milwaukee Public Museum. Younger kids will also enjoy a stop at Betty Brinn Children's Museum.

Is Cozumel or Milwaukee Better for Couples?

Cozumel
Milwaukee

Cozumel is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. However, Milwaukee is lacking in options for couples.

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.

Milwaukee is not always the best place to visit for a couple. Take a walk or visit a local restaurant. There are also museums and performances that make for a nice outing.

Is Cozumel or Milwaukee Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cozumel
Milwaukee

Cozumel is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Milwaukee is lacking in options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Cozumel. There are a few hostels in town and it's a safe and easy place to explore independently.

Milwaukee is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's not a lot to attract backpackers to the area.


Is Cozumel or Milwaukee Better for Students?

Cozumel
Milwaukee

Milwaukee is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Cozumel is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Milwaukee. It's home to a number of colleges and universities, so there is a bit of a college town vibe.

Cozumel is not popular with students.

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

Cozumel
Milwaukee

Cozumel and Milwaukee both offer reasonable 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 Milwaukee. There are buses that travel around town.

Is Cozumel or Milwaukee a more walkable city?

Cozumel
Milwaukee

Cozumel is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Milwaukee is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Milwaukee is a somewhat walkable island. Parts of the city are relatively compact and walkable. The most walkable neighborhoods are East Side, Riverwest, Brewers Hill, Downtown, Avenues West/Marquette, Third Ward, Walker's Point, and Bay View.


For even more information, also check out Is Cozumel Worth Visiting? and Is Milwaukee Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Milwaukee or Cozumel?

How long in Cozumel or Milwaukee?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cozumel or Milwaukee to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cozumel than Milwaukee because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Cozumel, and 1-2 days is enough time in Milwaukee.

Families should spend more time in Cozumel than Milwaukee. 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 Milwaukee. 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 Milwaukee 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 Milwaukee? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cozumel 3-7 
    Milwaukee 1-2

One day in Cozumel or Milwaukee?

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 Milwaukee, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 Milwaukee?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the active 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 Milwaukee, you'll find nightlife 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 Milwaukee has to offer.

Five days in Cozumel or Milwaukee?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the colorful 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.

Milwaukee 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 Milwaukee?

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 Milwaukee. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Milwaukee. 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 Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Milwaukee 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 Milwaukee is $176. 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 Milwaukee in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cozumel $70
    Milwaukee $99
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cozumel $140
    Milwaukee $198
Compare Hotels in Cozumel and Milwaukee

Looking for a hotel in Cozumel or Milwaukee? 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 Milwaukee


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 Milwaukee Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cozumel $23
    Milwaukee $38

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Cozumel or Milwaukee?

Prices for flights to both Milwaukee 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
    Milwaukee $52

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Milwaukee

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

  • Family Fun Food Tour: $80
  • Local Food Tour: $97
  • Milwaukee Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $99
  • Original Milwaukee Guided Brewery Tour with Lunch or Dinner: $139

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cozumel $44
    Milwaukee $26

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 Milwaukee

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

  • 2 Hour Sailing Adventure in Lake Michigan (up to 6 people): $128
  • 2 Hours Private Tour of Milwaukee Marvels: $248
  • 2-Hour Bus Tour in Milwaukee City: $40
  • Brew City Ghosts: Macabre Milwaukee By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • Cream City Cannibal: Jeffery Dahmer Walking Tour: $53
  • Discover Iconic Milwaukee Tour : $67
  • Downtown Kenosha Urban Art and Photography Walking Tour: $30
  • Geneva Lake Shore Path: Uncover 21 miles of stories on a self-guided audio tour: $10
  • Milwaukee Brewers Baseball Game Ticket at American Family Field: $12
  • Milwaukee Magic: A Private Christmas Lights Tour: $650
  • Milwaukee Marvels: A 2-Hour Private Tour: $483
  • Milwaukee Private Ghost Tour: $90

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cozumel $11
    Milwaukee $33

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Milwaukee

Also in Milwaukee, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Sip of Milwaukee Guided Brewery Tour with Snack: $99


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

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


Which is Bigger, Cozumel or Milwaukee?

Milwaukee has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Cozumel. When comparing the sizes of Cozumel and Milwaukee, 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.