A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Miami vs. Tallahassee for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Miami or Tallahassee?

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

Miami

Miami is a bustling, high energy, and glamorous 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 nightlife, live music, and food.

Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a vibrant, youthful, and lively city. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Miami and Tallahassee: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Miami or Tallahassee?

You'll generally find more things to do in Miami than Tallahassee. Miami is bigger than Tallahassee, 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 Tallahassee is more popular for its museums. Miami is more touristy than Tallahassee and is popular for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. Also, Miami is famous for South Beach. Tallahassee is well known for its capital building and many universities.

How is Miami different from Tallahassee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Miami
Tallahassee

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

Many visitors head to Tallahassee specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. As the capital city of Florida, you'll find a number of museums around town. Tallahassee Museum has outdoor and indoor space to explore. You can also visit the Tallahassee Automobile Museum, the Museum of Florida History, or the Florida Historic Capital Museum.

Miami does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Miami
Tallahassee

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Miami have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Tallahassee offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find plenty of chain restaurants and cheap eateries that cater to the students. The main options are classic American restaurants with a few international restaurants mixed in as well.

Is Miami or Tallahassee Better for Nightlife?

Miami
Tallahassee

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Tallahassee. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the student population. There are many bars and pubs that fill up with students on weekends.

Is Miami or Tallahassee Better for Music?

Miami
Tallahassee

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for its music scene. However, Tallahassee 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.

Tallahassee is not a live music destination.


Is Miami or Tallahassee Better for Resorts?

Miami
Tallahassee

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Tallahassee is not a resort destination.

Miami is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Tallahassee is not a resort destination.

Is Miami or Tallahassee Better for Beaches?

Miami
Tallahassee

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for the beach. However, Tallahassee is not a beach destination.

Miami is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Tallahassee is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Miami or Tallahassee?

Miami
Tallahassee

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

Tallahassee is a great destination for shopping. There is no shortage of strip malls and shopping centers in the area. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at Railroad Square and Market Square.


Is Miami or Tallahassee Better for Families?

Miami
Tallahassee

Miami is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Miami. 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.

Tallahassee is a family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor parks and adventure activities for kids. You could also see the wild manatees at Wakulla Springs.

Is Miami or Tallahassee Better for Couples?

Miami
Tallahassee

Miami is great for couples. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for romance.

Miami is a great beach city if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Tallahassee is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Head to a restaurant or bar. You could also check out a concert or explore a garden or park in town.

Is Miami or Tallahassee Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Miami
Tallahassee

Miami and Tallahassee are notable 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 Tallahassee. The student population creates an environment that is welcoming to backpackers. There's also a hostel in town with affordable rooms.


Is Miami or Tallahassee Better for Students?

Miami
Tallahassee

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

Tallahassee is very popular with students. Both Florida State University and Florida A&M University are located here. There's a large student population with many activities and cheap restaurants that appeal to the student crowd.

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

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

Miami
Tallahassee

Miami is a beach city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination 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 Tallahassee. There is a bus system operated by StarMetro.

Is Miami or Tallahassee a more walkable city?

Miami
Tallahassee

Miami is great for its ease of walking around. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination 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.

Tallahassee is generally not very walkable. There are a couple of walkable areas around Railroad Square, Downtown, and Midtown, but for the most part the city is not pedestrian-friendly.


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

Should I spend more time in Tallahassee or Miami?

How long in Miami or Tallahassee?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Miami or Tallahassee to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Tallahassee than Miami because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Miami, and 1-2 days is enough time in Tallahassee.

Families should spend more time in Miami than Tallahassee. 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 Tallahassee. 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 Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee? Ideal Length of Stay
    Miami 7 
    Tallahassee 1-2

One day in Miami or Tallahassee?

Miami is a diverse 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 region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Tallahassee, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this youthful destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Miami or Tallahassee?

You'll find live music and food around the bustling big city of Miami. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This beach city offers something for everyone. A weekend may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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

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

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


A week in Miami or Tallahassee?

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 shopping around the lively destination of Tallahassee. 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 place is cheaper, Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee is $156. 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 Tallahassee in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Miami $132
    Tallahassee $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Miami $264
    Tallahassee $178
Compare Hotels in Miami and Tallahassee

Looking for a hotel in Miami or Tallahassee? 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 Tallahassee


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 Tallahassee Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Miami $38
    Tallahassee $33
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 Miami Hotels Transfer to Airport : $265
  • Private Airport Transfer From Miami Airport to Hotels and Home: $255
  • Private Transfer from Miami Airport to Hotel and Vice Versa: $255
  • Round Trip Motorcoach Transfer to Key West from Miami: $245
  • Transfer from Miami Hotel or Miami Port to Fort Lauderdale Airport or Hotel: $199
  • Private Miami Airport Transfer to/from Miami Port and South Beach: $189
  • Guided Tour with Transfer from Cruise Port to Airport: $184
  • Private transfer from Port Miami to Miami Airport or Miami Hotel: $170

Is it cheaper to fly into Miami or Tallahassee?

Prices for flights to both Tallahassee 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
    Tallahassee $47
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
  • Little Havana Street Food Tour with Enthusiastic Guide: $69
  • A Taste of South Beach Food Tour: $70
  • Cuban Food Tour Of Little Havana: $70
  • South Beach Food Tour: $70
  • Taste of Little Havana Food Tour in Miami with Cuban Street Food: $75
  • Little Havana Walking Food Tour: $75
  • Food Tour of Miami's South Beach: $79
  • South Beach Miami Food & Fun Art Deco Food Tour : $79
  • Wynwood Walls Art District Food Tour: $80

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Miami $31
    Tallahassee $12

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: $52
  • Miami Beach Art Deco Tour with Cocktails: $75
  • Miami's Most Authentic Walking Tour of Little Havana: $39
  • South Beach Top Highlights Tour with Lincoln Rd and Espanola Way: $39
  • South Beach Walking Tour- A Journey through Food and History: $67
  • "Cigar Factory Tour": $35
  • (Copy of) Yacht cruise Biscayne Bay, Miami Beach and Sand bar: $790
  • 1 Day Key West Tour from Miami Florida: $175
  • 1 Hour Jet Ski Experience in Miami Beach Florida: $95
  • 1 Hour Lady Buggy Art Tour Experience in Wynwood: $160
  • 1 Hour Star Island Segway Tour: $85
  • 1 Hour Wynwood Street Art Tour: $45

Tours and Activities in Tallahassee

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

  • Experience Tranquility with a Picnic at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $383
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $492

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Miami $22
    Tallahassee $53
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 Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • 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
  • Miami Beach Bar Crawl: Art Deco & Neon Lights by Local Historian: $63
  • Miami Beach Bar Crawl: Art Deco & Neon Lights with Historian: $63
  • Wynwood Party Bike Bar Crawl: $64
  • Wynwood Party Bike Bar Crawl: $64
  • Wynwood Bar Crawl: $100


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Miami and Tallahassee, we can see that Miami is more expensive. And not only is Tallahassee much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Tallahassee would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tallahassee and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Miami would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Miami than you might in Tallahassee.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Miami Expensive? and Is Tallahassee Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Miami or Tallahassee?

Miami has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Tallahassee. When comparing the sizes of Miami and Tallahassee, 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 Tallahassee?

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 Tallahassee in the Summer?

Both Tallahassee and Miami during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Miami for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Tallahassee in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Miami is generally around the same temperature as Tallahassee. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 83°F (28°C), and Tallahassee fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

In Tallahassee, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Miami. In the summer, Miami often gets more sunshine than Tallahassee. Miami gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tallahassee receives 283 hours of full sun.

Tallahassee gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Miami. Miami usually gets less rain in July than Tallahassee. Miami gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 8.9 inches (227 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Miami 83°F (28°C) 
    Tallahassee 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Miami or Tallahassee in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Miami and Tallahassee. Many visitors come to Miami in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, most visitors come to Tallahassee for the shopping scene during these months.

Miami is a little warmer than Tallahassee in the autumn. The daily temperature in Miami averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Tallahassee fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tallahassee this time of the year. In Miami, it's very sunny this time of the year. Miami usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Tallahassee during autumn. Miami gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Tallahassee receives 256 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 Tallahassee. Miami gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Tallahassee is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Miami 78°F (26°C) 
    Tallahassee 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit Miami or Tallahassee in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Miami as well as Tallahassee. Most visitors come to Miami for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Tallahassee because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Miami is much warmer than Tallahassee. Typically, the winter temperatures in Miami in January average around 67°F (20°C), and Tallahassee averages at about 51°F (11°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 Tallahassee. Miami gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tallahassee receives 185 hours of full sun.

Miami usually gets less rain in January than Tallahassee. Miami gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 3.7 inches (95 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Miami 67°F (20°C) 
    Tallahassee 51°F (11°C)

Should I visit Miami or Tallahassee in the Spring?

Both Tallahassee and Miami are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Miami because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Miami is generally a little warmer than Tallahassee. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 75°F (24°C), and Tallahassee fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

It's quite sunny in Tallahassee. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Miami. Miami usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Tallahassee during spring. Miami gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Tallahassee receives 295 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tallahassee. In April, Miami usually receives less rain than Tallahassee. Miami gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Tallahassee.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Miami 75°F (24°C) 
    Tallahassee 67°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Tallahassee and Miami

Miami Tallahassee
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 67°F (20°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Feb 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (121 mm)
Mar 72°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 60°F (16°C) 5.9 inches (151 mm)
Apr 75°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 67°F (19°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 79°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm) 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm) 80°F (27°C) 6.6 inches (168 mm)
Jul 83°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm) 82°F (28°C) 8.9 inches (227 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 82°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (175 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm) 78°F (26°C) 6.7 inches (169 mm)
Oct 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 69°F (20°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Nov 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)