Which place is cheaper, Lancaster or Fort Lauderdale?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Fort Lauderdale and Lancaster. 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 is a spirited, luxury, and high energy coastal city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.
Lancaster is a scenic, traditional, and picturesque town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.
You'll generally find more things to do in Fort Lauderdale than Lancaster. Fort Lauderdale is bigger than Lancaster, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Fort Lauderdale is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Lancaster is more popular for its museums and shopping. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Lancaster and is popular for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. Also, Fort Lauderdale is famous for The Local Beaches. Lancaster is well known for its history and long running Amish community.
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lancaster and Fort Lauderdale. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Lancaster is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.
Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Lancaster. Filled with history and local culture, there are many educational opportunities in the area where you can learn about Amish traditions. The Amish Village has tours and unique experiences. The town also has James Buchanan's Wheatland, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, the National Toy Train Museum, the Ephrata Cloister, and the National Watch & Clock Museum, among many others.
Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.
Both Fort Lauderdale and Lancaster offer a number of notable restaurants to choose from.
Fort Lauderdale offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.
Lancaster has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You can sample authentic Pennsylvania Dutch dishes at one of the Amish restaurants in the area. Many places serve food family-style and dishes include chicken pot pie, ham balls, and pork and sauerkraut. Whoopie pies also originated in the area.
Fort Lauderdale is a great coastal city for its evening party scene. However, Lancaster is not known for nightlife.
The nightlife in Fort Lauderdale has something for everybody. 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 Lancaster specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town, but you'll still find local pubs and cozy bars where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back atmosphere.
Fort Lauderdale is an amazing coastal city to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Lancaster is not a resort destination.
Fort Lauderdale offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.
Lancaster is not a resort destination.
Fort Lauderdale is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lancaster is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.
Fort Lauderdale has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.
Lancaster is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.
Fort Lauderdale is an amazing coastal city to visit for the beach. However, Lancaster is not a beach destination.
The beaches in Fort Lauderdale are among the best in the world. 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.
Lancaster is not a beach destination.
Lancaster is a great destination for shopping. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.
Lancaster is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Many visitors pick up hand-crafted Amish items while they're in town. Furniture and Amish quilts are particularly popular. Farmers markets and antique shopping are both unique in the area and there are also art galleries and several outlet stores that you can visit.
Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Fort Lauderdale. For interesting local boutiques head to Las Olas Boulevard and for name brand stores you'll want to visit Sawgrass Mills Mall.
Both Fort Lauderdale and Lancaster are great family-friendly destinations.
Fort Lauderdale is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.
Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Lancaster is very family-friendly. In you area you'll find farms and petting zoos, amusement parks, and train rides. They can learn about a unique lifestyle at the Amish Experience or soak up the local beauty and farmland in the surrounding countryside.
Fort Lauderdale is an amazing coastal city to visit for couples. Also, Lancaster is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.
Fort Lauderdale has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.
Lancaster is a very popular place to visit for couples. This region is known for it's local beauty and serene farmland, making it a relaxing and peaceful destination for couples. There are walking trails, outdoor activities, buggy rides, and a variety of dining experiences. You can also stay at a bed and breakfast or local inn.
You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Fort Lauderdale and Lancaster.
Public transit is generally limited in Fort Lauderdale. Transportation options include a water taxi and the Sun Trolley Hop-on Bus.
Public transit is mostly limited in Lancaster. The city has buses and several transportation options, but once you're outside of the urban core, your options are limited.
Fort Lauderdale is a great coastal city for its ease of walking around. However, Lancaster is not known 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.
Lancaster is generally not very walkable. While the city itself has walkable areas, most visitors want to get out and explore the countryside, which requires a car.
For even more information, also check out Is Fort Lauderdale Worth Visiting? and Is Lancaster Worth Visiting?.
Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Fort Lauderdale and Lancaster. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than in Lancaster. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Fort Lauderdale, and 2-3 days is enough time in Lancaster.
Families should spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Lancaster. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Fort Lauderdale, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Lancaster. 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 Lancaster than Fort Lauderdale 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 Lancaster.
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 scenic destination of Lancaster offers shopping and museums. 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.
You'll find shopping and nightlife around the luxury 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 town of Lancaster offers museums and food. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.
You'll find nightlife and food around the luxury 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.
Lancaster is a great place to explore. This town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.
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.
Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Lancaster. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.
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.
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
The average daily cost (per person) in Fort Lauderdale is $182, while the average daily cost in Lancaster is $183. 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 Fort Lauderdale and Lancaster in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Fort Lauderdale or Lancaster? 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.
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.
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Fort Lauderdale:
Prices for flights to both Lancaster and Fort Lauderdale 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.
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Fort Lauderdale:
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Fort Lauderdale.
For Lancaster, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
Here are a few actual costs in Fort Lauderdale for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Lancaster.
Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Fort Lauderdale are as follows:
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Fort Lauderdale:
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Lancaster:
When comparing the travel costs between Fort Lauderdale and Lancaster, we can see that Lancaster 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 Fort Lauderdale Expensive? and Is Lancaster Expensive?.
Fort Lauderdale has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Lancaster. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale and Lancaster, 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.
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.
Both Lancaster and Fort Lauderdale during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Fort Lauderdale in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Lancaster for the family-friendly experiences during these months.
In July, Fort Lauderdale is generally a little warmer than Lancaster. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 83°F (28°C), and Lancaster fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).
In Lancaster, 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 Lancaster. Fort Lauderdale gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 310 hours of full sun.
It rains a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in July than Lancaster. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain this time of the year.
The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Lancaster. Most visitors come to Fort Lauderdale for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Lancaster because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.
Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Lancaster in the autumn. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Lancaster fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).
In Fort Lauderdale, it's very sunny this time of the year. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Lancaster during autumn. Fort Lauderdale gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.
Fort Lauderdale gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Lancaster. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.
The winter brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Lancaster. The winter months attract visitors to Fort Lauderdale because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Lancaster this time of year.
It's quite cold in Lancaster in the winter. In the winter, Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Lancaster. Typically, the winter temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in January average around 67°F (20°C), and Lancaster averages at about 30°F (-1°C).
People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Fort Lauderdale this time of the year. In the winter, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Lancaster. Fort Lauderdale gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 153 hours of full sun.
Fort Lauderdale usually gets less rain in January than Lancaster. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.
Both Lancaster and Fort Lauderdale are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Fort Lauderdale this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lancaster for the natural beauty.
In April, Fort Lauderdale is generally much warmer than Lancaster. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 75°F (24°C), and Lancaster fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).
It's quite sunny in Lancaster. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Lancaster during spring. Fort Lauderdale gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 237 hours of full sun in the spring.
In April, Fort Lauderdale usually receives around the same amount of rain as Lancaster. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the spring.
Fort Lauderdale | Lancaster | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 67°F (20°C) | 2.2 inches (55 mm) | 30°F (-1°C) | 2.8 inches (72 mm) |
Feb | 68°F (20°C) | 2.1 inches (53 mm) | 33°F (0°C) | 2.9 inches (75 mm) |
Mar | 72°F (22°C) | 2.4 inches (61 mm) | 42°F (6°C) | 3.3 inches (83 mm) |
Apr | 75°F (24°C) | 3.1 inches (78 mm) | 53°F (12°C) | 3.2 inches (82 mm) |
May | 79°F (26°C) | 6.4 inches (162 mm) | 63°F (17°C) | 4.3 inches (108 mm) |
Jun | 81°F (27°C) | 9.4 inches (238 mm) | 72°F (22°C) | 3.9 inches (98 mm) |
Jul | 83°F (28°C) | 5.9 inches (149 mm) | 77°F (25°C) | 3.6 inches (91 mm) |
Aug | 83°F (28°C) | 7.5 inches (191 mm) | 75°F (24°C) | 3.3 inches (84 mm) |
Sep | 82°F (28°C) | 7.6 inches (194 mm) | 68°F (20°C) | 3.5 inches (89 mm) |
Oct | 78°F (26°C) | 5.6 inches (143 mm) | 56°F (13°C) | 2.9 inches (75 mm) |
Nov | 73°F (23°C) | 2.9 inches (73 mm) | 46°F (8°C) | 3.5 inches (90 mm) |
Dec | 69°F (21°C) | 1.9 inches (48 mm) | 35°F (2°C) | 3.2 inches (82 mm) |