A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Nags Head vs. Phoenix for Families, Food, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Nags Head or Phoenix?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Nags Head or Phoenix? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Nags Head

It's also popular because of the food.

Phoenix

Phoenix is a sprawling, desert, and laid back city. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Nags Head and Phoenix: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Nags Head or Phoenix?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Phoenix than Nags Head, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Phoenix is more touristy than Nags Head and is known for its desert landscapes, high number of golf courses, and year round warm weather. Also, Phoenix is famous for Desert Botanical Garden. Nags Head is well known for

How is Nags Head different from Phoenix?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nags Head or Phoenix?

Nags Head
Phoenix

Phoenix is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.

Phoenix is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll find art, science, and cultural museums around town. Favorites include the Heard Museum, the Phoenix Art Museum, S'edav Va'aki Museum, and the Arizona Science Museum.

Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Nags Head or Phoenix? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nags Head
Phoenix

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Nags Head and Phoenix can be difficult as they are each notable in their own way.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Nags Head. There are a wide variety of seafood restaurants that serve locally caught fish, shrimp, and crabs. Cajon flavors are popular and you'll also find cheese grits at many places.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Phoenix. There are many mom-and-pop shops around town that serve everything from casual meals to quality steaks. There's also a huge selection of Mexican restaurants, as well as other international options such as sushi, dim sum, and Italian.

Is Nags Head or Phoenix Better for Nightlife?

Nags Head
Phoenix

Phoenix is a popular place for nightlife. However, Nags Head is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Phoenix has a few options to choose from. The best nightlife scene is found in downtown and central Phoenix. There are bars, restaurants, and venues where you can catch a show. North Phoenix also has grown into a popular evening spot with cocktail bars and pubs.

Nags Head is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Nags Head or Phoenix Better for Hiking?

Nags Head
Phoenix

Phoenix is a popular place for hiking. However, Nags Head is not a hiking destination.

Phoenix is a good destination for hiking. You don't have to head far out of town for impressive hiking opportunities. You'll find trails that range from easy to challenging, and many pass through other-worldly landscapes. You'll find popular trails in Usery Mountain Regional Park, Papago Park, White Tank Mountain Regional Park, South Mountain Park and many others.

Nags Head is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Nags Head or Phoenix?

Nags Head
Phoenix

Phoenix is a popular place for shopping. However, Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Phoenix. There are plenty of shopping centers, outlets, and malls where you'll find the standard chain stores. You'll also find farmer's markets around town.

Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nags Head or Phoenix Better for Families?

Nags Head
Phoenix

Nags Head is a great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Phoenix 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 Nags Head. It makes a wonderful base for the many family-friendly activities in the area. Jockey's Ridge is a fun place to visit with kids. There are also wonderful beaches and many kids enjoying flying kites.

Phoenix is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the Phoenix Zoo, the Arizona Science Center, the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, and the Bearizona Wildlife Park. There's also a number of parks and gardens as well as a children's museum and several other interactive museums for kids.

Is Nags Head or Phoenix Better for Couples?

Nags Head
Phoenix

With fun activities for couples, both Nags Head and Phoenix make for a notable place to visit.

Nags Head is a nice destination for couples. There are great seafood restaurants and a number of activities in the area that are fun for couples.

Phoenix makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many parks and gardens in town as well as beautiful hikes and outdoor activities that couples will enjoy. In the evening, there's theater, shows, and many romantic restaurants.


Is Nags Head or Phoenix Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nags Head
Phoenix

Nags Head is a with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Phoenix is not known for backpackers.

Nags Head is a good to visit for backpackers. This is one of the more affordable places to stay in the Outer Banks, so it appeals to more budget-oriented travelers.

Phoenix is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel or two around town for budget travelers.

Is Nags Head or Phoenix Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nags Head
Phoenix

Phoenix is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Nags Head does not have public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Phoenix. There's a bus and light rail system, but you really need your own vehicle to get around.

Nags Head does not have public transit.

Is Nags Head or Phoenix a more walkable city?

Nags Head
Phoenix

Phoenix is adequate for its walkability. However, Nags Head is not a walkable destination.

Phoenix is generally not a very walkable city. It's a sprawling city and the only real area that's walkable is the downtown.

Nags Head is not a walkable destination.


Should I spend more time in Phoenix or Nags Head?

How long in Nags Head or Phoenix?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nags Head and Phoenix. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Nags Head than in Phoenix. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Nags Head, and 1-3 days is enough time in Phoenix.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Phoenix than Nags Head 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 Phoenix.


  • How many days in Nags Head or Phoenix? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nags Head 4-7 
    Phoenix 1-3

One day in Nags Head or Phoenix?

In Nags Head, you'll find food. This offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Phoenix. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Phoenix has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Nags Head or Phoenix?

In Nags Head, you'll find food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the sprawling destination of Phoenix. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Nags Head or Phoenix?

Nags Head is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nags Head has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the laid back city of Phoenix. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Nags Head or Phoenix?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nags Head. In Nags Head, you'll find food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

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


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.


Which place is cheaper, Phoenix or Nags Head?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nags Head is $149, while the average daily cost in Phoenix is $238. 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 Nags Head and Phoenix in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nags Head $80
    Phoenix $144
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nags Head $160
    Phoenix $288
Compare Hotels in Nags Head and Phoenix

Looking for a hotel in Nags Head or Phoenix? 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 Nags Head


Hotels in Phoenix


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: Nags Head Hotel Prices and Phoenix Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nags Head $40
    Phoenix $39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Phoenix

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

  • Departure Private Transfer: Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury Van: $140
  • Phoenix International Airport (PHX) - Private transfer From/to Hotels: $118
  • Arrival Private Transfer Phoenix Airport PHX to Phoenix City : $117
  • Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX) to Phoenix - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $116
  • Departure Private Transfer Phoenix City to Phoenix Airport PHX : $110
  • One-Way Transfer Sky Harbor Airport to Phoenix: $104
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Sky Harbor Airport PHX to Phoenix in Luxury SUV: $104
  • Private Transfer from Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury SUV: $104
  • Private Transfer from Sky Harbor Airport PHX to Phoenix in Luxury SUV: $104
  • Departure Private Transfer: Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury SUV: $104
  • Private Transfer from Sky Harbor Airport PHX to Phoenix in Business Car: $90
  • Departure Private Transfer: Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Business Car: $90

Is it cheaper to fly into Nags Head or Phoenix?

Prices for flights to both Phoenix and Nags Head 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
    Nags Head $41
    Phoenix $52

Typical Food Prices in Phoenix

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


  • Nice Lunch (for 2)
    $36
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Phoenix

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

  • Awesome French Crêpes Cooking Class: $75
  • Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour: $92
  • Downtown Phoenix Food Tour: $92
  • Scottsdale Waterfront Food Tour: $95
  • Quiche Lorraine French Cooking Class in Scottsdale: $129

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nags Head $14
    Phoenix $40

Tours and Activities in Nags Head

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

  • 2-hour Outer Banks Wild Horse Tour by 4WD Truck: $57
  • Alligator River Kayak Adventure: $59
  • Cape Hatteras Kayak Adventure in Rodanthe: $59
  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $12
  • Corolla Kayak Adventure: $59
  • Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest Kayak Tour: $49
  • Manteo Historic Walking Tour: $28
  • OBX Ghost Tours: $25
  • Outer Banks Audio Driving Tour: $13
  • Outer Banks Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $25
  • Wright Brothers Carolina Dunes Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15

Tours and Activities in Phoenix

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

  • 1.5 Hour Stretch Limo Golf Cart Tour, Ultimate Old Town Exploration: $89
  • 2 Hour Scottsdale Segway Tours - Ultimate Old Town Exploration: $89
  • 2 Hour Segway Tour - Sunsets, Segways & City Lights: $89
  • 2 Hour Sonoran Desert Private Guided Mountain Bike Tour: $115
  • 2-Hour Arizona Desert Guided E-Bike Tour: $135
  • 2.5 Hour FAT Tire E-Bike Tour – Scottsdale Greenbelt Adventure: $100
  • 3 Cities & Nature Tour. Shop, Art, History, Food. Scottsdale, Phoenix, & Tempe.: $168
  • 3 Hour Guided TomCar ATV Tour in Sonoran Desert: $219
  • Adventure Yoga Experience on Camelback Mountain: $75
  • Apache Trail and Dolly Steamboat Van Tour: $160
  • Black Ops Experience: $259
  • Boat Cruise in Lake Pleasant Arizona: $89

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nags Head $12
    Phoenix $17

Sample the Local Flavors in Phoenix

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

  • Scottsdale Bar Hunt: Scorching Scottsdale Bar Crawl: $12
  • Pedal Bar Crawl of Old Town Scottsdale: $55
  • Stretch Limo Party Cart - Custom Bar Crawls, Wine Tastings, Night Clubs & More: $155
  • Ghost town of Jerome, Brew and Wine Tour: $215


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nags Head and Phoenix, we can see that Phoenix is more expensive. And not only is Nags Head much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nags Head would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nags Head 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 Phoenix would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Phoenix than you might in Nags Head.

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


Which is Bigger, Nags Head or Phoenix?

Phoenix has a larger population, and is about 410 times larger than the population of Nags Head. When comparing the sizes of Nags Head and Phoenix, 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 Nags Head or Phoenix?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Nags Head or Phoenix in the Summer?

Both Phoenix and Nags Head are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Nags Head in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Phoenix for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

It's very hot in Phoenix this time of the year. In July, Nags Head is generally cooler than Phoenix. Daily temperatures in Nags Head average around 78°F (26°C), and Phoenix fluctuates around 98°F (36°C).

It's quite sunny in Phoenix. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nags Head. Nags Head usually receives less sunshine than Phoenix during summer. Nags Head gets 274 hours of sunny skies, while Phoenix receives 380 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Nags Head. In July, Nags Head usually receives more rain than Phoenix. Nags Head gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nags Head 78°F (26°C) 
    Phoenix 98°F (36°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Phoenix in the Autumn?

Both Phoenix and Nags Head during the autumn are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Phoenix because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Nags Head is much colder than Phoenix in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nags Head averages around 62°F (16°C) in October, and Phoenix fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

In Phoenix, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Nags Head. In the autumn, Nags Head often gets less sunshine than Phoenix. Nags Head gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Phoenix receives 305 hours of full sun.

Nags Head usually gets more rain in October than Phoenix. Nags Head gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nags Head 62°F (16°C) 
    Phoenix 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Phoenix in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nags Head and Phoenix. The winter months attract visitors to Nags Head because of the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Phoenix this time of year.

The weather in Nags Head can be very cold. In the winter, Nags Head is much colder than Phoenix. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nags Head in January average around 41°F (5°C), and Phoenix averages at about 58°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Phoenix this time of the year. Nags Head usually receives less sunshine than Phoenix during winter. Nags Head gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Phoenix receives 254 hours of full sun in the winter.

Nags Head gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Nags Head usually receives more rain than Phoenix. Nags Head gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nags Head 41°F (5°C) 
    Phoenix 58°F (14°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Phoenix in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nags Head as well as Phoenix.

In April, Nags Head is generally much colder than Phoenix. Daily temperatures in Nags Head average around 59°F (15°C), and Phoenix fluctuates around 74°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Phoenix. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nags Head this time of the year. In the spring, Nags Head often gets less sunshine than Phoenix. Nags Head gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Phoenix receives 355 hours of full sun.

Nags Head usually gets more rain in April than Phoenix. Nags Head gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nags Head 59°F (15°C) 
    Phoenix 74°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Phoenix and Nags Head

Nags Head Phoenix
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 41°F (5°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Feb 42°F (6°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Mar 50°F (10°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Apr 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 74°F (23°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 83°F (28°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jun 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 92°F (34°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 78°F (26°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 98°F (36°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Aug 78°F (25°C) 5 inches (127 mm) 96°F (35°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 90°F (32°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Oct 62°F (16°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 79°F (26°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Dec 45°F (7°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 58°F (15°C) 1 inches (25 mm)