A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key Largo vs. Charlotte for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Key Largo or Charlotte?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Key Largo and Charlotte can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Key Largo

Key Largo is a family-friendly, beautiful, and relaxed island. As it is a quaint destination, it has a nice vibe. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling and beaches.

Charlotte

Charlotte is a evolving, up-and-coming, and growing city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Key Largo and Charlotte: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Key Largo or Charlotte?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Charlotte. Although Key Largo and Charlotte are popular destinations, Charlotte has more sights and attractions for tourists. Charlotte is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Key Largo attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and quaint atmosphere. Key Largo is more touristy than Charlotte and is known for its snorkeling and scuba diving including that around John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the artificial reef around the USS Spiegel Grove. Charlotte is famous for its banking industry and growing Uptown area. It is also well known for the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

How is Key Largo different from Charlotte?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Charlotte and Key Largo. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Key Largo or Charlotte?

Key Largo
Charlotte

Charlotte is a city with good options for its historical sights. However, Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Charlotte. The Mint Museum is a popular place to visit, as is the Gantt Center for African American Arts. Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and sports enthusiasts will enjoy a stop at the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Key Largo or Charlotte? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Key Largo
Charlotte

Charlotte is a city with good options for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Charlotte is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The food scene continues to grow and change around town. You'll find the latest trendy restaurant changes regularly, but dishes often include upscale southern faire or classic American. There are also many international restaurants, particularly Mexican, Thai, and Chinese.

Key Largo offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Like the rest of the Florida Keys, Key Largo is known for its Key Lime pie and seafood. You'll find a great selection of restaurants that serve seafood dishes and options for the land-loving crew. There are even a few international restaurants to choose from.

Is Key Largo or Charlotte Better for Nightlife?

Key Largo
Charlotte

Charlotte is a city with good options for its evening party scene. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Charlotte has a few options to choose from. Head Uptown for some of the best nightlife. The city has many bars and clubs that keep things fun late into the night.

Most people don't head to Key Largo specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. This area is not known for its nightlife, so you'll need to head further south if partying is your style.

Is Key Largo or Charlotte Better for Resorts?

Key Largo
Charlotte

Key Largo is great for its luxury resorts. However, Charlotte is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Key Largo. Popular resorts in the area include Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection, Reefhouse Resort & Marina, and Largo Resort.

Charlotte is not a resort destination.


Is Key Largo or Charlotte Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key Largo
Charlotte

Key Largo is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Charlotte is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Key Largo. Near this island you'll find some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Florida Keys at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There are private tours that head out to the reef for either snorkeling or diving. There are also shipwrecks and other fascinating spots to explore.

Charlotte is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key Largo or Charlotte Better for Beaches?

Key Largo
Charlotte

Key Largo is very good for the beach. However, Charlotte is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Key Largo to enjoy the beach. Many of the beaches around Key Largo are man-made, but they do offer nice sand and beautiful blue water. The water is turquoise, although not as striking as further south.

Charlotte is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Key Largo or Charlotte?

Key Largo
Charlotte

Charlotte is a city with good options for its shopping areas. However, Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Charlotte has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shopping malls such as SouthPark Mall or Carolina Place offer all of the standard retailers. Concord Mills is another favorite mall in the area. Aside from the malls, there is no shortage of shopping centers around town.

Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Key Largo or Charlotte Better for Families?

Key Largo
Charlotte

Key Largo is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Key Largo is one of the most popular family destinations. This area has some of the best family-friendly snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There's also several places where your kids can interact with dolphins or experience wildlife. If you want to get out on the water, there's kayaking, sunset cruises, and glass bottom boats, all of which are great for the whole family.

Charlotte is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a number of museums for kids, with one of the best being Discovery Place. It has many hands-on science based exhibits that kids will love. Another unique experience is a visit to the U.S. National Whitewater Center. Carowinds Amusement Park is also in the area as are many great parks, playgrounds, and natural areas.

Is Key Largo or Charlotte Better for Couples?

Key Largo
Charlotte

Both Key Largo and Charlotte are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

Key Largo is a good island for couples to visit. Most couples head further down the Florida Keys, but for snorkeling and scuba diving, Key Largo is the better option. You'll also find kayaking and sunset cruises that leave from the area.

Charlotte is a nice destination for couples. There are a number of date night activities around town, particularly Uptown. You can see a show or concert at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center or hit up one of the trendy bars or restaurants. There are also sporting events and other festivals that are fun to experience.

Is Key Largo or Charlotte Better for Students?

Key Largo
Charlotte

Charlotte is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Key Largo is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Charlotte. There are a number of smaller colleges in town, but the biggest university is the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

Key Largo is not popular with students.


Is Key Largo or Charlotte Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Key Largo
Charlotte

Charlotte is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Charlotte offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Key Largo. There's no real public transit around the island and you must have a car to get around.

Is Key Largo or Charlotte a more walkable city?

Key Largo
Charlotte

Charlotte is a city with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its walkability.

Charlotte is a somewhat walkable city. The Uptown area is the most walkable part of the city.

Key Largo is not a walkable island. It is a sprawling area that spreads out along a main highway that is not pedestrian friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Key Largo Worth Visiting? and Is Charlotte Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Charlotte or Key Largo?

How long in Key Largo or Charlotte?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Key Largo and Charlotte. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Key Largo than in Charlotte. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key Largo, and 1-3 days is enough time in Charlotte.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charlotte than Key Largo 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 Charlotte.


  • How many days in Key Largo or Charlotte? Ideal Length of Stay
    Key Largo 5-7 
    Charlotte 1-3

One day in Key Largo or Charlotte?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling around the island of Key Largo. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Charlotte. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Charlotte has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Key Largo or Charlotte?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling around the beautiful destination of Key Largo. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the evolving destination of Charlotte. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Key Largo or Charlotte?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling around the peaceful island of Key Largo. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the evolving city of Charlotte. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Key Largo or Charlotte?

Key Largo is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Key Largo, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Charlotte is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Charlotte or Key Largo?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Key Largo is $212, while the average daily cost in Charlotte is $191. 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 Key Largo and Charlotte in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Key Largo $117
    Charlotte $118
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Key Largo $234
    Charlotte $236
Compare Hotels in Key Largo and Charlotte

Looking for a hotel in Key Largo or Charlotte? 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 Key Largo


Hotels in Charlotte


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: Key Largo Hotel Prices and Charlotte Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Key Largo $56
    Charlotte $33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Key Largo

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

  • Key Largo Private Transfers (up to 14 passengers): $142

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Charlotte

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

  • Charlotte Round Trip Chauffeur Driven Airport Transfer by Sedan: $150
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) to Charlotte City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $136
  • Arrival Transfer: Charlotte Douglas Airport CLT to Charlotte in Business Car: $133
  • Departure Transfer: Charlotte to Charlotte Douglas Airport CLT in Business Car: $133
  • Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT): 1-Way Transfer to Charlotte: $99
  • Private Departure Transfer to Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT): $54

Is it cheaper to fly into Key Largo or Charlotte?

Prices for flights to both Charlotte and Key Largo 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
    Key Largo $60
    Charlotte $46

Typical Food Prices in Charlotte

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


  • Pizza at Airport
    $4.03
  • Cracker Barrel Lunch (family of 4)
    $29

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Key Largo $27
    Charlotte $43

Tours and Activities in Key Largo

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Key Largo.

  • 1.5 Hour Bay Side Key Largo Sunset Cruise on a Spacious Catamaran: $69
  • 2 Location Snorkel Tour - Gear Included, 65 minutes per location: $79
  • Cruisin' Tikis Key Largo - Sunset Cruise: $99
  • Florida Key West Self-Driving Tour (Overseas Highway, 7 Mile Bridge): $17
  • Florida Keys Mangrove Eco Tour of Manatee Bay: $75
  • Guided Tour Explore Key Largo on Jet Ski : $185
  • Half-Day Florida Keys Catamaran Snorkel Adventure: $79
  • Key Largo Bay Sunset Tour: $66
  • Key Largo Boat Charter Day Tour: $65
  • Key Largo Coral Reef Glass Bottom Boat Adventure : $45
  • Key Largo Snorkeling Tour - rental mask, fins and vest INCLUDED: $70
  • Key Largo Two Reef Snorkel Tour - All Snorkel Equipment Included!: $78

Tours and Activities in Charlotte

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Charlotte.

  • 2.5 Hour Black History Van Tour-Perseverance, Power, and Progress: $59
  • 90 Minute Historic Uptown Neighborhood Segway Tour of Charlotte: $75
  • Beer & BBQ Walking Tour - Craft Beer Experience : $115
  • Big Bite Brew Tour in Charlotte's LoSo District: $150
  • Carolina History and Haunts Charlotte Historical Ghost Walking Tour : $27
  • Charlotte Comedy City Tour: $40
  • Charlotte Ghost Walking Tour - Smartphone guided audio/gps Tour at your own pace: $6.75
  • Charlotte Ghost Walking Tour: Smartphone Audio & GPS Tour: $6.50
  • Charlotte Haunted Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour: $35
  • Charlotte Historic : Queen Bee City Tour: $39
  • Charlotte Historical City Tour: $45
  • Charlotte Indoor Skydiving Experience with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate: $90

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Key Largo $24
    Charlotte $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Charlotte

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

  • 3-Hour Brewery Crawl on 7 passenger Cart: $48
  • Charlotte Brewery Crawl Tour: $48
  • Bar Crawl on a Rollin Disco Ball Golf Cart in Charlotte: $240


When comparing the travel costs between Key Largo and Charlotte, we can see that Key Largo 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 Key Largo Expensive? and Is Charlotte Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Key Largo or Charlotte?

Charlotte has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Key Largo. When comparing the sizes of Key Largo and Charlotte, 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 Key Largo or Charlotte?

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 Key Largo or Charlotte in the Summer?

Both Charlotte and Key Largo are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Key Largo in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Charlotte for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Key Largo is around the same temperature as Charlotte in the summer. The daily temperature in Key Largo averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Charlotte fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

It's quite sunny in Charlotte. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key Largo. Key Largo usually receives more sunshine than Charlotte during summer. Key Largo gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Charlotte receives 289 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Charlotte. It's quite rainy in Key Largo. In July, Key Largo usually receives more rain than Charlotte. Key Largo gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Key Largo 82°F (28°C) 
    Charlotte 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Key Largo or Charlotte in the Autumn?

Both Charlotte and Key Largo during the autumn are popular places to visit. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Charlotte because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Key Largo is a little warmer than Charlotte. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Key Largo in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Charlotte averages at about 63°F (17°C).

In Charlotte, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Key Largo. In the autumn, Key Largo often gets more sunshine than Charlotte. Key Largo gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlotte receives 223 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Key Largo. Key Largo usually gets more rain in October than Charlotte. Key Largo gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Key Largo 78°F (26°C) 
    Charlotte 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Key Largo or Charlotte in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Key Largo and Charlotte. The winter months attract visitors to Key Largo because of the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Charlotte this time of year.

In January, Key Largo is generally much warmer than Charlotte. Daily temperatures in Key Largo average around 67°F (19°C), and Charlotte fluctuates around 42°F (6°C).

In Key Largo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key Largo usually receives more sunshine than Charlotte during winter. Key Largo gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Charlotte receives 173 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Key Largo usually receives less rain than Charlotte. Key Largo gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Key Largo 67°F (19°C) 
    Charlotte 42°F (6°C)

Should I visit Key Largo or Charlotte in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Key Largo as well as Charlotte. The beaches are the main draw to Key Largo this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Charlotte for the activities around the city.

Key Largo is a little warmer than Charlotte in the spring. The daily temperature in Key Largo averages around 74°F (24°C) in April, and Charlotte fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Charlotte. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key Largo this time of the year. In the spring, Key Largo often gets more sunshine than Charlotte. Key Largo gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlotte receives 273 hours of full sun.

Key Largo usually gets less rain in April than Charlotte. Key Largo gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Key Largo 74°F (24°C) 
    Charlotte 63°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Charlotte and Key Largo

Key Largo Charlotte
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 67°F (19°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm)
Mar 71°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Apr 74°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
May 78°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm) 71°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm) 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm) 81°F (27°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 80°F (27°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Oct 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Dec 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)