A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Fort Lauderdale vs. Key Largo for Resorts, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Key Largo?

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 Fort Lauderdale and Key Largo. 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.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is a luxury, high energy, and scenic coastal city. With stunning beauty, Fort Lauderdale attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Fort Lauderdale travel costs.

Key Largo

Key Largo is a peaceful, family-friendly, and beautiful island. It's a quaint destination. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling and beaches. See Key Largo travel costs.

Fort Lauderdale and Key Largo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Key Largo?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Fort Lauderdale than Key Largo, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Fort Lauderdale is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Key Largo is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling and quaint atmosphere. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Key Largo and is popular for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. Also, Fort Lauderdale is famous for The Local Beaches. Key Largo is well known for its snorkeling and scuba diving including that around John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the artificial reef around the USS Spiegel Grove.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Key Largo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is the Food Better in Fort Lauderdale or Key Largo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Fort Lauderdale is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Fort Lauderdale has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood is the obvious option with popular dishes being fish tacos, sea bass, and scallop risotto. There are many waterfront restaurants or you could head to Las Olas Boulevard, which has many bistros, cafes, and restaurants.

Key Largo offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Like the rest of the Florida Keys, Key Largo is known for its Key Lime pie and seafood. You'll find a great selection of restaurants that serve seafood dishes and options for the land-loving crew. There are even a few international restaurants to choose from.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Key Largo Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale is great for its evening party scene. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Fort Lauderdale for the nightlife scene. Trendy and upscale partying is the name of the game in this Florida city. Most people head to the beach, Las Olas Blvd, River Front and The New Hard Rock Seminole Hotel Complex for the best bars and clubs. You'll find the most activity around the weekends, but there really is something going on any night of the week.

Most people don't head to Key Largo specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. This area is not known for its nightlife, so you'll need to head further south if partying is your style.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Key Largo Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. Also, Key Largo is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its resorts.

Fort Lauderdale is a world class resort vacation destination. Luxury beachfront resorts are plentiful in the area. Several of the most impressive include the Ritz-Carlton, W Fort Lauderdale, and the Dalmar. Most resorts have a beachfront pool, hot tubs, and depending on the resort, a kid's club.

There are plenty of resorts in Key Largo to choose from. Popular resorts in the area include Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection, Reefhouse Resort & Marina, and Largo Resort.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Key Largo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key Largo is a great destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its diving and snorkeling.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Key Largo. Near this island you'll find some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Florida Keys at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There are private tours that head out to the reef for either snorkeling or diving. There are also shipwrecks and other fascinating spots to explore.

Fort Lauderdale has a few good snorkeling spots. Although the snorkeling doesn't compare to what you'll find further south around the Florida Keys, there are some great places to pull your mask and fins out in the area. Popular snorkeling spots nearby include the Vista Park Reef, Pompano Beach, and Hollywood North Beach Park.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Key Largo Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Key Largo is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its beaches.

Fort Lauderdale is considered to be a world-class beach destination. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches, a fun boardwalk, and impressive views, the beaches here are among the best in the area. They are surprisingly walkable and, while there can be crowds, there's still a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere.

Key Largo offers a nice beach destination. Many of the beaches around Key Largo are man-made, but they do offer nice sand and beautiful blue water. The water is turquoise, although not as striking as further south.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Key Largo?

Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city with good options for its shopping areas. However, Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Fort Lauderdale has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. For interesting local boutiques head to Las Olas Boulevard and for name brand stores you'll want to visit Sawgrass Mills Mall.

Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Key Largo More Beautiful?

Fort Lauderdale is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Key Largo is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Fort Lauderdale attracts visitors from all around. Seven miles of scenic coastline with a boardwalk to explore make this a beautiful Florida beach destination.

Key Largo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Key Largo Better for Families?

Key Largo is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Key Largo is very family-friendly. This area has some of the best family-friendly snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There's also several places where your kids can interact with dolphins or experience wildlife. If you want to get out on the water, there's kayaking, sunset cruises, and glass bottom boats, all of which are great for the whole family.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Fort Lauderdale is very family-friendly. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches and a number of kid-oriented activities, the kids will love it here. Fun activities include Bluefoot Pirate Adventures, Butterfly World, and Funderdome. On sunny days there are many outdoor recreation areas and when the weather isn't cooperating, there are hands-on museums.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Key Largo Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Key Largo is not as popular, but is still a nice island for romance.

Fort Lauderdale is a great coastal city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Fine dining, beautiful beaches, and great shopping make for a great romantic getaway. Couples and honeymooners love relaxing at the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. A sunset walk on the beach and a stay at a romantic resort will make for an unforgettable trip.

Key Largo is a nice destination for couples. Most couples head further down the Florida Keys, but for snorkeling and scuba diving, Key Largo is the better option. You'll also find kayaking and sunset cruises that leave from the area.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Key Largo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Fort Lauderdale is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Fort Lauderdale. Transportation options include a water taxi and the Sun Trolley Hop-on Bus.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Key Largo. There's no real public transit around the island and you must have a car to get around.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Key Largo a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale is great for its ease of walking around. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its walkability.

Fort Lauderdale is a very walkable destination. It is one of the most walkable Florida communities with a boardwalk and several pedestrian areas that are fun to wander around.

Key Largo is not a walkable coastal city. It is a sprawling area that spreads out along a main highway that is not pedestrian friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Fort Lauderdale Worth Visiting? and Is Key Largo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Key Largo or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Key Largo?

Both Fort Lauderdale and Key Largo have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Fort Lauderdale has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Key Largo. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Fort Lauderdale, and 5-7 days is enough time in Key Largo.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Key Largo 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 Fort Lauderdale.

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Key Largo?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the coastal city of Fort Lauderdale. 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.

The peaceful destination of Key Largo offers scuba diving and snorkeling. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Fort Lauderdale or Key Largo?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the bustling destination of Fort Lauderdale. 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.

The island of Key Largo offers scuba diving and snorkeling. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Fort Lauderdale or Key Largo?

You'll find nightlife and food around the scenic coastal city of Fort Lauderdale. 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.

Key Largo is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Fort Lauderdale or Key Largo?

Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The peaceful island of Key Largo offers scuba diving and snorkeling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Fort Lauderdale and Key Largo, we can see that Key Largo 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 Key Largo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Key Largo than you might in Fort Lauderdale.

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

Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Key Largo?

Fort Lauderdale has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Key Largo. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale and Key Largo, 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 Fort Lauderdale or Key Largo?

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 Fort Lauderdale or Key Largo in the Summer?

Both Key Largo and Fort Lauderdale during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Fort Lauderdale for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Key Largo because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Fort Lauderdale is generally around the same temperature as Key Largo. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 83°F (28°C), and Key Largo fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

In Key Largo, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Fort Lauderdale. In the summer, Fort Lauderdale often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Key Largo. Fort Lauderdale gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Key Largo receives 316 hours of full sun.

Key Largo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Key Largo. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Key Largo receives 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Key Largo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Key Largo. The autumn months attract visitors to Fort Lauderdale because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Fort Lauderdale is around the same temperature as Key Largo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Key Largo fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key Largo this time of the year. In Fort Lauderdale, it's very sunny this time of the year. Fort Lauderdale usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Key Largo during autumn. Fort Lauderdale gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Key Largo receives 275 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Key Largo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Fort Lauderdale gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Fort Lauderdale usually receives around the same amount of rain as Key Largo. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Key Largo receives 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Key Largo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Key Largo. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Fort Lauderdale this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Key Largo for the cuisine.

In the winter, Fort Lauderdale is around the same temperature as Key Largo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in January average around 67°F (20°C), and Key Largo averages at about 67°F (19°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key Largo. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Fort Lauderdale this time of the year. In the winter, Fort Lauderdale often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Key Largo. Fort Lauderdale gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Key Largo receives 243 hours of full sun.

Fort Lauderdale usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Key Largo. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Key Largo receives 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Key Largo in the Spring?

Both Key Largo and Fort Lauderdale are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Fort Lauderdale for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Key Largo in the spring for the beaches.

In April, Fort Lauderdale is generally around the same temperature as Key Largo. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 75°F (24°C), and Key Largo fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Key Largo. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Key Largo during spring. Fort Lauderdale gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Key Largo receives 300 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Fort Lauderdale usually receives around the same amount of rain as Key Largo. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Key Largo receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Key Largo and Fort Lauderdale