A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key West vs. Charleston for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Key West or Charleston?

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

Should I visit Key West or Charleston? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Key West

Key West is a eclectic, bustling, and active town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Charleston

Charleston is a classic, picturesque, and charming coastal town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Key West and Charleston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Charleston?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Charleston. Although Key West and Charleston are both popular with visitors, Charleston has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Charleston is more popular for its museums, food, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere, while Key West is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and small town charm. Key West is more touristy than Charleston and is known for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. Charleston is popular for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. It is also home to The Waterfront Park.

How is Key West different from Charleston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Key West or Charleston?

Charleston is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Charleston offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. This city is famous for its many historic churches and plantations. The plantations are open to visit and will educate you on the city's past, which is heavily involved in slavery. You can also visit Fort Sumter National Monument by boat or take a tour of the USS Yorktown.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Key West or Charleston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Charleston is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Charleston is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Food lovers will enjoy the city's low country classics. There are many local restaurants in town that serve southern specialties. You can also head a bit out of the town center if you want a waterfront restaurant. Local favorites include she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, cornbread, and fried green tomatoes.

Key West is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, be the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

Is Key West or Charleston Better for Nightlife?

Key West is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for nightlife.

Key West has plenty to do after the sun goes down. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Charleston. As a college town, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs around town. There's also a lively music scene. Head to the areas near the college for the most affordable and active nightlife. Popular clubs in town include Cure Night Club, Deco Nightclub, and Mynt.

Is Key West or Charleston Better for Music?

Charleston is a popular place for its live music scene. However, Key West is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Charleston is active and vibrant. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Key West is not a live music destination.

Is Key West or Charleston Better for Resorts?

Key West is notable for its resorts. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its luxury resorts.

Key West is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

Charleston has a handful of resorts to choose from. The town has mostly hotels and bed and breakfasts in the downtown area, but nearby Kiawah Island has a number of nice resorts to choose from. Kiawah Island is particularly kid-friendly if you're looking for a family beach vacation. If you have a bit more money to spend and want something more residential, check out nearby Seabrook Island.

Is Key West or Charleston Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Charleston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Key West has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Charleston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Charleston Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Key West and Charleston are very good choices.

Key West is considered a top beach destination. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

Charleston is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The area has a number of beautiful and fun nearby beaches including Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Folly Beach is an active and quirky beach area, while Kiawah is more family-friendly. Seabrook is more residential and more expensive.

Is Key West or Charleston Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is renowned for its old town. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its historic old town charm.

The old town of Charleston is one of the most recognized in the world. Charleston's downtown is one of the most charming and well preserved Old Town's in the United States. It's easy to see why it's become a world class destination.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Key West. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Charleston?

Charleston is renowned for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Charleston make it a world-class shopping destination. The city is famous for its historic market in the center of town. Local goods, foods, and crafts are sold daily here. There are also many clothing and local shops throughout town, particularly along King Street, which has boutiques and high end outlets. Outside of town, stop by Tanger Outlet Mall if you want name brands at a discount price.

Key West has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Key West or Charleston Better for Christmas?

Charleston is notable for its Christmas activities. However, Key West does not offer Christmas activities.

Charleston is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. During the Christmas season there are a number of festivals, light shows, and even a boat parade that everyone can enjoy.

Key West does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Key West or Charleston Better for Christmas Markets?

Charleston is a popular place for its Christmas markets. However, Key West does not offer Christmas markets.

Many visitors go to the Christmas markets in Charleston. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.

Key West does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Key West or Charleston Better for Families?

Key West is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Key West is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

Charleston is a family-friendly town. The city has a number of family-friendly activities like carriage rides and boat rides. There's also an aquarium, a waterfront park, and many kid-friendly museums. The nearby beaches also make it a wonderful place to visit with kids.

Is Key West or Charleston Better for Couples?

Charleston is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Charleston makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful city is one of the most popular wedding destinations in America. It's a very romantic setting with beautiful hotels and bed and breakfasts that are perfect for couples on their honeymoon or looking for a romantic setting.

Key West makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

Is Key West or Charleston Better for Students?

Key West is notable for students. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Key West is a great town to visit as a student. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Plenty of students visit Charleston. The city is a college town with a young vibe that is perfect for students. There's a nice university area where you'll find cheaper places to eat and a good nightlife scene.

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

Charleston is a moderate coastal town for its public transit. However, Key West is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Charleston. While there are some buses, you really must have a car to fully experience the entire area.

Public transit is quite limited in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Is Key West or Charleston a more walkable city?

Charleston is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

Charleston is a very walkable coastal town. The downtown area is very walkable, but once you leave the historic heart, it's best to have a car.

Key West is a somewhat walkable town. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Key West Worth Visiting? and Is Charleston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Charleston or Key West?

How long in Key West or Charleston?

Both Key West and Charleston have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Charleston has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Charleston than Key West. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 2-7 days is enough time in Charleston.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charleston than Key West 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 Charleston.

One day in Key West or Charleston?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the laid-back town of Key West, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful coastal town of Charleston offers museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Key West or Charleston?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Key West, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

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

Five days in Key West or Charleston?

Key West, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Charleston is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Charleston, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Key West or Charleston?

Key West is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this town makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Charleston is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Charleston has to offer. This coastal town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Key West or Charleston?

Charleston has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Key West. When comparing the sizes of Key West and Charleston, 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 West or Charleston?

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 West or Charleston in the Summer?

Both Charleston and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Key West for the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Charleston in the summer for the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Key West is around the same temperature as Charleston. Typically, the summer temperatures in Key West in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Charleston averages at about 82°F (28°C).

It's quite sunny in Charleston. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Charleston during summer. Key West gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 293 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Charleston. In July, Key West usually receives less rain than Charleston. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Key West or Charleston in the Autumn?

Both Charleston and Key West during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Key West in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Charleston for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Key West is generally a little warmer than Charleston. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 80°F (27°C), and Charleston fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

It's quite sunny in Key West. In the autumn, Key West often gets more sunshine than Charleston. Key West gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 197 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually gets more rain in October than Charleston. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Key West is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Key West or Charleston in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Charleston. Most visitors come to Key West for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Charleston because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Key West is much warmer than Charleston in the winter. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and Charleston fluctuates around 47°F (9°C).

In Key West, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Charleston during winter. Key West gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 188 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Key West usually receives less rain than Charleston. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Key West or Charleston in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Key West as well as Charleston. The spring months attract visitors to Key West because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Charleston this time of year.

In the spring, Key West is a little warmer than Charleston. Typically, the spring temperatures in Key West in April average around 77°F (25°C), and Charleston averages at about 64°F (18°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Charleston. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key West this time of the year. In the spring, Key West often gets more sunshine than Charleston. Key West gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 275 hours of full sun.

Key West usually gets less rain in April than Charleston. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Key West is June to November.

Typical Weather for Charleston and Key West