A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ocho Rios vs. Chicago for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Ocho Rios or Chicago?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Ocho Rios or Chicago, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Where Should I go: Ocho Rios or Chicago?

Ocho Rios

Ocho Rios, or "Ochi" is a town located on the northeastern shore of Jamaica and is a popular hub for cruise ships. It is a great destination for tourists as it has many resorts and beautiful beaches.

Chicago

Located in the Midwest, Chicago is the third largest city in the United States. It has a population of almost 3 million and a metropolitan area that covers more than 10,000 square kilometers. It is also a hub for music, comedy and theater. It's skyline is beautiful with modern skyscrapers and Lake Michigan as a backdrop. It is easy to stay entertained in Chicago for weeks. There are world class museums, upscale or eclectic shopping opportunities, and impressive architecture.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Chicago or Ocho Rios?

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

  • Ocho Rios Prices
    Jamaica Prices
    Chicago Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Ocho Rios $87
    Chicago $323

The average daily cost (per person) in Ocho Rios is $87, while the average daily cost in Chicago is $323. 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 Ocho Rios and Chicago in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ocho Rios $51
    Chicago $198
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ocho Rios $102
    Chicago $396
Compare Hotels in Ocho Rios and Chicago

Looking for a hotel in Ocho Rios or Chicago? 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 Ocho Rios


Hotels in Chicago


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: Ocho Rios Hotel Prices and Chicago Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ocho Rios $7.43
    Chicago $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ocho Rios

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

  • ***PRIVATE Airport Transfer to HOTELS in around RUNAWAY BAY***: $130
  • Airport Transfer - From MBJ to Ocho Rios Hotels: $80
  • Airport Transfer Ocho Rios hotels: $80
  • Airport Transfer To Kingston, Ocho Rios, Montego Bay & Negril: $140
  • Airport Transfer To Riu Hotel Ocho Rios: $100
  • Arrive Like Royalty VIP Airport Transfer from Montego Bay: $9.99
  • Bahia Principe Grand Jamaica Private Airport transfer: $61
  • Blue Hole Waterfall & Bamboo Rafting Tour Ocho Rios-Transfer Only: $109
  • Bob Marley & Nine Mile Heritage Tour with Bus Transfer/Ocho Rios: $225
  • Dunn's River Falls And Shopping Tour From Ocho Rios-Transfer Only: $65
  • Jamaica Private Hotel and Airport Transfer: $5.00
  • Jewels Resorts Airport Transfers Montego Bay MBJ (Private Roundtrip): $170

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Chicago

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


  • Parking
    $19
  • Taxi Ride
    $10
  • Taxi from Airport
    $45

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Chicago

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Chicago:

  • Meet and Greet Private SUV Transfer from MDW to Downtown Chicago: $300
  • Meet and Greet Private SUV Transfer from ORD to Downtown Chicago: $300
  • Group Van Transfers from Chicago O'Hare and Midway Airports: $300
  • SUV transfer from downtown Chicago to O'hare or Midway Airport: $260
  • Curbside SUV Transfer from ORD & MDW to Downtown Chicago: $260
  • Departure Private Transfer: Chicago to O'Hare Airport ORD in Luxury Car: $250
  • Arrival Private Transfer: O'Hare Airport ORD to Chicago in Luxury Car: $250
  • Curbside SUV Transfer from ORD to Downtown Chicago: $240
  • Meet and Greet Private Sedan Transfer from MDW to Downtown Chicago: $240
  • Private SUV Transfer from Chicago Downtown to O'Hare airport: $240
  • Private SUV Transfer from Chicago Downtown to Midway airport: $240
  • Meet and Greet Private Sedan Transfer from ORD to Downtown Chicago: $240

Is it cheaper to fly into Ocho Rios or Chicago?

Prices for flights to both Chicago and Ocho Rios 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
    Ocho Rios $28
    Chicago $85

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ocho Rios

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

  • Exclusive Sunset Dinner At Reggae Hill: $99
  • Flavors of Jamaica Food Tour from Runaway Bay: $138
  • Taste of Jamaica Food Tour from Ocho Rios: $150

Typical Food Prices in Chicago

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Chicago:


  • Dinner for 1
    $24
  • Dinner for 3
    $118

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Chicago

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

  • Pizza Walking or Bus Tour: $59
  • Tamales and Tacos with Margarita Cooking Class at Su Casa: $59
  • Deep Dish Cooking Class at Pizzeria Uno in Chicago: $59
  • City Cruises Lake Michigan Lunch or Dinner Cruise: $63
  • Downtown Chicago Walking Pizza Tour: $69
  • Downtown Pizza Guided Walking Tour with Tastings: $73
  • City Cruises Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner River Cruise: $74
  • Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Distillery in Chicago: $75
  • Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Distillery in Chicago: $75
  • Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Distillery: $75
  • Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Distillery: $75
  • Immersive Potsticker Cooking Class in Chicago: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ocho Rios $15
    Chicago $47
Typical Entertainment Prices in Ocho Rios

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


  • Tour of Brimmer Hall Estate
    $11
  • Admission to Coyaba Gardens
    $5.35
  • Tour of Prospect Plantation
    $18

Tours and Activities in Ocho Rios

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

  • Original Blue Hole St. Ann Ocho Rios Jamaica Admission Fee Ticket: $25
  • VIP Dunn River Falls and Blue Hole Experience: $25
  • Bamboo River Rafting and Blue Hole Waterfall Adventure Ocho Rios: $30
  • Bob Marley Nine Mile Tour: $35
  • Ocho Rios City Bus Tour (Beach, Sightseeing & Shopping): $40
  • Blue Hole and Dunn's River Tour (Entrance Fees Not Included): $40
  • Ocho Rios Scenic, Shopping and Lunch Tour: $45
  • Luminous lagoon Private & Group tour from Runaway Bay: $45
  • Blue Hole Tour from Ocho Rios: $49
  • Ocho Rios City Tour, Sightseeing and Shopping: $50
  • Private Magical Firewater Pond and Secluded Bamboo Beach Tour: $50
  • Dunn's River Falls and Blue Hole Private Tour from Ocho Rios: $50

Typical Entertainment Prices in Chicago

Here are a few typical costs in Chicago for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Sears Tower (family of 4)
    $102
  • Aquarium for 4
    $118
  • Water Taxi (family of 4)
    $22
  • IMAX Movie for Two
    $35
  • Shakespeare Play (2)
    $116
  • Art Institute (2)
    $36
  • U-Boat Tour (2)
    $8.00

Tours and Activities in Chicago

Here are a few actual costs in Chicago for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 2 Hour Bridgeport /Stockyard Chicago Tour: $45
  • 2 Hour Bronzeville, Chicago Tour: $45
  • 2 Hour Chatham, Chicago Tour: $45
  • 2 Hour Chicago Landmarks & Lakefront E-Bike Tour: $72
  • 2 Hour Chicago Pier Fireworks & Evening Segway Tour: $78
  • 2 Hour North Lawndale, Chicago Tour: $45
  • 2 Hour Pilsen and Little Village, Chicago Tour: $45
  • 2 Hour Private Chicago Soul House Tour: $65
  • 2 Hours Chicago Architecture Tour - Skyscrapers and Photo Ops: $89
  • 2-Hour Chicago Lakefront & Museum Campus Segway Tour: $64
  • 2-Hour Chicago's Chinatown History and Culture Tour: $30
  • 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck & Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour: $84

For more ideas for your next trip, check out The Best Free Things to Do in Chicago, Chicago Bucket List: The Best Places to See, and The Best Museums in Chicago.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ocho Rios $7.54
    Chicago $25

Sample the Local Flavors in Ocho Rios

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

  • Bar Hopping, Pub Crawl, Shopping and Sightseeing Tour Ocho Rios: $90

Sample the Local Flavors in Chicago

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

  • Astounding Chicago Bar Crawl: Chi-Town Showdown: $15
  • Rising Stars Burlesque Revue Tickets in Chicago: $30
  • Burlesque Peep Show Ticket in Chicago: $32
  • Burning Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Chicago Local Brewery Expedition with Homemade Guacamole: $63
  • Chicago Local Brewery Expedition with Homemade Guacamole: $63
  • Chicago Craft Brewery Barrel Bus Tour: $100
  • Craft Brewery Tour by Barrel Bus: $100
  • Chicago to Milwaukee Day Trip with Brewery Tour & City Highlights: $125
  • Chicago to Milwaukee: 1-Day City Highlights w/Miller Brewery: $125


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

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


Which is Bigger, Ocho Rios or Chicago?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 300 times larger than the population of Ocho Rios. When comparing the sizes of Ocho Rios and Chicago, 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 Ocho Rios or Chicago?

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

Should I visit Ocho Rios or Chicago in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Ocho Rios as well as Chicago. Ocho Rios attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Chicago because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Ocho Rios is a little warmer than Chicago in the summer. The daily temperature in Ocho Rios averages around 29°C (83°F) in July, and Chicago fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chicago. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ocho Rios this time of the year. In the summer, Ocho Rios often gets less sunshine than Chicago. Ocho Rios gets 254 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 326 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Chicago. Ocho Rios usually gets less rain in July than Chicago. Ocho Rios gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Ocho Rios 29°C (83°F) 
    Chicago 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Ocho Rios or Chicago in the Autumn?

Both Chicago and Ocho Rios are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Ocho Rios throughout the year. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Chicago this time of year.

In the autumn, Ocho Rios is much warmer than Chicago. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Ocho Rios in October average around 28°C (82°F), and Chicago averages at about 56°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ocho Rios. Ocho Rios usually receives more sunshine than Chicago during autumn. Ocho Rios gets 229 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 195 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Ocho Rios. In October, Ocho Rios usually receives more rain than Chicago. Ocho Rios gets 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Ocho Rios 28°C (82°F) 
    Chicago 56°F (14°C)

Should I visit Ocho Rios or Chicago in the Winter?

Both Chicago and Ocho Rios during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Ocho Rios because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Chicago for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Chicago. In January, Ocho Rios is generally much warmer than Chicago. Daily temperatures in Ocho Rios average around 26°C (79°F), and Chicago fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

It's quite sunny in Ocho Rios. In the winter, Ocho Rios often gets more sunshine than Chicago. Ocho Rios gets 257 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 134 hours of full sun.

Ocho Rios usually gets less rain in January than Chicago. Ocho Rios gets 18 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Ocho Rios 26°C (79°F) 
    Chicago 25°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Ocho Rios or Chicago in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Ocho Rios and Chicago. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Ocho Rios year-round. Also, many visitors come to Chicago in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Ocho Rios is much warmer than Chicago in the spring. The daily temperature in Ocho Rios averages around 26°C (80°F) in April, and Chicago fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chicago this time of the year. In Ocho Rios, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ocho Rios usually receives more sunshine than Chicago during spring. Ocho Rios gets 251 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 218 hours of full sun in the spring.

Chicago receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Ocho Rios usually receives less rain than Chicago. Ocho Rios gets 27 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Ocho Rios 26°C (80°F) 
    Chicago 52°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Chicago and Ocho Rios

Ocho Rios Chicago
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 26°C (79°F) 18 mm (0.7 in) 25°F (-4°C) 1.9 inches (47 mm)
Feb 26°C (79°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 29°F (-2°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm)
Mar 26°C (80°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 41°F (5°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Apr 26°C (80°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 52°F (11°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
May 28°C (82°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 63°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Jun 28°C (83°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 73°F (23°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Jul 29°C (83°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 77°F (25°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Aug 29°C (83°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 76°F (24°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Sep 29°C (83°F) 107 mm (4.2 in) 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Oct 28°C (82°F) 167 mm (6.6 in) 56°F (14°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm)
Nov 28°C (82°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 44°F (7°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm)
Dec 27°C (80°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)