A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Negril vs. Jacksonville for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Negril or Jacksonville?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Negril and Jacksonville. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Where Should I go: Negril or Jacksonville?

Negril

Negril is a town in western Jamaica known for its miles of white sand beaches and cliffs. It is certainly one of the more laid back towns on the island yet still attracts a lot of tourists. The hotels are as close to the water as you can get, and the sand gets whiter and whiter the further away from populated areas you get. The water is unbelievably clear and warm in Negril!

Jacksonville

As the sky above you darkens, the city around you glows with a vividness of a thousand colors as you hear the soft swell of waves upon the shore. Such an urban paradise is none other than Jacksonville, Florida. Located on the northeastern side of the sunshine state, Jacksonville stands where the St. John's River meets the Atlantic Ocean. Estimated to be the 12th most populous city in the United States, Jacksonville works as the cultural, commercial and financial hive of north Florida. The large city is known for its exquisite beaches, interactive museums, and golf course areas. Surf, shop, and socialize in one of Florida's most popular metropolitan areas.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Jacksonville or Negril?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Negril is $139, while the average daily cost in Jacksonville is $220. 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 Negril and Jacksonville in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Negril $106
    Jacksonville $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Negril $212
    Jacksonville $184
Compare Hotels in Negril and Jacksonville

Looking for a hotel in Negril or Jacksonville? 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 Negril


Hotels in Jacksonville


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: Negril Hotel Prices and Jacksonville Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Negril $8.71
    Jacksonville $53
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Negril

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Negril:


  • Taxi From Airport
    $14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Negril

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

  • Transfers between Montego Bay Airport and Negril Hotels: $107
  • Sunset at The Palms Airport Transfer: $53
  • Sangster International Airport Transfers to/from Rui Negril : $61
  • Sandals South Coast Private Transfer (White House): $83
  • Sandals South Coast Private Car Transfer From Montego Bay Airport: $76
  • Royalton Negril Airport Transfers Montego Bay MBJ (Private Rountrip): $280
  • Round-Trip or Direct Private Airport Transfer to Lucea Resorts: $37
  • Private Transfer to Hotels in Negril from Montego Bay Airport : $55
  • Private Transfer from Negril to Sangster Airport (MBJ): $50
  • Private Transfer from Montego Bay Airport - Negril Hotels: $58
  • Private Transfer from MBJ Airport to Grand Palladium Hotel: $36
  • Private Roundtrip Airport Transfer to Grand Palladium Resort in Jamaica: $80

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Jacksonville

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

  • Carnival Cruise Port Transfer to Jacksonville: $336
  • JAX Airport Transfer to Amelia Island: $195
  • JAX Airport Transfer to Hyatt Place/ St. Johns Town Center: $164
  • Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $123
  • Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville City - Arrival Private Transfer: $61
  • Carnival Cruise Port to Jacksonville Airport (JAX) - Departure Private Transfer: $55
  • Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville Cruise Port -Arrival Private Transfer: $55

Is it cheaper to fly into Negril or Jacksonville?

Prices for flights to both Jacksonville and Negril 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
    Negril $23
    Jacksonville $96

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Negril

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

  • The Jungle Nightclub Experience with Optional Dinner in Negril: $85
  • Zimbali Mountain Cooking Studio: $105
  • Local food tour and local fields : $164

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jacksonville

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

  • 1 Hour of Chocolate Pizza Making Class in Jacksonville: $18

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Negril $27
    Jacksonville $20
Typical Entertainment Prices in Negril

For Negril, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • 2 Hr Horseback Ride
    $44

Tours and Activities in Negril

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

  • YS Falls and Sightseeing Tour Day Adventure: $138
  • Appleton Estate Rum Tour: $275
  • Appleton Estate Rum Tour [Transportation services]: $125
  • Appleton Estate Rum Tour and Tasting from Negril: $232
  • Appleton Estate Rum and Black River Safari Private Tour : $185
  • Appleton Rum Factory and Black River Safari Tour: $279
  • Appleton Rum Factory, YS Falls, and Reggae Horseback Ride & Swim Combo Tour: $195
  • Appleton and Y.S Falls Tour from Negril Hotels: $261
  • Atv Adventure and Ricks Cafe with Private Transportation: $367
  • Atv Adventure and Ziplines with Private Transportation: $413
  • Atv, Seven Mile Beach and Rick’s Cafe Tour & Transportation: $333
  • Atv, Seven Mile Beach and Ricks Cafe Private Tour: $293

Tours and Activities in Jacksonville

For Jacksonville, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Jacksonville Ghosts and Ghouls Tour By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • 2-Flights Indoor Skydiving Experience in Jacksonville: $91
  • 20 Minutes Chocolate & Candy Factory Tour in Jacksonville: $6.00
  • 90 Minute Self-Guided Arcimoto FUV Adventure: $125
  • Amelia Island Area Kayak Rental on Lofton Creek with Adventures Up The Creek: $36
  • Amelia Island Guided Kayak Tour of Lofton Creek : $60
  • Big Talbot Island Self Guided Tour with Smart Helmets: $115
  • CraigCat Boat Tour from Fernandina Beach: $145
  • Downtown Fernandina Historical Walking Tour: $30
  • Eight Flags Road Tour: $50
  • Electric Bike Art and Architecture Guided Tour in Jacksonville : $60
  • Electric Bike Tour with Free Application for Navigation: $50

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Negril $10
    Jacksonville $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Jacksonville

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

  • Jax Brewery Tour (Drinks Included): $135


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Negril and Jacksonville, we can see that Jacksonville is more expensive. And not only is Negril much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Negril is in Caribbean Islands and Jacksonville is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Negril would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Negril 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 Jacksonville would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Jacksonville than you might in Negril.

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


Which is Bigger, Negril or Jacksonville?

Jacksonville has a larger population, and is about 270 times larger than the population of Negril. When comparing the sizes of Negril and Jacksonville, 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 Negril or Jacksonville?

Jacksonville has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Negril experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Negril or Jacksonville in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Negril and Jacksonville. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Negril year-round. Also, the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Jacksonville this time of year.

In the summer, Negril is around the same temperature as Jacksonville. Typically, the summer temperatures in Negril in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Jacksonville averages at about 82°F (28°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jacksonville this time of the year. In Negril, it's very sunny this time of the year. Negril usually receives less sunshine than Jacksonville during summer. Negril gets 257 hours of sunny skies, while Jacksonville receives 286 hours of full sun in the summer.

Jacksonville receives a lot of rain in the summer. Negril gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Negril usually receives more rain than Jacksonville. Negril gets 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Jacksonville receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Negril 27°C (81°F) 
    Jacksonville 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Negril or Jacksonville in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Negril as well as Jacksonville. Negril attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many travelers come to Jacksonville for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Negril is generally a little warmer than Jacksonville. Daily temperatures in Negril average around 27°C (81°F), and Jacksonville fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jacksonville. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Negril this time of the year. In the autumn, Negril often gets more sunshine than Jacksonville. Negril gets 233 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Jacksonville receives 214 hours of full sun.

Negril receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Negril usually gets more rain in October than Jacksonville. Negril gets 222 mm (8.7 in) of rain, while Jacksonville receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Jacksonville is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Negril 27°C (81°F) 
    Jacksonville 70°F (21°C)

Should I visit Negril or Jacksonville in the Winter?

Both Jacksonville and Negril are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Negril throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Jacksonville in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Negril is much warmer than Jacksonville in the winter. The daily temperature in Negril averages around 25°C (77°F) in January, and Jacksonville fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Negril. Negril usually receives more sunshine than Jacksonville during winter. Negril gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Jacksonville receives 191 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Negril usually receives less rain than Jacksonville. Negril gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Jacksonville receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Negril 25°C (77°F) 
    Jacksonville 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Negril or Jacksonville in the Spring?

Both Jacksonville and Negril during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Negril because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, most visitors come to Jacksonville for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Negril is a little warmer than Jacksonville. Typically, the spring temperatures in Negril in April average around 26°C (79°F), and Jacksonville averages at about 68°F (20°C).

In Jacksonville, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Negril. In the spring, Negril often gets less sunshine than Jacksonville. Negril gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Jacksonville receives 285 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Negril. Negril usually gets more rain in April than Jacksonville. Negril gets 107 mm (4.2 in) of rain, while Jacksonville receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Jacksonville is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Negril 26°C (79°F) 
    Jacksonville 68°F (20°C)

Typical Weather for Jacksonville and Negril

Negril Jacksonville
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 25°C (77°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Feb 25°C (77°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Mar 25°C (77°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Apr 26°C (79°F) 107 mm (4.2 in) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
May 27°C (81°F) 205 mm (8.1 in) 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Jun 27°C (81°F) 183 mm (7.2 in) 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 176 mm (6.9 in) 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 188 mm (7.4 in) 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm)
Sep 27°C (81°F) 181 mm (7.1 in) 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm)
Oct 27°C (81°F) 222 mm (8.7 in) 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Nov 26°C (79°F) 91 mm (3.6 in) 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Dec 26°C (79°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)