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

Should you visit Jacksonville or Portland?

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 Portland. 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 lively, youthful, and fun city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Portland

Portland is a laid-back, progressive, and quirky city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the live music, hiking, and shopping.

Jacksonville and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Jacksonville or Portland?

You'll generally find more things to do in Jacksonville than Portland. Jacksonville is bigger than Portland, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Jacksonville is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Portland is more popular for its music, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Portland is more touristy than Jacksonville and is known for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty. Jacksonville is well known for its beautiful beaches and lively downtown area. Also, Jacksonville is famous for Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens.

How is Jacksonville different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Jacksonville is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Jacksonville. 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.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

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

Jacksonville is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Jacksonville. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Jacksonville or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Jacksonville is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Jacksonville has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Portland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Is Jacksonville or Portland Better for Music?

Portland is a good destination for its music scene. However, Jacksonville is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Jacksonville is not a live music destination.

Is Jacksonville or Portland Better for Beaches?

Jacksonville is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Portland is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Jacksonville attract visitors from all over. 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.

Portland is not a beach destination.

Is Jacksonville or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Jacksonville is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Portland. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

Jacksonville is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Jacksonville or Portland?

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Portland offers some nice shopping areas. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Is Jacksonville or Portland Better for Families?

Both Jacksonville and Portland are notable 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 Portland. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Is Jacksonville or Portland Better for Couples?

Jacksonville and Portland both notable 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.

Portland is a nice destination for couples. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

Is Jacksonville or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Portland. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Is Jacksonville or Portland Better for Students?

Both Jacksonville and Portland 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.

Portland is popular with students. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

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

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

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 Portland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

Is Jacksonville or Portland a more walkable city?

Portland 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.

Portland is a very walkable destination. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

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 Portland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland or Jacksonville?

How long in Jacksonville or Portland?

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

Families should spend more time in Jacksonville than Portland. 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 Portland. 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 Portland 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 Portland.

One day in Jacksonville or Portland?

The city of Jacksonville offers food and shopping. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Portland, many people enjoy the live music and shopping that this progressive city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Portland?

Jacksonville is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Jacksonville, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Portland is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Portland?

Jacksonville is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the scenic destination of Portland. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Portland?

Jacksonville is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Portland is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Jacksonville and Portland, we can see that Jacksonville is more expensive. And not only is Portland much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Portland would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Portland 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 Portland.

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

Which is Bigger, Jacksonville or Portland?

Jacksonville has a larger population, and is about 48% larger than the population of Portland. When comparing the sizes of Jacksonville and Portland, 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 Portland?

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 Portland in the Summer?

Both Portland and Jacksonville are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Jacksonville for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Portland because of the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Jacksonville is a little warmer than Portland. Typically, the summer temperatures in Jacksonville in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Portland averages at about 68°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Portland. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jacksonville. Jacksonville usually receives less sunshine than Portland during summer. Jacksonville gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Jacksonville. In July, Jacksonville usually receives more rain than Portland. Jacksonville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Jacksonville or Portland in the Autumn?

Both Portland and Jacksonville during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Jacksonville because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

In October, Jacksonville is generally much warmer than Portland. Daily temperatures in Jacksonville average around 70°F (21°C), and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

It's quite sunny in Jacksonville. In the autumn, Jacksonville often gets more sunshine than Portland. Jacksonville gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun.

Jacksonville usually gets more rain in October than Portland. Jacksonville gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Jacksonville is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Jacksonville or Portland in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Jacksonville and Portland. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Jacksonville this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Portland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Portland. Jacksonville is much warmer than Portland in the winter. The daily temperature in Jacksonville averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Jacksonville usually receives more sunshine than Portland during winter. Jacksonville gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

Portland receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Jacksonville usually receives less rain than Portland. Jacksonville gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Jacksonville or Portland in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Jacksonville as well as Portland. Many travelers come to Jacksonville for the beaches and the activities around the city. Additionally, many visitors come to Portland in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Jacksonville is much warmer than Portland. Typically, the spring temperatures in Jacksonville in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Portland averages at about 51°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jacksonville this time of the year. In the spring, Jacksonville often gets more sunshine than Portland. Jacksonville gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun.

Jacksonville usually gets more rain in April than Portland. Jacksonville gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Jacksonville is June to November.

Typical Weather for Portland and Jacksonville