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

Should you visit Jacksonville or Detroit?

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 Detroit. 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. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Detroit

Detroit is a overlooked , under-rated, and hardworking city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping.

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


Is there more to do in Jacksonville or Detroit?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Jacksonville. Although Jacksonville and Detroit are both popular with visitors, Jacksonville has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Jacksonville is more popular for its museums, food, beaches, and shopping, while Detroit is known for its music. Jacksonville is popular for its beautiful beaches and lively downtown area. It is also home to Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. Detroit is popular for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry.

How is Jacksonville different from Detroit?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Jacksonville
Detroit

Jacksonville is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Jacksonville can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Detroit. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.


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

Jacksonville
Detroit

Jacksonville is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Jacksonville has a huge number of terrific 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Detroit area. There's a local flavor to the food with a number of classic dishes that are popular like square pizza, Coney dogs, and corned beef egg rolls.

Is Jacksonville or Detroit Better for Nightlife?

Jacksonville
Detroit

Both Jacksonville and Detroit 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 Detroit know how to have a good time. It's long history in music still influences the nightlife scene. You'll find bars, clubs, and other activities around town. Greektown and Midtown are both popular neighborhoods during the evening.

Is Jacksonville or Detroit Better for Music?

Jacksonville
Detroit

Detroit is renowned for its music scene. However, Jacksonville is not a live music destination.

Detroit has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Few cities have such an influential music industry. It's home to Motown and is well known for its soul music, jazz, blues, and rap.

Jacksonville is not a live music destination.


Is Jacksonville or Detroit Better for Beaches?

Jacksonville
Detroit

Jacksonville is a very popular place for the beache. However, Detroit 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.

Detroit is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Jacksonville or Detroit?

Jacksonville
Detroit

Jacksonville is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Jacksonville is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Detroit to go shopping. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.

Is Jacksonville or Detroit Better for Families?

Jacksonville
Detroit

Both Jacksonville and Detroit are good 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 Detroit. Head to the Detroit Zoo or check out one of the amusement parks in the area. Kids will enjoy a visit to Legoland and there's also the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium. You could also spend some time visiting the unique museums in the area.


Is Jacksonville or Detroit Better for Couples?

Jacksonville
Detroit

Jacksonville is a nice place to visit for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

Jacksonville makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Detroit is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's not a city that usually brings to mind romance, but if you find yourself here for a couple of days, there's a RiverWalk area and some interesting local neighborhoods.

Is Jacksonville or Detroit Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Jacksonville
Detroit

Jacksonville is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to 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.

Detroit is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but this is still an often overlooked city.

Is Jacksonville or Detroit Better for Students?

Jacksonville
Detroit

Jacksonville is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Detroit is not popular with 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.

Detroit is not popular with students.


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

Jacksonville
Detroit

Jacksonville is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Detroit. There's a streetcar and bus system, but the car is still king in Motor City.

Is Jacksonville or Detroit a more walkable city?

Jacksonville
Detroit

Jacksonville and Detroit are good when it comes to walkability.

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

Detroit is somewhat walkable. There are parts of downtown Detroit that are walkable, but most people need a car to get around.

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

Should I spend more time in Detroit or Jacksonville?

How long in Jacksonville or Detroit?

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

Families should spend more time in Jacksonville than Detroit. 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 Detroit. 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 Detroit 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 Detroit? Ideal Length of Stay
    Jacksonville 2-3 
    Detroit 1-3

One day in Jacksonville or Detroit?

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.

In Detroit, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this overlooked 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 Detroit?

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.

Detroit 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. Lots of people come for the live music. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Jacksonville or Detroit?

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.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the hardworking destination of Detroit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the live music. 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 Detroit?

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.

Detroit 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.


Which place is cheaper, Detroit 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 Detroit is $133. 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 Detroit in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Jacksonville $92
    Detroit $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Jacksonville $184
    Detroit $128
Compare Hotels in Jacksonville and Detroit

Looking for a hotel in Jacksonville or Detroit? 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 Detroit


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 Detroit Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Jacksonville $53
    Detroit $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Jacksonville

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

  • Private Transfer from Carnival Port to Jacksonville Airport (JAX): $55
  • Marriott Jacksonville Downtown Transfer to JAX: $134
  • Jacksonville Airport JAX to Carnival Cruise Port-Arrival Transfer: $55
  • Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $111
  • Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville Cruise Port -Arrival Private Transfer: $55
  • Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $124
  • Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville City - Arrival Private Transfer: $62
  • JAX Airport Transfer to Tru By Hilton Jacksonville St Johns Town Center: $164
  • JAX Airport Transfer to One Ocean Resort and Spa: $181
  • JAX Airport Transfer to Marriott Jacksonville Downtown: $147
  • JAX Airport Transfer to Margaritaville Beach Hotel: $198
  • JAX Airport Transfer to Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront: $147

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Detroit

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

  • Private Transfer from Detroit City to Detroit (DTW) Airport: $144
  • Private Transfer from Detroit (DTW) Airport to Detroit City: $144
  • Private Departure Transfer to Detroit Airport DTW: $61
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Private Arrival Transfer - from Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Detroit City to Detroit Airport (DTW) - Departure Private Transfer: $95
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $191
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Arrival Private Transfer: $95
  • Detroit - Wayne County Airport One Way Transfer : $80
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Luxury SUV: $132
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Business Car: $101

Is it cheaper to fly into Jacksonville or Detroit?

Prices for flights to both Detroit 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
    Detroit $44

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
  • Small Group Walking Food Tour in Jacksonville with Lunch Included: $120

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Detroit

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

  • Fresh Mediterranean Inspired Cooking Class in a Unique Detroit Home: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Jacksonville $20
    Detroit $21

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
  • Architecture and History Tour in San Marco: $96
  • 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

Tours and Activities in Detroit

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

  • Ann Arbor Scavenger Hunt: Ann Arbor Adventure: $12
  • Detroit Pistons Basketball Game Ticket at Little Caesars Arena: $19
  • Detroit Red Wings Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Little Caesars Arena: $61
  • Detroit Tigers Baseball Game Ticket at Comerica Park: $12
  • Architectural Beauty and Hidden Gems Walking Tour: $115
  • Detroit Pistons Basketball Game Ticket: $19
  • Ghosts and Spirits Haunted Walking Tour: $26
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Spirit and History Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.50
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Ann Arbor with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Michigan Admission Ticket: $26
  • Motor City Ghosts Tour: $33

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Jacksonville

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

  • Jacksonville Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35


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

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


Which is Bigger, Jacksonville or Detroit?

Detroit has a larger population, and is about 19% larger than the population of Jacksonville. When comparing the sizes of Jacksonville and Detroit, 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 Detroit?

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 Detroit in the Summer?

Both Detroit and Jacksonville are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Jacksonville in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Detroit for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Jacksonville is generally a little warmer than Detroit. Daily temperatures in Jacksonville average around 82°F (28°C), and Detroit fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Detroit. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jacksonville. Jacksonville usually receives less sunshine than Detroit during summer. Jacksonville gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Detroit receives 319 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Jacksonville. In July, Jacksonville usually receives more rain than Detroit. Jacksonville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Jacksonville 82°F (28°C) 
    Detroit 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Jacksonville or Detroit in the Autumn?

Both Detroit and Jacksonville during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Jacksonville for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Detroit because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Jacksonville is much warmer than Detroit in the autumn. The daily temperature in Jacksonville averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and Detroit fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Jacksonville. In the autumn, Jacksonville often gets more sunshine than Detroit. Jacksonville gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Detroit receives 172 hours of full sun.

Jacksonville usually gets more rain in October than Detroit. Jacksonville gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Jacksonville.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Jacksonville 70°F (21°C) 
    Detroit 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Jacksonville or Detroit in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Jacksonville and Detroit. The winter months attract visitors to Jacksonville because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Detroit this time of year.

It's quite cold in Detroit in the winter. In the winter, Jacksonville is much warmer than Detroit. Typically, the winter temperatures in Jacksonville in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Detroit averages at about 25°F (-4°C).

Jacksonville usually receives more sunshine than Detroit during winter. Jacksonville gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Detroit receives 120 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Jacksonville usually receives more rain than Detroit. Jacksonville gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2 inches (50 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Jacksonville 53°F (12°C) 
    Detroit 25°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Jacksonville or Detroit in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Jacksonville as well as Detroit. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Jacksonville this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Detroit for the activities around the city.

In April, Jacksonville is generally much warmer than Detroit. Daily temperatures in Jacksonville average around 68°F (20°C), and Detroit fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Detroit. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jacksonville this time of the year. In the spring, Jacksonville often gets more sunshine than Detroit. Jacksonville gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Detroit receives 223 hours of full sun.

Jacksonville usually gets less rain in April than Detroit. Jacksonville gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.2 inches (80 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Jacksonville is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Jacksonville 68°F (20°C) 
    Detroit 49°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Detroit and Jacksonville

Jacksonville Detroit
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 37°F (3°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 60°F (16°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)