A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Jacksonville vs. Saint Petersburg for Beaches, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Jacksonville or Saint Petersburg?

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 Saint Petersburg. 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. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a underrated, relaxed, and fun-filled coastal city. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping.

Jacksonville and Saint Petersburg: 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
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Jacksonville or Saint Petersburg?

You'll generally find more things to do in Jacksonville than Saint Petersburg. Jacksonville is bigger than Saint Petersburg, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Jacksonville is better known for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Saint Petersburg is more popular for its resorts and beaches. Saint Petersburg is more touristy than Jacksonville and is known for its warm weather, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities. 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 Saint Petersburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Jacksonville
Saint Petersburg

You'll find a number of high quality museums and attractions in both Saint Petersburg and Jacksonville.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

Saint Petersburg offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are a variety of history, science, and art museums in the area. The Dalí Museum, Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, The Florida Holocaust Museum, and Imagine Museum of Contemporary Glass Art are some of the favorites.


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

Jacksonville
Saint Petersburg

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at high quality restaurants in both Jacksonville and Saint Petersburg.

Jacksonville has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Saint Petersburg makes for a great culinary experience. It's location on the Gulf Coast means that seafood is everywhere. You'll enjoy fresh oysters, fried calamari, grilled fish, and fried shrimp on many menus. Casual restaurants and local eateries are common around town.

Is Jacksonville or Saint Petersburg Better for Nightlife?

Jacksonville
Saint Petersburg

Jacksonville is great for nightlife. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Jacksonville for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Saint Petersburg. There are beachside bars, rooftop restaurants, and dance clubs around town for those looking for a night out.

Is Jacksonville or Saint Petersburg Better for Resorts?

Jacksonville
Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Jacksonville is not a resort destination.

Saint Petersburg has a few great resort options. You'll find most of the resorts near the beach. Many have pools and they range in style and budget level.

Jacksonville is not a resort destination.


Is Jacksonville or Saint Petersburg Better for Beaches?

Jacksonville
Saint Petersburg

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

Saint Petersburg offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. You'll find great sandy beaches with calm blue water and a relaxed atmosphere. Some of the best beaches include Egmont Key, Fort DeSoto Beach, Maximo Beach, and St. Pete's Municipal Beach.

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 Saint Petersburg?

Jacksonville
Saint Petersburg

Jacksonville is great for shopping. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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.

Saint Petersburg offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find plenty of shopping malls and shopping centers around town. Along the boardwalk and in John's Pass Village there are also restaurants and souvenir stores.

Is Jacksonville or Saint Petersburg Better for Families?

Jacksonville
Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg. The beaches, waterparks, nature reserves, and entertainment centers all offer plenty of activities for families. There are plenty of places to play, laugh, and act silly around town so the whole family can have a good time. There's also the Great Explorations Children’s Museum and other educational opportunities for the young ones.

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 Saint Petersburg Better for Couples?

Jacksonville
Saint Petersburg

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

Saint Petersburg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are sunset cruises, long sandy beaches, nice restaurants, and many other romantic activities around town. You can wander down the boardwalk or enjoy nature at the gardens and nature parks around town.

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 Saint Petersburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Jacksonville
Saint Petersburg

Jacksonville is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for backpackers.

Jacksonville is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Saint Petersburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the list for many backpackers, but budget travelers will appreciate the affordable accommodation around town.

Is Jacksonville or Saint Petersburg Better for Students?

Jacksonville
Saint Petersburg

Jacksonville is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Saint Petersburg is not popular with students.

It's common for students to 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.

Saint Petersburg is not popular with students.


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

Jacksonville
Saint Petersburg

Jacksonville is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Jacksonville offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The public transportation system includes trolleys, the Skyway, buses, water taxis, and the ferry.

Public transit is generally limited in Saint Petersburg. There's a bus system, but most people rely on their own car to get around.

Is Jacksonville or Saint Petersburg a more walkable city?

Jacksonville
Saint Petersburg

Jacksonville is very good for its walkability. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

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

Saint Petersburg is generally not very walkable. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, but you really need a car to access most places.

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

Should I spend more time in Saint Petersburg or Jacksonville?

How long in Jacksonville or Saint Petersburg?

It's fun to spend time in either Jacksonville or Saint Petersburg. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Saint Petersburg due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Jacksonville, and 2-4 days is enough time in Saint Petersburg.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Jacksonville than Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Jacksonville 2-3 
    Saint Petersburg 2-4

One day in Jacksonville or Saint Petersburg?

You'll find food and shopping around the fun destination of Jacksonville. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Saint Petersburg, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this underrated coastal city offers. 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 Saint Petersburg?

You'll find shopping and museums around the fun city of Jacksonville. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Saint Petersburg is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 beaches. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Jacksonville or Saint Petersburg?

Jacksonville is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the relaxed destination of Saint Petersburg. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. 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 Saint Petersburg?

Jacksonville is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Saint Petersburg is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg is $204. 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 Saint Petersburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Jacksonville $92
    Saint Petersburg $127
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Jacksonville $184
    Saint Petersburg $254
Compare Hotels in Jacksonville and Saint Petersburg

Looking for a hotel in Jacksonville or Saint Petersburg? 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 Saint Petersburg


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 Saint Petersburg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Jacksonville $53
    Saint Petersburg $47

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Jacksonville

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

  • Carnival Cruise Port Transfer to Jacksonville: $341
  • JAX Airport Transfer to Amelia Island: $195
  • JAX Airport Transfer to Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront: $147
  • Carnival Cruise Port Jacksonville to Jacksonville - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $128
  • Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $123
  • Carnival Cruise Port Jacksonville to Jacksonville, FL - Arrival Private Transfer: $64
  • Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville City - Arrival Private Transfer: $62
  • Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville Cruise Port -Arrival Private Transfer: $55

Is it cheaper to fly into Jacksonville or Saint Petersburg?

Prices for flights to both Saint Petersburg 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
    Saint Petersburg $49

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

Typical Food Prices in Saint Petersburg

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Saint Petersburg:


  • Burger Dinner (for 2)
    $20
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $37
  • Gelato (for 2)
    $8.00
  • Breakfast at Piper's Patio (for 2)
    $17

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Jacksonville $20
    Saint Petersburg $13

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
  • 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
  • Electric Bike Art and Architecture Guided Tour in Jacksonville : $60

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Jacksonville $20
    Saint Petersburg $41


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


Which is Bigger, Jacksonville or Saint Petersburg?

Jacksonville has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Saint Petersburg. When comparing the sizes of Jacksonville and Saint Petersburg, 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 Saint Petersburg?

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 Saint Petersburg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Jacksonville and Saint Petersburg. Many travelers come to Jacksonville for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Saint Petersburg in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Petersburg this time of the year. In Jacksonville, it's very sunny this time of the year. Jacksonville usually receives more sunshine than Saint Petersburg during summer. Jacksonville gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Petersburg receives 265 hours of full sun in the summer.

Saint Petersburg receives a lot of rain in the summer. Jacksonville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Jacksonville usually receives less rain than Saint Petersburg. Jacksonville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Saint Petersburg receives 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Jacksonville 82°F (28°C) 
    Saint Petersburg 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Jacksonville or Saint Petersburg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Jacksonville as well as Saint Petersburg. Many visitors come to Jacksonville in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Saint Petersburg for the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Jacksonville is generally cooler than Saint Petersburg. Daily temperatures in Jacksonville average around 70°F (21°C), and Saint Petersburg fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Petersburg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jacksonville this time of the year. In the autumn, Jacksonville often gets less sunshine than Saint Petersburg. Jacksonville gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Petersburg receives 234 hours of full sun.

Jacksonville usually gets more rain in October than Saint Petersburg. Jacksonville gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Saint Petersburg receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Jacksonville is the hurricane season. Also, June to November in Saint Petersburg is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Jacksonville 70°F (21°C) 
    Saint Petersburg 76°F (24°C)

Should I visit Jacksonville or Saint Petersburg in the Winter?

Both Saint Petersburg and Jacksonville are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Jacksonville for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Saint Petersburg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Jacksonville is cooler than Saint Petersburg in the winter. The daily temperature in Jacksonville averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Saint Petersburg fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

It's quite sunny in Saint Petersburg. Jacksonville usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Saint Petersburg during winter. Jacksonville gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Petersburg receives 200 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Jacksonville usually receives more rain than Saint Petersburg. Jacksonville gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Saint Petersburg receives 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Jacksonville 53°F (12°C) 
    Saint Petersburg 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Jacksonville or Saint Petersburg in the Spring?

Both Saint Petersburg and Jacksonville during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Jacksonville because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the beaches are the main draw to Saint Petersburg this time of year.

In the spring, Jacksonville is cooler than Saint Petersburg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Jacksonville in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Saint Petersburg averages at about 73°F (23°C).

In Saint Petersburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Jacksonville. In the spring, Jacksonville often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Saint Petersburg. Jacksonville gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Petersburg receives 299 hours of full sun.

Jacksonville usually gets more rain in April than Saint Petersburg. Jacksonville gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Saint Petersburg receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Jacksonville is June to November. Also, the hurricane season in Saint Petersburg is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Jacksonville 68°F (20°C) 
    Saint Petersburg 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Saint Petersburg and Jacksonville

Jacksonville Saint Petersburg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 59°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 67°F (20°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 78°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 69°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm)