A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Jacksonville vs. Miami for Food, Nightlife, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Jacksonville or Miami?

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 Miami. 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. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Miami

Miami is a high energy, glamorous, and exciting beach city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and beaches.

Jacksonville and Miami: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Jacksonville or Miami?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Miami than Jacksonville. While Jacksonville is larger than Miami, Miami has more sights and attractions for tourists. Miami is better known for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Jacksonville is more popular for its museums. Miami is more touristy than Jacksonville and is popular for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. Also, Miami is famous for South Beach. Jacksonville is well known for its beautiful beaches and lively downtown area.

How is Jacksonville different from Miami?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Jacksonville is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Miami is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Miami, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American flavors and it is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. There is everything from award-winning restaurants to local dives that offer excellent dishes and experiences. The city is known for its stone crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

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.

Is Jacksonville or Miami Better for Nightlife?

Miami is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Miami is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. From the posh nightlife clubs in South Beach, to the local salsa dancing venues in Little Havana, Miami is a city that thrives with energy. There are many world-renowned clubs that keep the music and drinks flowing through the entire night. There's also a glitzy and glamourous scene where the wealthy like to see and be seen.

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.

Is Jacksonville or Miami Better for Music?

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

Miami has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

Jacksonville is not a live music destination.

Is Jacksonville or Miami Better for Resorts?

Miami is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Jacksonville is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Miami for its luxury resorts. Known for it's luxury, you'll find many resorts in the area. Popular options include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Fontainebleau, and Carillon Miami.

Jacksonville is not a resort destination.

Is Jacksonville or Miami Better for Beaches?

Miami is renowned for the beach. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Miami offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. If you're looking for long sandy beaches, luxury yacht clubs, and fine dining restaurants, the area's beaches have them all. Some of the best beaches in the area include the world-famous South Beach, the North Beach Oceanside Park, Sunny Isles Beach, and Surfside. Many beaches are lined with high rise hotels that offer an urban beach experience.

Jacksonville is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Jacksonville or Miami?

Miami is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Miami specifically to go shopping. The city has every high end brand you could want, along with diverse neighborhoods with local finds and unique purchases. You'll find many diverse shopping opportunities that are influenced by the city's cultural scene. You'll also find many souvenir stands and t-shirt shops.

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.

Is Jacksonville or Miami Better for Families?

Miami is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Miami. Because it's so big, you'll find a number of kid-friendly activities in the area. There's the Miami Zoo, various waterparks, the Everglades Alligator Park, Miccosukee Indian Village, and plenty of indoor playgrounds in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

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.

Is Jacksonville or Miami Better for Couples?

Miami is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Miami makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For couples who love nightlife, wining and dining, and high end beach clubs, this is the place to be. There are many award-winning restaurants and plenty of glitz and glam that make for a great romantic getaway.

Jacksonville is a nice destination for couples. 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.

Is Jacksonville or Miami Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Jacksonville and Miami are both notable 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 Miami. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the backpackers.

Is Jacksonville or Miami Better for Students?

Both Jacksonville and Miami are notable 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.

Miami is popular with students. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Jacksonville and Miami.

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 Miami, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around the city.

Is Jacksonville or Miami a more walkable city?

Miami 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.

Miami is a very walkable destination. Many parts of city are surprisingly walkable and pedestrian friendly, allowing you to eat out, go shopping, or explore without the need for a car.

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 Miami Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Miami or Jacksonville?

How long in Jacksonville or Miami?

Both Jacksonville and Miami have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Miami than in Jacksonville. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Jacksonville, and 7 days is enough time in Miami.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Miami 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 Miami.

One day in Jacksonville or Miami?

In Jacksonville, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this fun destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Each neighborhood in Miami has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Miami?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Jacksonville. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Miami is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Miami?

Jacksonville is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Jacksonville. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Each neighborhood in Miami has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

A week in Jacksonville or Miami?

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant destination of Jacksonville. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Miami is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Jacksonville or Miami?

Jacksonville has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Miami. When comparing the sizes of Jacksonville and Miami, 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 Miami?

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 Miami in the Summer?

Both Miami 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. Furthermore, many visitors come to Miami in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Jacksonville is around the same temperature as Miami. Typically, the summer temperatures in Jacksonville in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Miami averages at about 83°F (28°C).

In Miami, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Jacksonville. In the summer, Jacksonville often gets less sunshine than Miami. Jacksonville gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Miami receives 316 hours of full sun.

Miami gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Jacksonville. Jacksonville usually gets less rain in July than Miami. Jacksonville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Miami receives 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Jacksonville or Miami in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Jacksonville and Miami. Many visitors come to Jacksonville in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Miami for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In October, Jacksonville is generally cooler than Miami. Daily temperatures in Jacksonville average around 70°F (21°C), and Miami fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Miami this time of the year. In Jacksonville, it's very sunny this time of the year. Jacksonville usually receives less sunshine than Miami during autumn. Jacksonville gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Miami receives 275 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Miami receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Jacksonville usually receives less rain than Miami. Jacksonville gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Miami receives 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Jacksonville.

Should I visit Jacksonville or Miami in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Jacksonville as well as Miami. Most visitors come to Jacksonville for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Miami because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Jacksonville is much colder than Miami in the winter. The daily temperature in Jacksonville averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Miami fluctuates around 67°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Miami. In the winter, Jacksonville often gets less sunshine than Miami. Jacksonville gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Miami receives 243 hours of full sun.

Jacksonville usually gets more rain in January than Miami. Jacksonville gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Miami receives 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Jacksonville or Miami in the Spring?

Both Miami 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 and the activities around the city are the main draw to Miami this time of year.

In the spring, Jacksonville is cooler than Miami. Typically, the spring temperatures in Jacksonville in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Miami averages at about 75°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Miami. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jacksonville. Jacksonville usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Miami during spring. Jacksonville gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Miami receives 300 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Jacksonville usually receives less rain than Miami. Jacksonville gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Miami receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Jacksonville is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Miami and Jacksonville