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

Should you visit Key Largo or Raleigh?

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 Raleigh 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 peaceful, family-friendly, and beautiful island. It's a quaint destination. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling and beaches.

Raleigh

Raleigh is a student-friendly, suburban-style, and friendly 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 Raleigh: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Key Largo or Raleigh?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Raleigh. Although Key Largo and Raleigh are popular destinations, Raleigh has more sights and attractions for tourists. Raleigh is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, 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 Raleigh and is popular for its snorkeling and scuba diving including that around John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the artificial reef around the USS Spiegel Grove. Raleigh is famous for its many museums and being the home to North Carolina State University. It is also well known for North Carolina State University.

How is Key Largo different from Raleigh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Key Largo
Raleigh

Raleigh 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 Raleigh. As the state capital, there are a number of free museums in the area. There are also some kid-friendly options and other activities that are affiliated with the colleges and universities. Popular options include the NC Museum of Natural Sciences (free), the NC Museum of History (free), the NC Museum of Art (free), and Marbles Kids Museum.

Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Key Largo
Raleigh

Raleigh 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.

Raleigh is becoming an appealing option for foodies. In addition to the standard chain restaurants, you'll find a number of local eateries with great southern dishes. Try some southern classics like barbecue, pimento cheese, and fried chicken and waffles. There are also good international options including Nepalese, Laotian, and Ethiopian flavors.

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 Raleigh Better for Nightlife?

Key Largo
Raleigh

Raleigh 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 Raleigh has a few options to choose from. Head to downtown Raleigh or the areas around NC State University for some of the best nightlife. Trivia nights and happy hours are popular and you'll find breweries popping up in many places.

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 Raleigh Better for Resorts?

Key Largo
Raleigh

Key Largo is well known for its resorts. However, Raleigh is not a resort destination.

Key Largo is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Popular resorts in the area include Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection, Reefhouse Resort & Marina, and Largo Resort.

Raleigh is not a resort destination.


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

Key Largo
Raleigh

Key Largo is well known for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Raleigh is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

Raleigh is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key Largo or Raleigh Better for Beaches?

Key Largo
Raleigh

Key Largo is a popular place for the beach. However, Raleigh is not a beach destination.

Key Largo is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Raleigh is not a beach destination.

Is Key Largo or Raleigh Better for Families?

Key Largo
Raleigh

Key Largo is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Key Largo is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Raleigh offers lots of family activities. For such a small city, Raleigh has a number of unique kid-friendly activities like the popular Pullen Park and Marbles Kids' Museum. Pullen Park has small rides and a playground that are perfect for young kids. There's also the NC Museum of Natural History which is free and fun to explore with kids.


Is Key Largo or Raleigh Better for Couples?

Key Largo
Raleigh

Key Largo is a popular place for couples. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for romance.

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.

Raleigh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. While it's often overlooked by couples who want a weekend away, there are a number of museums and some nice restaurants to explore.

Is Key Largo or Raleigh Better for Students?

Key Largo
Raleigh

Raleigh is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Key Largo is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Raleigh. The city has a diverse student population with many nearby universities and colleges.

Key Largo is not popular with students.

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

Key Largo
Raleigh

Neither Key Largo or Raleigh offer decent public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Raleigh. The city's public transportation options are limited to a few bus lines that are mostly used by students.


Is Key Largo or Raleigh a more walkable city?

Key Largo
Raleigh

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

Raleigh is generally not a very walkable city. The city is somewhat walkable in the downtown area, but everywhere else you'll need a car.

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 Raleigh Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Raleigh or Key Largo?

How long in Key Largo or Raleigh?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Key Largo and Raleigh. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Key Largo than in Raleigh. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key Largo, and 2-3 days is enough time in Raleigh.

Families should spend more time in Key Largo than Raleigh. 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 Raleigh. 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 Key Largo than Raleigh 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 Key Largo.


  • How many days in Key Largo or Raleigh? Ideal Length of Stay
    Key Largo 5-7 
    Raleigh 2-3

One day in Key Largo or Raleigh?

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 food and museums around the city of Raleigh. 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.

A weekend in Key Largo or Raleigh?

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 student-friendly destination of Raleigh. 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 Raleigh?

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 southern city of Raleigh. 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 Raleigh?

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.

Raleigh 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, Raleigh 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 Raleigh is $189. 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 Raleigh in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Key Largo $117
    Raleigh $104
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Key Largo $234
    Raleigh $208
Compare Hotels in Key Largo and Raleigh

Looking for a hotel in Key Largo or Raleigh? 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 Raleigh


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 Raleigh Hotel Prices.

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

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Raleigh:

  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Durham - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $124
  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Raleigh - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $118
  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Durham - Arrival Private Transfer: $62
  • Durham to Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) - Departure Private Transfer: $62
  • Raleigh to Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) - Departure Private Transfer: $59
  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Raleigh Arrival Private Transfer: $59

Is it cheaper to fly into Key Largo or Raleigh?

Prices for flights to both Raleigh 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
    Raleigh $57

Typical Food Prices in Raleigh

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Raleigh:


  • The Pit Authentic BBQ (for 3)
    $84

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Raleigh

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Raleigh.

  • Private Cooking Class in Durham with an Expert Home Cook: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Key Largo $27
    Raleigh $37

Tours and Activities in Key Largo

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

  • Florida Key West Self-Driving Tour (Overseas Highway, 7 Mile Bridge): $17
  • Sunset Pontoon Boat Tour Around Key Largo: $36
  • Ultimate Florida Self Guided Driving Audio Tour Bundle: $40
  • Key Largo Coral Reef Glass Bottom Boat Adventure : $45
  • Small Group Florida Keys Eco Tour by Boat: $60
  • Sunset Cruise on the Florida Bay: $60
  • Mangroves and Manatees - Guided Kayak Eco Tour: $65
  • Key Largo Boat Charter Day Tour: $65
  • Key Largo Bay Sunset Tour: $66
  • Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Adventure in Key Largo: $68
  • 1.5 Hour Bay Side Key Largo Sunset Cruise on a Spacious Catamaran: $69
  • Key Largo Snorkeling Tour - rental mask, fins and vest INCLUDED: $70

Tours and Activities in Raleigh

Here are a few actual costs in Raleigh for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Create Your Own Lipstick or Lip Gloss Class Experience in Raleigh: $60
  • Guided Walking Historian Tour in Downtown Durham: $16
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Chapel Hill, NC: $15
  • Private Pedicab Tour of Downtown Raleigh: $60
  • Raleigh African American History Tour: $16
  • Raleigh Downtown: Historic Walking Tours: $16
  • Raleigh Ghost and Urban Legend Tour: $16
  • Raleigh Ghosts and Ghouls Hauntings Tour: $33
  • Raleigh Historian-Guided Downtown Walking Tour: $16
  • Raleigh Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Ghosts and Ghouls Hauntings Walking Tour: $26
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Key Largo $24
    Raleigh $27


When comparing the travel costs between Key Largo and Raleigh, 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 Raleigh Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Key Largo or Raleigh?

Raleigh has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Key Largo. When comparing the sizes of Key Largo and Raleigh, 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 Raleigh?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Key Largo or Raleigh in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Key Largo as well as Raleigh. Many travelers come to Key Largo for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Raleigh in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Key Largo is around the same temperature as Raleigh in the summer. The daily temperature in Key Largo averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Raleigh fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Raleigh. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key Largo this time of the year. In the summer, Key Largo often gets more sunshine than Raleigh. Key Largo gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Raleigh receives 259 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Raleigh. Key Largo receives a lot of rain in the summer. Key Largo usually gets more rain in July than Raleigh. Key Largo gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Raleigh receives 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Key Largo 82°F (28°C) 
    Raleigh 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Key Largo or Raleigh in the Autumn?

Both Raleigh and Key Largo are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Also, most visitors come to Raleigh for the city's sights and attractions during these months.

In the autumn, Key Largo is much warmer than Raleigh. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Key Largo in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Raleigh averages at about 61°F (16°C).

It's quite sunny in Raleigh. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key Largo. Key Largo usually receives more sunshine than Raleigh during autumn. Key Largo gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Raleigh receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Key Largo. In October, Key Largo usually receives more rain than Raleigh. Key Largo gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Raleigh receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Key Largo 78°F (26°C) 
    Raleigh 61°F (16°C)

Should I visit Key Largo or Raleigh in the Winter?

Both Raleigh and Key Largo during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Key Largo for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Raleigh because of the museums and the cuisine.

The weather in Raleigh can be very cold. In January, Key Largo is generally much warmer than Raleigh. Daily temperatures in Key Largo average around 67°F (19°C), and Raleigh fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

It's quite sunny in Key Largo. In the winter, Key Largo often gets more sunshine than Raleigh. Key Largo gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Raleigh receives 162 hours of full sun.

Key Largo usually gets less rain in January than Raleigh. Key Largo gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Raleigh receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Key Largo 67°F (19°C) 
    Raleigh 40°F (5°C)

Should I visit Key Largo or Raleigh in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Key Largo and Raleigh. The spring months attract visitors to Key Largo because of the beaches. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Raleigh this time of year.

Key Largo is a little warmer than Raleigh in the spring. The daily temperature in Key Largo averages around 74°F (24°C) in April, and Raleigh fluctuates around 60°F (16°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Raleigh this time of the year. In Key Largo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key Largo usually receives more sunshine than Raleigh during spring. Key Largo gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Raleigh receives 251 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Key Largo usually receives around the same amount of rain as Raleigh. Key Largo gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Raleigh receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Key Largo 74°F (24°C) 
    Raleigh 60°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for Raleigh and Key Largo

Key Largo Raleigh
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 67°F (19°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Feb 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Mar 71°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Apr 74°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 60°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
May 78°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm) 76°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm) 79°F (26°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 78°F (26°C) 4.9 inches (125 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Oct 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 61°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Nov 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 53°F (11°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Dec 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)