Which place is cheaper, Seattle or Memphis?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
If you're trying to decide where to visit between Memphis or Seattle, 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 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.
Seattle is a laid-back, bustling, and progressive city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.
Travelers will usually find more to do in Seattle. Although Memphis and Seattle are popular destinations, Seattle has more sights and attractions for tourists. Seattle is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Memphis attracts visitors for its music. Seattle is more touristy than Memphis and is popular for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. It is also well known for The Space Needle. Memphis is famous for its influential music scene and its southern barbecue.
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Seattle and Memphis. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Seattle 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 Seattle can be an interesting and educational experience. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.
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.
Seattle is a nice place to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Memphis is not a theatre destination.
If you have some extra time in Seattle, take in a show. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.
Memphis is not a theatre destination.
Seattle 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.
Seattle has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.
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.
If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find superb options in both Memphis and Seattle.
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.
Seattle offers plenty to do in the evening. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.
Memphis is renowned for its music scene. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for live music.
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.
Whether you like big venues or smaller artists, Seattle has diverse options. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.
Seattle is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Memphis is not a beach destination.
Seattle has a beach worth visiting. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.
Memphis is not a beach destination.
Seattle is a great city for hiking. However, Memphis is not a hiking destination.
Many visitors go to Seattle for the hiking trails. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.
Memphis is not a hiking destination.
Seattle is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Memphis is not known for shopping.
Seattle has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.
Memphis is a good destination for shopping. The city has plenty of malls and chain stores where you can grab anything you might need.
Memphis and Seattle 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.
Seattle is a family-friendly place to visit. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.
Memphis and Seattle 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.
Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.
Seattle is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Memphis is not known for backpackers.
It's common for backpackers to visit Seattle. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.
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.
Seattle is a great city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.
Seattle is a great city to visit as a student. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.
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.
Seattle is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Memphis is not known for its public transit.
While Seattle offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.
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.
Seattle is a great city for its ease of walking around. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.
Seattle is a very walkable destination. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.
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 Seattle Worth Visiting?.
Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Memphis and Seattle. In our opinion, Seattle has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Seattle than Memphis. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.
Families should spend more time in Seattle than Memphis. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Seattle, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Seattle than Memphis. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Seattle that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Seattle 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 Seattle.
In Memphis, you'll find nightlife and live music. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.
Because Seattle is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.
In Memphis, you'll find live music and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Memphis has to offer.
Because Seattle is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Seattle has to offer.
Memphis 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.
Seattle is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Memphis. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Memphis. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Seattle. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Seattle. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.
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 Seattle is $205. 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 Seattle in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Memphis or Seattle? 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.
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.
Also for Memphis, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Seattle:
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Seattle:
Prices for flights to both Seattle 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.
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Memphis:
For Memphis, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
Some typical examples of dining costs in Seattle are as follows:
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Seattle.
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Memphis.
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Seattle are as follows:
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Memphis:
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Seattle:
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Memphis and Seattle, we can see that Seattle is more expensive. And not only is Memphis much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Memphis would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Memphis 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 Seattle would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Seattle than you might in Memphis.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Memphis Expensive? and Is Seattle Expensive?.
Memphis has a larger population, and is about 14% larger than the population of Seattle. When comparing the sizes of Memphis and Seattle, 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.
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.
Both Seattle 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 beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.
Memphis is a little warmer than Seattle in the summer. The daily temperature in Memphis averages around 83°F (29°C) in July, and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).
In Seattle, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Memphis. In the summer, Memphis often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Seattle. Memphis gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun.
Memphis usually gets more rain in July than Seattle. Memphis gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.
The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Memphis and Seattle. 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 Seattle for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.
In the autumn, Memphis is a little warmer than Seattle. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Memphis in October average around 64°F (18°C), and Seattle averages at about 54°F (12°C).
In Memphis, it's very sunny this time of the year. Memphis usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during autumn. Memphis gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun in the autumn.
In October, Memphis usually receives less rain than Seattle. Memphis gets 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.
The winter brings many poeple to Memphis as well as Seattle. Many travelers come to Memphis for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Seattle in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.
Be prepared for some very cold days in Memphis. In January, Memphis is generally cooler than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Memphis average around 40°F (5°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 42°F (5°C).
In the winter, Memphis often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Memphis gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun.
It's quite rainy in Seattle. Memphis usually gets less rain in January than Seattle. Memphis gets 2.4 inches (62 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain this time of the year.
Both Seattle 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 Seattle for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.
Memphis is much warmer than Seattle in the spring. The daily temperature in Memphis averages around 64°F (18°C) in April, and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).
It's quite sunny in Seattle. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Memphis. Memphis usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during spring. Memphis gets 254 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.
It's quite rainy in Memphis. In April, Memphis usually receives more rain than Seattle. Memphis gets 4.3 inches (109 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain each month for the spring.
Memphis | Seattle | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 40°F (5°C) | 2.4 inches (62 mm) | 42°F (5°C) | 5.4 inches (136 mm) |
Feb | 45°F (7°C) | 3.3 inches (85 mm) | 45°F (7°C) | 4 inches (102 mm) |
Mar | 54°F (12°C) | 4.2 inches (106 mm) | 47°F (9°C) | 3.8 inches (96 mm) |
Apr | 64°F (18°C) | 4.3 inches (109 mm) | 51°F (11°C) | 2.5 inches (64 mm) |
May | 72°F (22°C) | 3.3 inches (84 mm) | 57°F (14°C) | 1.9 inches (47 mm) |
Jun | 80°F (27°C) | 2.3 inches (58 mm) | 62°F (17°C) | 1.6 inches (40 mm) |
Jul | 83°F (29°C) | 2.9 inches (73 mm) | 67°F (19°C) | 0.9 inches (22 mm) |
Aug | 82°F (28°C) | 2.8 inches (72 mm) | 67°F (19°C) | 1.2 inches (31 mm) |
Sep | 76°F (24°C) | 2.6 inches (66 mm) | 62°F (17°C) | 1.9 inches (49 mm) |
Oct | 64°F (18°C) | 1.6 inches (41 mm) | 54°F (12°C) | 3.3 inches (83 mm) |
Nov | 54°F (12°C) | 2.6 inches (65 mm) | 47°F (8°C) | 5.7 inches (144 mm) |
Dec | 44°F (7°C) | 4.1 inches (105 mm) | 42°F (6°C) | 6 inches (152 mm) |