A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Galveston vs. San Francisco for Attractions, Food, Families, and Nightlife

Should you visit Galveston or San Francisco?

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 Galveston and San Francisco can help you decide which place is right for you.

Galveston

Galveston is a coastal, historic, and charming town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a eccentric, one-of-a-kind, and scenic coastal city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Galveston and San Francisco: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Golden Gate Bridge


Is there more to do in Galveston or San Francisco?

Travelers will usually find more to do in San Francisco than Galveston, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. San Francisco is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Galveston is known for its nightlife, historical sights, and small town charm. San Francisco is more touristy than Galveston and is known for its striking bayfront setting, stunning urban hikes, quirky personality, and reputation within the tech industry. It is also home to The Golden Gate Bridge. Galveston is popular for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes.

How is Galveston different from San Francisco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Galveston or San Francisco?

Galveston
San Francisco

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in San Francisco are world-renowned. The city's landmarks are as diverse as the people who live there. The most recognizable landmark is the famous Golden Gate Bridge, but visitors also enjoy seeing Alcatraz Island, the Legion of Honor, the Palace of Fine Arts, as well as the small but fascinating Cable Car Museum.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Galveston can be an interesting and educational experience. With its long history and Victorian homes, there are a number of museums around town. A favorite mansion is the 1892 Bishop's Palace. There's also the Galveston Railroad Museum and the Galveston Arts Center.


Is Galveston or San Francisco Better for Theater?

Galveston
San Francisco

San Francisco is very good for its theatre productions. However, Galveston is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in San Francisco, take in a show. The city has around a dozen theaters where you can enjoy musicals or plays.

Galveston is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Galveston or San Francisco? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Galveston
San Francisco

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

San Francisco has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. There are local dives as well as five star restaurants, with everything in between. Popular local dining experiences include sourdough bread bowls and Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf, and dim sum in Chinatown. Head away from the touristy neighborhoods if you want to sample some of the more local restaurants around town.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Galveston area. There's a great mix of seafood and Texas favorites. Seafood-lovers will enjoy the oysters, crab cakes, and po boys while land-lovers will like the brisket, Tex Mex, and Texas chili.

Is Galveston or San Francisco Better for Nightlife?

Galveston
San Francisco

Galveston is a great town for its evening party scene. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for nightlife.

The nightlife in Galveston has something for everybody. There's a bit of a party town vibe in the evenings. Head to Pleasure Pier for rides and entertainment. The town also has taverns, lounges, and bars that you can check out.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in San Francisco. It has a great nightlife with many local bars and trendy clubs. For the best nightlife away from the tourists, head to Valencia Street or Polk Street. If you want to be in a more touristy area, check out Union Square. Popular clubs in the city include Temple San Francisco, Monarch, and Audio Nightclub.


Is Galveston or San Francisco Better for Music?

Galveston
San Francisco

San Francisco is very good for its live music scene. However, Galveston is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in San Francisco. Well known music venues include the Great American Music Hall, Slim's, and The Chapel.

Galveston is not a live music destination.

Is Galveston or San Francisco Better for Beaches?

Galveston
San Francisco

San Francisco is great for the beache. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the beach.

San Francisco is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Whether you're interested in surfing or simply taking in the dramatic views, the beaches of San Francisco will take your breath away. Some of the best beaches include Ocean Beach, Baker Beach, and Muir Beach.

Galveston has a beach worth visiting. There are miles of beaches that spread out from town. Some of the best include Babe's Beach, Stewart Beach, and Crystal Beach. Because of the proximity to the Mississippi River, the water can be a bit murky, but the beaches are still fun.

Is Galveston or San Francisco Better for its Old Town?

Galveston
San Francisco

Galveston is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, San Francisco does not have a historic old town.

Galveston has an old town worth visiting. The East End Historic District is filled with historic mansions with beautiful porches. It's possible to take a tour or you could explore independently.

San Francisco does not have a historic old town.


Is Galveston or San Francisco Better for Hiking?

Galveston
San Francisco

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for hiking. However, Galveston is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit San Francisco specifically for its hiking. The city's hikes take in the dramatic views of the bay and city. Just outside of town there are also countless hikes through the Redwoods and along the coastline. Popular hikes in the area include Lands End, Tomales Point Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore, and Muir Woods.

Galveston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Galveston or San Francisco?

Galveston
San Francisco

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, San Francisco draws large crowds to its stores. The city has excellent shopping from local vendors to recognizable brands. Union Square, Embarcadero, Fillmore Street and Haight Street are some of the best neighborhoods for shopping.

Many visitors go to Galveston to go shopping. There are plenty of places to pick up souvenirs like shell jewelry or t-shirts. There are also more eclectic shops as well as shopping centers and malls.

Is Galveston or San Francisco Better for Families?

Galveston
San Francisco

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

San Francisco is one of the most popular family destinations. With its many outdoor parks, hiking trails, beaches, and kid-friendly museums, this city makes a great family-friendly destination. There are also many amazing playgrounds with stunning views of the bay and city. Head to Chinatown for some unique and kid-friendly food, or down to Pier 39 for fun activities that the whole family can enjoy.

Galveston is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Head to Pier 21 where you'll find museums, harbor tours, and other kid-friendly activities. The city also offers a number of pirate-themed activities that kids enjoy as well as spooky ghost tours. For a bit of a thrill you can check out the rides at Galveston Pleasure Pier. And, of course, there are the beaches.


Is Galveston or San Francisco Better for Couples?

Galveston
San Francisco

Both Galveston and San Francisco are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Galveston is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The Historic District is the perfect place to enjoy a nice meal and soak up the charm. The area's beaches and parks also offer a bit of romance and there are plenty of outdoor activities like kayaking, fishing, or swimming.

San Francisco is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples enjoy the romantic backdrop of this beautiful city. There are world-class restaurants and plenty of spas that couples can enjoy during a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are also many scenic walks and breathtaking views that couples can appreciate.

Is Galveston or San Francisco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Galveston
San Francisco

San Francisco is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Galveston is not a good destination for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit San Francisco. The city is one of the more backpacker friendly cities in the United States. There are a handful of hostels throughout, many concentrated in the popular Union Square and Downtown neighborhoods of the city.

Galveston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The beaches are great, but most backpackers don't think to visit Galveston.

Is Galveston or San Francisco Better for Students?

Galveston
San Francisco

San Francisco is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Galveston is not popular with students.

San Francisco is very popular with students. As a large and dynamic city, the area is popular with international students who want to experience this unique side of the United States. Major universities in the area include University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and nearby, the University of California, Berkeley.

Galveston is not popular with students.


Is Galveston or San Francisco Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Galveston
San Francisco

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Galveston is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit in San Francisco is top-notch. The transit network includes a subway (the BART), trams, cable cars, ferries, and buses.

Public transit is generally limited in Galveston. While there are buses and trolley buses, a car is the best way to get around with the greatest flexibility and convenience.

Is Galveston or San Francisco a more walkable city?

Galveston
San Francisco

San Francisco is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

San Francisco is a very walkable coastal city. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but given the large hills, it's a bit of a challenge, even for the most fit among us.

Galveston is a somewhat walkable town. There are some walkable areas such as the Historic District.

For even more information, also check out Is Galveston Worth Visiting? and Is San Francisco Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Francisco or Galveston?

How long in Galveston or San Francisco?

Both Galveston and San Francisco have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in San Francisco than in Galveston. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Galveston, and 3-7 days is enough time in San Francisco.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Francisco than Galveston 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 San Francisco.


  • How many days in Galveston or San Francisco? Ideal Length of Stay
    Galveston 1-3 
    San Francisco 3-7

One day in Galveston or San Francisco?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Galveston. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

People visit San Francisco because there is so much to do. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.


A weekend in Galveston or San Francisco?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Galveston. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

People visit San Francisco because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Five days in Galveston or San Francisco?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the coastal destination of Galveston. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

People visit San Francisco because there is so much to do. 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 great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

A week in Galveston or San Francisco?

You'll find food and shopping around the town of Galveston. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

San Francisco is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in San Francisco, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, San Francisco or Galveston?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Galveston is $183, while the average daily cost in San Francisco is $222. 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 Galveston and San Francisco in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Galveston $81
    San Francisco $130
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Galveston $162
    San Francisco $260
Compare Hotels in Galveston and San Francisco

Looking for a hotel in Galveston or San Francisco? 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 Galveston


Hotels in San Francisco


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: Galveston Hotel Prices and San Francisco Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Galveston $35
    San Francisco $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Galveston

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

  • Galveston to Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) Private Transfer: $195
  • Privat Transfer from Galveston Port to Houston Airport (IAH): $195
  • Galveston Port to George Bush Airport Private Departure Transfer: $194
  • Private Transfer from Port of Galveston to Houston Airport (HOU): $169
  • Galveston Port to William Hobby Airport Departure Transfer: $169
  • Private Departure Transfer from Galveston Port to HOU Airport: $169
  • Private Departure Transfer from Galveston to HOU Airport: $169

Typical Local Transportation Prices in San Francisco

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in San Francisco:


  • Taxi to SFO
    $45
  • Golden Gate Bridge Toll
    $6.00
  • Alcatraz Tour
    $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in San Francisco

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

  • San Francisco Airport (SFO): Transfer to Cruise Terminal: $566
  • Carmel 1-Way Transfer to/from San Francisco Airport: $535
  • SFO Airport Private Transfer to/from Sacramento: $414
  • Napa Valley 1-Way Transfer to/from the San Francisco Airport: $400
  • San Francisco Airport (SFO): Transfer to San Francisco: $349
  • San Francisco (SFO) to Calistoga Resorts Round-Trip Transfer: $296
  • Private Airport Transfer From SFO to Sonoma (One-way): $296
  • Private Transfer: Round trip transfer from San Francisco International Airport: $290
  • Sedan Airport Transfer from Vallejo to SFO (one way): $259
  • San Francisco Airport (SFO) to San Francisco - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $222
  • Departure Private Transfer San Francisco to SFO Airport in a SUV: $203
  • San Francisco Airport (SFO) to Cruise Terminal Arrival Transfer: $184

Is it cheaper to fly into Galveston or San Francisco?

Prices for flights to both San Francisco and Galveston 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
    Galveston $52
    San Francisco $46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Galveston

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

  • Taste of the Strand Food Tour on Galveston Island: $105

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in San Francisco

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

  • San Francisco Virtual Food Tour with Local Guide: $19
  • North Beach and Little Italy Food Tour: $79
  • Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on the Bay: $82
  • Secret Food Tours San Francisco: $84
  • Mission District Food Tour with Tastings: $85
  • Farmers' Market & Ferry Building Food Tour: $87
  • Chinatown Walking Food Tour: $89
  • Mission District Walking Food Tour: $89
  • San Francisco North Beach and Chinatown - Secret Food Tours: $89
  • Mission District Food Tour: $89
  • San Francisco Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $89
  • San Francisco Chinatown Food Tour: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Galveston $15
    San Francisco $46

Tours and Activities in Galveston

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

  • 2 Hours Private Cemeteries of Galveston Walking Tour: $182
  • Al's Authentic Paranormal Excursion Tour: $15
  • Authentic Galveston Ghost City Tour: $25
  • Baywatch Dolphin Tour : $25
  • Dark Side and Cemeteries of Galveston – Walking Tour: $357
  • Demo and Reno Galveston Reconstructed Private Tour: $85
  • Dolphin Sightseeing Tour with Guide: $34
  • Galveston Cemetery Private Tour: $85
  • Galveston Dark of the Moon Ghost Tour with Red Light District: $19
  • Galveston Dark of the Moon Tour: $25
  • Galveston Great Storm Talk and Tour : $60
  • Galveston Haunted Tour with Ghost Hunting Equipment: $20

Tours and Activities in San Francisco

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

  • Streets and Stairways of San Francisco with Local Guided Tour: $50
  • "Summer of Love" tour in Haight-Ashbury in French: $63
  • 1 Day Hop-On Hop-Off Tour: $73
  • 1-Day San Francisco Hop-On Hop-Off Open Top Bus Tour: $63
  • 1-hour San Francisco Bay Area Photography Experience: $149
  • 1.5-Hour San Francisco Bay Sailing Tour: $99
  • 2 or 3 Hour Private Group San Francisco City Tour Open-air Jeep: $169
  • 2-Day San Francisco Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour + Chinatown Tour: $85
  • 2-Hour Double Decker City Tour of San Francisco: $73
  • 2-Hour Sunset or Evening Private Jeep Tour of San Francisco: $169
  • 2HR Golden Gate Bridge and Lombard Loop GoCar Tour: $172
  • 3 Hour Sightseeing Small Group Guided Tour in San Francisco: $89

For more ideas for your next trip, check out The Best Museums in San Francisco, The Best Outdoor Activities in San Francisco, and Things to Do In San Francisco on a Rainy Day.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Galveston $37
    San Francisco $22

Sample the Local Flavors in Galveston

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

  • Galveston Island Brewing Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting : $10
  • Historical Walking Tour and Pub Crawl: $25
  • Experience the Happy Hour Pub Crawl Tour in Galveston: $25
  • Galveston's Best Pub Crawl: $25
  • Happy Hour Pub Crawl: $25
  • Galveston Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Texas Tail Distillery Behind-the-Scenes Tour with Tasting: $45

Sample the Local Flavors in San Francisco

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in San Francisco:

  • Chinatown San Francisco’s Bar Crawl: An Audio Tour: $4.99
  • Sunset Distillery with Local Whiskey or Cocktail Tasting: $34
  • Ghosts, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Walk with Spirits: A Haunted Pub Crawl in San Francisco: $45
  • 2 to 3 Hour Bar Crawl in Castro San Francisco: $49
  • Wine Tasting on the Bay: $85
  • Half-Day Wine Country Tour with Wine Tastings: $126
  • The Ultimate Napa and Sonoma Wine Tour: $139
  • Small Group: The Ultimate Napa & Sonoma Wine Tour: $139
  • From The Ultimate Napa and Sonoma Wine Tour: $139
  • The Ultimate Napa & Sonoma Wine Tour: $139
  • Alcatraz and Sausalito California Wine Tasting Experience: $150


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

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


Which is Bigger, Galveston or San Francisco?

San Francisco has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Galveston. When comparing the sizes of Galveston and San Francisco, 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 Galveston or San Francisco?

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 Galveston or San Francisco in the Summer?

Both San Francisco and Galveston are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Galveston this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Francisco for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Galveston is much warmer than San Francisco. Typically, the summer temperatures in Galveston in July average around 84°F (29°C), and San Francisco averages at about 63°F (17°C).

In July, Galveston usually receives more rain than San Francisco. Galveston gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Galveston 84°F (29°C) 
    San Francisco 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Galveston or San Francisco in the Autumn?

Both San Francisco and Galveston during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Galveston for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Furthermore, many visitors come to San Francisco in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Galveston is generally a little warmer than San Francisco. Daily temperatures in Galveston average around 71°F (22°C), and San Francisco fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Galveston usually gets more rain in October than San Francisco. Galveston gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Galveston 71°F (22°C) 
    San Francisco 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Galveston or San Francisco in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Galveston and San Francisco. Many visitors come to Galveston in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to San Francisco for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Galveston is a little warmer than San Francisco in the winter. The daily temperature in Galveston averages around 52°F (11°C) in January, and San Francisco fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

In January, Galveston usually receives less rain than San Francisco. Galveston gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Galveston 52°F (11°C) 
    San Francisco 50°F (10°C)

Should I visit Galveston or San Francisco in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Galveston as well as San Francisco. Most visitors come to Galveston for the beaches and the small town charm during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to San Francisco because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Galveston is a little warmer than San Francisco. Typically, the spring temperatures in Galveston in April average around 70°F (21°C), and San Francisco averages at about 58°F (14°C).

Galveston usually gets more rain in April than San Francisco. Galveston gets 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Galveston 70°F (21°C) 
    San Francisco 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for San Francisco and Galveston

Galveston San Francisco
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm) 58°F (14°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 76°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 63°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 83°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 55°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)