A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Myrtle Beach vs. Memphis for Nightlife, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or Memphis?

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 Myrtle Beach and Memphis can help you decide which place is right for you.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a jam-packed, high energy, and party-filled beach city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the nightlife and beaches.

Memphis

Memphis is a laid-back, soulful, and creative city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include food, museums, and nightlife.

Myrtle Beach and Memphis: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Myrtle Beach or Memphis?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Memphis. Although Myrtle Beach and Memphis are popular destinations, Memphis has more sights and attractions for tourists. Memphis is very popular for its museums, food, and music, while Myrtle Beach attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, and beaches. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than Memphis and is popular for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. Memphis is famous for its influential music scene and its southern barbecue. It is also well known for Elvis Presley's Graceland.

How is Myrtle Beach different from Memphis?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Myrtle Beach or Memphis?

Myrtle Beach
Memphis

Memphis is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Memphis. Many attractions in town are related to the city's history in music. There is the famed Graceland as well as the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The city also has several art museums that are worth checking out.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Myrtle Beach or Memphis? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Myrtle Beach
Memphis

Memphis is very good for its restaurant scene. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Memphis area. The town has grown into a foodie destination with excellent barbecue and ribs. There are many award winning barbecue joints, but you'll also find casual bars that serve nachos, pizza, and other quick bites.

Myrtle Beach offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Slices of pizza and seafood buffets are the most common options in the area. There are also themed restaurants and dinner shows that make for a fun night, even if the food isn't the highest quality.

Is Myrtle Beach or Memphis Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach
Memphis

Myrtle Beach is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

People head to Myrtle Beach just to party. This beach is famous for its nightlife. From all-night bars and clubs, to music concerts and outdoor venues, there's no shortage of things to do. Bachelor and Bachelorette parties and spring break crowds make this the place to be for a party.

Memphis offers plenty to do in the evening. Music is at the heart of the nightlife scene. Head to Beale Street in Memphis's downtown for the most active nightlife that usually stays open the latest. You'll also find a lot of bars and clubs in Midtown around Overton Square.

Is Myrtle Beach or Memphis Better for Music?

Myrtle Beach
Memphis

Memphis is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Myrtle Beach is not a live music destination.

In Memphis you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. There are plenty of live music venues in the downtown area that you can explore. Several of the most famous include B.B. King's Blues Club, Handy Park Pavilion, and Blues City Cafe. The city is known for its influential role in several music genres including the blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll. There are also many music related museums and attractions in town like Graceland, the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music.

Myrtle Beach is not a live music destination.


Is Myrtle Beach or Memphis Better for Resorts?

Myrtle Beach
Memphis

Myrtle Beach is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Memphis is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Myrtle Beach as a resort destination, but it has a few places. While there are a handful of resorts in the area, like the popular Marriott Vacation Club, most hotels are crowded and lacking in space.

Memphis is not a resort destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Memphis Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach
Memphis

Myrtle Beach is a great beach city for the beach. However, Memphis is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Myrtle Beach. Most people head to the center of town and boardwalk for the nightlife and vibrant activities more than the actual beach. The stretches north and south have nice beaches lined with hotels and resorts, and a much more family-friendly atmosphere. If you want a more relaxed beach setting without the huge crowds, check out Myrtle Beach State Park.

Memphis is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or Memphis?

Myrtle Beach
Memphis

Shopping is a popular activity in both Memphis and Myrtle Beach.

Myrtle Beach has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. The town is filled with souvenir shops, t-shirt shops, and candy vendors that make shopping entertaining.

Memphis is a good destination for shopping. The city has plenty of malls and chain stores where you can grab anything you might need.


Is Myrtle Beach or Memphis Better for Families?

Myrtle Beach
Memphis

Memphis is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Memphis. The town has some great activities for kids including a zoo, several museums, petting farms, and a botanical garden.

For families, Myrtle Beach is not always the best place to visit. While this area isn't generally considered a family destination, there are some newer vacation clubs and resorts that cater specifically to families and have become popular. The Marriott Vacation Club is one of the most popular with families in Myrtle Beach.

Is Myrtle Beach or Memphis Better for Couples?

Myrtle Beach
Memphis

Both Myrtle Beach and Memphis are nice destinations to visit as a couple.

Myrtle Beach is a good beach city for couples to visit. The beach area isn't exactly a romantic destination but for couples who enjoy going out and having fun together, there is no shortage of night time activities.

Memphis is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy good music and southern food will enjoy a weekend here. There are many music related landmarks including Graceland and the Rock 'n' Soul Museum. Live music is very popular as well.

Is Myrtle Beach or Memphis Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach
Memphis

Myrtle Beach is a great beach city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Myrtle Beach is a great beach city to visit as a student. University students flock to the area for spring break and end of year celebrations. If you're a student during those times, this is the place to be, otherwise, the area is best avoided.

Memphis is a good beach city to visit for students. The live music scene and great food options make this is a fun town for students.


Is Myrtle Beach or Memphis Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Myrtle Beach
Memphis

Memphis is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Memphis. There is a trolley and bus system that the city operates, but a car is really helpful for getting around.

Public transit is quite limited in Myrtle Beach. There are no real public transit options so you'll need a car to get around.

Is Myrtle Beach or Memphis a more walkable city?

Myrtle Beach
Memphis

Memphis is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its walkability.

Memphis is a somewhat walkable city. Most of the touristy parts of town are walkable, but if you want to explore further out you'll need a car.

Myrtle Beach is generally not a very walkable beach city. By the Boardwalk, it's easy to walk around, but traffic can still be congested and once you're out of the main strip, a car is essential.

For even more information, also check out Is Myrtle Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Memphis Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Memphis or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or Memphis?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Memphis than Myrtle Beach 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 Memphis.


  • How many days in Myrtle Beach or Memphis? Ideal Length of Stay
    Myrtle Beach 2-7 
    Memphis 2-3

One day in Myrtle Beach or Memphis?

In Myrtle Beach, you'll find nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This beach city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Memphis, many people enjoy the live music and food that this laid-back city offers. 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.


A weekend in Myrtle Beach or Memphis?

In Myrtle Beach, you'll find nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Myrtle Beach has to offer.

Memphis is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the live music. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Myrtle Beach or Memphis?

Myrtle Beach is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Myrtle Beach has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the soulful destination of Memphis. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the live music. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Myrtle Beach or Memphis?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Myrtle Beach. In Myrtle Beach, you'll find nightlife. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Memphis is a popular place to visit. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Memphis or Myrtle Beach?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Myrtle Beach is $173, while the average daily cost in Memphis is $167. 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 Myrtle Beach and Memphis in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Myrtle Beach $88
    Memphis $84
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Myrtle Beach $176
    Memphis $168
Compare Hotels in Myrtle Beach and Memphis

Looking for a hotel in Myrtle Beach or Memphis? 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 Myrtle Beach


Hotels in Memphis


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: Myrtle Beach Hotel Prices and Memphis Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Myrtle Beach $24
    Memphis $59

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Myrtle Beach

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Myrtle Beach:

  • Myrtle Beach Intl. Airport (MYR) to Myrtle Beach - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $105
  • Myrtle Beach to Myrtle Beach Intl. Airport (MYR) - Departure Private Transfer: $53
  • Private Departure Transfer to Myrtle Beach Airport (MYR): $36
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Myrtle Beach Airport MYR: $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Memphis

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

  • Memphis Airport (MEM) to Memphis City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $133
  • Memphis Airport MEM to Hot Springs Resorts Round-Trip Transfer: $285
  • Memphis Airport Transfers: $60
  • Guided Tour with Riverboat Cruise & Hotel Transfers: $339
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Private Departure Transfer to Memphis Airport MEM: $72

Is it cheaper to fly into Myrtle Beach or Memphis?

Prices for flights to both Memphis and Myrtle Beach 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
    Myrtle Beach $56
    Memphis $43
Typical Food Prices in Myrtle Beach

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


  • Dinner for Two
    $49
  • Diner Breakfast for Two
    $21

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Myrtle Beach

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

  • Murder Mystery Dinner Show in Myrtle Beach: $50
  • Polynesian Fire Luau and Dinner Show Ticket in Myrtle Beach: $67
  • North Dinner Cruise on a Paddle Wheel Boat: $70
  • Luau with Polynesian Dinner and Live Show: $71

Typical Food Prices in Memphis

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Memphis:


  • Baskin Robins (for 2)
    $6.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Memphis

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

  • Taste of Downtown Memphis Food Tour: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Myrtle Beach $46
    Memphis $45
Typical Entertainment Prices in Myrtle Beach

Here are a few typical costs in Myrtle Beach for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Mini Golf for Two
    $18
  • Beach Chairs
    $15

Tours and Activities in Myrtle Beach

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

  • 2-Hour Guided Segway Tour of Huntington Beach State Park in Myrtle Beach: $69
  • Day Trip to Charleston Tour #5: Bus Tour, Boone Plantation, Lunch and More: $120
  • Day Trips to Charleston#7 See Ft Sumter,CarriageTour,Lunch & more: $215
  • Early Myrtle Beach History and The WWII Years Trolley Tour: $40
  • Friday Night Flights Local Beer Tour in Myrtle Beach: $90
  • From Charleston Tour with Boone Hall & Cruise: $173
  • Kayak Salt Marsh Maze Tour: $45
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Myrtle Beach, SC: $15
  • Murrells Inlet: Saltwater Marsh Shelling & Eco Tour: $32
  • Murrells Inlet: Scenic Sunset Cruise: $29
  • Myrtle Beach Area Ghosts, Pirates and Historic Families Trolley Tour: $40
  • Myrtle Beach Dolphin Cruise Murrells Inlet: $50

Tours and Activities in Memphis

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

  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour of Beale Street: $6.50
  • Beale Street Experience Audio App Self Guided Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Memphis Music Hall of Fame Admission Ticket: $8.00
  • Memphis Music Hall of Fame Admission Ticket: $8.00
  • Downtown In-App Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Memphis by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure City Game on Your Phone: $10
  • Entry Ticket to the Edge Motor Museum: $10
  • Rock 'n' Soul Museum with Audio Tour: $11
  • Brews, Blues and BBQ Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum Admission Ticket in Memphis: $15
  • 1-Hour Beale Street Guided Walking Tour: $16

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Myrtle Beach $16
    Memphis $26

Sample the Local Flavors in Memphis

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

  • Drinking Spirits with Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $27
  • Haunted Pub Crawl in Memphis: $27
  • Memphis Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $69
  • Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $69


When comparing the travel costs between Myrtle Beach and Memphis, we can see that Myrtle Beach 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 Myrtle Beach Expensive? and Is Memphis Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Myrtle Beach or Memphis?

Memphis has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Myrtle Beach. When comparing the sizes of Myrtle Beach and Memphis, 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 Myrtle Beach or Memphis?

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 Myrtle Beach or Memphis in the Summer?

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

Myrtle Beach is around the same temperature as Memphis in the summer. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Memphis fluctuates around 83°F (29°C).

In Memphis, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Myrtle Beach. In the summer, Myrtle Beach often gets less sunshine than Memphis. Myrtle Beach gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Memphis receives 328 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in July than Memphis. Myrtle Beach gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Myrtle Beach 81°F (27°C) 
    Memphis 83°F (29°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Memphis in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Myrtle Beach and Memphis. Many travelers come to Myrtle Beach for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Memphis in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In the autumn, Myrtle Beach is around the same temperature as Memphis. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Myrtle Beach in October average around 65°F (18°C), and Memphis averages at about 64°F (18°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Memphis this time of the year. In Myrtle Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. Myrtle Beach usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Memphis during autumn. Myrtle Beach gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Memphis receives 240 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Myrtle Beach usually receives more rain than Memphis. Myrtle Beach gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Myrtle Beach 65°F (18°C) 
    Memphis 64°F (18°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Memphis in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Myrtle Beach as well as Memphis. Many visitors come to Myrtle Beach in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Memphis for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Memphis can be very cold during winter. In January, Myrtle Beach is generally much warmer than Memphis. Daily temperatures in Myrtle Beach average around 45°F (7°C), and Memphis fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

In the winter, Myrtle Beach often gets more sunshine than Memphis. Myrtle Beach gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Memphis receives 163 hours of full sun.

Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in January than Memphis. Myrtle Beach gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 2.4 inches (62 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Myrtle Beach 45°F (7°C) 
    Memphis 40°F (5°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Memphis in the Spring?

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

Myrtle Beach is around the same temperature as Memphis in the spring. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Memphis fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

It's quite sunny in Memphis. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. Myrtle Beach usually receives more sunshine than Memphis during spring. Myrtle Beach gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Memphis receives 254 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Memphis. In April, Myrtle Beach usually receives less rain than Memphis. Myrtle Beach gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 4.3 inches (109 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Myrtle Beach 62°F (17°C) 
    Memphis 64°F (18°C)

Typical Weather for Memphis and Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach Memphis
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 45°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 40°F (5°C) 2.4 inches (62 mm)
Feb 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Mar 55°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 64°F (18°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 80°F (27°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm) 83°F (29°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Aug 80°F (26°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 82°F (28°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Sep 75°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm) 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Oct 65°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)
Nov 57°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
Dec 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)