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

Should you visit Miami or Lancaster?

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 Lancaster 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. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Lancaster

Lancaster is a scenic, traditional, and picturesque town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Miami and Lancaster: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Miami or Lancaster?

You'll generally find more things to do in Miami than Lancaster. Miami is bigger than Lancaster, 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 Lancaster is more popular for its museums and impressive beauty. Miami is more touristy than Lancaster and is popular for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. Also, Miami is famous for South Beach. Lancaster is well known for its history and long running Amish community.

How is Miami different from Lancaster?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Miami
Lancaster

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

Many visitors head to Lancaster specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Filled with history and local culture, there are many educational opportunities in the area where you can learn about Amish traditions. The Amish Village has tours and unique experiences. The town also has James Buchanan's Wheatland, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, the National Toy Train Museum, the Ephrata Cloister, and the National Watch & Clock Museum, among many others.

Miami does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Miami
Lancaster

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Lancaster is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and 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.

Lancaster offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You can sample authentic Pennsylvania Dutch dishes at one of the Amish restaurants in the area. Many places serve food family-style and dishes include chicken pot pie, ham balls, and pork and sauerkraut. Whoopie pies also originated in the area.

Is Miami or Lancaster Better for Nightlife?

Miami
Lancaster

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for its evening party scene. However, Lancaster is not known for nightlife.

Miami has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Most people don't head to Lancaster specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town, but you'll still find local pubs and cozy bars where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back atmosphere.

Is Miami or Lancaster Better for Music?

Miami
Lancaster

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for its music scene. However, Lancaster is not a live music destination.

Miami has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

Lancaster is not a live music destination.


Is Miami or Lancaster Better for Resorts?

Miami
Lancaster

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Lancaster 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.

Lancaster is not a resort destination.

Is Miami or Lancaster Better for Beaches?

Miami
Lancaster

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for the beach. However, Lancaster 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.

Lancaster is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Miami or Lancaster?

Miami
Lancaster

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Lancaster is not as popular, but is still a nice town for shopping.

Many people travel to Miami specifically to go shopping. 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.

Lancaster is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Many visitors pick up hand-crafted Amish items while they're in town. Furniture and Amish quilts are particularly popular. Farmers markets and antique shopping are both unique in the area and there are also art galleries and several outlet stores that you can visit.


Is Miami or Lancaster Better for Families?

Miami
Lancaster

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Miami or Lancaster.

Miami is 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Lancaster is very family-friendly. In you area you'll find farms and petting zoos, amusement parks, and train rides. They can learn about a unique lifestyle at the Amish Experience or soak up the local beauty and farmland in the surrounding countryside.

Is Miami or Lancaster Better for Couples?

Miami
Lancaster

Both Miami and Lancaster are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Miami frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Lancaster is a great beach city if you're traveling as a couple. This region is known for it's local beauty and serene farmland, making it a relaxing and peaceful destination for couples. There are walking trails, outdoor activities, buggy rides, and a variety of dining experiences. You can also stay at a bed and breakfast or local inn.

Is Miami or Lancaster Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Miami
Lancaster

Miami is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lancaster is not known for backpackers.

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.

Lancaster is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's often overlooked by backpackers, the region offers a unique cultural experience.


Is Miami or Lancaster Better for Students?

Miami
Lancaster

Miami is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Lancaster is not popular with students.

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

Lancaster is not popular with students.

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

Miami
Lancaster

Miami is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Lancaster is not known for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in Lancaster. The city has buses and several transportation options, but once you're outside of the urban core, your options are limited.

Is Miami or Lancaster a more walkable city?

Miami
Lancaster

Miami is a great beach city for its ease of walking around. However, Lancaster is not known for its walkability.

Miami is a very walkable destination. 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.

Lancaster is generally not very walkable. While the city itself has walkable areas, most visitors want to get out and explore the countryside, which requires a car.


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

Should I spend more time in Lancaster or Miami?

How long in Miami or Lancaster?

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

Families should spend more time in Miami than Lancaster. 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 Lancaster. 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 Miami than Lancaster 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 Miami.


  • How many days in Miami or Lancaster? Ideal Length of Stay
    Miami 7 
    Lancaster 2-3

One day in Miami or Lancaster?

People visit Miami because there is so much to do. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Lancaster, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this scenic destination offers. This town 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 Lancaster?

People visit Miami because there is so much to do. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This beach city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lancaster. 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 Lancaster?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the glamorous beach city of Miami. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Lancaster is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Lancaster. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Miami or Lancaster?

Miami is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find food and shopping around the scenic destination of Lancaster. 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Lancaster 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 Lancaster is $183. 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 Lancaster in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Miami $132
    Lancaster $91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Miami $264
    Lancaster $182
Compare Hotels in Miami and Lancaster

Looking for a hotel in Miami or Lancaster? 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 Lancaster


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 Lancaster Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Miami $38
    Lancaster $69
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:

  • Transfer to West Palm Beach: $420
  • From Miami Beach: Roundtrip Bimini Ferry and Hotel Transfers: $289
  • From Miami Airport - Private Transfer to Hotels and Homes: $265
  • From Miami - Private Transfer from Miami Hotels to Airport: $265
  • Private Airport Transfer From Miami Airport to Hotels and Home: $255
  • Transfer from Port Miami to Miami Airport: $190
  • Miami Airport Executive Transfer Service: $190
  • Transfer from Miami Airport to Hotel or Port Miami.: $190
  • Private Transfer from Hotel in Miami to Port Miami.: $185
  • Guided Tour with Transfer from Cruise Port to Airport: $184
  • Miami Airport Private Transfer To Miami Beach: $160
  • Transfer from Miami Airport to Miami Hotel or Miami Port: $160

Is it cheaper to fly into Miami or Lancaster?

Prices for flights to both Lancaster 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
    Lancaster $53
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
  • The Ultimate Little Havana Food Tour: $64
  • South Beach Food Tour- Culinary & Art Deco & History : $67
  • South Beach Food Tour: $70
  • A Taste of South Beach Food Tour: $75
  • Little Havana Walking Food Tour: $75
  • South Beach Miami Food & Fun Art Deco Food Tour : $79
  • 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
  • Food Tour in South Beach of Miami: $116

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lancaster

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

  • International Food Tour Lancaster, Pennsylvania: $68
  • Red Rose Walking Food Tour in Lancaster: $69

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Miami $31
    Lancaster $19

Tours and Activities in Miami

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

  • 30 Minute- Ocean Drive Segway Tour: $42
  • 5-Course Cultural Brunch Experience in Miami: $125
  • Bayside Marketplace Miami Full Day Shopping Experience : $100
  • "Cigar Factory Tour": $35
  • 1 Hour Lady Buggy Art Tour Experience in Wynwood: $160
  • 1 Hour Star Island Segway Tour: $74
  • 1 Hour Wynwood Street Art Tour: $45
  • 1-Hour Private Miami Photoshoot Experience: $92
  • 1HR Boat Tour Around Miami Celebrities Mansion: $65
  • 2 Hour ATV Off Road Guided Tour : $160
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Miami Beach: $277
  • 2 hrs Miami Private Boat Tour with Cooler, Ice, Bluetooth Stereo: $75

Tours and Activities in Lancaster

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

  • Guided Tour of the 1792 Johannes Mueller House: $12
  • 45-Minute Private Guided Historic Walking Tour in Lititz: $12
  • Guided Ghost Tour of Lititz: $12
  • Evening Ghost Tour by Candlelight: $25
  • Lititz Whiskey and History Tour : $25
  • Lancaster Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Lancaster County: Amish Farmlands, Museum Tour, Farm Visit: $36
  • Premium Amish Country Tour including Amish Farm and House: $36
  • Amish Experience SuperSaver Package: $47
  • Lancaster, PA: Dutch Wonderland Theme Park Entry Ticket: $48
  • Lancaster History and Breakfast Walking Tour: $60
  • Downtown & Amish Country Authentic Lancaster Tour: $70

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Miami $22
    Lancaster $11
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:

  • Miami Bar Crawl: $25
  • Ghosts, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $26
  • Guided Bar Crawl with Drinks Discounts and Club Entry: $29
  • Wynwood Graffiti Brewery Golf Cart Tour: $63
  • Wynwood Party Bike Bar Crawl: $64
  • Wynwood Bar Crawl: $100

Sample the Local Flavors in Lancaster

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

  • Guided Brewery Walking Tour in Lancaster City: $79
  • Lancaster City: The Ultimate Walking Craft Brewery Tour: $79


When comparing the travel costs between Miami and Lancaster, 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 Lancaster Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Miami or Lancaster?

Miami has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Lancaster. When comparing the sizes of Miami and Lancaster, 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 Lancaster?

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 Miami or Lancaster in the Summer?

Both Lancaster and Miami during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Miami this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Lancaster for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Miami is generally a little warmer than Lancaster. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 83°F (28°C), and Lancaster fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

In Lancaster, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Miami. In the summer, Miami often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lancaster. Miami gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 310 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Miami. Miami usually gets more rain in July than Lancaster. Miami gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Miami 83°F (28°C) 
    Lancaster 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Miami or Lancaster in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Miami and Lancaster. Many travelers come to Miami for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Lancaster in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Miami is much warmer than Lancaster in the autumn. The daily temperature in Miami averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Lancaster fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In Miami, it's very sunny this time of the year. Miami usually receives more sunshine than Lancaster during autumn. Miami gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Miami gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Miami usually receives more rain than Lancaster. Miami gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Miami 78°F (26°C) 
    Lancaster 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Miami or Lancaster in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Miami as well as Lancaster. Many visitors come to Miami in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Lancaster for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lancaster can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Miami is much warmer than Lancaster. Typically, the winter temperatures in Miami in January average around 67°F (20°C), and Lancaster averages at about 30°F (-1°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Miami this time of the year. In the winter, Miami often gets more sunshine than Lancaster. Miami gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 153 hours of full sun.

Miami usually gets less rain in January than Lancaster. Miami gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Miami 67°F (20°C) 
    Lancaster 30°F (-1°C)

Should I visit Miami or Lancaster in the Spring?

Both Lancaster and Miami are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Miami for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Lancaster because of the natural beauty.

In April, Miami is generally much warmer than Lancaster. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 75°F (24°C), and Lancaster fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Lancaster. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Miami. Miami usually receives more sunshine than Lancaster during spring. Miami gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 237 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Miami usually receives around the same amount of rain as Lancaster. Miami gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Miami 75°F (24°C) 
    Lancaster 53°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Lancaster and Miami

Miami Lancaster
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 67°F (20°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Feb 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Mar 72°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 75°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 79°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jul 83°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Oct 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Nov 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)