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

Should you visit Jacksonville or Charlotte?

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 Charlotte. 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 vibrant, under-rated, and lively city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Charlotte

Charlotte is a evolving, up-and-coming, and growing city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Jacksonville and Charlotte: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Jacksonville or Charlotte?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Jacksonville than Charlotte. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Jacksonville is famous for its beautiful beaches and lively downtown area. It is also well known for Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. Charlotte is famous for its banking industry and growing Uptown area.

How is Jacksonville different from Charlotte?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Charlotte 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 Charlotte?

Jacksonville
Charlotte

Jacksonville is great for its historical sights. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Jacksonville specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Charlotte is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Mint Museum is a popular place to visit, as is the Gantt Center for African American Arts. Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and sports enthusiasts will enjoy a stop at the NASCAR Hall of Fame.


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

Jacksonville
Charlotte

Jacksonville is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Charlotte offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The food scene continues to grow and change around town. You'll find the latest trendy restaurant changes regularly, but dishes often include upscale southern faire or classic American. There are also many international restaurants, particularly Mexican, Thai, and Chinese.

Is Jacksonville or Charlotte Better for Nightlife?

Jacksonville
Charlotte

Jacksonville is great for its evening party scene. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Many people head to Jacksonville for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Charlotte. Head Uptown for some of the best nightlife. The city has many bars and clubs that keep things fun late into the night.

Is Jacksonville or Charlotte Better for Beaches?

Jacksonville
Charlotte

Jacksonville is great for the beach. However, Charlotte is not a beach destination.

Jacksonville is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. 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.

Charlotte is not a beach destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Jacksonville or Charlotte?

Jacksonville
Charlotte

Jacksonville is great for its shopping areas. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

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.

Charlotte is a great destination for shopping. Shopping malls such as SouthPark Mall or Carolina Place offer all of the standard retailers. Concord Mills is another favorite mall in the area. Aside from the malls, there is no shortage of shopping centers around town.

Is Jacksonville or Charlotte Better for Families?

Jacksonville
Charlotte

Both Jacksonville and Charlotte 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 Charlotte. There are a number of museums for kids, with one of the best being Discovery Place. It has many hands-on science based exhibits that kids will love. Another unique experience is a visit to the U.S. National Whitewater Center. Carowinds Amusement Park is also in the area as are many great parks, playgrounds, and natural areas.

Is Jacksonville or Charlotte Better for Couples?

Jacksonville
Charlotte

Jacksonville and Charlotte 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.

Charlotte is a nice destination for couples. There are a number of date night activities around town, particularly Uptown. You can see a show or concert at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center or hit up one of the trendy bars or restaurants. There are also sporting events and other festivals that are fun to experience.


Is Jacksonville or Charlotte Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Jacksonville
Charlotte

Jacksonville is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Charlotte is not a good destination for backpackers.

Jacksonville is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Charlotte is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not a backpacker destination, there are some cheaper motels that budget travelers can stay at.

Is Jacksonville or Charlotte Better for Students?

Jacksonville
Charlotte

Both Jacksonville and Charlotte are nice destinations for students.

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

Charlotte is popular with students. There are a number of smaller colleges in town, but the biggest university is the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

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

Jacksonville
Charlotte

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Jacksonville and Charlotte.

Jacksonville has some public transit options. The public transportation system includes trolleys, the Skyway, buses, water taxis, and the ferry.

You'll find some public transit in Charlotte, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.


Is Jacksonville or Charlotte a more walkable city?

Jacksonville
Charlotte

Jacksonville and Charlotte are nice when it comes to walkability.

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

Charlotte is somewhat walkable. The Uptown area is the most walkable part of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Charlotte or Jacksonville?

How long in Jacksonville or Charlotte?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Jacksonville and Charlotte. In our opinion, Jacksonville has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Jacksonville than Charlotte. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Jacksonville, and 1-3 days is enough time in Charlotte.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Jacksonville or Charlotte? Ideal Length of Stay
    Jacksonville 2-3 
    Charlotte 1-3

One day in Jacksonville or Charlotte?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Jacksonville. 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.

In Charlotte, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this up-and-coming city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Jacksonville or Charlotte?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fun destination of Jacksonville. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

Charlotte 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 Charlotte?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant city of Jacksonville. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the evolving destination of Charlotte. 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 Charlotte?

Jacksonville is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Charlotte 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 G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Charlotte 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 Charlotte is $191. 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 Charlotte in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Jacksonville $92
    Charlotte $118
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Jacksonville $184
    Charlotte $236
Compare Hotels in Jacksonville and Charlotte

Looking for a hotel in Jacksonville or Charlotte? 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 Charlotte


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 Charlotte Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Jacksonville $53
    Charlotte $33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Jacksonville

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

  • Carnival Cruise Port Transfer to Jacksonville: $341
  • JAX Airport Transfer to Amelia Island: $195
  • JAX Airport Transfer to Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront: $147
  • Carnival Cruise Port Jacksonville to Jacksonville - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $128
  • Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $123
  • Carnival Cruise Port Jacksonville to Jacksonville, FL - Arrival Private Transfer: $64
  • Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville City - Arrival Private Transfer: $62
  • Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville Cruise Port -Arrival Private Transfer: $55

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Charlotte

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

  • Private Departure Transfer to Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT): $54
  • Departure Transfer: Charlotte to Charlotte Douglas Airport CLT in Business Car: $134
  • Charlotte Round Trip Chauffeur Driven Airport Transfer by Sedan: $150
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT): 1-Way Transfer to Charlotte: $99
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) to Charlotte City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $137
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) to Charlotte City - Arrival Private Transfer: $68
  • Charlotte City to Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) - Departure Private Transfer: $68
  • Arrival Transfer: Charlotte Douglas Airport CLT to Charlotte in Business Car: $134

Is it cheaper to fly into Jacksonville or Charlotte?

Prices for flights to both Charlotte 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
    Charlotte $46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jacksonville

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

  • 1 Hour of Chocolate Pizza Making Class in Jacksonville: $18

Typical Food Prices in Charlotte

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Charlotte:


  • Pizza at Airport
    $4.03
  • Cracker Barrel Lunch (family of 4)
    $29

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Jacksonville $20
    Charlotte $43

Tours and Activities in Jacksonville

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

  • Jacksonville Ghosts and Ghouls Tour By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • 2-Flights Indoor Skydiving Experience in Jacksonville: $91
  • 20 Minutes Chocolate & Candy Factory Tour in Jacksonville: $6.00
  • 90 Minute Self-Guided Arcimoto FUV Adventure: $125
  • Amelia Island Area Kayak Rental on Lofton Creek with Adventures Up The Creek: $36
  • Amelia Island Guided Kayak Tour of Lofton Creek : $60
  • Best of the Beaches E-Bike Tour: $100
  • Big Talbot Island Self Guided Tour with Smart Helmets: $115
  • CraigCat Boat Tour from Fernandina Beach: $145
  • Downtown Fernandina Historical Walking Tour: $30
  • Eight Flags Road Tour: $50
  • Electric Bike Art and Architecture Guided Tour in Jacksonville : $60

Tours and Activities in Charlotte

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

  • 2 Hours African American History E-Bike Tour in Charlotte: $79
  • 90 Minute Historic Uptown Neighborhood Segway Tour of Charlotte: $75
  • Carolina History and Haunts Charlotte Historical Ghost Walking Tour : $25
  • Charlotte Ghost Walking Tour - Smartphone guided audio/gps Tour at your own pace: $6.75
  • Charlotte Ghost Walking Tour: Smartphone Audio & GPS Tour: $6.50
  • Charlotte Haunted Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour: $35
  • Charlotte Historic : Queen Bee City Tour: $39
  • Charlotte Historical City Tour: $45
  • Charlotte Hornets Basketball Game Ticket at Spectrum Center: $16
  • Charlotte Indoor Skydiving Experience with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate: $90
  • Charlotte Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Charlotte's Only Southern Charm Haunted/True Crime Golf Cart Tour: $48

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Jacksonville $20
    Charlotte $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Charlotte

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

  • Charlotte Brewery Crawl Tour: $48
  • 3-Hour Brewery Crawl on 7 passenger Cart: $48
  • Original Charlotte Brewery Tour - Craft Beer Experience : $125
  • Bar Crawl on a Rollin Disco Ball Golf Cart in Charlotte: $240


When comparing the travel costs between Jacksonville and Charlotte, 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 Charlotte Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Jacksonville or Charlotte?

Jacksonville has a larger population, and is about 33% larger than the population of Charlotte. When comparing the sizes of Jacksonville and Charlotte, 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 Charlotte?

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 Jacksonville or Charlotte in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Jacksonville and Charlotte. Many travelers come to Jacksonville for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Charlotte in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Jacksonville is around the same temperature as Charlotte in the summer. The daily temperature in Jacksonville averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Charlotte fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Charlotte this time of the year. In Jacksonville, it's very sunny this time of the year. Jacksonville usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Charlotte during summer. Jacksonville gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Charlotte receives 289 hours of full sun in the summer.

Charlotte receives a lot of rain in the summer. Jacksonville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Jacksonville usually receives more rain than Charlotte. Jacksonville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Jacksonville 82°F (28°C) 
    Charlotte 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Jacksonville or Charlotte in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Jacksonville as well as Charlotte. Many visitors come to Jacksonville in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Charlotte for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Charlotte. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jacksonville this time of the year. In the autumn, Jacksonville often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Charlotte. Jacksonville gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlotte receives 223 hours of full sun.

Jacksonville usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Charlotte. Jacksonville gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Jacksonville is June to November.


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

Should I visit Jacksonville or Charlotte in the Winter?

Both Charlotte and Jacksonville are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Jacksonville for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Charlotte because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Jacksonville is generally much warmer than Charlotte. Daily temperatures in Jacksonville average around 53°F (12°C), and Charlotte fluctuates around 42°F (6°C).

Jacksonville usually receives more sunshine than Charlotte during winter. Jacksonville gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Charlotte receives 173 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Jacksonville usually receives around the same amount of rain as Charlotte. Jacksonville gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Jacksonville 53°F (12°C) 
    Charlotte 42°F (6°C)

Should I visit Jacksonville or Charlotte in the Spring?

Both Charlotte and Jacksonville during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Jacksonville because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Charlotte this time of year.

Jacksonville is a little warmer than Charlotte in the spring. The daily temperature in Jacksonville averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Charlotte fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

In Charlotte, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Jacksonville. In the spring, Jacksonville often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Charlotte. Jacksonville gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlotte receives 273 hours of full sun.

Jacksonville usually gets less rain in April than Charlotte. Jacksonville gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Jacksonville.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Jacksonville 68°F (20°C) 
    Charlotte 63°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Charlotte and Jacksonville

Jacksonville Charlotte
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 71°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 81°F (27°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 80°F (27°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)