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

Should you visit Key Largo or El Paso?

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 El Paso 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 relaxed, peaceful, and family-friendly island. As it is a quaint destination, it has a nice vibe. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling and beaches.

El Paso

El Paso is a undiscovered, laid-back, and low-key city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Key Largo and El Paso: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Key Largo or El Paso?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Key Largo than El Paso, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Key Largo is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and quaint atmosphere, while El Paso is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping. Key Largo is more touristy than El Paso 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. Also, Key Largo is famous for John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. El Paso is well known for its Spanish missions and its outstanding Mexican food.

How is Key Largo different from El Paso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Key Largo
El Paso

El Paso 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 El Paso. Visitors can learn about local art, culture, and history at the El Paso Museum of Art, the El Paso Museum of History, the 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss Museum, and the Eduardo Pedregón Memorial Veterans Museum.

Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Key Largo
El Paso

El Paso 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.

El Paso is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Mexican food and barbecue are popular around town but you'll also find burgers, pizza, and other American favorites.

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 El Paso Better for Nightlife?

Key Largo
El Paso

El Paso 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 El Paso has a few options to choose from. There are a number of bars, nightclubs, and lounges around town where you can enjoy a fun night out.

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 El Paso Better for Resorts?

Key Largo
El Paso

Key Largo is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, El Paso 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.

El Paso is not a resort destination.


Is Key Largo or El Paso Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key Largo
El Paso

Key Largo is a very popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, El Paso 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.

El Paso is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key Largo or El Paso Better for Beaches?

Key Largo
El Paso

Key Largo is very good for its beaches. However, El Paso 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.

El Paso is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Key Largo or El Paso?

Key Largo
El Paso

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

El Paso has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of malls and outlet centers around town. One of the most well known is Bassett Place, but other options include Cielo Vista Mall and the Fountains at Farah.

Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Key Largo or El Paso Better for Families?

Key Largo
El Paso

Key Largo is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in El Paso. There are adventure parks, playgrounds, outdoor centers and nature activities that families can enjoy.

Is Key Largo or El Paso Better for Couples?

Key Largo
El Paso

Key Largo is very good for romance. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Key Largo is a nice destination for couples. 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.

Most people don't think of El Paso as a couple's destination. Couples can enjoy dinner and a show or taking a romantic drive up to the overlook.

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

Key Largo
El Paso

El Paso is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in El Paso. While there are some bus routes in town, you shouldn't rely on them and must have a private vehicle to efficiently visit the city.

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 El Paso a more walkable city?

Key Largo
El Paso

El Paso is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its walkability.

El Paso is generally not a very walkable city. You really need a car to get around town.

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 El Paso Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in El Paso or Key Largo?

How long in Key Largo or El Paso?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Key Largo or El Paso to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Key Largo than El Paso because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key Largo, and 1-2 days is enough time in El Paso.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in El Paso 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 El Paso.


  • How many days in Key Largo or El Paso? Ideal Length of Stay
    Key Largo 5-7 
    El Paso 1-2

One day in Key Largo or El Paso?

In Key Largo, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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

A weekend in Key Largo or El Paso?

In Key Largo, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the low-key destination of El Paso. 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 El Paso?

Key Largo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Key Largo has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the low-key city of El Paso. 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 El Paso?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Key Largo. In Key Largo, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

El Paso 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, El Paso 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 El Paso is $161. 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 El Paso in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Key Largo $117
    El Paso $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Key Largo $234
    El Paso $162
Compare Hotels in Key Largo and El Paso

Looking for a hotel in Key Largo or El Paso? 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 El Paso


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 El Paso Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Key Largo $56
    El Paso $37

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 El Paso

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

  • El Paso Airport to Truth or Consequences Round Trip Transfer: $240
  • El Paso Airport (ELP) to Truth or Consequences Arrival Transfer: $120
  • El Paso International Airport (ELP) to El Paso - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $81
  • El Paso International Airport (ELP) to El Paso - Arrival Private Transfer : $40
  • El Paso to El Paso International Airport (ELP) - Departure Private Transfer: $40

Is it cheaper to fly into Key Largo or El Paso?

Prices for flights to both El Paso 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
    El Paso $54

Typical Food Prices in El Paso

For El Paso, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Rudy's BBQ (family of 4)
    $40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Key Largo $27
    El Paso $27

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 El Paso

For El Paso, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Colorado Springs: Pikes Peak Jeep Tour: $115
  • Downtown Historic Walking Tour: $120
  • Sun City Ghost Walking Tour: $26
  • Jeep Tour - Pikes Peak or Bust: $175
  • Sun City Ghosts Haunted Cowboys and Outlaws Tour: $30
  • UTV Adventure Tour / Rental: $249

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Key Largo $24
    El Paso $27


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Key Largo and El Paso, we can see that Key Largo is more expensive. And not only is El Paso much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to El Paso would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in El Paso 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 Key Largo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Key Largo than you might in El Paso.

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 El Paso Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Key Largo or El Paso?

El Paso has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Key Largo. When comparing the sizes of Key Largo and El Paso, 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.