A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Orlando vs. San Diego for Resorts, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Orlando or San Diego?

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

Should I visit Orlando or San Diego? 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. Visitors also love the theater, nightlife, and food.

San Diego

San Diego is a energetic, relaxed, and outdoorsy coastal city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Orlando and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Home to Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less popular for students
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Not as many resort options


Is there more to do in Orlando or San Diego?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Diego than Orlando. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. San Diego is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Orlando attracts visitors for its theatre productions, food, resorts, and shopping. Orlando is famous for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. San Diego is famous for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also well known for The San Diego Zoo.

How is Orlando different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Orlando or San Diego?

Orlando
San Diego

San Diego is great for its historical sights. However, Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

San Diego offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Orlando or San Diego Better for Theater?

Orlando
San Diego

Orlando is a good destination for its theatre productions. However, San Diego is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in Orlando, take in a show. 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.

San Diego is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Orlando or San Diego? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Orlando
San Diego

Orlando is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Orlando has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the San Diego area. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

Is Orlando or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

Orlando
San Diego

San Diego is great for nightlife. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to San Diego for the nightlife scene. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

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.


Is Orlando or San Diego Better for Music?

Orlando
San Diego

San Diego is great for live music. However, Orlando is not a live music destination.

The music scene in San Diego draws a good crowd. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Orlando is not a live music destination.

Is Orlando or San Diego Better for Resorts?

Orlando
San Diego

Orlando is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its resorts.

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.

San Diego has a few great resort options. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Is Orlando or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Orlando
San Diego

San Diego is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Orlando is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

San Diego has a few good snorkeling spots. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Orlando is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Orlando or San Diego Better for Beaches?

Orlando
San Diego

San Diego is renowned for its beaches. However, Orlando is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in San Diego. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

Orlando is not a beach destination.

Is Orlando or San Diego Better for Hiking?

Orlando
San Diego

San Diego is great for hiking. However, Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to San Diego for the hiking trails. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or San Diego?

Orlando
San Diego

Orlando is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its shopping areas.

Orlando is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to San Diego to go shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.


Is Orlando or San Diego Better for Christmas?

Orlando
San Diego

Orlando is renowned for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, San Diego does not offer Christmas activities.

With so many activities, Orlando is a top place to visit during Christmas. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

San Diego does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Orlando or San Diego Better for Families?

Orlando
San Diego

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Orlando or San Diego.

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.

San Diego is one of the most popular family destinations. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

Is Orlando or San Diego Better for Couples?

Orlando
San Diego

San Diego is renowned for romance. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

San Diego makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

Orlando makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.


Is Orlando or San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Orlando
San Diego

San Diego is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

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.

Is Orlando or San Diego Better for Students?

Orlando
San Diego

San Diego is renowned for its student-friendly activities. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Many students frequent San Diego. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

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.

Is Orlando or San Diego Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Orlando
San Diego

Orlando and San Diego both offer reasonable 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 San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.


Is Orlando or San Diego a more walkable city?

Orlando
San Diego

San Diego is a popular place for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

San Diego is somewhat walkable. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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 San Diego Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or San Diego?

In either Orlando or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in San Diego 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 San Diego.

Families should spend more time in San Diego than Orlando. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in San Diego, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in San Diego than Orlando. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in San Diego that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Diego 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 San Diego.


  • How many days in Orlando or San Diego? Ideal Length of Stay
    Orlando 7 
    San Diego 3-5

One day in Orlando or San Diego?

You'll find shopping and theater around the city of Orlando. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In San Diego, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This coastal 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 San Diego?

You'll find theater and nightlife around the entertaining destination of Orlando. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In San Diego, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.


Five days in Orlando or San Diego?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the family-friendly city of Orlando. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

San Diego is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that San Diego has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Orlando or San Diego?

Orlando is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Diego. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting San Diego. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, San Diego or Orlando?

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 San Diego is $202. 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 San Diego in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Orlando $154
    San Diego $115
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Orlando $308
    San Diego $230
Compare Hotels in Orlando and San Diego

Looking for a hotel in Orlando or San Diego? 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 San Diego


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 San Diego Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Orlando $66
    San Diego $24
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:

  • Universal Studios Ticket with MCO Airport Transfer: $432
  • Private Transfer from Orlando-Sanford (SFB) Airport to Melbourne: $296
  • Private Transfer from Orlando (MCO) Airport to Melbourne : $283
  • Private Transfer from Reunion to Port Canaveral: $273
  • Private Transfer from The Villages to Orlando-Sanford (SFB) Airport: $273
  • Private Transfer from Orlando-Sanford (SFB) Airport to The Villages: $273
  • Private Transfer from Leesburg to Orlando (MCO) Airport: $261
  • Private Transfer from Lakeland to Orlando (MCO) Airport: $261
  • Private Transfer from Orlando (MCO) Airport to Leesburg: $261
  • Orlando Airport (MCO) to Miami accommodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $258
  • Private Transfer from Ocoee to Port Canaveral: $257
  • Private Orlando Airport (MCO) to Hotels Transfer by Sprinter Van up to 14 PX: $255

Hired Cars and Shuttles in San Diego

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

  • Tijuana Intl Airport (TIJ) to Playas de Rosarito -Round-Trip Private Transfer: $242
  • San Diego Airport (SAN): Private Transfer to San Diego: $191
  • Private Transfer Airport Tijuana/Valle de Guadalupe (Ensenada) or back.: $180
  • RoundTrip transfer in private minivan from-to Airport(SAN) in San Diego Downtown: $173
  • Private Transfer from Tijuana to Ensenada and Valle de Guadalupe: $153
  • San Diego Airport (SAN) to San Diego hotel/address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $150
  • Arrival Private Transfer San Diego Airport SAN to San Diego by Executive SUV: $122
  • Tijuana Intl Airport (TIJ) to Playas de Rosarito - Arrival Private Transfer: $121
  • Private Airport SUV Transfer: $120
  • Tijuana to Tijuana International Airport (TIJ) - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $110
  • Arrival Private Transfer: San Diego Airport SAN to San Diego in Business Car: $104
  • Departure Private Transfer: San Diego to San Diego Airport SAN in Business Car: $104

Is it cheaper to fly into Orlando or San Diego?

Prices for flights to both San Diego 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 $65
    San Diego $45
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: $38
  • The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show in Orlando: $38
  • Señor Frogs Lunch / Dinner Package: $50
  • Downtown Murder Mystery Walking Dinner Tour: $66
  • Sleuth's Mystery Dinner Show, Orlando: $69
  • Mango's LIVE!: Dinner and Show in Orlando: $72
  • Polynesian Fire Luau with Dinner and Live Show: $75
  • Orlando Polynesian Fire Luau and Dinner Show Experience: $75
  • Pirates Dinner Adventure - Top Orlando Dinner Attraction: $78
  • Teatro Martini Dinner Show in Orlando: $79
  • Food Tour of Local Orlando's Ivanhoe Village : $89

Typical Food Prices in San Diego

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


  • Mexican Lunch for Two
    $27
  • Breakfast at Starbucks
    $20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in San Diego

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

  • Old Town Tequila and Tacos Walking Food Tour: $81
  • Gaslamp Quarter Downtown San Diego Food Tour: $89
  • Gaslamp Quarter Food Tour: $89
  • San Diego Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $95
  • San Diego, Seaport Village: Waterfront Walking Food Tour: $99
  • Seaport Village Food Tour in San Diego : $99
  • Guided Secret Food Tour: $103
  • Scenic Buffet Dinner Cruise: $108
  • Gourmet Dinner Cruise: $118
  • San Diego Harbor Dinner Cruise: $118
  • Thanksgiving Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $121
  • Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $135

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Orlando $204
    San Diego $48
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.

  • 2 HR Interactive Walking Ghost Tour in Downtown Orlando: $77
  • Everglades Airboat Tour near Orlando Florida: $89
  • 2 Hour Investigative Walking Ghost Tour of Downtown Orlando: $50
  • 2-hr. Kissimmee Lakefront Tour on a DELUXE Fully Electric Trike: $59
  • 3- or 4-Park Magic Ticket at Walt Disney World Resort: $284
  • 8-Hour Automatic Polaris Slingshot SL Adventure Rental: $300
  • 90 Minute Pontoon Cruise in Florida: $70
  • Admission Ticket to Museum of Illusions Orlando: $31
  • Beer Spirits and Ghosts Walking Tour: $170
  • Central Florida Adventure Park - Authentic Dude Ranch Experience: $25
  • Central Florida Zoo & Downtown Sanford Golf Cart Experience: $130
  • Clear Canoeing and Wildlife Sightseeing at Silver Springs: $50

Typical Entertainment Prices in San Diego

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


  • San Diego Zoo
    $15
  • Sea World Parking
    $12

Tours and Activities in San Diego

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

  • Maritime Museum of San Diego Admission Ticket: $24
  • 1 Hour GPS Guided Scooter Tour: Harbor/Gaslamp Quarter: $92
  • 1-Hour Voodoo Escape Room Experience in San Diego: $35
  • 1.5 Hour Walking Tour from La Jolla in San Diego: $59
  • 2 Hour GPS Guided Scooter Tour: Downtown & Balboa Park: $82
  • 4 Hour Self-Guided Electric Bike Tour or Rental: $87
  • A Seaside Stroll: La Jolla's Hidden Treasures Self-Guided Tour: $7.99
  • All Day San Diego Scenic Tour: $125
  • Apple Pies & Desert Skies: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $15
  • Balboa Park Electric Scooter Tour with Pictures: $59
  • Behind-the-Scenes at Petco Park Tour: $38
  • Best of San Diego eBike Tour (English or Spanish): $81

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Orlando $30
    San Diego $21

Sample the Local Flavors in Orlando

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Orlando:

  • Orlando Virtual Bar Crawl & Scavenger Hunt: $12
  • Orlando Haunts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Pontoon Pub Crawl, 5 Lakeside Pubs and Restaurants Visit by Boat: $85
  • Happy Hour Downtown Pub Crawl: $170

Sample the Local Flavors in San Diego

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

  • Gaslamp Bar Crawls and Events: $20
  • San Diego Small-Group Gaslamp History Tour Pub Crawl: $30
  • Brewery Tour with Tastings and Food Pairings: $85
  • Vino! Vino! Little Italy Wine Tasting Walking Tour: $125
  • Little Italy Wine Tasting Walking Tour: $125
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour in Valle de Guadalupe: $135
  • Baja Tour Guide wine tour: $169
  • Sidecar Wine Tasting Tour: $199
  • Brewery and Tap Room Sidecar Tour: $199
  • California Sunset Brewery Tour: $199
  • Brewery and Beer Tasting Tour in San Diego: $215
  • Valle de Guadalupe Wine Tour: $249


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

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


Which is Bigger, Orlando or San Diego?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Orlando. When comparing the sizes of Orlando and San Diego, 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 Orlando or San Diego?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Orlando or San Diego in the Summer?

Both San Diego and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Orlando for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to San Diego because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Orlando is a little warmer than San Diego. Typically, the summer temperatures in Orlando in July average around 82°F (28°C), and San Diego averages at about 71°F (22°C).

It's quite rainy in Orlando. In July, Orlando usually receives more rain than San Diego. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Orlando 82°F (28°C) 
    San Diego 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Orlando or San Diego in the Autumn?

Both San Diego and Orlando during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Orlando because of the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to San Diego this time of year.

In October, Orlando is generally a little warmer than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 75°F (24°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Orlando. Orlando usually gets more rain in October than San Diego. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Orlando 75°F (24°C) 
    San Diego 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Orlando or San Diego in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and San Diego. 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 San Diego for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Orlando is around the same temperature as San Diego in the winter. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 59°F (15°C) in January, and San Diego fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

In January, Orlando usually receives more rain than San Diego. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Orlando 59°F (15°C) 
    San Diego 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Orlando or San Diego in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Orlando as well as San Diego. Also, many visitors come to San Diego in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Orlando is a little warmer than San Diego. Typically, the spring temperatures in Orlando in April average around 72°F (22°C), and San Diego averages at about 62°F (17°C).

Orlando usually gets more rain in April than San Diego. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Orlando 72°F (22°C) 
    San Diego 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for San Diego and Orlando

Orlando San Diego
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 59°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 57°F (14°C) 1.8 inches (46 mm)
Feb 62°F (16°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Apr 72°F (22°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm) 67°F (19°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm) 71°F (22°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 6.7 inches (171 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 7.2 inches (183 mm) 71°F (22°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 68°F (20°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 57°F (14°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm)