A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Perth vs. Chicago for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Beaches

Should you visit Perth or Chicago?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Perth and Chicago can help you decide which place is right for you.

Perth

Perth is a friendly, relaxed, and easy-going city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Chicago

Chicago is a diverse, vibrant, and multicultural city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, live music, and food.

Perth and Chicago: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Perth or Chicago?

You'll generally find more things to do in Chicago than Perth. Chicago is bigger than Perth, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Chicago is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Perth is more popular for its beaches. Chicago is more touristy than Perth and is popular for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile. Also, Chicago is famous for The Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower). Perth is well known for its beautiful city beaches, sunny weather, and isolated location.

How is Perth different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Perth or Chicago?

Chicago is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Chicago from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. There are countless landmarks, museums, and iconic sights in the area. Some of the most famous are the Art Institute of Chicago, Adler Planetarium, and the Museum of Science and Industry. Notable landmarks include the famous Willis Tower - formerly the Sears Tower, Buckingham Fountain, and the iconic Cloud Gate (the bean).

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Perth can be an interesting and educational experience. There are some interesting sights and museums around town like the Perth Mint, the Art Gallery of Western Australia, the Bell Tower, and Scitech. There's also the Perth Zoo and the Aviation Heritage Museum.

Is Perth or Chicago Better for Theater?

Chicago is very popular for theatre. However, Perth is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in Chicago is world-class. Theater is big here with many of the major Broadway productions visiting the city. There is also an endless list of smaller, local theaters to choose from.

Perth is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Perth or Chicago? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chicago is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Chicago has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. With everything from award-winning luxury restaurants to local dives, this city has something for everyone. It also has very distinct local flavors and dishes that create an identity and bring great pride to the locals. While you're in town you have to try the famous deep dish pizza, Chicago style hot dogs, and Italian beef.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Perth. There's a good selection of restaurants with many great international options as well as fine dining and casual. Family-friendly restaurants are also very common.

Is Perth or Chicago Better for Nightlife?

Chicago is very popular for nightlife. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Chicago is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. It has a wide range of activities at night, with everything from theater and comedy clubs to dance venues, sporting events, and local bars. It's easy to fill many evenings with whatever activity appeals to you. Popular bars and clubs include the Smart Bar, Beauty Bar, and Le Nocturne.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Perth. The city has many nightclubs and music venues. There are also low key pubs and trendy wine bars. Northbridge is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene, and this is where you'll find the highest concentration of bars, restaurants, clubs, and cafes.

Is Perth or Chicago Better for Music?

Chicago is very popular for live music. However, Perth is not a live music destination.

Chicago is known as a music capital around the world. The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Perth is not a live music destination.

Is Perth or Chicago Better for Beaches?

Perth is renowned for the beach. Also, Chicago is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

With world-famous beaches, Perth is a very popular vacation destination. There is an 80 kilometer coastline that has beautiful turquoise water and white sandy beaches. Within the city there are 19 beaches that offer snorkeling, swimming, and surfing. Many beaches have any amenity that you might need but it's also very easy to escape the city crowds.

Chicago has a beach worth visiting. While you don't immediately think of beaches when you think of Chicago, there are some nice beaches by the lake. If the weather is nice, it's a great area to spend some time.

Is the Shopping Better in Perth or Chicago?

Chicago is very popular for shopping. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Chicago. There are countless neighborhoods that are filled with boutiques, local vendors, and art galleries. The city has some of the country's best shopping opportunities, and the most notable area is the famous Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile.

Perth offers some nice shopping areas. There are weekend street markets where you can pick up local crafts. There are also large shopping malls and trendy high end boutiques with international and local brands.

Is Perth or Chicago Better for Christmas?

Chicago is great for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Perth does not offer Christmas activities.

Chicago is a very popular destination during Christmas. There's a number of seasonal celebrations, ice skating, and excellent shopping.

Perth does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Perth or Chicago Better for Christmas Markets?

Chicago is very good for visiting Christmas markets. However, Perth does not offer Christmas markets.

Chicago offers some nice Christmas markets. Shopping is a highlight of a trip to the city, and the Christkindlmarkt is not to be missed.

Perth does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Perth or Chicago Better for Families?

Chicago is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Chicago is one of the most popular family destinations. The city has a large number of activities for kids, including zoos, Shedd Aquarium, impressive children's museums, and large and elaborate playgrounds in Millennium Park. It's easy to keep kids entertained in this very kid-focused city.

Perth is a very kid-friendly city. It's a family-friendly city with ropes courses, fruit picking, and many different playgrounds and kid-friendly activities. There's also the Perth Zoo and several kid-friendly museums like the Aviation Heritage Museum and Scitech. Kids will also enjoy spending a day or two at the beach.

Is Perth or Chicago Better for Couples?

Both Perth and Chicago are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

Perth is a nice destination for couples. The city has many great restaurants and bars. There's also wine tasting and river cruises on the Swan River.

Chicago makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy exploring the city's vibrant theater scene and diverse neighborhoods. There are many varied restaurants and entertainment options that make for a great date night. There are also sporting events, parks, and gardens where couples can explore.

Is Perth or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Perth and Chicago are notable places to visit.

Perth is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While most backpackers don't make it all the way to this isolated city, those that do will be rewarded with beautiful beaches, fun festivals, and an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience.

It's common for backpackers to visit Chicago. The city doesn't have a huge backpacker vibe, but it does have a number of hostels that help keep costs in check.

Is Perth or Chicago Better for Students?

Chicago is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Chicago. The city has a large number of universities that bring in students from around the country and around the globe. It's a huge international city with economic ties and many opportunities connected to the universities.

Perth is a good city to visit for students. Students love the low cost of living and the year round climate that is sunny and pleasant.

Is Perth or Chicago Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chicago is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Chicago has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

Perth has a few public transit options. There are buses, trains, and ferries that help you get around the city.

Is Perth or Chicago a more walkable city?

Chicago is great for its walkability. Also, Perth is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Chicago is very walkable. The city has many restaurants, sights, and hotels that are easily accessible on foot.

Perth is a somewhat walkable place. There are some pedestrian-friendly areas with streets that are fun to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Perth Worth Visiting? and Is Chicago Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chicago or Perth?

How long in Perth or Chicago?

In either Perth or Chicago, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Chicago than Perth because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Perth, and 3-5 days is enough time in Chicago.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chicago than Perth 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 Chicago.

One day in Perth or Chicago?

In Perth, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Each neighborhood in Chicago has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Perth or Chicago?

In Perth, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Perth has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chicago. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Perth or Chicago?

Perth is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Chicago is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Chicago has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Perth or Chicago?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Perth. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Perth. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the cosmopolitan big city of Chicago. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Australia, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Perth or Chicago?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 96% larger than the population of Perth. When comparing the sizes of Perth 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 Perth or Chicago?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Perth is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Chicago has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Perth or Chicago in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Perth as well as Chicago. The summer months attract visitors to Perth because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Chicago this time of year.

In January, Perth is generally around the same temperature as Chicagoin July. Daily temperatures in Perth average around 25°C (76°F), 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 Perth this time of the year. In the summer, Perth often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Chicagoin July. Perth gets 331 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 326 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Chicago. Perth usually gets less rain in January than Chicagoin July. Perth gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Perth or Chicago in the Autumn?

Both Chicago and Perth are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene are the main draw to Perth this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Chicago for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Perth is a little warmer than Chicago in the autumn. The daily temperature in Perth averages around 19°C (67°F) in April, and Chicago fluctuates around 56°F (14°C)in October.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Perth. Perth usually receives more sunshine than Chicago during autumn. Perth gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 195 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In April, Perth usually receives less rain than Chicagoin October. Perth gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Perth or Chicago in the Winter?

Both Chicago and Perth during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Perth for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Chicago in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Chicago can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Perth is much warmer than Chicago. Typically, the winter temperatures in Perth in July average around 13°C (55°F), and Chicago averages at about 25°F (-4°C)in January.

In the winter, Perth often gets more sunshine than Chicagoin January. Perth gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 134 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Perth. Perth usually gets more rain in July than Chicagoin January. Perth gets 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Perth or Chicago in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Perth and Chicago. Many visitors come to Perth in the spring for the beaches. Furthermore, most visitors come to Chicago for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In October, Perth is generally a little warmer than Chicagoin April. Daily temperatures in Perth average around 17°C (62°F), and Chicago fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chicago this time of the year. In Perth, it's very sunny this time of the year. Perth usually receives more sunshine than Chicago during spring. Perth gets 273 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 October, Perth usually receives less rain than Chicagoin April. Perth gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Chicago and Perth