Which place is cheaper, Chicago or Jacksonville?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Jacksonville and Chicago. 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 is a vibrant, under-rated, and lively city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.
Chicago is a edgey, cosmopolitan, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, theater, and nightlife.
Tourists will generally find more to do in Chicago than Jacksonville. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Chicago is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Jacksonville attracts visitors for its beaches. Chicago is more touristy than Jacksonville and is popular for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile. It is also well known for The Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower). Jacksonville is famous for its beautiful beaches and lively downtown area.
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Chicago and Jacksonville. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Chicago is renowned for its museums and history. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.
With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Chicago has many famous sights for visitors. There are countless landmarks, museums, and iconic sights in the area. Some of the most famous are the Art Institute of Chicago, Adler Planetarium, and the Museum of Science and Industry. Notable landmarks include the famous Willis Tower - formerly the Sears Tower, Buckingham Fountain, and the iconic Cloud Gate (the bean).
Jacksonville offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.
Chicago is renowned for its shows and theatre. However, Jacksonville is not a theatre destination.
Chicago is considered to be a world-class theater destination. Theater is big here with many of the major Broadway productions visiting the city. There is also an endless list of smaller, local theaters to choose from.
Jacksonville is not a theatre destination.
Chicago is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.
Eat your way through Chicago, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. With everything from award-winning luxury restaurants to local dives, this city has something for everyone. It also has very distinct local flavors and dishes that create an identity and bring great pride to the locals. While you're in town you have to try the famous deep dish pizza, Chicago style hot dogs, and Italian beef.
With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Jacksonville makes for a great culinary experience. 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.
Chicago is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.
Chicago is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. It has a wide range of activities at night, with everything from theater and comedy clubs to dance venues, sporting events, and local bars. It's easy to fill many evenings with whatever activity appeals to you. Popular bars and clubs include the Smart Bar, Beauty Bar, and Le Nocturne.
The people in Jacksonville know how to have a good time. 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.
Chicago is renowned for its music scene. However, Jacksonville is not a live music destination.
Chicago has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.
Jacksonville is not a live music destination.
Jacksonville is a great destination for the beach. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.
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.
Chicago has a beach worth visiting. While you don't immediately think of beaches when you think of Chicago, there are some nice beaches by the lake. If the weather is nice, it's a great area to spend some time.
Chicago is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.
Many people travel to Chicago specifically to go shopping. There are countless neighborhoods that are filled with boutiques, local vendors, and art galleries. The city has some of the country's best shopping opportunities, and the most notable area is the famous Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile.
Jacksonville is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.
Chicago is an excellent place to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Jacksonville does not offer Christmas activities.
Since it has plenty to do, Chicago is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. There's a number of seasonal celebrations, ice skating, and excellent shopping.
Jacksonville does not offer Christmas activities.
Chicago is a good destination for visiting Christmas markets. However, Jacksonville does not offer Christmas markets.
Visiting the Christmas markets is popular in Chicago. Shopping is a highlight of a trip to the city, and the Christkindlmarkt is not to be missed.
Jacksonville does not offer Christmas markets.
Chicago is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.
With a huge array of activities for kids, Chicago is very family-friendly. The city has a large number of activities for kids, including zoos, Shedd Aquarium, impressive children's museums, and large and elaborate playgrounds in Millennium Park. It's easy to keep kids entertained in this very kid-focused city.
You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Jacksonville. 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.
Jacksonville and Chicago 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.
Chicago is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy exploring the city's vibrant theater scene and diverse neighborhoods. There are many varied restaurants and entertainment options that make for a great date night. There are also sporting events, parks, and gardens where couples can explore.
Jacksonville and Chicago are both nice destinations for backpackers.
Plenty of backpackers 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.
Plenty of budget travelers visit Chicago. The city doesn't have a huge backpacker vibe, but it does have a number of hostels that help keep costs in check.
Chicago is renowned for its student-friendly activities. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.
Chicago is a very popular place to visit for students. The city has a large number of universities that bring in students from around the country and around the globe. It's a huge international city with economic ties and many opportunities connected to the universities.
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.
Chicago 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.
Chicago has a great public transit system. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.
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.
Chicago is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.
Chicago is a very walkable destination. The city has many restaurants, sights, and hotels that are easily accessible on foot.
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 Chicago Worth Visiting?.
In either Jacksonville or Chicago, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Chicago than Jacksonville because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Jacksonville, and 3-5 days is enough time in Chicago.
Families should spend more time in Chicago than Jacksonville. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Chicago, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Chicago than Jacksonville. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Chicago that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chicago 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 Chicago.
In Jacksonville, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.
Each neighborhood in Chicago has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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.
In Jacksonville, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Jacksonville has to offer.
Chicago is a fun place to experience. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.
Jacksonville is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.
Each neighborhood in Chicago has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Jacksonville. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Jacksonville. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.
Chicago 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.
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 Chicago is $288. 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 Chicago in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Jacksonville or Chicago? 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.
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.
Also for Jacksonville, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Chicago:
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Chicago:
Prices for flights to both Chicago 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.
For Jacksonville, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Chicago:
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Chicago.
For Jacksonville, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:
Here are a few typical costs in Chicago for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:
Here are a few actual costs in Chicago for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
For more ideas for your next trip, check out The Best Free Things to Do in Chicago, Chicago Bucket List: The Best Places to See, and The Best Museums in Chicago.
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Chicago:
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Jacksonville and Chicago, we can see that Chicago is more expensive. And not only is Jacksonville much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Jacksonville would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Jacksonville 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 Chicago would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chicago than you might in Jacksonville.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Jacksonville Expensive? and Is Chicago Expensive?.
Chicago has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Jacksonville. When comparing the sizes of Jacksonville and Chicago, 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.
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.
Both Chicago and Jacksonville during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Jacksonville for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Chicago in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.
Jacksonville is a little warmer than Chicago in the summer. The daily temperature in Jacksonville averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Chicago fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).
In Chicago, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Jacksonville. In the summer, Jacksonville often gets less sunshine than Chicago. Jacksonville gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 326 hours of full sun.
Chicago gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Jacksonville. Jacksonville usually gets more rain in July than Chicago. Jacksonville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain this time of the year.
The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Jacksonville and Chicago. Many visitors come to Jacksonville in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Chicago for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.
In the autumn, Jacksonville is much warmer than Chicago. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Jacksonville in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Chicago averages at about 56°F (14°C).
In Jacksonville, it's very sunny this time of the year. Jacksonville usually receives more sunshine than Chicago during autumn. Jacksonville gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 195 hours of full sun in the autumn.
In October, Jacksonville usually receives more rain than Chicago. Jacksonville gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Jacksonville is the hurricane season.
The winter brings many poeple to Jacksonville as well as Chicago. Most visitors come to Jacksonville for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Chicago because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.
The weather in Chicago can be very cold. In January, Jacksonville is generally much warmer than Chicago. Daily temperatures in Jacksonville average around 53°F (12°C), and Chicago fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).
In the winter, Jacksonville often gets more sunshine than Chicago. Jacksonville gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 134 hours of full sun.
Jacksonville usually gets more rain in January than Chicago. Jacksonville gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain this time of the year.
Both Chicago and Jacksonville are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Jacksonville because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Chicago this time of year.
Jacksonville is much warmer than Chicago in the spring. The daily temperature in Jacksonville averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Chicago fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).
It's quite sunny in Chicago. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jacksonville. Jacksonville usually receives more sunshine than Chicago during spring. Jacksonville gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 218 hours of full sun in the spring.
It rains a lot this time of the year in Chicago. In April, Jacksonville usually receives less rain than Chicago. Jacksonville gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Jacksonville is June to November.
Jacksonville | Chicago | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 53°F (12°C) | 3.3 inches (83 mm) | 25°F (-4°C) | 1.9 inches (47 mm) |
Feb | 56°F (13°C) | 3.9 inches (100 mm) | 29°F (-2°C) | 1.4 inches (35 mm) |
Mar | 62°F (17°C) | 3.7 inches (93 mm) | 41°F (5°C) | 3.7 inches (93 mm) |
Apr | 68°F (20°C) | 2.8 inches (72 mm) | 52°F (11°C) | 4.3 inches (108 mm) |
May | 74°F (24°C) | 3.7 inches (93 mm) | 63°F (17°C) | 3 inches (75 mm) |
Jun | 80°F (27°C) | 5.7 inches (146 mm) | 73°F (23°C) | 3.9 inches (100 mm) |
Jul | 82°F (28°C) | 5.4 inches (137 mm) | 77°F (25°C) | 3.9 inches (100 mm) |
Aug | 82°F (28°C) | 7.8 inches (199 mm) | 76°F (24°C) | 3.5 inches (90 mm) |
Sep | 79°F (26°C) | 7.1 inches (180 mm) | 68°F (20°C) | 3.8 inches (96 mm) |
Oct | 70°F (21°C) | 2.9 inches (73 mm) | 56°F (14°C) | 2.2 inches (56 mm) |
Nov | 62°F (17°C) | 2.2 inches (55 mm) | 44°F (7°C) | 2.2 inches (56 mm) |
Dec | 56°F (13°C) | 2.7 inches (69 mm) | 31°F (-1°C) | 2.8 inches (71 mm) |