A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Houston vs. Roswell, New Mexico for Attractions, Families, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Houston or Roswell, New Mexico?

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 Roswell, New Mexico. 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 southern, one-of-a-kind, and diverse city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a mysterious, infamous, and quirky town. And you can't forget about the food and museums.

Houston and Roswell, New Mexico: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Houston or Roswell, New Mexico?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Houston than Roswell, New Mexico, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Roswell, New Mexico is more touristy than Houston and is popular for being the site of an alleged UFO crash. Houston is well known for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA. Also, Houston is famous for The Space Center Houston.

How is Houston different from Roswell, New Mexico?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Roswell, New Mexico 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 Roswell, New Mexico?

Houston
Roswell, New Mexico

Houston is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Houston. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Roswell, New Mexico. Most people stop in town specifically for the International UFO Museum and Research Center. It has a lot of information on the 1947 Roswell Crash and other supposed UFO incidents. Other museums in town include the Roswell UFO Spacewalk, the Roswell Museum, and the Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art.


Is the Food Better in Houston or Roswell, New Mexico? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Houston
Roswell, New Mexico

Foodies will find both Houston and Roswell, New Mexico both to be notable destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Houston. 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.

Roswell, New Mexico is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's a good place to grab lunch as there are many casual restaurants that serve everything from burgers to tacos or other Mexican dishes.

Is Houston or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Nightlife?

Houston
Roswell, New Mexico

Houston is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Houston has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Roswell, New Mexico. There's no real nightlife scene and many visitors stop over in route somewhere else.

Is Houston or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Music?

Houston
Roswell, New Mexico

Houston is a good destination for its live music scene. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Houston. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a live music destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Houston or Roswell, New Mexico?

Houston
Roswell, New Mexico

Houston is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Houston. 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.

Roswell, New Mexico has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find the typical suburban chains where you can pick up essentials or food while you're in town.

Is Houston or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Families?

Houston
Roswell, New Mexico

Houston is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Houston is very family-friendly. 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 kid-friendly things to do in Roswell, New Mexico. Kids who enjoy a mystery will appreciate a visit to the International UFO Museum and Research Center. There's also the Spring River Park and Zoo which has native animals and a carousel.

Is Houston or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Couples?

Houston
Roswell, New Mexico

Houston is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for couples.

Houston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

Roswell, New Mexico is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's a bit outside the box as far as destinations go, so couples who enjoy the weird and quirky will enjoy a stop here.


Is Houston or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Students?

Houston
Roswell, New Mexico

Houston is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not popular with students.

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

Roswell, New Mexico is not popular with students.

Is Houston or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Houston
Roswell, New Mexico

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Houston and Roswell, New Mexico.

Public transit is generally 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Roswell, New Mexico. There are buses, but it's easier to have your own car.

Is Houston or Roswell, New Mexico a more walkable city?

Houston
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Houston is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

Roswell, New Mexico is a somewhat walkable place. The historic district is compact and walkable.

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 Roswell, New Mexico Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Roswell, New Mexico or Houston?

How long in Houston or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

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

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


  • How many days in Houston or Roswell, New Mexico? Ideal Length of Stay
    Houston 2-3 
    Roswell, New Mexico 1-2

One day in Houston or Roswell, New Mexico?

Each neighborhood in Houston has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Roswell, New Mexico, you'll find food and museums. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Houston or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people visit Houston for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Houston, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Roswell, New Mexico, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Roswell, New Mexico has to offer.

Five days in Houston or Roswell, New Mexico?

The big city destination of Houston offers food and shopping. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Roswell, New Mexico is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Houston or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Houston. This city offers something for everyone. 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's hard to know how much time to spend in Roswell, New Mexico. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Roswell, New Mexico. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Roswell, New Mexico or Houston?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Houston is $262, while the average daily cost in Roswell, New Mexico is $117. 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 Roswell, New Mexico in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Houston $142
    Roswell, New Mexico $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Houston $284
    Roswell, New Mexico $92
Compare Hotels in Houston and Roswell, New Mexico

Looking for a hotel in Houston or Roswell, New Mexico? 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 Roswell, New Mexico


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 Roswell, New Mexico Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Houston $72
    Roswell, New Mexico $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Houston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Houston:

  • William P.Hobby Airport (HOU): Transfer to Port of Galveston: $540
  • William P. Hobby Airport to Galveston Port Arrival Transfer: $168
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Houston APT-HTL (IAH): $151
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Houston George Bush Airport to Houston Downtown: $60
  • Transfer in private minivan from Houston George Bush Airport to Houston Downtown: $88
  • Transfer in private minivan from Houston City Center to George Bush Airport: $88
  • Sedan Airport Transfer in Houston: $165
  • SUV Airport Transfer in Houston: $200
  • RoundTrip transfer in private minivan from-to HoustonAirport in Houston Downtown: $176
  • Round trip transfer in private car from-to Houston Airport in Houston Downtown: $120
  • Private One-way George Bush Airport Transfer To/From Houston: $71
  • Private Departure Transfer to Houston William P. Hobby Airport HOU: $48

Is it cheaper to fly into Houston or Roswell, New Mexico?

Prices for flights to both Roswell, New Mexico 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 $35
    Roswell, New Mexico $44

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Houston

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

  • Seasonal Pizza From Scratch Experience in Houston: $55
  • Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access: $70
  • Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access: $72
  • The Heights Food Tour in Houston: $76
  • Downtown Houston Food Tour: $76
  • Houston Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $85
  • Houston Downtown: Secret Food Tours: $87
  • Howdy H-Town EADO Food Tour: $90
  • East Downtown Food Tour: $90
  • Houston Heights Culture and Food Tour: $95
  • Montrose Food Tour: $97

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Houston $14
    Roswell, New Mexico $33

Tours and Activities in Houston

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

  • Houston Ghosts and Hauntings By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • The Art of Fufu Cookbook Experience: West African Soup & Fufu : $100
  • 2 Hours H- Town Tour with 15ft Open Air Party Truck On Wheels: $49
  • 2-Hour Private Sightseeing Cart Tour of Houston and Galveston: $256
  • 3D Printer Factory Tour plus 2 ft Tall Rocket!: $31
  • Astroville Best of Houston City Driving Tour with Live Guide: $45
  • Astroville Best of Houston City Driving Tour with Live Guide: $45
  • Astroville Driving Tour & NASA Space Center Admission and Shuttle: $85
  • Astroville Private Best of Houston City Driving Tour: $375
  • Astroville Tunnel Tour & NASA Space Center Admission with Shuttle: $85
  • Astroville Tunnel Tour of Downtown Houston (Air-Conditioned): $32
  • Astroville Tunnel Tour of Downtown Houston (Air-Condtioned): $32

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Houston $13
    Roswell, New Mexico $9.29

Sample the Local Flavors in Houston

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

  • Brewery Pass with Beer Tastings: $50
  • Private Houston Brewery Tour by Cart: $57
  • 2-Hour Downtown Brewery Tour by Electric Cart: $70
  • Private 3-in-1 Sightseeing, Brewery, and Mural Tour of Houston by Cart: $115


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

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


Which is Bigger, Houston or Roswell, New Mexico?

Houston has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Roswell, New Mexico. When comparing the sizes of Houston and Roswell, New Mexico, 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.