A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Memphis vs. Berkeley for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Memphis or Berkeley?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Memphis or Berkeley, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Memphis

Memphis is a laid-back, soulful, and creative city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and food.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a diverse, quirky, and progressive city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Memphis and Berkeley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Memphis or Berkeley?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Memphis than Berkeley. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Memphis is very popular for its music and big city activities, while Berkeley attracts visitors for its museums, food, shopping, and impressive beauty. Berkeley is more touristy than Memphis and is popular for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques. Memphis is famous for its influential music scene and its southern barbecue. It is also well known for Elvis Presley's Graceland.

How is Memphis different from Berkeley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Memphis or Berkeley?

Memphis
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Berkeley can be an interesting and educational experience. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.

Memphis is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Many attractions in town are related to the city's history in music. There is the famed Graceland as well as the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The city also has several art museums that are worth checking out.


Is the Food Better in Memphis or Berkeley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Memphis
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Berkeley has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients.

Memphis offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The town has grown into a foodie destination with excellent barbecue and ribs. There are many award winning barbecue joints, but you'll also find casual bars that serve nachos, pizza, and other quick bites.

Is Memphis or Berkeley Better for Nightlife?

Memphis
Berkeley

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find superb options in both Memphis and Berkeley.

The nightlife in Memphis has something for everybody. Music is at the heart of the nightlife scene. Head to Beale Street in Memphis's downtown for the most active nightlife that usually stays open the latest. You'll also find a lot of bars and clubs in Midtown around Overton Square.

Berkeley offers plenty to do in the evening. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

Is Memphis or Berkeley Better for Music?

Memphis
Berkeley

Memphis is renowned for its music scene. However, Berkeley is not a live music destination.

In Memphis you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. There are plenty of live music venues in the downtown area that you can explore. Several of the most famous include B.B. King's Blues Club, Handy Park Pavilion, and Blues City Cafe. The city is known for its influential role in several music genres including the blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll. There are also many music related museums and attractions in town like Graceland, the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music.

Berkeley is not a live music destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Memphis or Berkeley?

Memphis
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great city for its shopping areas. However, Memphis is not known for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Berkeley. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Memphis is a good destination for shopping. The city has plenty of malls and chain stores where you can grab anything you might need.

Is Memphis or Berkeley Better for Families?

Memphis
Berkeley

Memphis and Berkeley are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Memphis offers lots of family activities. The town has some great activities for kids including a zoo, several museums, petting farms, and a botanical garden.

Berkeley is a family-friendly place to visit. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Memphis or Berkeley Better for Couples?

Memphis
Berkeley

Memphis and Berkeley are both nice to visit as a couple.

Memphis is a good city for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy good music and southern food will enjoy a weekend here. There are many music related landmarks including Graceland and the Rock 'n' Soul Museum. Live music is very popular as well.

Berkeley is a nice destination for couples. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.


Is Memphis or Berkeley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Memphis
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Memphis is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Berkeley. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.

Memphis is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels and plenty of live music that make this a popular stop off for young travelers.

Is Memphis or Berkeley Better for Students?

Memphis
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Berkeley is a great city to visit as a student. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for students.

Memphis is a good city to visit for students. The live music scene and great food options make this is a fun town for students.

Is Memphis or Berkeley Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Memphis
Berkeley

Berkeley is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Memphis is not known for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Berkeley can get you around easily. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

Public transit is generally limited in Memphis. There is a trolley and bus system that the city operates, but a car is really helpful for getting around.


Is Memphis or Berkeley a more walkable city?

Memphis
Berkeley

Berkeley is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Berkeley is a very easy city to get around on foot. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

Memphis is somewhat walkable. Most of the touristy parts of town are walkable, but if you want to explore further out you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Memphis Worth Visiting? and Is Berkeley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Berkeley or Memphis?

How long in Memphis or Berkeley?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Memphis and Berkeley. In our opinion, Berkeley has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Berkeley than Memphis. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berkeley than Memphis 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 Berkeley.


  • How many days in Memphis or Berkeley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Memphis 2-3 
    Berkeley 2-3

One day in Memphis or Berkeley?

The city of Memphis offers live music and food. 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.

In Berkeley, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Memphis or Berkeley?

Memphis is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Memphis, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Berkeley, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Berkeley has to offer.


Five days in Memphis or Berkeley?

Memphis is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Berkeley is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Memphis or Berkeley?

Memphis is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Berkeley. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Berkeley. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Berkeley or Memphis?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Memphis is $167, while the average daily cost in Berkeley is $190. 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 Memphis and Berkeley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Memphis $84
    Berkeley $131
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Memphis $168
    Berkeley $262
Compare Hotels in Memphis and Berkeley

Looking for a hotel in Memphis or Berkeley? 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 Memphis


Hotels in Berkeley


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: Memphis Hotel Prices and Berkeley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Memphis $59
    Berkeley $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Memphis

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

  • Memphis Airport Transfers: $50
  • Private Departure Transfer to Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Greater Memphis To MEM International Airport - Luxury Transfer: $95
  • Memphis Airport (MEM) to Memphis City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $135
  • Memphis Airport MEM to Hot Springs Resorts Round-Trip Transfer: $287
  • Guided Tour with Riverboat Cruise & Hotel Transfers: $339

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berkeley

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Berkeley:

  • Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK to San Francisco by SUV: $232
  • Private Transfer: Oakland International Airport to Hotel: $200
  • Private Departure Transfer to Oakland Airport OAK: $97
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland: $93
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $88
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK: $81
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco hotel/address - Private Arrival Transfer: $64
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Private Arrival Transfer: $44

Is it cheaper to fly into Memphis or Berkeley?

Prices for flights to both Berkeley and Memphis 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
    Memphis $43
    Berkeley $36
Typical Food Prices in Memphis

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


  • Baskin Robins (for 2)
    $6.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Memphis

For Memphis, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Taste of Downtown Memphis Food Tour: $75

Typical Food Prices in Berkeley

Some typical examples of dining costs in Berkeley are as follows:


  • Chocolates at Sweet Dreams
    $4.46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Berkeley

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

  • North 3-Hour Food Tour: $116
  • Best of North Berkeley Food Tour: $130
  • Black Food Tour - Downtown Oakland: $140

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Memphis $45
    Berkeley $30

Tours and Activities in Memphis

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

  • Memphis Grizzlies Basketball Game Ticket: $3.91
  • Memphis Grizzlies Basketball Game Ticket at FedExForum: $4.03
  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour of Beale Street: $6.50
  • Beale Street Experience Audio App Self Guided Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Memphis Music Hall of Fame Admission Ticket: $8.00
  • Memphis Music Hall of Fame Admission Ticket: $8.00
  • Downtown In-App Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Entry Ticket to the Edge Motor Museum: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Memphis by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure City Game on Your Phone: $10
  • Rock 'n' Soul Museum with Audio Tour: $11
  • Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum Admission Ticket in Memphis: $15

Tours and Activities in Berkeley

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Berkeley are as follows:

  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Berkeley: $20
  • Classic Sausalito Wooden Boat Tour: $135
  • Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn Show Tickets: $20
  • Historic Houseboat Tour: $65
  • Oakland Athletics Baseball Game Ticket at RingCentral Coliseum: $27
  • Redwoods of Marin and Mt. Tamalpais Walking Tour with Local Guide: $65
  • Ruth Bancroft Garden General Admission Ticket: $12
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Berkeley by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Scenic Sausalito Kayak Tour: Beginners Welcome : $85
  • Self-Guided Oakland Tour in an Urban Excursion: $20
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Antioch by Zombie Scavengers: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Memphis $26
    Berkeley $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Memphis

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

  • Drinking Spirits with Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $27
  • Haunted Pub Crawl in Memphis: $27
  • Memphis Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $59
  • Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $62

Sample the Local Flavors in Berkeley

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

  • Guided Wine Tasting at Berkeley Wineries with Local Sommelière : $175
  • Guided Wine Tasting with Local Sommelière: $175


When comparing the travel costs between Memphis and Berkeley, we can see that Berkeley 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 Memphis Expensive? and Is Berkeley Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Memphis or Berkeley?

Memphis has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Berkeley. When comparing the sizes of Memphis and Berkeley, 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 Memphis or Berkeley?

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 Memphis or Berkeley in the Summer?

Both Berkeley and Memphis during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Memphis because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Berkeley this time of year.

Memphis is much warmer than Berkeley in the summer. The daily temperature in Memphis averages around 83°F (29°C) in July, and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Memphis usually gets more rain in July than Berkeley. Memphis gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Memphis 83°F (29°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Memphis or Berkeley in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Memphis and Berkeley. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Memphis this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Berkeley for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Memphis is around the same temperature as Berkeley. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Memphis in October average around 64°F (18°C), and Berkeley averages at about 63°F (17°C).

In October, Memphis usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Memphis gets 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Memphis 64°F (18°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Memphis or Berkeley in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Memphis as well as Berkeley. Many travelers come to Memphis for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Berkeley in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Memphis. In January, Memphis is generally much colder than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Memphis average around 40°F (5°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

Memphis usually gets less rain in January than Berkeley. Memphis gets 2.4 inches (62 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Memphis 40°F (5°C) 
    Berkeley 50°F (10°C)

Should I visit Memphis or Berkeley in the Spring?

Both Berkeley and Memphis are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Memphis in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Berkeley for the natural beauty during these months.

Memphis is a little warmer than Berkeley in the spring. The daily temperature in Memphis averages around 64°F (18°C) in April, and Berkeley fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

It's quite rainy in Memphis. In April, Memphis usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Memphis gets 4.3 inches (109 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Memphis 64°F (18°C) 
    Berkeley 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Berkeley and Memphis

Memphis Berkeley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 2.4 inches (62 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 45°F (7°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 64°F (18°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 58°F (14°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 72°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 83°F (29°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 63°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 64°F (18°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 54°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)