A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Orlando vs. Houston for Families, Food, and Nightlife

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Should you visit Orlando or Houston?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Houston? 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

Orlando is a entertaining, active, and family-friendly city. And you can't forget about the shopping, theater, and nightlife.

Houston

Houston is a sprawling, southern, and one-of-a-kind city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Orlando and Houston: Pros and Cons

Orlando
Pros
  • Family-friendly
Houston
Pros
  • Big city activities
Cons
  • Less family-friendly


How is Orlando different from Houston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Orlando or Houston Better for Food?

Orlando
Houston

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Orlando and Houston.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Orlando. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. Restaurants can be challenging though, as reservations must be made months in advance.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Houston. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods.


Is Orlando or Houston Better for Nightlife?

Orlando
Houston

The vibe at night is comparable in Orlando and Houston.

If you're looking for night time activities Orlando has a few options to choose from. 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.

Houston has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life.

Is Orlando or Houston Better for Shopping?

Orlando
Houston

If you're looking to go shopping, Orlando and Houston both offer plenty of spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Orlando. 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.

Houston offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

Is Orlando or Houston Better for Families?

Orlando
Houston

There's generally more to do with your family in Orlando than Houston.

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.

Houston is a family-friendly place to visit. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center.

Is Orlando or Houston Better for Public Transit?

Orlando
Houston

Orlando and Houston both offer public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

Public transit is generally limited in Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail.


Is Orlando or Houston a more walkable city?

Orlando
Houston

Orlando and Houston are similar when it comes to walkability.

Orlando is not a very walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

Houston is generally not very walkable. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights.

Should I spend more time in Houston or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Houston?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Orlando and Houston. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Houston than Orlando.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Orlando is 7 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Houston is 2-3 days.


  • How many days in Orlando or Houston? Ideal Length of Stay
    Orlando 7 
    Houston 2-3

One day in Orlando or Houston?

In Orlando, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Because Houston is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Orlando or Houston?

In Orlando, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Because Houston 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. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Houston has to offer.

Five days in Orlando or Houston?

Orlando is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Houston is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Orlando or Houston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Orlando. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Orlando. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Houston. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Houston. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Which city is cheaper, Houston or Orlando?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Orlando is $255, while the average daily cost in Houston is $210. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Orlando and Houston in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Orlando $123
    Houston $113
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Orlando $246
    Houston $226
Compare Hotels in Orlando and Houston

Looking for a hotel in Orlando or Houston? 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 Orlando


Hotels in Houston


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: Orlando Hotel Prices and Houston Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Orlando $53
    Houston $58
Typical Local Transportation prices in Orlando

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Orlando are as follows:


  • Parking
    $14
  • Taxi Ride
    $45

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Orlando

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

  • Busch Gardens Shuttle Transfer: $299
  • Car Service Orlando International Airport Transfer To/From Hotel - One-Way: $128
  • Cruise Port of Orlando to Orlando Airport (MCO) - Departure Private Transfer: $80
  • Departure Private Transfer Orlando to Port Canaveral by Minibus: $186
  • Departure Private Transfer Orlando to Port Canaveral by SUV: $150
  • Disney World Resort to Cruise Port Canaveral. Private Transfer Up to 10 pax: $128
  • Disney World Resort to Cruise Port Canaveral. Private Transfer Up to 4 pax: $112
  • Disney World Resort to Orlando Airport MCO. Private Transfer Up to 10 pax: $58
  • Disney World Resort to Orlando Airport MCO. Private Transfer Up to 4 pax: $45
  • Disney World or Universal Studios transfer to Orlando Airport MCO up to 4 pax: $45
  • Disney World to Sanford International Airport (SFB) - Departure Private Transfer: $134
  • Disney/West 192 Hotels to Orlando Airport Private Transfer: $133

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Houston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Houston:

  • Private Transfer: Houston International Airport (HOU) to Houston: $622
  • Private Transfer: Houston to Houston International Airport (HOU): $622
  • Low Cost Private Transfer From George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport to Houston City - One Way: $471
  • Sprinter Van IAH Transfer to Galveston: $462
  • Galveston Private Transfer - Houston Airport to Galveston Port/Hotel: $408
  • Sprinter Van Airport Transfer in Houston: $320
  • SUV Airport Transfer to Galveston: $299
  • Sedan Airport Transfer IAH to Galveston: $256
  • Departure Private Transfer Houston City to Houston Airport HOU by Minibus: $200
  • Arrival Private Transfer Houston Airport HOU to Houston City by Sprinter Minibus: $200
  • Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) to Houston - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $187
  • Arrival Private Transfer Houston George Bush Airport IAH to Houston by Minibus: $175

Is it cheaper to fly into Orlando or Houston?

Prices for flights to both Houston 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.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Orlando $51
    Houston $28
Typical Food prices in Orlando

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Orlando:


  • Lunch for Two at Epcot
    $29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Orlando

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

  • The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show, Orlando: $34
  • Mango's Tropical Cafe Orlando Dinner and Show Ticket: $50
  • The Rock Dinner Show in Orlando: $51
  • Food Tour of Celebration: $55
  • Pirates Dinner Adventure Orlando: $57

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Houston

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

  • Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access: $65
  • Downtown Houston Food Tour: $74
  • The Heights Food Tour: $74
  • Culinary Food Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access: $77

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Orlando $163
    Houston $11
Typical Entertainment prices in Orlando

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


  • Universal Studios for Two
    $110

Tours and Activities in Orlando

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

  • A Walk Around Lake Eola Audio Tour: $6.65
  • Port Canaveral Cruise shuttles: $15
  • Port Canaveral Cruise shuttles: $15
  • Factory Adventure Tour in Chocolate Kingdom: $18
  • Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens Admission Ticket: $20
  • Orlando Walking Ghost Tour: $20
  • 1-Hour Haunted Walking Tour: $23
  • Titanic - The Artifact Exhibition Ticket: $24
  • Crayola Experience Orlando Ticket: $25
  • Lost Caverns Adventure Golf: $29
  • Skip the Line: Indoor Kart Racing Experience Ticket: $32
  • The Escape Game Epic 60-Minute Adventures: $37

Tours and Activities in Houston

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

  • 1-Day Houston City Tour ( Houston departure ) (HU1): $60
  • 1-Day Mexico Gulf+NASA Tour (Houston departure) (X1): $60
  • 2-Day Austin+San Antonio Tour (Huston departure)(HS2): $198
  • 2-Days New Orleans Tour (Houston departure)(HN2): $238
  • 3D Printer Factory Tour plus 2 ft Tall Rocket!: $31
  • 7-Day Texas Tour ( Houston departure ) ( APH7 ): $788
  • Astroville Light Rail Train Tour of Houston with Tunnel Access: $40
  • Astroville Rockets Basketball Game Day Tour with Tunnel Access: $36
  • Astroville Underground Tunnel Tour of Downtown Houston: $26
  • Astroville Weekend Downtown Houston Tour With Tunnel Access: $35
  • Audi R8 Supercar Experience at Grandsport Speedway: $435
  • Best City Tour 2 hours: $51

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Orlando $24
    Houston $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Orlando

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Orlando:

  • Florida Craft Beer & Brewery Tour: $65

Sample the Local Flavors in Houston

Also in Houston, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Skip the Line: Distillery Tour Ticket: $21
  • Haunted Houston Ghost and Pub Walking Tour: $27
  • Brewery Tour: $53
  • Astroville Downtown Bar Crawl & Tunnel Access (2 Cocktails Beverages Included): $58
  • SUV St. Arnold Brewery Tour: $487

About these numbers

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Orlando and Houston, we can see that Orlando is more expensive. And not only is Houston much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Houston would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Houston 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 Houston.


When is the best time to visit Orlando or Houston?

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 Orlando or Houston in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Houston. Most visitors come to Orlando for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Houston because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.


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In the summer, Orlando is around the same temperature as Houston. Typically, the summer temperatures in Orlando in July are around 82°F (28°C), and Houston is about 84°F (29°C).

It's quite rainy in Houston. Orlando receives a lot of rain in the summer. Orlando usually gets more rain in July than Houston. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Houston receives 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Orlando 82°F (28°C) 
    Houston 84°F (29°C)

Should I visit Orlando or Houston in the Autumn?

Both Houston and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Orlando because of the shopping scene. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Houston this time of year.


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In October, Orlando is generally around the same temperature as Houston. Temperatures in Orlando average around 75°F (24°C), and Houston stays around 71°F (22°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Houston. It's quite rainy in Orlando. In October, Orlando usually receives around the same amount of rain as Houston. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Houston receives 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Orlando 75°F (24°C) 
    Houston 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Orlando or Houston in the Winter?

Both Houston and Orlando during the winter are popular places to visit. 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 Houston for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.


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Orlando is a little warmer than Houston in the winter. The temperature in Orlando is usually 59°F (15°C) in January, and Houston stays around 52°F (11°C).

Orlando usually gets less rain in January than Houston. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Houston receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Orlando 59°F (15°C) 
    Houston 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Orlando or Houston in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Houston. Also, many visitors come to Houston in the spring for the activities around the city.


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In the spring, Orlando is around the same temperature as Houston. Typically, the spring temperatures in Orlando in April are around 72°F (22°C), and Houston is about 70°F (21°C).

In April, Orlando usually receives less rain than Houston. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Houston receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Orlando 72°F (22°C) 
    Houston 70°F (21°C)

Typical Weather for Houston and Orlando

Orlando Houston
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 59°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Feb 62°F (16°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Apr 72°F (22°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 76°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm) 81°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm) 84°F (29°C) 4.8 inches (122 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 6.7 inches (171 mm) 83°F (29°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 7.2 inches (183 mm) 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 71°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)


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Orlando vs. Houston Travel Comparison

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