A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Miami vs. Berkeley for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Miami or Berkeley?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Miami and Berkeley can help you decide which place is right for you.

Miami

Miami is a diverse, bustling, and high energy beach city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a quirky, progressive, and diverse city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Miami and Berkeley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit


Is there more to do in Miami or Berkeley?

You'll generally find more things to do in Miami than Berkeley. Miami is bigger than Berkeley, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Miami is better known for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Berkeley is more popular for its museums and impressive beauty. Miami is more touristy than Berkeley and is known for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. Also, Miami is famous for South Beach. Berkeley is well known for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques.

How is Miami different from Berkeley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Miami
Berkeley

Berkeley is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Berkeley specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Miami does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Miami
Berkeley

Miami is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Miami is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American flavors and it is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. There is everything from award-winning restaurants to local dives that offer excellent dishes and experiences. The city is known for its stone crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Berkeley. 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.

Is Miami or Berkeley Better for Nightlife?

Miami
Berkeley

Miami is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Miami is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. From the posh nightlife clubs in South Beach, to the local salsa dancing venues in Little Havana, Miami is a city that thrives with energy. There are many world-renowned clubs that keep the music and drinks flowing through the entire night. There's also a glitzy and glamourous scene where the wealthy like to see and be seen.

Berkeley has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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 Miami or Berkeley Better for Music?

Miami
Berkeley

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

In Miami you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

Berkeley is not a live music destination.


Is Miami or Berkeley Better for Resorts?

Miami
Berkeley

Miami is renowned for its resorts. However, Berkeley is not a resort destination.

Miami offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Known for it's luxury, you'll find many resorts in the area. Popular options include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Fontainebleau, and Carillon Miami.

Berkeley is not a resort destination.

Is Miami or Berkeley Better for Beaches?

Miami
Berkeley

Miami is renowned for the beach. However, Berkeley is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Miami are among the best in the world. If you're looking for long sandy beaches, luxury yacht clubs, and fine dining restaurants, the area's beaches have them all. Some of the best beaches in the area include the world-famous South Beach, the North Beach Oceanside Park, Sunny Isles Beach, and Surfside. Many beaches are lined with high rise hotels that offer an urban beach experience.

Berkeley is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Miami or Berkeley?

Miami
Berkeley

Miami is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Miami is a world class destination for shoppers. The city has every high end brand you could want, along with diverse neighborhoods with local finds and unique purchases. You'll find many diverse shopping opportunities that are influenced by the city's cultural scene. You'll also find many souvenir stands and t-shirt shops.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.


Is Miami or Berkeley Better for Families?

Miami
Berkeley

Miami is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Miami is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Because it's so big, you'll find a number of kid-friendly activities in the area. There's the Miami Zoo, various waterparks, the Everglades Alligator Park, Miccosukee Indian Village, and plenty of indoor playgrounds in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

Berkeley is a family-friendly beach city. 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 Miami or Berkeley Better for Couples?

Miami
Berkeley

Miami is notable for couples. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Miami is a very popular place to visit for couples. For couples who love nightlife, wining and dining, and high end beach clubs, this is the place to be. There are many award-winning restaurants and plenty of glitz and glam that make for a great romantic getaway.

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 Miami or Berkeley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Miami
Berkeley

Berkeley is well known for backpackers. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Miami. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the backpackers.


Is Miami or Berkeley Better for Students?

Miami
Berkeley

Berkeley is well known for students. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Berkeley is very popular with students. 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.

It's common for students to visit Miami. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

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

Miami
Berkeley

Berkeley is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Berkeley is top-notch. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

While Miami offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around the city.

Is Miami or Berkeley a more walkable city?

Miami
Berkeley

Berkeley is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Berkeley on foot is easy. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

Miami is a very walkable beach city. Many parts of city are surprisingly walkable and pedestrian friendly, allowing you to eat out, go shopping, or explore without the need for a car.


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

Should I spend more time in Berkeley or Miami?

How long in Miami or Berkeley?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berkeley than Miami 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 Miami or Berkeley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Miami 7 
    Berkeley 2-3

One day in Miami or Berkeley?

Miami is a big city with plenty to do. Most people come for the beaches. 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, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this progressive destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Miami or Berkeley?

Miami is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Berkeley. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Miami or Berkeley?

Miami is a popular choice for travelers. 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 fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Berkeley. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Miami or Berkeley?

Miami is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This beach city offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the quirky destination of Berkeley. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Berkeley or Miami?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Miami is $206, 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 Miami and Berkeley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Miami $132
    Berkeley $131
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Miami $264
    Berkeley $262
Compare Hotels in Miami and Berkeley

Looking for a hotel in Miami 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 Miami


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: Miami Hotel Prices and Berkeley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Miami $38
    Berkeley $30
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Miami

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Miami are as follows:


  • Car Rental for a Day
    $18

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Miami

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Miami:

  • Train Transfer to South Florida Cities: $20
  • Miami International Airport: One-Way Transfer to Miami: $24
  • Transfers Airports Miami, Ft. Lauderdale Port Mía Everglades: $25
  • 50 min Everglades Airboat, Photo & Transfer: $33
  • Private Transfer from Miami Airport to Hotel or Port of Miami: $35
  • From Everglades Wildlife Show, Airboat & Bus Transfer: $40
  • Miami or Ft Lauderdale: Train Transfer to Orlando Airport: $44
  • Miami Int'l Airport: Private 1-Way Transfer to Miami Port: $48
  • From Everglades Airboat, Wildlife Show & Bus Transfer: $55
  • Private One Way Transfer: Miami Airport (MIA) to/from Miami: $55
  • Everglades Airboat, Wildlife Experience with roundtrip transfer: $59
  • Key West Transfer with Hotel Pickup and Upgrades: $60

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
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Private Arrival Transfer: $43
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $87
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco - Round-Trip Private Car Transfer: $127
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco hotel/address - Private Arrival Transfer: $63
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland: $93
  • Private Departure Transfer to Oakland Airport OAK: $97
  • Private Transfer: Oakland International Airport to Hotel: $200

Is it cheaper to fly into Miami or Berkeley?

Prices for flights to both Berkeley and Miami 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
    Miami $41
    Berkeley $36
Typical Food Prices in Miami

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


  • Lunch with Drinks (for 2)
    $45
  • David's Cafe Lunch (for 1)
    $16

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Miami

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

  • Little Havana- Family Friendly Walking Food Tour : $52
  • Little Havana Ultimate Food Tour : $64
  • The Ultimate Little Havana Food Tour: $64
  • A Taste of South Beach Food Tour: $70
  • South Beach Food Tour: $70
  • Taste of Little Havana Food Tour in Miami with Cuban Street Food: $75
  • Food Tour of Miami's South Beach: $79
  • Mango's Dinner and Show Ticket: $98
  • Mango's Tropical Cafe Dinner & Show: $98
  • Miami Dinner Party w/ Night Club Experience: $100
  • Guided Small Group Little Havana Food Tour: $124
  • 3 Hour Regional Indian Cooking Class and Dining Experience in Miami: $150

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.
    Miami $31
    Berkeley $30

Tours and Activities in Miami

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

  • Haunted a Smartphone Audio Driving Tour : $5.97
  • Little Havana Smartphone guided Audio App Solo Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Haunted Self-Guided Smartphone Audio Driving Tour: $7.27
  • Miami Beach: Self-Guided Walking Tour With Audio Guide: $7.27
  • Sights of Downtown a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $7.99
  • Private Sightseeing Audio Walking Tour in Miami Beach: $7.99
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Miami: $8.72
  • Miami Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Big Cypress National Preserve Audio Tour Guide: $9.99
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Miami by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour - Little Havana: $10
  • Audio Tour of Downtown, South Beach, and Wynwood: $11

Tours and Activities in Berkeley

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

  • Ruth Bancroft Garden General Admission Ticket: $12
  • Oakland Athletics Baseball Game Ticket at RingCentral Coliseum: $16
  • Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn Show Tickets: $20
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Berkeley: $20
  • Self-Guided Oakland Tour in an Urban Excursion: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Berkeley by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Antioch by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Redwoods of Marin and Mt. Tamalpais Walking Tour with Local Guide: $59
  • Historic Houseboat Tour: $65
  • Oakland's Temescal Tastes Tour: $120
  • Classic Sausalito Wooden Boat Tour: $135

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Miami $22
    Berkeley $13
Typical Alcohol Prices in Miami

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Miami are as follows:


  • Evening at a Bar
    $32

Sample the Local Flavors in Miami

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Miami:

  • Ghosts, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Small-Group Brewery Golf Cart Tour of Wynwood with a Local Guide: $59
  • Wynwood Graffiti Brewery Golf Cart Tour: $63
  • Wynwood Party Bike Bar Crawl: $64
  • Wynwood Party Bike Bar Crawl: $64
  • Wynwood Bar Crawl: $100

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 Miami and Berkeley, we can see that Miami 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 Miami Expensive? and Is Berkeley Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Miami or Berkeley?

Miami has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Berkeley. When comparing the sizes of Miami 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 Miami or Berkeley?

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 Miami or Berkeley in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Miami and Berkeley. The beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Miami this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Berkeley for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Miami is generally much warmer than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 83°F (28°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Miami gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Miami usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Miami gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Miami 83°F (28°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Miami or Berkeley in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Miami as well as Berkeley. Many travelers come to Miami for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, many visitors come to Berkeley in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Miami is a little warmer than Berkeley in the autumn. The daily temperature in Miami averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Miami receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Miami usually gets more rain in October than Berkeley. Miami gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Miami 78°F (26°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Miami or Berkeley in the Winter?

Both Berkeley and Miami are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Miami in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Berkeley for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Miami is much warmer than Berkeley. Typically, the winter temperatures in Miami in January average around 67°F (20°C), and Berkeley averages at about 50°F (10°C).

In January, Miami usually receives less rain than Berkeley. Miami gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Miami 67°F (20°C) 
    Berkeley 50°F (10°C)

Should I visit Miami or Berkeley in the Spring?

Both Berkeley and Miami during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Miami for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Berkeley because of the natural beauty.

In April, Miami is generally much warmer than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 75°F (24°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

Miami usually gets more rain in April than Berkeley. Miami gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Miami 75°F (24°C) 
    Berkeley 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Berkeley and Miami

Miami Berkeley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 67°F (20°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 72°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 75°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 58°F (14°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 79°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 83°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm) 63°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)