Which place is cheaper, Boston or Orlando?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
Should I visit Orlando or Boston? 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.
Orlando is a family-friendly, entertaining, and active city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.
Boston is a classic, proud, and loyal city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.
Travelers will usually find more to do in Boston than Orlando, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Boston is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Orlando is known for its resorts and shopping. Orlando is more touristy than Boston and is popular for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. Boston is popular for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also home to The Freedom Trail.
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Boston and Orlando. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Boston is renowned for its historical sights. However, Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.
Travelers visit Boston from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.
Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.
Boston is great for theatre. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its theatre productions.
While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Boston. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.
Orlando offers a number of shows and performances. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.
There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at superb restaurants in both Orlando and Boston.
The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Orlando. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.
Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Boston. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.
Boston is great for nightlife. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.
Many people head to Boston for the nightlife scene. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.
There's a variety of activities in the evening in Orlando. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.
Boston is a popular place for live music. However, Orlando is not a live music destination.
The music scene in Boston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.
Orlando is not a live music destination.
Orlando is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Boston is not a resort destination.
Vacationers flock to Orlando for its luxury resorts. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.
Boston is not a resort destination.
Boston is adequate for its beaches. However, Orlando is not a beach destination.
Boston is a good spot to see the beach. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.
Orlando is not a beach destination.
Boston is renowned for its historic old town. However, Orlando does not have a historic old town.
The old town of Boston is one of the most recognized in the world. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.
Orlando does not have a historic old town.
Orlando is notable for shopping. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.
Orlando is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.
Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.
Orlando is an unbeatable place for its Christmas activities. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences.
Orlando is a fantastic destination at Christmas. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.
Since it has plenty to do, Boston is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.
Boston is great for visiting Christmas markets. However, Orlando does not offer Christmas markets.
Boston has a lively atmosphere around its Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.
Orlando does not offer Christmas markets.
Kids will enjoy a visit to either Orlando or Boston.
As it has a large number of activities for kids, Orlando is a very family-friendly destination. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.
Boston is one of the most popular family destinations. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.
With fun activities for couples, both Orlando and Boston make for a good place to visit.
Orlando is a nice destination for couples. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.
Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.
Boston is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando is not a good destination for backpackers.
Plenty of budget travelers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.
Orlando is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not exactly a backpacker destination, but there are a surprising number of cheap motels that aren't affiliated with the major parks.
Boston is renowned for its student-friendly activities. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.
Many students frequent Boston. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.
Orlando is a good city to visit for students. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.
Boston is renowned for times when you don't have a car. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its public transit.
Boston has a great public transit system. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.
Public transit is generally limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.
Boston is renowned for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.
Boston is a very easy city to get around on foot. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.
Orlando is not a walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.
For even more information, also check out Is Orlando Worth Visiting? and Is Boston Worth Visiting?.
In either Orlando or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Boston than Orlando because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Orlando, and 3-5 days is enough time in Boston.
Families should spend more time in Boston than Orlando. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Boston, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Boston than Orlando. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Boston that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boston than Orlando 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 Boston.
Many travelers enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting the destination of Orlando. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.
Because Boston is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.
Orlando is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.
Because Boston is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Orlando. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.
Boston is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Boston has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.
Travelers enjoy the shopping and theater when visiting the active destination of Orlando. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boston. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Boston. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
The average daily cost (per person) in Orlando is $321, while the average daily cost in Boston is $254. 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 Orlando and Boston in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Orlando or Boston? 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.
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.
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Orlando are as follows:
Also for Orlando, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Boston are as follows:
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Boston:
Prices for flights to both Boston and Orlando 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.
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Orlando:
For Orlando, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Boston.
For Orlando, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Orlando.
Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Boston are as follows:
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Boston are as follows:
For more ideas for your next trip, check out Free Things to Do in Boston, Must-See Monuments and Memorials In Boston, and The Best Things To Do in Boston with Kids.
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Orlando:
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Boston:
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Orlando and Boston, we can see that Orlando is more expensive. And not only is Boston much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Boston would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Boston 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 Orlando would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Orlando than you might in Boston.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Orlando Expensive? and Is Boston Expensive?.
Boston has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Orlando. When comparing the sizes of Orlando and Boston, 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.
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.
Both Boston and Orlando during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Orlando for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Boston because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.
Orlando is a little warmer than Boston in the summer. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Boston fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).
It rains a lot this time of the year in Orlando. Orlando usually gets more rain in July than Boston. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.
The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Boston. The autumn months attract visitors to Orlando because of the shopping scene. 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 Boston this time of year.
In the autumn, Orlando is much warmer than Boston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Orlando in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Boston averages at about 54°F (12°C).
Orlando gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Orlando usually receives more rain than Boston. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.
The winter brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Boston. The Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Orlando this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Boston for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.
Be prepared for some very cold days in Boston. In January, Orlando is generally much warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 59°F (15°C), and Boston fluctuates around 29°F (-2°C).
Orlando usually gets less rain in January than Boston. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.
Both Boston and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, many visitors come to Boston in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.
Orlando is much warmer than Boston in the spring. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 72°F (22°C) in April, and Boston fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).
In April, Orlando usually receives less rain than Boston. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the spring.
Orlando | Boston | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 59°F (15°C) | 2.3 inches (58 mm) | 29°F (-2°C) | 3.4 inches (87 mm) |
Feb | 62°F (16°C) | 3 inches (75 mm) | 30°F (-1°C) | 3.7 inches (94 mm) |
Mar | 67°F (19°C) | 3.5 inches (88 mm) | 38°F (4°C) | 3.7 inches (95 mm) |
Apr | 72°F (22°C) | 2.7 inches (69 mm) | 48°F (9°C) | 3.5 inches (89 mm) |
May | 77°F (25°C) | 3 inches (75 mm) | 58°F (15°C) | 3.2 inches (82 mm) |
Jun | 81°F (27°C) | 7.1 inches (181 mm) | 68°F (20°C) | 3.1 inches (79 mm) |
Jul | 82°F (28°C) | 8.3 inches (211 mm) | 73°F (23°C) | 2.9 inches (74 mm) |
Aug | 82°F (28°C) | 6.7 inches (171 mm) | 72°F (22°C) | 3.2 inches (82 mm) |
Sep | 81°F (27°C) | 7.2 inches (183 mm) | 64°F (18°C) | 3.1 inches (79 mm) |
Oct | 75°F (24°C) | 4.1 inches (103 mm) | 54°F (12°C) | 3.3 inches (84 mm) |
Nov | 68°F (20°C) | 1.6 inches (40 mm) | 45°F (7°C) | 4.3 inches (108 mm) |
Dec | 62°F (17°C) | 1.9 inches (48 mm) | 33°F (1°C) | 3.9 inches (99 mm) |