A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Jacksonville vs. Berkeley for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Jacksonville or Berkeley?

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 Jacksonville and Berkeley. 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.

Jacksonville

Jacksonville is a under-rated, lively, and youthful city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a diverse, quirky, and progressive city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Jacksonville and Berkeley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Jacksonville or Berkeley?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Jacksonville than Berkeley. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Jacksonville is very popular for its beaches and big city activities, while Berkeley attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Berkeley is more touristy than Jacksonville and is popular for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques. Jacksonville is famous for its beautiful beaches and lively downtown area. It is also well known for Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens.

How is Jacksonville different from Berkeley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Jacksonville or Berkeley?

Jacksonville
Berkeley

You'll find a number of great museums and attractions in both Berkeley and Jacksonville.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Jacksonville. The city has a number of museums that range from art museums to science or kid-friendly museums. Some favorites are the Museum of Science and History, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Mandarin Museum and Historical Society, and Kingsley Plantation.

Berkeley offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.


Is the Food Better in Jacksonville or Berkeley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Jacksonville
Berkeley

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Jacksonville and Berkeley.

Jacksonville has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Local cuisine has its own identity. Unique dishes around town include garlic crabs, seafood boil, gumbo, and shrimp and grits. The local cuisine is similar to Lowcountry dishes with a lot of Cajun influence. If you want something different from seafood, you should try the barbecue.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Berkeley makes for a great culinary experience. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients.

Is Jacksonville or Berkeley Better for Nightlife?

Jacksonville
Berkeley

Both Jacksonville and Berkeley have great vibes after the sun sets.

Jacksonville has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The young population brings out the nightlife scene. There's a great concentration of bars and clubs in the area known as The Elbow, which is at the intersection of N. Ocean and E. Bay Street. You'll find plenty of cocktail bars, lounges, and clubs around town that make for a fun night out.

The people in Berkeley know how to have a good time. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

Is Jacksonville or Berkeley Better for Beaches?

Jacksonville
Berkeley

Jacksonville is notable for the beach. However, Berkeley is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Jacksonville. There are a number of beaches that are just a short distance from the city. Some have a historic vibe while others are more lively. Atlantic Beach is about a half hour drive from the city. For a laid back vibe head to Neptune Beach and the most popular beach in the area is Jacksonville Beach.

Berkeley is not a beach destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Jacksonville or Berkeley?

Jacksonville
Berkeley

Shoppers can find a variety of great stores in both Jacksonville and Berkeley.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Jacksonville. There are countless malls and shopping districts around town. Some of the best shopping is found at St. John's Center, Five Points, and Avondale.

Berkeley is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Is Jacksonville or Berkeley Better for Families?

Jacksonville
Berkeley

Both Jacksonville and Berkeley are nice family-friendly destinations.

Jacksonville is a family-friendly city. It's filled with adventure parks, zoos, animal farms, nature centers, and gardens. Adults will have as much fun as kids exploring the city and all of its family-friendly attractions.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Berkeley. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Jacksonville or Berkeley Better for Couples?

Jacksonville
Berkeley

Jacksonville and Berkeley both nice destinations for a couple.

Jacksonville is a good city for couples to visit. It's a young city that's near nature and has plenty of adventurous activities. There's sailing, botanical gardens, restaurants, and plenty of bars around town.

Berkeley is a nice destination for couples. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.


Is Jacksonville or Berkeley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Jacksonville
Berkeley

Berkeley is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Berkeley. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Jacksonville. There are a few hostels in town as well as affordable motels. The city has a young population with plenty to do. Although it's often overlooked by tourists, there's a surprising and underrated appeal to the backpacker crowd.

Is Jacksonville or Berkeley Better for Students?

Jacksonville
Berkeley

Berkeley is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Many students visit Berkeley. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for students.

Jacksonville is popular with students. There are a few colleges and universities in town. The city's population is also very young, making it a great place to study.

Is Jacksonville or Berkeley Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Jacksonville
Berkeley

Berkeley is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Berkeley has a great public transit system. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

You'll find some public transit in Jacksonville, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The public transportation system includes trolleys, the Skyway, buses, water taxis, and the ferry.


Is Jacksonville or Berkeley a more walkable city?

Jacksonville
Berkeley

Berkeley is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Berkeley. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

Jacksonville is somewhat walkable. Downtown Jacksonville is the most walkable part of the city.

For even more information, also check out Is Jacksonville Worth Visiting? and Is Berkeley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Berkeley or Jacksonville?

How long in Jacksonville or Berkeley?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Jacksonville and Berkeley. In our opinion, Berkeley has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Berkeley than Jacksonville. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berkeley than Jacksonville 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 Berkeley.


  • How many days in Jacksonville or Berkeley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Jacksonville 2-3 
    Berkeley 2-3

One day in Jacksonville or Berkeley?

The city of Jacksonville offers food and shopping. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Berkeley, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this progressive city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Jacksonville or Berkeley?

Jacksonville is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Jacksonville, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Berkeley is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Jacksonville or Berkeley?

Jacksonville is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the quirky destination of Berkeley. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Jacksonville or Berkeley?

Jacksonville is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Berkeley is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Berkeley or Jacksonville?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Jacksonville is $220, while the average daily cost in Berkeley is $190. 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 Jacksonville and Berkeley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Jacksonville $92
    Berkeley $131
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Jacksonville $184
    Berkeley $262
Compare Hotels in Jacksonville and Berkeley

Looking for a hotel in Jacksonville or Berkeley? 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 Jacksonville


Hotels in Berkeley


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: Jacksonville Hotel Prices and Berkeley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Jacksonville $53
    Berkeley $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Jacksonville

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

  • Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville Cruise Port -Arrival Private Transfer: $54
  • Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville City - Arrival Private Transfer: $61
  • Carnival Cruise Port Jacksonville to Jacksonville, FL - Arrival Private Transfer: $63
  • Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $121
  • Carnival Cruise Port Jacksonville to Jacksonville - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $126
  • JAX Airport Transfer to Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront: $147
  • JAX Airport Transfer to Hyatt Place/ St. Johns Town Center: $164
  • JAX Airport Transfer to Amelia Island: $195
  • Carnival Cruise Port Transfer to Jacksonville: $335

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berkeley

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Berkeley:

  • Private Transfer: Oakland International Airport to Hotel: $200
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland: $93
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco hotel/address - Private Arrival Transfer: $63
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco - Round-Trip Private Car Transfer: $126
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $87
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Private Arrival Transfer: $43
  • Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK to San Francisco by SUV: $232

Is it cheaper to fly into Jacksonville or Berkeley?

Prices for flights to both Berkeley and Jacksonville 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
    Jacksonville $96
    Berkeley $36

Typical Food Prices in Berkeley

Some typical examples of dining costs in Berkeley are as follows:


  • Chocolates at Sweet Dreams
    $4.46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Berkeley

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

  • North 3-Hour Food Tour: $116
  • Best of North Berkeley Food Tour: $130
  • Black Food Tour - Downtown Oakland: $140

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Jacksonville $20
    Berkeley $30

Tours and Activities in Jacksonville

For Jacksonville, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 20 Minutes Chocolate & Candy Factory Tour in Jacksonville: $6.00
  • Murray Hill Walking Mural Tour: $25
  • Downtown Fernandina Historical Walking Tour: $30
  • Jacksonville Ghosts and Ghouls Tour By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • Amelia Island Area Kayak Rental on Lofton Creek with Adventures Up The Creek: $36
  • The Escape Game Epic 60-Minute Adventures: $41
  • 1-Hour Escape Room Adventure: $41
  • Self-Guided Kayaking: Real Florida Adventure: $45
  • Self Guided Family Friendly Kayak Rental Experience Old Florida : $48
  • Eight Flags Road Tour: $50
  • Guided Kayak Eco Tour: Real Florida Adventure: $55
  • Amelia Island Guided Kayak Tour of Lofton Creek : $60

Tours and Activities in Berkeley

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Berkeley are as follows:

  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Berkeley: $20
  • Classic Sausalito Wooden Boat Tour: $135
  • Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn Show Tickets: $20
  • Historic Houseboat Tour: $65
  • Oakland Athletics Baseball Game Ticket at RingCentral Coliseum: $16
  • Oakland's Temescal Tastes Tour: $120
  • Redwoods of Marin and Mt. Tamalpais Walking Tour with Local Guide: $59
  • Ruth Bancroft Garden General Admission Ticket: $12
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Berkeley by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Self-Guided Oakland Tour in an Urban Excursion: $20
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Antioch by Zombie Scavengers: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Jacksonville $20
    Berkeley $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Jacksonville

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

  • Jax Brewery Tour (Drinks Included): $135

Sample the Local Flavors in Berkeley

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

  • Guided Wine Tasting at Berkeley Wineries with Local Sommelière : $175
  • Guided Wine Tasting with Local Sommelière: $175


When comparing the travel costs between Jacksonville and Berkeley, we can see that Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville Expensive? and Is Berkeley Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Jacksonville or Berkeley?

Jacksonville has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Berkeley. When comparing the sizes of Jacksonville and Berkeley, 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 Jacksonville or Berkeley?

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 Jacksonville or Berkeley in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Jacksonville as well as Berkeley. Many visitors come to Jacksonville in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Berkeley for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Jacksonville is much warmer than Berkeley in the summer. The daily temperature in Jacksonville averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Jacksonville receives a lot of rain in the summer. Jacksonville usually gets more rain in July than Berkeley. Jacksonville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Jacksonville 82°F (28°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Jacksonville or Berkeley in the Autumn?

Both Berkeley and Jacksonville are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Jacksonville for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Berkeley because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Jacksonville is a little warmer than Berkeley. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Jacksonville in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Berkeley averages at about 63°F (17°C).

In October, Jacksonville usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Jacksonville gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Jacksonville is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Jacksonville 70°F (21°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Jacksonville or Berkeley in the Winter?

Both Berkeley and Jacksonville during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Jacksonville because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Berkeley this time of year.

In January, Jacksonville is generally a little warmer than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Jacksonville average around 53°F (12°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

Jacksonville usually gets less rain in January than Berkeley. Jacksonville gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Jacksonville 53°F (12°C) 
    Berkeley 50°F (10°C)

Should I visit Jacksonville or Berkeley in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Jacksonville and Berkeley. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Jacksonville this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Berkeley for the natural beauty.

Jacksonville is a little warmer than Berkeley in the spring. The daily temperature in Jacksonville averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Berkeley fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

In April, Jacksonville usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Jacksonville gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Jacksonville is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Jacksonville 68°F (20°C) 
    Berkeley 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Berkeley and Jacksonville

Jacksonville Berkeley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 58°F (14°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 63°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)