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

North America / Comparisons /
Jump to  down-arrow

Should you visit Miami or Philadelphia?

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 Philadelphia can help you decide which place is right for you.

Miami

Miami is a diverse, bustling, and high energy beach city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a diverse, historic, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Miami and Philadelphia: Pros and Cons

Miami
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Good music scene
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
Cons
  • Less family-friendly
Philadelphia
Pros
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
Cons
  • Less popular for food


How is Miami different from Philadelphia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Miami or Philadelphia Better for Food?

Miami
Philadelphia

Miami has a longer list of notable local restaurants than Philadelphia.

Miami has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Philadelphia has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.


Is Miami or Philadelphia Better for Nightlife?

Miami
Philadelphia

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

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.

Many people head to Philadelphia for the nightlife scene. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the night with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens.

Is Miami or Philadelphia Better for Music?

Miami
Philadelphia

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

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

The music scene in Philadelphia draws a good crowd. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Is Miami or Philadelphia Better for Shopping?

Miami
Philadelphia

Shopping is a popular activity in both Philadelphia and Miami.

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.

Philadelphia is well-known for its shopping. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.

Is Miami or Philadelphia Better for Families?

Miami
Philadelphia

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

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.

Philadelphia offers lots of family activities. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.


Is Miami or Philadelphia Better for Couples?

Miami
Philadelphia

Both Miami and Philadelphia 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.

Philadelphia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Like many large cities, this city is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple.

Is Miami or Philadelphia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Miami
Philadelphia

Miami and Philadelphia are comparable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Miami is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Philadelphia. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

Is Miami or Philadelphia Better for Students?

Miami
Philadelphia

Miami and Philadelphia are comparable places to visit for students.

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

Philadelphia is a great beach city to visit as a student. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Is Miami or Philadelphia Better for Public Transit?

Miami
Philadelphia

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

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.

The public transit in Philadelphia can get you around easily. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.


Is Miami or Philadelphia a more walkable city?

Miami
Philadelphia

Miami and Philadelphia 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.

Philadelphia is a very easy beach city to get around on foot. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

Should I spend more time in Philadelphia or Miami?

How long in Miami or Philadelphia?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Miami and Philadelphia. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia is 2-3 days.


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

One day in Miami or Philadelphia?

Each neighborhood in Miami has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Philadelphia, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this cultural big city 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 Philadelphia?

Miami is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

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

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the bustling big city of Miami. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

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


A week in Miami or Philadelphia?

Miami is a popular place to visit. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find shopping and museums around the diverse big city of Philadelphia. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Which city is cheaper, Philadelphia or Miami?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Miami is $164, while the average daily cost in Philadelphia is $151. 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 Philadelphia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Miami $105
    Philadelphia $95
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Miami $210
    Philadelphia $190
Compare Hotels in Miami and Philadelphia

Looking for a hotel in Miami or Philadelphia? 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 Philadelphia


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 Philadelphia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Miami $30
    Philadelphia $22
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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Philadelphia

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

  • Arrival Private Transfer Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia City by SUV: $124
  • Arrival Private Transfer Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia by Limousine: $117
  • Arrival Private Transfer Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia by Minibus: $204
  • Arrival Private Transfer Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia by Minivan: $123
  • Arrival Private Transfer Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia by Sedan: $68
  • Arrival Private Transfer Philadelphia Train Station to Philadelphia by SUV: $124
  • Arrival Private Transfer Philadelphia Train Station to Philadelphia by Sedan: $68
  • Departure Private Transfer Philadelphia City to Philadelphia Airport PHL by SUV: $124
  • Departure Private Transfer Philadelphia to Philadelphia Airport PHL by Limousine: $117
  • Departure Private Transfer Philadelphia to Philadelphia Airport PHL by Minibus: $204
  • Departure Private Transfer Philadelphia to Philadelphia Airport PHL by Minivan: $123
  • Departure Private Transfer Philadelphia to Philadelphia Airport PHL by Sedan: $68

Is it cheaper to fly into Miami or Philadelphia?

Prices for flights to both Philadelphia 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
    Philadelphia $39
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

Typical Food prices in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Casual Lunch (for 3)
    $27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Philadelphia

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

  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $44
  • Decadent Gourmet Food Tour: $44
  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $52
  • Highlights of East Passyunk Food Tour: $54
  • South Philly Italian Family Dinner Tour: $75
  • Historic Food Tour: $78
  • Private Tour: Secret Food Tours Philadelphia: $90
  • Spirit of Philadelphia Dinner Cruise with Buffet: $107
  • Secret Food Tours Philadelphia w/ Private Tour Option: $193

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Miami $25
    Philadelphia $22

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 Philadelphia

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


  • Big Bus Tour (family of 3)
    $99

Tours and Activities in Philadelphia

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

  • Philadelphia's Lost Waterfront: Explore the historic city on an audio tour: $5.00
  • Art and Controversy: An audio tour of Philadelphia's most infamous art scandals: $5.00
  • Ultimate Philadelphia Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.00
  • Philadelphia Architecture: Discover Every American Style on a GPS Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Philadelphia Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Penn Museum Admission Ticket: $18
  • Philadelphia Walking Ghost Tour: $20
  • Franklin's Footsteps Walking Tour: $20
  • Skip the Line: Museum of the American Revolution Admission Ticket: $21
  • Philadelphia Historical Independence Walking Tour: $21
  • Philadelphia Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour: $23
  • The Franklin Institute Admission Ticket: $23

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Miami $18
    Philadelphia $17
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 Philadelphia

Also in Philadelphia, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $45
  • Philadelphia Prohibition Pub Crawl: $45
  • Charleston: Haunted Bar Crawl with Tarot Reading: $64
  • Sip of Philly Brewery Tour: $79

About these numbers

When comparing the travel costs between Miami and Philadelphia, 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.


When is the best time to visit Miami or Philadelphia?

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 Philadelphia in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Miami as well as Philadelphia. 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 Philadelphia for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Miami is a little warmer than Philadelphia. Typically, the summer temperatures in Miami in July are around 83°F (28°C), and Philadelphia is about 77°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Philadelphia. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Miami this time of the year. In the summer, Miami often gets more sunshine than Philadelphia. Miami gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 273 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Philadelphia. Miami receives a lot of rain in the summer. Miami usually gets more rain in July than Philadelphia. Miami gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Miami or Philadelphia in the Autumn?

Both Philadelphia and Miami are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Miami for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, many visitors come to Philadelphia in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Miami is generally much warmer than Philadelphia. Temperatures in Miami average around 78°F (26°C), and Philadelphia stays around 56°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Philadelphia. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Miami. Miami usually receives more sunshine than Philadelphia during autumn. Miami gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 202 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Miami. In October, Miami usually receives more rain than Philadelphia. Miami gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Miami 78°F (26°C) 
    Philadelphia 56°F (14°C)

Should I visit Miami or Philadelphia in the Winter?

Both Philadelphia and Miami during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Miami in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Philadelphia for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Philadelphia can be very cold during winter. Miami is much warmer than Philadelphia in the winter. The temperature in Miami is usually 67°F (20°C) in January, and Philadelphia stays around 30°F (-1°C).

It's quite sunny in Miami. In the winter, Miami often gets more sunshine than Philadelphia. Miami gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 152 hours of full sun.

Miami usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Philadelphia. Miami gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Miami or Philadelphia in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Miami and Philadelphia. Most visitors come to Miami for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Miami is much warmer than Philadelphia. Typically, the spring temperatures in Miami in April are around 75°F (24°C), and Philadelphia is about 52°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Philadelphia this time of the year. In Miami, it's very sunny this time of the year. Miami usually receives more sunshine than Philadelphia during spring. Miami gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 216 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Miami usually receives more rain than Philadelphia. Miami gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Miami 75°F (24°C) 
    Philadelphia 52°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Philadelphia and Miami

Miami Philadelphia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 67°F (20°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Feb 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm)
Mar 72°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 42°F (6°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Apr 75°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
May 79°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jul 83°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 76°F (24°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Oct 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 56°F (14°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Nov 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm)
Dec 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)


Related Articles for Philadelphia
Los AngelesChicagoHoustonPhoenixSan AntonioSan Diego

Budget Your Trip

Budget Your Trip has average travel costs for thousands of cities around the world, all provided by other travelers. You can also register to organize your spending by category and location with graphs, maps, charts, and tables.
Sign Up

More City Comparisons
Washington vs. Miami
Washington vs. Philadelphia
Clearwater vs. Miami
Clearwater vs. Philadelphia
Fort Lauderdale vs. Miami
Fort Lauderdale vs. Philadelphia
Gainesville vs. Miami
Gainesville vs. Philadelphia
Jacksonville vs. Miami
Jacksonville vs. Philadelphia
Miami vs. Orlando
Miami vs. Saint Petersburg
Miami vs. Tallahassee
Miami vs. Tampa
Miami vs. Atlanta
Miami vs. Savannah
Miami vs. New Orleans
Miami vs. Baltimore
Miami vs. Kansas City
Miami vs. Saint Louis
Miami vs. Asheville
Miami vs. Charlotte
Miami vs. Durham
Miami vs. Greensboro
Miami vs. Raleigh
Miami vs. Winston-Salem
Miami vs. Cincinnati
Miami vs. Columbus
Share This Page
Pin This Page
Miami vs. Philadelphia Travel Comparison

Some of the links on this website are sponsored or affiliate links which help to financially support this site. By clicking the link and making a purchase, we may receive a small commission, but this does not affect the price of your purchase.