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

Should you visit Nags Head or Seattle?

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

Should I visit Nags Head or Seattle? 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

Other popular activities here include food.

Seattle

Seattle is a cultural, outdoorsy, and laid-back city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Nags Head and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Space Needle


Is there more to do in Nags Head or Seattle?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Seattle than Nags Head, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Seattle is more touristy than Nags Head and is popular for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. Also, Seattle is famous for The Space Needle. Nags Head is well known for

How is Nags Head different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Nags Head
Seattle

Seattle is great for its historical sights. However, Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.

Seattle offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Nags Head or Seattle Better for Theater?

Nags Head
Seattle

Seattle is a popular place for theatre. However, Nags Head is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in Seattle, take in a show. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Nags Head is not a theatre destination.

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

Nags Head
Seattle

Seattle is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Seattle. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in 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.

Is Nags Head or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Nags Head
Seattle

Seattle is great for nightlife. However, Nags Head is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Many people head to Seattle for the nightlife scene. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

Nags Head is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Nags Head or Seattle Better for Music?

Nags Head
Seattle

Seattle is great for live music. However, Nags Head is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Seattle draws a good crowd. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Nags Head is not a live music destination.

Is Nags Head or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Nags Head
Seattle

Seattle is a popular place for its beaches. However, Nags Head is not a beach destination.

Seattle is a good option for a beach vacation. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Nags Head is not a beach destination.

Is Nags Head or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Nags Head
Seattle

Seattle is great for hiking. However, Nags Head is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Seattle for the hiking trails. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Nags Head is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Nags Head or Seattle?

Nags Head
Seattle

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nags Head or Seattle Better for Families?

Nags Head
Seattle

Nags Head is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Nags Head is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Seattle is a family-friendly . This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Nags Head or Seattle Better for Couples?

Nags Head
Seattle

With fun activities for couples, both Nags Head and Seattle 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.

Seattle makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.


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

Nags Head
Seattle

For backpackers, both Nags Head and Seattle are notable places to visit.

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

Seattle is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Is Nags Head or Seattle Better for Students?

Nags Head
Seattle

Seattle is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Nags Head is not popular with students.

Seattle is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Nags Head is not popular with students.

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

Nags Head
Seattle

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

While Seattle offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Nags Head does not have public transit.


Is Nags Head or Seattle a more walkable city?

Nags Head
Seattle

Seattle is great for its walkability. However, Nags Head is not a walkable destination.

Seattle is very walkable. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

Nags Head is not a walkable destination.

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Nags Head?

How long in Nags Head or Seattle?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nags Head and Seattle. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Nags Head than in Seattle. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Nags Head, and 2-3 days is enough time in Seattle.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Seattle 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 Seattle.


  • How many days in Nags Head or Seattle? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nags Head 4-7 
    Seattle 2-3

One day in Nags Head or Seattle?

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.

People visit Seattle because there is so much to do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Nags Head or Seattle?

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.

People visit Seattle because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Seattle?

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 live music when visiting the cultural city of Seattle. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Nags Head or Seattle?

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.

Seattle is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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, Seattle 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 Seattle is $205. 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 Seattle in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nags Head $80
    Seattle $120
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nags Head $160
    Seattle $240
Compare Hotels in Nags Head and Seattle

Looking for a hotel in Nags Head or Seattle? 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 Seattle


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 Seattle Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nags Head $40
    Seattle $30

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Seattle

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Seattle:


  • Lightrail from Airport (for 2)
    $5.50
  • Roundtrip Ferry to Bainbridge Island (for 2)
    $15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Seattle

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Seattle:

  • Smith Cove Terminal: Private Transfer to Seattle hotels: $307
  • Seattle Tacoma Airport(SEA): Transfer to Smith Cove Terminal: $307
  • Seattle, WA: Seaplane transfer to Vancouver, BC: $281
  • Seattle Tacoma Airport (SEA): Private Transfer to Seattle: $264
  • Private Transfer Seattle Airport SEA to Seattle center or port by Minibus or SUV: $195
  • From Seattle Hotels - Hotel Transfer to Airport: $175
  • From Seattle Airport - Transfer to Hotel & Homes: $175
  • Roundtrip Transfer Private Vehicle Seattle Airport (SEA) -Seattle Downtown: $171
  • Seattle Tacoma Airport to Summit at Snoqualmie Arrival Transfer: $153
  • Seattle Field (BFI) to Summit Ski Resort Arrival Private Transfer: $153
  • Seattle Tacoma Airport (SEA) to Smith Cove Terminal - RoundTrip Private Transfer: $148
  • Departure Private Transfer: Seattle to Seattle Airport SEA in Luxury Car: $145

Is it cheaper to fly into Nags Head or Seattle?

Prices for flights to both Seattle 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
    Seattle $51

Typical Food Prices in Seattle

Some typical examples of dining costs in Seattle are as follows:


  • Expresso & cookie at Pier 70
    $7.00
  • Cashews at Pike Place Market
    $6.00
  • 6 Mini Donuts at Pike Place Market
    $3.25
  • Chinese Lunch in International District (for 2)
    $21
  • Breakfast at Lowel's in Pike Place Market (for 2)
    $32
  • Breakfast at French Cafe (for 2)
    $37

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Seattle

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

  • Seattle : Fun Cooking Classes With Chef Seamus: $60
  • Secret Food Tours Seattle: $65
  • Chef Guided Food Tour of Pike Place Market- 2 Hours: $67
  • Pike Place Market Chef-Guided Food Tour: $67
  • Eat Around the World Seattle Food Tour: $69
  • International District Food Tour: $69
  • Plant Based Food Tour in Pike Place Market: $79
  • Secret Food Tours: Seattle Pike Place Market: $84
  • Pike Place Market Food Tour: $99
  • Small Group Cooking Class: $138
  • Private Seattle Cooking Class with a Chef in Her Home: $198
  • All - Inclusive Bainbridge Island Winery & Dinner Tour: $299

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nags Head $14
    Seattle $16

Tours and Activities in Nags Head

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

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

Tours and Activities in Seattle

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Seattle are as follows:

  • 3 Hour Seattle City Tour: $90
  • 1-Hour Family Treasure Cruise in Seattle: $42
  • 2 Hour Seattle City Snapshots Tour: $85
  • 3 Hours Electric Bike Tour of Seattle's Waterways, Nature and Neighborhoods: $87
  • 3 Hours San Juan Island Seaplane Tour from Seattle : $295
  • 5-hour Seattle and Suburbs Attractions Tour: $185
  • Beneath The Streets Underground History Tour: $29
  • Best of Seattle Small Group Walking Tour W/ Space Needle: $244
  • Boeing Factory Tour with Guided Transport from Seattle: $125
  • Capitol Hill Neighborhood Tour: Indie shops, nightlife, history and attitude!: $149
  • Chef Guided Happy Hour Tour - Cocktails, Bubbles and Bites: $140
  • CitySightseeing Seattle Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Bookable Extras: $43

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nags Head $12
    Seattle $16

Sample the Local Flavors in Seattle

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

  • Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $38
  • Where the Hops Grow! Yakima Brewery Tour : $40
  • Woodinville Wine Country: Downtown Wine Tasting Pass: $65
  • Woodinville Wine Country: Artisan Hill Wine Tasting Pass: $65
  • Brewery and Restaurant Tour of Historic Seattle Neighborhood: $109
  • Half Day Private Woodinville Wine Tour from Seattle : $119
  • From Snoqualmie Falls & Woodinville Wine Tasting: $262
  • Snoqualmie Falls + Wine Tasting: All-Inclusive Small-Group Tour: $263


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nags Head and Seattle, we can see that Seattle 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 Seattle would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Seattle 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 Seattle Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Nags Head or Seattle?

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 180 times larger than the population of Nags Head. When comparing the sizes of Nags Head and Seattle, 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 Seattle?

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 Nags Head or Seattle in the Summer?

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

In July, Nags Head is generally a little warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Nags Head average around 78°F (26°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

In Seattle, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Nags Head. In the summer, Nags Head often gets less sunshine than Seattle. Nags Head gets 274 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nags Head. Nags Head usually gets more rain in July than Seattle. Nags Head gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nags Head 78°F (26°C) 
    Seattle 67°F (19°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Seattle in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nags Head and Seattle. Also, most visitors come to Seattle for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Nags Head is a little warmer than Seattle in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nags Head averages around 62°F (16°C) in October, and Seattle fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In Nags Head, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nags Head usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during autumn. Nags Head gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Nags Head usually receives around the same amount of rain as Seattle. Nags Head gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nags Head 62°F (16°C) 
    Seattle 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Seattle in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nags Head as well as Seattle. Most visitors come to Nags Head for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Seattle because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Nags Head can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Nags Head is cooler than Seattle. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nags Head in January average around 41°F (5°C), and Seattle averages at about 42°F (5°C).

In the winter, Nags Head often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Nags Head gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Seattle. Nags Head receives a lot of rain in the winter. Nags Head usually gets less rain in January than Seattle. Nags Head gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nags Head 41°F (5°C) 
    Seattle 42°F (5°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Seattle in the Spring?

Both Seattle and Nags Head are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

In April, Nags Head is generally a little warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Nags Head average around 59°F (15°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Seattle. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nags Head. Nags Head usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during spring. Nags Head gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nags Head usually receives more rain than Seattle. Nags Head gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nags Head 59°F (15°C) 
    Seattle 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Seattle and Nags Head

Nags Head Seattle
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 41°F (5°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 42°F (5°C) 5.4 inches (136 mm)
Feb 42°F (6°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 45°F (7°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Mar 50°F (10°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Apr 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 57°F (14°C) 1.9 inches (47 mm)
Jun 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm)
Jul 78°F (26°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 67°F (19°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Aug 78°F (25°C) 5 inches (127 mm) 67°F (19°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Oct 62°F (16°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 47°F (8°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm)
Dec 45°F (7°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 42°F (6°C) 6 inches (152 mm)