A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Miami vs. New Orleans for Food, Nightlife, Music, and Couples

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Should you visit Miami or New Orleans?

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 New Orleans can help you decide which place is right for you.

Miami

Miami is a bustling, high energy, and glamorous beach city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, live music, and food.

New Orleans

New Orleans is a fun-filled, festive, and vibrant city. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

How is Miami different from New Orleans?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Is Miami or New Orleans better for Food?

Picking the best between Miami and New Orleans can be difficult as they are each unique in their own way.

Miami has long been recognized as a culinary destination. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is known for its Stone Crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and Key Lime pie.

Many restaurants in New Orleans have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It's the birthplace of bananas foster and popular for it's gumbo, crawfish etouffee, jambalaya, and red beans and rice.


Is Miami or New Orleans better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Miami and New Orleans.

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.

People head to New Orleans just to party. The nightlife scene is at its best during Mardi Gras. But year-round you'll find Bachelor and Bachelorette parties, spring breakers, and anyone who wants to enjoy a crazy time heads to New Orleans.

Is Miami or New Orleans better for Music?

Live music enthusiatsts will find something to enjoy in either Miami or New Orleans.

Miami is a world class music destination. Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

New Orleans is known as a music capital around the world. The city is known for its music festivals that feature jazz, blues, and many other types of live music. The Jazz Festival is a great time to visit.

Is Miami or New Orleans better for Shopping?

Most people pick Miami for the shopping over New Orleans.

Miami is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has every high end brand you could want, along with diverse neighborhoods with local finds and unique purchases.

New Orleans is a good destination for shopping. New Orleans shopping is mostly centered around malls and chain stores.

Is Miami or New Orleans better for Families?

Most people don't think of either Miami or New Orleans as a family destination.

Miami doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Because it's so big, you'll find some kid-friendly options in the area. There are kid-friendly museums and activities around the city.

New Orleans is not always a place people visit with their families. While there are some family-friendly activities in New Orleans like a zoo and several great parks, the city is more known for its parties and nightlife scene.


Is Miami or New Orleans better for Couples?

Both Miami and New Orleans are good 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.

New Orleans is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy a lively evening, fun festivals, and exploring absolutely amazing restaurants will enjoy a visit to New Orleans.

Is Miami or New Orleans better for Students?

Miami and New Orleans are comparable places to visit for students.

Miami is popular with students. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

Plenty of students visit New Orleans. Students head to New Orleans to enjoy spring break and Mardi Gras.

Is Miami or New Orleans better for Public Transit?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Miami and New Orleans.

You'll find some public transit in Miami, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around the city.

Public transit is mostly limited in New Orleans. The city has streetcar lines and bus lines that you can use, but you'll want to have a car if you want to venture outside of these main areas.

Is Miami or New Orleans a more walkable city?

Miami and New Orleans both are comparable when exploring on foot.

Miami is very walkable. 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.

New Orleans is somewhat walkable. If you stick to the French Quarter and downtown areas, most things are walkable in New Orleans.


Miami and New Orleans: Pros and Cons

Miami
Pros
  • Good music scene
  • Good for shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
Cons
  • Less family-friendly
New Orleans
Pros
  • Good music scene
  • Good for couples and romance
Cons
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Should I spend more time in New Orleans or Miami?

How long in Miami or New Orleans?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Miami and New Orleans. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in New Orleans than Miami.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Miami is 7 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to New Orleans is 2-3 days.


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

One day in Miami or New Orleans?

Miami is a bustling beach city where you can fill many days. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire area has lots to do.

In New Orleans, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this energetic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 New Orleans?

Miami is a bustling big city where you can fill many days. It's also a relaxing resort destination. This beach city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in New Orleans. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 New Orleans?

The diverse beach city of Miami offers food and shopping. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days may feel like too much time here unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

New Orleans is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Miami or New Orleans?

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Miami. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the energetic destination of New Orleans. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered around the area. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Which city is cheaper, New Orleans or Miami?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Miami is $165, while the average daily cost in New Orleans is $191. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Miami and New Orleans in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Miami $106
    New Orleans $100
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Miami $212
    New Orleans $200

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Miami $32
    New Orleans $41
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:

  • Transfers to Port of Miami: $28
  • Transfer in Private Vehicle from Miami Downtown to Miami Airport: $46
  • Transfer in Private Vehicle from Miami Airport to Miami Downtown: $46
  • Transfer in Private Vehicle from Miami Airport to Miami Beach: $46
  • Transfer in Private Minivan from Miami Downtown to Miami Airport: $70
  • Transfer in Private Minivan from Miami Airport to Miami Downtown: $70
  • Transfer in Private Minivan from Miami Airport to Miami Beach: $70
  • Transfer in Executive Private Vehicle from Miami Downtown to Miami Airport: $53
  • Transfer in Executive Private Vehicle from Miami Airport to Miami Downtown: $53
  • Transfer in Executive Private Vehicle from Miami Airport to Miami Beach: $53
  • Transfer from Port Of Miami to Miami International Airport: $80
  • Transfer from Port Of Miami to Miami Beach: $65

Typical Local Transportation prices in New Orleans

Some typical examples of transportation costs in New Orleans are as follows:


  • Taxi Ride
    $10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in New Orleans

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

  • 11 Passenger Executive Van: New Orleans Airport or Hotel Transfer: $197
  • 14 Passenger New Orleans Airport or Hotel Transfer: $203
  • 20 Passenger New Orleans Airport or Hotel Transfer: $227
  • 25 Passenger New Orleans Airport or Hotel Transfer: $237
  • 28 Passenger New Orleans Airport or Hotel Transfer: $267
  • Airport Transfer in New Orleans: $114
  • Cruise Port to New Orleans L.Armstrong Airport(MSY) - Departure Private Transfer: $105
  • Departure Private Transfer New Orleans to New Orleans MSY or Port - Business Car: $67
  • Departure Private Transfer New Orleans to New Orleans MSY or Port by SUV: $76
  • Handicap New Orleans Airport or Hotel Transfer: $139
  • LimoBus New Orleans Airport or Hotel Transfer: $400
  • Luxury Transfer from New Orleans International Airport to Downtown Hotels: $59

Is it cheaper to fly into Miami or New Orleans?

Prices for flights to both New Orleans 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 $33
    New Orleans $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 Street Food Tours: $61
  • Haitian Cooking Experience: $85
  • Private Little Havana Cuban Food Tour: $99
  • Private VIP Historical Citywide Food Tour: $159

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in New Orleans

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

  • New Orleans Cooking Class: $34
  • New Orleans Lunch & Lesson: Cajun & Creole Cooking Class: $35
  • French Quarter Food Tour: $42
  • New Orleans Food Tour: $44
  • Steamboat Natchez Evening Jazz Cruise with Dinner Option: $50
  • Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Jazz Cruise with Optional Dinner: $52
  • Dinner at Tujague's Restaurant in New Orleans: $68
  • New Orleans French Quarter Food Tour: $69
  • French Quarter Food Tour: $75
  • New Orleans' Lower Garden Food Tour: $75
  • French Quarter Food Tour: $75
  • Lower Garden District Food Tour: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Miami $25
    New Orleans $44

Tours and Activities in Miami

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

  • "Cigar Factory Tour": $35
  • 1 Hour Private Helicopter Tour of Miami and South Florida: $518
  • 1-Day Key West Tour ( Miami Departure ) ( MIA1-B ): $138
  • 1-Day Miami+Everglades Naitonal Park Tour ( Miami Departure )( MIA1-A ): $80
  • 1/2 Hour Jet Ski Island Adventure: $5.00
  • 10-Day Surf Adventure from Brisbane to Sydney Including Coffs Harbour, Byron Bay and Gold Coast: $2,371
  • 2 Hour Cycle Boat Tour: $50
  • 2-hour boat tour with Aquarius Boat Rental: $195
  • 3 Hour Private Sunset Sailboat Tour for up to 6 Complimentary beverages, snacks: $550
  • 3-hour tour with Aquarius Boat Rental: $248
  • 3.5-Hour Ultimate Learn to Surf Adventure: $35
  • 30 Minute Private Luxury Helicopter Sightseeing Tour of Miami: $299

Typical Entertainment prices in New Orleans

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for New Orleans's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Zoo & Aquarium Tickets (2)
    $75
  • Riverboat Cruise
    $70
  • French Quarter City Tour
    $100

Tours and Activities in New Orleans

For New Orleans, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • New Orleans City Park Private Tour and Exploration Game: $3.72
  • Your new addiction! The best women’s shoe shopping experience in NOLA!: $5.00
  • Struttin' Down Royal Street Walking Audio Tour by VoiceMap: $5.34
  • New Orleans Esplanade Ridge: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.34
  • Metairie Cemetery Stories Walking Audio Tour by VoiceMap: $5.34
  • A Walk in the Park: City Park New Orleans Audio Tour: $5.34
  • Walking the Tremé: A Self-guided Audio Tour of New Orleans: $5.34
  • Bywater Stroll: Explore the Evolving Neighbourhood on an Audio Walking Tour: $5.40
  • Beyond the French Quarter: New Orleans Off the Beaten Path Audio Tour: $5.40
  • New Orleans Virtual Self-Paced Guided City Tour: $5.99
  • One Hour Saint Louis Cemetery Number One Walking Tour: $10
  • Skip the Line: Historic House Tour Ticket: $10

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Miami $18
    New Orleans $48
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:

  • Making Your Own Gin Distillery Tour and Tasting Experience: $190

Sample the Local Flavors in New Orleans

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in New Orleans:

  • New Orleans Bar Hunt: New Orleans Ballin' Bar Crawl: $12
  • Big Easy Ghost and Vampire Pub Crawl: $20
  • Haunted Pub Crawl in New Orleans: $22
  • New Orleans Haunted Pub Crawl: $25
  • Haunted New Orleans Ghost and Pub Walking Tour: $27
  • NOLA Distillery Tour: $28
  • Pub Crawl & Historical Chronicles Walking Tour: $30
  • Haunted Pub Tour: $35
  • Frenchmen Street Live Music Pub Crawl: $48
  • Frenchmen Street VIP Live Music Pub Crawl: $49

About these numbers

When comparing the travel costs between Miami and New Orleans, we can see that New Orleans 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.

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Miami vs. New Orleans Travel Comparison

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