A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Nantucket vs. Pocono Mountains for Food, Couples, Resorts, and Hiking

Should you visit Nantucket or Pocono Mountains?

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 Nantucket and Pocono Mountains can help you decide which place is right for you.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a charming, serene, and peaceful island. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a relaxing, scenic, and beautiful region. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and skiing.

Nantucket and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Nantucket or Pocono Mountains?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nantucket. Although Nantucket and Pocono Mountains are popular destinations, Nantucket has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nantucket is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Pocono Mountains attracts visitors for its skiing. Nantucket is famous for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. It is also well known for Great Point Lighthouse. Pocono Mountains is famous for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns.

How is Nantucket different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Nantucket or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Nantucket
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a great region for skiing. However, Nantucket is not a skiing destination.

Pocono Mountains offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. There are a number of ski resorts in the area that offer family-friendly skiing or more advanced options. Some of the most popular ski areas are Big Boulder, Blue Mountain, Camelback Mountain, and Jack Frost Mountain.

Nantucket is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nantucket or Pocono Mountains?

Nantucket
Pocono Mountains

Spend time exploring the nice sights and museums in either Nantucket or Pocono Mountains.

Nantucket is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.

Pocono Mountains offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Visiting a local museum is a great way to learn about the area's history and Native American population. For a glimpse back in time, you can visit the Asa Packer Mansion, Grey Towers National Historic Landmark, or Columns Museum. The Old Jail Museum is a fascinating place to visit and even offers ghost tours. The Pocono Indian Museum and Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm are both worth a visit as well.

Is the Food Better in Nantucket or Pocono Mountains? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nantucket
Pocono Mountains

Nantucket is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Nantucket have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

Pocono Mountains is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Family-friendly restaurants are common. Many serve up casual American cuisine like burgers or pasta. There are also more upscale restaurants, some with impressive views, that will elevate your culinary experience. For a local experience, find a restaurant with a seasonal menu that makes the most of the local ingredients.

Is Nantucket or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Nantucket
Pocono Mountains

Nantucket is a island with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Nantucket. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Pocono Mountains. There are some resorts with casinos and bars as well as local breweries and bars. You'll also find a theater or two in the area.


Is Nantucket or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Nantucket
Pocono Mountains

Nantucket is notable for its resorts. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its luxury resorts.

In Nantucket, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

Pocono Mountains has a few great resort options. Resorts range from family-friendly to romantic. Many have indoor pools or even water parks. Some also have spas, restaurants, and plenty of amenities.

Is Nantucket or Pocono Mountains Better for Beaches?

Nantucket
Pocono Mountains

Nantucket is notable for the beache. However, Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Nantucket attract visitors from all over. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Is Nantucket or Pocono Mountains Better for its Old Town?

Nantucket
Pocono Mountains

Nantucket is notable for its old town. However, Pocono Mountains does not have a historic old town.

Nantucket is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

Pocono Mountains does not have a historic old town.


Is Nantucket or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Nantucket
Pocono Mountains

You'll find superb hiking in both Nantucket and Pocono Mountains.

Many visitors go to Nantucket for the hiking trails. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.

Pocono Mountains is a popular spot for hiking. There are miles of hiking trails that take you through forests or to spectacular waterfalls. Trails range from easy to challenging and each offers a great way to escape into nature. Some of the more popular trails are found in Tobyhanna State Park and Promised Land State Park. The Appalachian Trail also passes through the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Nantucket or Pocono Mountains?

Nantucket
Pocono Mountains

Nantucket is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its shopping areas.

Nantucket is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

Pocono Mountains has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head to the towns for some the best local shopping. The downtown areas in each of the major towns - Jim Thorpe, Stroudsburg, Milford, and Honesdale - have local vendors, antique shops, and the occasional flea market or farmer's market.

Is Nantucket or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Nantucket
Pocono Mountains

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Nantucket or Pocono Mountains.

Nantucket is a very family-friendly destination. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.

Pocono Mountains is a very kid-friendly island. There's horseback riding in the warmer seasons and kid-friendly skiing in the winter. The kids will also enjoy the hiking, ziplining, and indoor waterparks in the area. Animal farms and petting zoos are also popular, particularly with the younger kids.


Is Nantucket or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Nantucket
Pocono Mountains

Nantucket is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for couples.

Nantucket is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

Pocono Mountains makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Romantic resorts, cozy cabins, and luxurious spas all make this a wonderful couples destination. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the hiking and adventure sports in the area, while those looking for a more relaxed experience will appreciate the dining and cultural activities.

Is Nantucket or Pocono Mountains Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nantucket
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a great region for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantucket is not known for backpackers.

Pocono Mountains is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There's no shortage of campgrounds, cabins, and hiking opportunities that will let backpackers enjoy a bit of nature.

Nantucket is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's known for its upscale atmosphere that isn't particularly accommodating for backpackers.

Is Nantucket or Pocono Mountains Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nantucket
Pocono Mountains

Nantucket is a island with good options for its public transit. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for times when you don't have a car.

Nantucket has a few public transit options. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

Public transit is mostly limited in Pocono Mountains. There are some bus services that run between a few towns, but they're not an efficient way to get around.


Is Nantucket or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

Nantucket
Pocono Mountains

Nantucket is notable for its high level of walkability. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its ease of walking around.

Nantucket is a very walkable island. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.

Pocono Mountains is generally not a very walkable island. While there are plenty of hiking trails and some walkable towns, you really need a car to explore the area.

For even more information, also check out Is Nantucket Worth Visiting? and Is Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Nantucket?

How long in Nantucket or Pocono Mountains?

Both Nantucket and Pocono Mountains have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Pocono Mountains than in Nantucket. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Nantucket, and 3-7 days is enough time in Pocono Mountains.

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

Couples should spend more time in Nantucket than Pocono Mountains. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Nantucket that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nantucket than Pocono Mountains 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 Nantucket.


  • How many days in Nantucket or Pocono Mountains? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nantucket 2-4 
    Pocono Mountains 3-7

One day in Nantucket or Pocono Mountains?

Nantucket is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find shopping and museums around the region of Pocono Mountains. 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 Nantucket or Pocono Mountains?

Nantucket is a small town with plenty to do. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the food. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find museums and skiing around the relaxing destination of Pocono Mountains. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Nantucket or Pocono Mountains?

Nantucket is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find skiing and food around the relaxing region of Pocono Mountains. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this region makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this region has to offer.

A week in Nantucket or Pocono Mountains?

Nantucket is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the food. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Pocono Mountains is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Pocono Mountains, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


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


Which place is cheaper, Pocono Mountains or Nantucket?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nantucket is $350, while the average daily cost in Pocono Mountains is $174. 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 Nantucket and Pocono Mountains in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nantucket $237
    Pocono Mountains $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nantucket $474
    Pocono Mountains $178
Compare Hotels in Nantucket and Pocono Mountains

Looking for a hotel in Nantucket or Pocono Mountains? 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 Nantucket


Hotels in Pocono Mountains


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: Nantucket Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nantucket $47
    Pocono Mountains $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Nantucket or Pocono Mountains?

Prices for flights to both Pocono Mountains and Nantucket 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
    Nantucket $81
    Pocono Mountains $53

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nantucket $34
    Pocono Mountains $30

Tours and Activities in Pocono Mountains

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

  • Delaware Water Gap Air Tour: $141
  • Private Mount Pocono Observation Air Tour: $64

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nantucket $35
    Pocono Mountains $13


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

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


Which is Bigger, Nantucket or Pocono Mountains?

Nantucket has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Nantucket and Pocono Mountains, 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 Nantucket or Pocono Mountains?

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 Nantucket or Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

Both Pocono Mountains and Nantucket during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Nantucket for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Nantucket is cooler than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nantucket in July average around 68°F (20°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 75°F (24°C).

Pocono Mountains gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Nantucket usually gets less rain in July than Pocono Mountains. Nantucket gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nantucket 68°F (20°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 75°F (24°C)

Should I visit Nantucket or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nantucket and Pocono Mountains. Many visitors come to Nantucket in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Nantucket is generally around the same temperature as Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Nantucket average around 53°F (12°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Nantucket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Nantucket usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. Nantucket gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nantucket 53°F (12°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Nantucket or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nantucket as well as Pocono Mountains. Most visitors come to Nantucket for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Pocono Mountains can be very cold. Nantucket can be very cold during winter. Nantucket is much warmer than Pocono Mountains in the winter. The daily temperature in Nantucket averages around 31°F (-0°C) in January, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

Nantucket receives a lot of rain in the winter. Nantucket usually gets more rain in January than Pocono Mountains. Nantucket gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nantucket 31°F (-0°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Nantucket or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

Both Pocono Mountains and Nantucket are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Nantucket because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year.

In the spring, Nantucket is cooler than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nantucket in April average around 45°F (7°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 51°F (11°C).

It's quite rainy in Nantucket. In April, Nantucket usually receives around the same amount of rain as Pocono Mountains. Nantucket gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nantucket 45°F (7°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Nantucket

Nantucket Pocono Mountains
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Mar 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Jul 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Aug 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Sep 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)