A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Oaxaca de Juarez vs. West Palm Beach for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Oaxaca de Juarez or West Palm Beach?

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

Should I visit Oaxaca de Juarez or West Palm Beach? 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.

Oaxaca de Juarez

Oaxaca de Juarez is a traditional, historic, and cultural city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Oaxaca de Juarez travel costs.

West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is a fun-filled, diverse, and vibrant beach area. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See West Palm Beach travel costs.

Oaxaca de Juarez and West Palm Beach: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Oaxaca de Juarez or West Palm Beach?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Oaxaca de Juarez than West Palm Beach, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Oaxaca de Juarez is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, and shopping, while West Palm Beach is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Oaxaca de Juarez is popular for its indigenous cultures, historic center, and excellent food scene. It is also home to Mercado Benito Juárez. West Palm Beach is popular for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports.

How is Oaxaca de Juarez different from West Palm Beach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or West Palm Beach?

Oaxaca de Juarez
West Palm Beach

Oaxaca de Juarez is very popular for its historical sights. However, West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Oaxaca de Juarez from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. There are many museums and historical sights in the city and nearby. The Oaxaca Cathedral is located on the city's main square, Zocalo. Also worth visiting is the Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán and the Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude. Just a few kilometers outside of the city is the historic settlement of Monte Albán as well as the Ex-Monastery of Santiago Apóstol. Also check out the Rufino Tamayo Museum and Museo Casa Juárez.

West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or West Palm Beach? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Oaxaca de Juarez
West Palm Beach

Oaxaca de Juarez is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. However, West Palm Beach is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Oaxaca de Juarez is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. This is a city for foodies. Of all the destinations in Mexico, this one always tops the list for its cuisine. The food is influenced by traditional ingredients like corn and many of the recipes have been passed on through the generations. Local dishes include mole, Oaxaca cheese, coloradito, and tlayudas.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in West Palm Beach. Oceanfront restaurants usually have a great view and offer local and fresh seafood. There are also many local restaurants concentrated around Clematis Street and CityPlace districts.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or West Palm Beach Better for Nightlife?

Oaxaca de Juarez
West Palm Beach

The vibe at night is high quality in both Oaxaca de Juarez and West Palm Beach.

Many people head to Oaxaca de Juarez for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene starts late in the evening and can continue into the early hours. Many people meet up around Oaxaca Zocalo and it's very lively in the evenings. You'll often find live music and a fun atmosphere. As the night progresses, many people make their way to Santo Domingo, which is where you'll find a number of bars and clubs.

West Palm Beach has plenty to do after the sun goes down. With rooftop bars and clubs, oceanfront venues, and plenty of nightlife options downtown, this city rivals most places when it comes to nightlife. The nightlife scene is particularly active during spring break, when university students head to town.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or West Palm Beach Better for Resorts?

Oaxaca de Juarez
West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, West Palm Beach is a great choice. All of the major names are present including the Hilton, Marriott, and Four Seasons.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a resort destination.


Is Oaxaca de Juarez or West Palm Beach Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Oaxaca de Juarez
West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is great for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting West Palm Beach. Check out Phil Foster Park in Rivera Beach. It's a man-made reef that is surprisingly clear.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or West Palm Beach Better for Beaches?

Oaxaca de Juarez
West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in West Palm Beach. From bustling beaches with a boardwalk to quieter, more relaxing beaches surrounded by parkland, there are are number of options in the area.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a beach destination.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or West Palm Beach Better for its Old Town?

Oaxaca de Juarez
West Palm Beach

Oaxaca de Juarez is very popular for its historic old town. However, West Palm Beach does not have a historic old town.

Oaxaca de Juarez has a world-famous historical area. The historic center is filled with colonial Spanish architecture. It's laid out in a grid pattern and there are many historic monuments. The surrounding region also has a history that dates back 1500 years.

West Palm Beach does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or West Palm Beach?

Oaxaca de Juarez
West Palm Beach

Oaxaca de Juarez is very popular for shopping. However, West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Oaxaca de Juarez. The region's indigenous populations are known for the artisan crafts and handmade items. Many visitors enjoy shopping at the city's markets, where you'll find handmade ceramics, hand blown glassware, and more.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or West Palm Beach Better for Families?

Oaxaca de Juarez
West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Oaxaca de Juarez is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

West Palm Beach is a very family-friendly destination. Animal lovers will appreciate the zoos and aquariums in the area. Check out McCarthy's Wildlife Sanctuary, Manatee Lagoon, the Palm Beach Zoo, and the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium.

Oaxaca de Juarez is a family-friendly place to visit. For trampolines, bouncy houses, and other fun activities, head to El Llano Park on a weekend. There's also an outdoor playground and other fun activities for kids at Museu Infantil de Oaxaca. Kid-friendly restaurants are abundant, and if the kids enjoy hiking, you can head out of town for a day trip.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or West Palm Beach Better for Couples?

Oaxaca de Juarez
West Palm Beach

With fun activities for couples, both Oaxaca de Juarez and West Palm Beach make for a high quality place to visit.

Oaxaca de Juarez is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city is famous for its cuisine, so food lovers will enjoy dining their way through town. There are also great hotels, beautiful gardens, and fascinating architecture.

West Palm Beach is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will enjoy kayaking, dining out, or simply relaxing on the beach. It's fun to spend a day exploring the botanical gardens and an evening wandering around Clematis Street.


Is Oaxaca de Juarez or West Palm Beach Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oaxaca de Juarez
West Palm Beach

Oaxaca de Juarez is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. However, West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Many backpackers frequent Oaxaca de Juarez. There are many very affordable hostels around town. The city is a mecca for backpackers in Mexico, and you'll find plenty of people to hang out with and great restaurants to explore.

West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or West Palm Beach Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Oaxaca de Juarez
West Palm Beach

Oaxaca de Juarez and West Palm Beach both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Oaxaca de Juarez offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The city has colectivos, which are shared taxis. There are also buses and tuk tuks that you can use to get around.

West Palm Beach has a few public transit options. There's a downtown trolley, a commuter trail line (connecting West Palm Beach, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale), and a bus system with about 30 lines.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or West Palm Beach a more walkable city?

Oaxaca de Juarez
West Palm Beach

Oaxaca de Juarez is a great city for its walkability. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area for its high level of walkability.

Oaxaca de Juarez is very walkable. It's a walkable city that's fun to explore on foot, particularly in the historic center.

West Palm Beach is a somewhat walkable place. West Palm Beach has a surprisingly walkable area and it's possible to explore the downtown area on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Oaxaca de Juarez Worth Visiting? and Is West Palm Beach Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in West Palm Beach or Oaxaca de Juarez?

How long in Oaxaca de Juarez or West Palm Beach?

Both Oaxaca de Juarez and West Palm Beach have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in West Palm Beach than in Oaxaca de Juarez. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Oaxaca de Juarez, and 3-7 days is enough time in West Palm Beach.

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

Couples should spend more time in Oaxaca de Juarez than West Palm Beach. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Oaxaca de Juarez that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Oaxaca de Juarez than West Palm 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 Oaxaca de Juarez.


  • How many days in Oaxaca de Juarez or West Palm Beach? Ideal Length of Stay
    Oaxaca de Juarez 2-5 
    West Palm Beach 3-7

One day in Oaxaca de Juarez or West Palm Beach?

The historic destination of Oaxaca de Juarez offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the diverse destination of West Palm Beach. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This beach area offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Oaxaca de Juarez or West Palm Beach?

The city of Oaxaca de Juarez offers food and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling around the vibrant beach area of West Palm Beach. 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 beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Oaxaca de Juarez or West Palm Beach?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

West Palm Beach is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A week in Oaxaca de Juarez or West Palm Beach?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Oaxaca de Juarez. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

West Palm Beach is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the beaches. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Mexico City, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Playa del Carmen, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, West Palm Beach or Oaxaca de Juarez?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Oaxaca de Juarez Prices
    Mexico Prices
    West Palm Beach Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Oaxaca de Juarez $56
    West Palm Beach $378

The average daily cost (per person) in Oaxaca de Juarez is $56, while the average daily cost in West Palm Beach is $378. 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 Oaxaca de Juarez and West Palm Beach in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Oaxaca de Juarez $20
    West Palm Beach $234
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Oaxaca de Juarez $40
    West Palm Beach $468
Compare Hotels in Oaxaca de Juarez and West Palm Beach

Looking for a hotel in Oaxaca de Juarez or West Palm Beach? 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 Oaxaca de Juarez


Hotels in West Palm Beach


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: Oaxaca de Juarez Hotel Prices and West Palm Beach Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Oaxaca de Juarez $13
    West Palm Beach $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oaxaca de Juarez

Also for Oaxaca de Juarez, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • From Oaxaca: Private Transfer to Huatulco: $465
  • From Oaxaca: Transfer to Puerto Escondido: $436
  • 4 Day Oaxaca Excursion with Transfer included: $300
  • Oaxaca Airport: Private Transfer Service: $130
  • Xoxocotlan Airport: Private Transfer to Oaxaca City: $88
  • Private Transfer Oaxaca Airport to Hotel or Airbnb 24/7: $82
  • Private Transfer from the Airport to your Hotel in Oaxaca: $73
  • Private transfer from Oaxaca Airport to the hotel.: $66
  • Private Luxury Transfer from the Oaxaca Airport to your Hotel: $60
  • Oaxaca Airport (OAX) to Oaxaca de Juárez - Round-Trip Transfer: $59
  • Oaxaca Xoxocotlan Airport (OAX) to Oaxaca hotels -Round-Trip Private Transfer: $59
  • Oaxaca Airport (OAX) Private Transfer to Oaxaca City: $56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in West Palm Beach

Also for West Palm Beach, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Cruise Port of Palm Beach to Palm Beach hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $215
  • Palm Beach Airport (PBI) to Palm Beach City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $210
  • Cruise Port of Palm Beach to Palm Beach Arrival Private Transfer: $153
  • Private Transfer from PBI to Palm Beach City: $148
  • Palm Beach Airport Limo Car Service Transfer: $139
  • Departure Private Transfer: Palm Beach to Palm Beach Airport PBI in Luxury SUV: $112
  • Cruise Port of Palm Beach to Palm Beach hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $107
  • Private Transfer from Palm Beach Airport (PBI) to Palm Beach Port: $71
  • Private Transfer from Palm Beach Port to Palm Beach Airport (PBI): $71
  • Private Transfer from Palm Beach to Palm Beach Cruise Port: $71
  • Private Transfer in West Palm Beach (PBI) Airport/Home/Hotel/Work: $59
  • Port of Palm Beach to Palm Beach Intl Airport (PBI) - Departure Private Transfer: $41

Is it cheaper to fly into Oaxaca de Juarez or West Palm Beach?

Prices for flights to both West Palm Beach and Oaxaca de Juarez 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
    Oaxaca de Juarez $24
    West Palm Beach $114

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Oaxaca de Juarez

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

  • Oaxaca: Walking Traditional Food Tour with Ancestral Drinks: $26
  • Night Walk of Urban Legends ghosts and Dinner in Oaxaca: $45
  • Food Tour at the 20 de Noviembre Market (All Inclusive): $52
  • Oaxaca: Guided Food Tour with Local Chef and food experts: $54
  • Legends and Ghosts Sightseeing Tour in Downtown Oaxaca with Dinner: $55
  • Taste Oaxaca Food Tour with 15+ Tastings: $59
  • FOOD TOUR IN THE ABASTOS MARKET: $61
  • Oaxaca Hidden Street Food Tour Led by Local food experts: $63
  • Oaxaca: Evening Street Food Tour with 14+ Tastings: $66
  • Oaxaca Streets Food Tour with 14+ Tastings: $69
  • Oaxaca: Vegetarian Cooking Class: $70
  • Oaxacan Vegetarian Cooking Class: $72

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in West Palm Beach

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

  • Mornings in the Market Food Tour: $80
  • Downtown West Palm Beach Food Tour: $94
  • Downtown Food Tour: $94
  • Food Tour of Historic West Palm Beach Neighborhoods: $110

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Oaxaca de Juarez $13
    West Palm Beach $19

Tours and Activities in Oaxaca de Juarez

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Oaxaca de Juarez.

  • “Las Nieves” Monte Albán, Arrazola, Cuilapam 6h Bike Tour: $128
  • 3 Hour Oaxaca Private Tour, 100% customisable - Best Rated: $55
  • 5 Hours Guided Day of The Dead Evening Walking Tour in Oaxaca: $109
  • 8-Hour Monte Albán Tour from Oaxaca: $51
  • ATV/Quad Adventure on the Mountain + Prehistoric Caves: $160
  • Adventure in the Sierra Norte: El Tule, Teotitlan and Benito Juárez: $73
  • Amazing Waterfall Adventure in the Sierra Madre Mountains: $80
  • Among Flowers and Candles: A Tour of Oaxaca's Cemeteries: $86
  • An adventure for the senses: Mezcal, fields and crafts.: $84
  • Ancestral Mezcal Tour Experience-A pre Hispanic Heritage: $70
  • Apoala Magic Waterfalls Hike and Swim Adventure: $133
  • Archaeological sites Tour and Red Pottery in Tlacolula: $170

Tours and Activities in West Palm Beach

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for West Palm Beach.

  • 3 HR Peanut Island Sandbar & Swim Tour: $84
  • Bulk Candy Store Tour: $13
  • Clear Kayak Eco Tour in Jupiter, Florida: $85
  • Clear Kayak Peanut Island Guided Tour Palm Beach Singer Island: $100
  • Craft Beer and Wine Sunset Cruise in Palm Beach: $59
  • Cruise the Palm Beach Intracoastal on a 90 minute Tour: $65
  • Florida Backcountry Overnight Camping Adventure: $199
  • Guided Clear Kayak Eco-Tour of Jupiter: $89
  • Guided Snorkel Tour Phil Foster Park (HIGH TIDE ONLY-FREE VIDEOS): $44
  • Guided Sunset Paddle boarding Adventure in Jupiter: $95
  • Hands On Cocktail Class Experience in West Palm Beach: $95
  • Harbor Happy Hour Cruise – Complimentary Craft Beer & Wine: $55

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Oaxaca de Juarez $15
    West Palm Beach $39

Sample the Local Flavors in Oaxaca de Juarez

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Oaxaca de Juarez:

  • Oaxaca Pub Crawl with Shots and Party Games: $19
  • Oaxaca Pub Crawl: $19
  • Oaxaca: Sustainable Mezcal Tour at an Award-Winning Family Distillery: $24
  • Hierve el Agua, Tule Tree, Mitla and Mezcal Distillery Tour: $55
  • Breakfast in Tlacolula; Ancestral and industrial mezcal distillery: $55
  • Hierve el Agua, Mitla, El Tule Tree, Rugs, Mezcal Distillery Tour: $58
  • Hierve el Agua and Distillery of Mezcal Tour: $60
  • Hierve el Agua and distillery of mezcal tour: $60
  • Oaxaca: Hierve el Agua & Mezcal Distillery Small-Group Tour: $70
  • Distillery Tour and Agave Fields by Mal de Amor Mezcal: $72
  • Personalized Tour to Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery: $109
  • Oaxaca: Mezcal Distillery Tour with Tastings: $134


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Oaxaca de Juarez Expensive? and Is West Palm Beach Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Oaxaca de Juarez or West Palm Beach?

Oaxaca de Juarez has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of West Palm Beach. When comparing the sizes of Oaxaca de Juarez and West Palm Beach, 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.