Which place is cheaper, Austin or Philadelphia?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Austin, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.
Philadelphia is a diverse, historic, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.
Austin is a unconventional, lively, and entrepreneurial city. It's a big city with many activities to entertain visitors, too. This is beautiful destination to visit. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and live music.
Tourists will generally find more to do in Philadelphia than Austin. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Philadelphia is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Austin attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, music, and hiking. Philadelphia is famous for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also well known for The Liberty Bell. Austin is famous for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population.
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Austin and Philadelphia. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Philadelphia is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.
Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Philadelphia that are not to be missed. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.
You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Austin. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building
Philadelphia is a great destination for theatre. However, Austin is not a theatre destination.
Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Philadelphia. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.
Austin is not a theatre destination.
Austin is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.
Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Austin is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.
Dining out in Philadelphia is an experience not to be missed. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.
Austin is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.
Austin is a world class party destination. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.
The people in Philadelphia know how to have a good time. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.
Austin is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its music scene.
With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Austin. Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.
Philadelphia has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.
Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Austin does not have a historic old town.
Many visitors go to Philadelphia to see the historical old town. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.
Austin does not have a historic old town.
Austin is a decent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.
Many visitors include a hike while visiting Austin. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.
Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.
Philadelphia is a great destination for shopping. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.
Philadelphia is an extremely popular place for shoppers. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.
Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Austin. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.
Philadelphia is a great destination for its Christmas activities. However, Austin does not offer Christmas activities.
Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Philadelphia. There are a number of holiday events, light shows, and festivals during the holiday season.
Austin does not offer Christmas activities.
Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for its Christmas markets. However, Austin does not offer Christmas markets.
Philadelphia has Christmas markets worth visiting. The city has its own German style Christmas market at Love Park and City Hall. It hosts over 80 vendors.
Austin does not offer Christmas markets.
Philadelphia is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.
Philadelphia is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.
Austin offers lots of family activities. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.
Philadelphia and Austin are both nice to visit as a couple.
Philadelphia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.
Austin is a good city for couples to visit. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.
Austin is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.
Many backpackers visit Austin. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.
Philadelphia is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.
Both Philadelphia and Austin are superb destinations for students.
Philadelphia is a great city to visit as a student. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.
Students come from all over to stay in Austin. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.
Philadelphia is a great destination for its public transit. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.
Public transit in Philadelphia is fairly effecient and thorough. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.
Public transit is mostly limited in Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.
Philadelphia is a world-class destination for its walkability. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.
Getting around Philadelphia on foot is easy. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.
Austin is generally not a very walkable city. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.
For even more information, also check out Is Philadelphia Worth Visiting? and Is Austin Worth Visiting?.
Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Philadelphia and Austin. In our opinion, Philadelphia has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Philadelphia than Austin. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.
Families should spend more time in Philadelphia than Austin. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Philadelphia, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Philadelphia than Austin. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Philadelphia that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Austin than Philadelphia 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 Austin.
Philadelphia is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.
In Austin, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this unconventional city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.
Philadelphia is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.
Austin is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Philadelphia. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. 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.
You'll find nightlife and live music around the lively destination of Austin. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.
Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the historic big city of Philadelphia. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.
Austin is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
The average daily cost (per person) in Philadelphia is $188, while the average daily cost in Austin is $142. 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 Philadelphia and Austin in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Philadelphia or Austin? 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.
Also for Philadelphia, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Austin:
Prices for flights to both Austin and Philadelphia 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.
For Philadelphia, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:
For Philadelphia, 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 Austin.
Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Philadelphia's activities, tours, and tickets:
For Philadelphia, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:
Here are a few typical costs in Austin for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:
Here are a few actual costs in Austin for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
Also in Philadelphia, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Austin:
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Philadelphia and Austin, we can see that Philadelphia is more expensive. And not only is Austin much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Austin would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Austin 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 Philadelphia would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Philadelphia than you might in Austin.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Philadelphia Expensive? and Is Austin Expensive?.
Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Austin. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Austin, 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 Austin and Philadelphia during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Austin this time of year.
In July, Philadelphia is generally cooler than Austin. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 77°F (25°C), and Austin fluctuates around 87°F (30°C).
In Austin, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Philadelphia. In the summer, Philadelphia often gets less sunshine than Austin. Philadelphia gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 318 hours of full sun.
It rains a lot this time of the year in Philadelphia. Philadelphia usually gets more rain in July than Austin. Philadelphia gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year.
The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Philadelphia and Austin. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Philadelphia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Austin for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.
Philadelphia is much colder than Austin in the autumn. The daily temperature in Philadelphia averages around 56°F (14°C) in October, and Austin fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).
People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Austin this time of the year. In Philadelphia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Philadelphia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Austin during autumn. Philadelphia gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 214 hours of full sun in the autumn.
In October, Philadelphia usually receives less rain than Austin. Philadelphia gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Austin receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.
The winter brings many poeple to Philadelphia as well as Austin. Many travelers come to Philadelphia for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Austin in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.
Be prepared for some very cold days in Philadelphia. In the winter, Philadelphia is much colder than Austin. Typically, the winter temperatures in Philadelphia in January average around 30°F (-1°C), and Austin averages at about 51°F (11°C).
In the winter, Philadelphia often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Austin. Philadelphia gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 163 hours of full sun.
Philadelphia usually gets more rain in January than Austin. Philadelphia gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year.
Both Austin and Philadelphia are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Philadelphia in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Austin for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.
In April, Philadelphia is generally much colder than Austin. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 52°F (11°C), and Austin fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).
It's quite sunny in Austin. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Philadelphia. Philadelphia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Austin during spring. Philadelphia gets 216 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 209 hours of full sun in the spring.
In April, Philadelphia usually receives less rain than Austin. Philadelphia gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Austin receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the spring.
Philadelphia | Austin | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 30°F (-1°C) | 2.3 inches (58 mm) | 51°F (11°C) | 1.9 inches (48 mm) |
Feb | 33°F (1°C) | 2.1 inches (54 mm) | 55°F (13°C) | 3.1 inches (78 mm) |
Mar | 42°F (6°C) | 2.7 inches (68 mm) | 63°F (17°C) | 1.9 inches (48 mm) |
Apr | 52°F (11°C) | 2.8 inches (70 mm) | 71°F (22°C) | 3.5 inches (89 mm) |
May | 63°F (17°C) | 2.8 inches (70 mm) | 77°F (25°C) | 4 inches (101 mm) |
Jun | 72°F (22°C) | 3 inches (76 mm) | 83°F (29°C) | 3.1 inches (80 mm) |
Jul | 77°F (25°C) | 3.9 inches (100 mm) | 87°F (30°C) | 1.9 inches (48 mm) |
Aug | 76°F (24°C) | 3 inches (75 mm) | 87°F (31°C) | 2.2 inches (56 mm) |
Sep | 68°F (20°C) | 2.8 inches (71 mm) | 82°F (28°C) | 3.7 inches (93 mm) |
Oct | 56°F (14°C) | 1.9 inches (48 mm) | 73°F (23°C) | 3 inches (77 mm) |
Nov | 46°F (8°C) | 2.5 inches (64 mm) | 62°F (17°C) | 2 inches (52 mm) |
Dec | 36°F (2°C) | 2.7 inches (69 mm) | 54°F (12°C) | 2.2 inches (56 mm) |