Which place is cheaper, Ottawa or Jacksonville?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
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Should you visit Jacksonville or Ottawa?
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 Ottawa. 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.
Where Should I go: Jacksonville or Ottawa?
Jacksonville
As the sky above you darkens, the city around you glows with a vividness of a thousand colors as you hear the soft swell of waves upon the shore. Such an urban paradise is none other than Jacksonville, Florida. Located on the northeastern side of the sunshine state, Jacksonville stands where the St. John's River meets the Atlantic Ocean. Estimated to be the 12th most populous city in the United States, Jacksonville works as the cultural, commercial and financial hive of north Florida. The large city is known for its exquisite beaches, interactive museums, and golf course areas. Surf, shop, and socialize in one of Florida's most popular metropolitan areas.
Ottawa
Ottawa is the capital city of Canada, located on the Ontario side of the Ottawa River. A city of many ethnic populations, Ottawa is uniquely bilingual with English as the first language of the population's majority and French as a close second. It is best known as the nation's capital, which is centered on Parliament Hill, an architectural landmark as well as the seat of government.
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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Canada, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Canada.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayJacksonville $220Ottawa $122
The average daily cost (per person) in Jacksonville is $220, while the average daily cost in Ottawa is $122. 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 Ottawa in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personJacksonville $92Ottawa $18
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomJacksonville $184Ottawa $36
Compare Hotels in Jacksonville and Ottawa
Looking for a hotel in Jacksonville or Ottawa? 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.
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 Ottawa Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Jacksonville $53Ottawa $7.21
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Jacksonville
Also for Jacksonville, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville Cruise Port -Arrival Private Transfer: $55
- Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $123
- Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville City - Arrival Private Transfer: $61
- JAX Airport Transfer to Hyatt Place/ St. Johns Town Center: $164
- JAX Airport Transfer to Amelia Island: $195
- Carnival Cruise Port to Jacksonville Airport (JAX) - Departure Private Transfer: $55
- Carnival Cruise Port Transfer to Jacksonville: $336
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ottawa
Also for Ottawa, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Private Arrival Transfer from Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier Airport YOW: $40
- Ottawa to Ottawa Macdonald–Cartier Airport (YOW) - Departure Private Transfer: $66
- Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier Airport YOW Private Arrival/Departure Shuttle Transfer : $52
Is it cheaper to fly into Jacksonville or Ottawa?
Prices for flights to both Ottawa 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
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Food Meals for one dayJacksonville $96Ottawa $17
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
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ottawa
For Ottawa, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Oh Canada Eh!? Dinner Musical : $71
- Taste of the ByWard Market Food Tour: $79
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Jacksonville $20Ottawa $40
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
- 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
- Electric Bike Tour with Free Application for Navigation: $50
Tours and Activities in Ottawa
For Ottawa, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:
- 2-Hour Ottawa Express City Bike Tour: $59
- A Self Guided Audio Tour of Ottawa's Hidden History: $6.99
- Best of Ottawa Neighbourhoods & Nature Bike Tour: $82
- Best of Ottawa Small Group Tour with River Cruise: $133
- Best of Ottawa Small Group Walking Tour with Boat Cruise: $85
- City Beers: Bus Tour of Ottawa Breweries: $75
- Explore Canada Through Ottawa's Eyes with Walking Tours Through The City: $6.68
- Full Day Montreal and Cruise Tour from Ottawa: $115
- Gems and Surprises – Ottawa Walking Tour: $186
- Helicopter Private Tour Over Ottawa 70KM in 20 min : $150
- Hidden Ottawa Secrets Walking Tour: $25
- Ottawa Boat Cruise - Paul's Boat Line: $36
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayJacksonville $20Ottawa $18
Sample the Local Flavors in Jacksonville
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Jacksonville:
- Jax Brewery Tour (Drinks Included): $135
Sample the Local Flavors in Ottawa
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Ottawa:
- Epic Ottawa Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Jacksonville and Ottawa, we can see that Jacksonville is more expensive. And not only is Ottawa much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ottawa would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ottawa 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 Ottawa.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Jacksonville Expensive? and Is Ottawa Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Jacksonville or Ottawa?
Ottawa has a larger population, and is about 2% larger than the population of Jacksonville. When comparing the sizes of Jacksonville and Ottawa, 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 Ottawa?
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 Ottawa in the Summer?
Both Ottawa and Jacksonville are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Jacksonville this time of year.
Jacksonville is a little warmer than Ottawa in the summer. The daily temperature in Jacksonville averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Ottawa fluctuates around 21°C (71°F).
It's quite sunny in Ottawa. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jacksonville. Jacksonville usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Ottawa during summer. Jacksonville gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Ottawa receives 268 hours of full sun in the summer.
It's quite rainy in Jacksonville. In July, Jacksonville usually receives more rain than Ottawa. Jacksonville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.
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Summer Average Temperatures JulyJacksonville 82°F (28°C)Ottawa 21°C (71°F)
Should I visit Jacksonville or Ottawa in the Autumn?
Both Ottawa and Jacksonville during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Jacksonville for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.
In the autumn, Jacksonville is much warmer than Ottawa. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Jacksonville in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Ottawa averages at about 9°C (48°F).
It's quite sunny in Jacksonville. In the autumn, Jacksonville often gets more sunshine than Ottawa. Jacksonville gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ottawa receives 116 hours of full sun.
Jacksonville usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Ottawa. Jacksonville gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Jacksonville is June to November.
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Autumn Average Temperatures OctoberJacksonville 70°F (21°C)Ottawa 9°C (48°F)
Should I visit Jacksonville or Ottawa in the Winter?
The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Jacksonville and Ottawa. Many visitors come to Jacksonville in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.
Ottawa can be very cold during winter. In January, Jacksonville is generally much warmer than Ottawa. Daily temperatures in Jacksonville average around 53°F (12°C), and Ottawa fluctuates around -10°C (14°F).
Jacksonville usually receives more sunshine than Ottawa during winter. Jacksonville gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Ottawa receives 93 hours of full sun in the winter.
In January, Jacksonville usually receives more rain than Ottawa. Jacksonville gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.
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Winter Average Temperatures JanuaryJacksonville 53°F (12°C)Ottawa -10°C (14°F)
Should I visit Jacksonville or Ottawa in the Spring?
The spring brings many poeple to Jacksonville as well as Ottawa. Most visitors come to Jacksonville for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.
Jacksonville is much warmer than Ottawa in the spring. The daily temperature in Jacksonville averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Ottawa fluctuates around 6°C (44°F).
People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jacksonville this time of the year. In the spring, Jacksonville often gets more sunshine than Ottawa. Jacksonville gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ottawa receives 180 hours of full sun.
Jacksonville usually gets more rain in April than Ottawa. Jacksonville gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Jacksonville.
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Spring Average Temperatures AprilJacksonville 68°F (20°C)Ottawa 6°C (44°F)
Typical Weather for Ottawa and Jacksonville
| Jacksonville | Ottawa | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
| Jan | 53°F (12°C) | 3.3 inches (83 mm) | -10°C (14°F) | 51 mm (2 in) |
| Feb | 56°F (13°C) | 3.9 inches (100 mm) | -9°C (16°F) | 50 mm (2 in) |
| Mar | 62°F (17°C) | 3.7 inches (93 mm) | -2°C (28°F) | 57 mm (2.2 in) |
| Apr | 68°F (20°C) | 2.8 inches (72 mm) | 6°C (44°F) | 65 mm (2.6 in) |
| May | 74°F (24°C) | 3.7 inches (93 mm) | 13°C (56°F) | 77 mm (3 in) |
| Jun | 80°F (27°C) | 5.7 inches (146 mm) | 19°C (65°F) | 84 mm (3.3 in) |
| Jul | 82°F (28°C) | 5.4 inches (137 mm) | 21°C (71°F) | 87 mm (3.4 in) |
| Aug | 82°F (28°C) | 7.8 inches (199 mm) | 20°C (68°F) | 88 mm (3.5 in) |
| Sep | 79°F (26°C) | 7.1 inches (180 mm) | 15°C (59°F) | 84 mm (3.3 in) |
| Oct | 70°F (21°C) | 2.9 inches (73 mm) | 9°C (48°F) | 75 mm (3 in) |
| Nov | 62°F (17°C) | 2.2 inches (55 mm) | 2°C (36°F) | 81 mm (3.2 in) |
| Dec | 56°F (13°C) | 2.7 inches (69 mm) | -7°C (20°F) | 73 mm (2.9 in) |
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.