A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Houston vs. Nantucket for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Houston or Nantucket?

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 Houston and Nantucket. 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.

Houston

Houston is a diverse, sprawling, and southern city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Houston travel costs.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a peaceful, upscale, and charming island. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The beauty of Nantucket is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Nantucket travel costs.

Houston and Nantucket: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Houston or Nantucket?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Houston. Although Houston and Nantucket are popular destinations, Houston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Houston is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Nantucket attracts visitors for its food, resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Nantucket is more touristy than Houston and is popular for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. Houston is famous for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA. It is also well known for The Space Center Houston.

How is Houston different from Nantucket?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Houston or Nantucket?

Houston
Nantucket

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

Many visitors head to Houston specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's Museum.

Nantucket offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.


Is the Food Better in Houston or Nantucket? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Houston
Nantucket

Nantucket is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Nantucket, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

Houston has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

Is Houston or Nantucket Better for Nightlife?

Houston
Nantucket

Houston is a great city for nightlife. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Houston has something for everybody. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Nantucket. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

Is Houston or Nantucket Better for Music?

Houston
Nantucket

Houston is very good for live music. However, Nantucket is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Houston. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Nantucket is not a live music destination.


Is Houston or Nantucket Better for Resorts?

Houston
Nantucket

Nantucket is well known for its resorts. However, Houston is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Nantucket to choose from. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

Houston is not a resort destination.

Is Houston or Nantucket Better for Beaches?

Houston
Nantucket

Nantucket is well known for the beach. However, Houston is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Nantucket for it's beautiful beaches. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

Houston is not a beach destination.

Is Houston or Nantucket Better for its Old Town?

Houston
Nantucket

Nantucket is well known for its old town. However, Houston does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

Houston does not have a historic old town.


Is Houston or Nantucket Better for Hiking?

Houston
Nantucket

Nantucket is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Houston is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Nantucket. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.

Houston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Houston or Nantucket?

Houston
Nantucket

Nantucket is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Nantucket is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

Houston has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

Is Houston or Nantucket More Beautiful?

Houston
Nantucket

Nantucket is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Houston is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Nantucket is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Natural beauty and charming character make this a picturesque destination.

Houston is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Houston or Nantucket Better for Families?

Houston
Nantucket

Both Houston and Nantucket are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Houston is a very kid-friendly city. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Nantucket. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.

Is Houston or Nantucket Better for Couples?

Houston
Nantucket

Nantucket is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Nantucket is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

Houston is a good city for couples to visit. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

Is Houston or Nantucket Better for Students?

Houston
Nantucket

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

It's common for students to visit Houston. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

Nantucket is not popular with students.


Is Houston or Nantucket Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Houston
Nantucket

Nantucket is a good destination for its public transit. However, Houston is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Nantucket, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

Public transit is mostly limited in Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.

Is Houston or Nantucket a more walkable city?

Houston
Nantucket

Nantucket is well known for its high level of walkability. However, Houston is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

Nantucket is a very walkable island. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.

Houston is generally not a very walkable city. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Houston Worth Visiting? and Is Nantucket Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nantucket or Houston?

How long in Houston or Nantucket?

It's fun to spend time in either Houston or Nantucket. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Nantucket due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Houston, and 2-4 days is enough time in Nantucket.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nantucket than Houston 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 Nantucket.


  • How many days in Houston or Nantucket? Ideal Length of Stay
    Houston 2-3 
    Nantucket 2-4

One day in Houston or Nantucket?

People visit Houston because there is so much to do. 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.

Nantucket is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Houston or Nantucket?

People visit Houston because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Nantucket might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nantucket has to offer.

Five days in Houston or Nantucket?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the diverse city of Houston. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Nantucket is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Houston or Nantucket?

Houston is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nantucket. Since Nantucket is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Nantucket or Houston?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Houston Prices
    USA Prices
    Nantucket Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Houston $287
    Nantucket $409

The average daily cost (per person) in Houston is $287, while the average daily cost in Nantucket is $409. 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 Houston and Nantucket in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Houston $142
    Nantucket $237
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Houston $284
    Nantucket $474
Compare Hotels in Houston and Nantucket

Looking for a hotel in Houston or Nantucket? 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 Houston


Hotels in Nantucket


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: Houston Hotel Prices and Nantucket Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Houston $72
    Nantucket $47

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Houston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Houston:

  • Privat Transfer from Houston Airport (HOU) to Port of Galveston: $246
  • Private Transfer from George Bush Airport(IAH) to Galveston Port : $222
  • SUV Airport Transfer in Houston: $200
  • Sedan Airport Transfer in Houston: $165
  • William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Port of Galveston - Arrival Private Transfer: $156
  • Private Transfer from Houston Airport (HOU) to Galveston Port : $156
  • Arrival Private Transfer: George Bush Airport IAH to Houston in Luxury SUV: $120
  • Arrival Private Transfer: George Bush Airport IAH to Houston in Business Car: $119
  • Departure Transfer: Houston to George Bush Airport IAH by Sedan: $119
  • Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) to Houston - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $115
  • Houston Airport (HOU) to Galveston Round-Trip Private Transfer: $108
  • Houston William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Houston - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $108

Is it cheaper to fly into Houston or Nantucket?

Prices for flights to both Nantucket and Houston 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
    Houston $60
    Nantucket $141

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Houston

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Houston.

  • Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston: $75
  • Fun Pasta Making Cooking Class With Local Chef: $75
  • The Heights Food Tour in Houston: $80
  • Downtown Houston Food Tour: $80
  • Houston Downtown Food Tour with 6 Tastings of Tradition & Fusion: $85
  • East Downtown Food Tour: $90
  • Houston Downtown: Secret Food Tours: $93
  • French Cooking Class in Houston (Includes 3-Course Meal): $125

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Houston $14
    Nantucket $34

Tours and Activities in Houston

Here are a few actual costs in Houston for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Best of Houston and Galveston Tour 7 Hours Small Group: $120
  • H- Town 3rd Ward Tour with 15ft Party Truck : $46
  • Driving Tour & NASA Space Center Ticket/Transport: $95
  • 1 Hour Private Christmas Lights Tour in Houston : $39
  • 2 Hour December Holiday Lights Tour: $65
  • 7-Hour Best Of Houston and Galveston Tour: $120
  • 7-Hour Best Of Houston and Galveston Tour: $120
  • 75 Min Best of Houston tour Small-Group : $36
  • All day Galveston Tour From Houston with Tall Ship Elissa & Dolphin Watch: $235
  • All-Inclusive Hip-Hop Brunch Party Bike Tour: $65
  • Astroville Best of Houston City Driving Tour with Live Guide: $35
  • Astroville Driving Tour & NASA Space Center Ticket/Transportation: $75

Tours and Activities in Nantucket

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

  • Beyond the Cobblestones Self Guided Audio Tour of Nantucket: $9.99
  • Beyond the Cobblestones Self Guided Walking Tour of Nantucket: $9.99
  • Nantucket Coast to Coast Self-Guided Biking or Driving Tour: $13
  • Discover Nantucket Self-Guided Biking or Driving Tour: $13
  • Historical Landmarks Sightseeing Bus Tour: $53
  • Historical Tour of Nantucket: $57
  • Downtown Walking Tour: $120
  • Guided Bike Tour: $160
  • Guided Scenic Island Driving Tour: $160

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Houston $13
    Nantucket $35

Sample the Local Flavors in Houston

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

  • Houston Hustle Bar Crawl: $15
  • Brewery Pass with Beer Tastings: $50
  • Private Houston Brewery Tour by Cart: $57
  • 2-Hour Downtown Brewery Tour by Electric Cart: $70


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

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


Which is Bigger, Houston or Nantucket?

Houston has a larger population, and is about 140 times larger than the population of Nantucket. When comparing the sizes of Houston and Nantucket, 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 Houston or Nantucket?

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 Houston or Nantucket in the Summer?

Both Nantucket and Houston during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Houston for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Nantucket in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Houston is generally a little warmer than Nantucket. Daily temperatures in Houston average around 84°F (29°C), and Nantucket fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Houston. Houston usually gets more rain in July than Nantucket. Houston gets 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Houston 84°F (29°C) 
    Nantucket 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Houston or Nantucket in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Houston and Nantucket. Many visitors come to Houston in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Nantucket for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Houston is much warmer than Nantucket in the autumn. The daily temperature in Houston averages around 71°F (22°C) in October, and Nantucket fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

Nantucket receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Houston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Houston usually receives around the same amount of rain as Nantucket. Houston gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Houston 71°F (22°C) 
    Nantucket 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Houston or Nantucket in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Houston as well as Nantucket. Most visitors come to Houston for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Nantucket because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Nantucket can be very cold. In the winter, Houston is much warmer than Nantucket. Typically, the winter temperatures in Houston in January average around 52°F (11°C), and Nantucket averages at about 31°F (-0°C).

It's quite rainy in Nantucket. Houston usually gets less rain in January than Nantucket. Houston gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Houston 52°F (11°C) 
    Nantucket 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Houston or Nantucket in the Spring?

Both Nantucket and Houston are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Houston because of the activities around the city. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Nantucket this time of year.

In April, Houston is generally much warmer than Nantucket. Daily temperatures in Houston average around 70°F (21°C), and Nantucket fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nantucket. In April, Houston usually receives less rain than Nantucket. Houston gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Houston 70°F (21°C) 
    Nantucket 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Nantucket and Houston

Houston Nantucket
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 76°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 4.8 inches (122 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Aug 83°F (29°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Sep 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 55°F (13°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)