Which place is cheaper, Cleveland 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 Cleveland, 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. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.
Cleveland is a diverse, authentic, and under-rated city. Visitors also love the live music, shopping, and museums.
Tourists will generally find more to do in Philadelphia than Cleveland. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Philadelphia is more touristy than Cleveland and is known 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. Cleveland is famous for being the home to "rock 'n roll" as well as its friendly and hard working people.
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cleveland and Philadelphia. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Philadelphia is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.
Travelers visit Philadelphia from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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 Cleveland. There are diverse museums around town such as the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Museum of Contemporary Art (moCa), and the Great Lakes Science Center. Music lovers will appreciate a visit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Philadelphia is a very popular place for theatre. However, Cleveland 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.
Cleveland is not a theatre destination.
Philadelphia is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.
The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Philadelphia. 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.
You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Cleveland. Casual dining with comfort food is the way most residents prefer to eat. There are local foods that have made a name for themselves such as gourmet hot dogs and deli sandwiches. The food is also influenced by the city's German, Irish, Polish, and Italian roots. Pierogis, bratwurst, and chicken paprikash are all common.
Philadelphia is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.
Philadelphia has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.
Cleveland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Breweries have become a popular nighttime activity. There are also comedy clubs, music venues, and several theaters.
It can be fun to see live music in either Philadelphia and Cleveland.
Whether you like big venues or smaller artists, Philadelphia has diverse options. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.
Cleveland has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. Home to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, it has long been a destination for music enthusiasts. There are many independent music venues and it's the perfect place to catch a show.
Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Cleveland does not have a historic old town.
Philadelphia is a good destination for visiting its old town. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.
Cleveland does not have a historic old town.
Philadelphia is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.
Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Philadelphia. 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.
Cleveland offers some nice shopping areas. Large shopping malls offer plenty of selection. There's also West Side Market, which is the oldest public market in the city. Other interesting shopping areas include Little Italy and the Cleveland Flea.
Philadelphia is a very popular place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Cleveland does not offer Christmas activities.
Since it has plenty to do, Philadelphia is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. There are a number of holiday events, light shows, and festivals during the holiday season.
Cleveland does not offer Christmas activities.
Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Cleveland 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.
Cleveland does not offer Christmas markets.
Philadelphia is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.
Philadelphia is a very family-friendly destination. 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.
You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cleveland. Kid-friendly activities in the area include the Children’s Museum of Cleveland, the Great Lakes Science Center, and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. There's also the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo as well as the smaller Akron Zoo.
Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for romance. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.
Philadelphia is a nice destination for couples. 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.
Most people don't think of Cleveland as a couple's destination. There are several romantic date night activities like boat rides on Lake Erie or dining at a nice restaurant.
Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for backpackers.
It's common for backpackers to visit Philadelphia. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.
Cleveland is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There's little in the area that attracts the backpacker crowd.
Philadelphia is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Cleveland is not popular with 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.
Cleveland is not popular with students.
Philadelphia is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its public transit.
Visitors to Philadelphia can move around easily with public transportation. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.
Public transit is generally limited in Cleveland. There are bus, trolley, and train lines through the city, but a car is the most efficient way to get around.
Philadelphia is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.
It's very easy to get around on foot in Philadelphia. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.
Cleveland is generally not very walkable. While some neighborhoods are more walkable than others (Downtown, Ohio City and Buckeye - Shaker), most visitors need a car to easily access everything they wish to do.
For even more information, also check out Is Philadelphia Worth Visiting? and Is Cleveland Worth Visiting?.
Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Philadelphia and Cleveland. In our opinion, Philadelphia has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Philadelphia than Cleveland. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Philadelphia, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cleveland.
Families should spend more time in Philadelphia than Cleveland. 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 Cleveland. 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 Philadelphia than Cleveland 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 Philadelphia.
People visit Philadelphia because there is so much to do. 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 Cleveland, many people enjoy the live music and shopping that this authentic city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.
People visit Philadelphia because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.
Cleveland 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.
Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the cultural city of Philadelphia. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.
You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Cleveland. 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.
Philadelphia is a popular choice for travelers. 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.
Cleveland 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.
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 Cleveland is $132. 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 Cleveland in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Philadelphia or Cleveland? 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 typical examples of transportation costs in Cleveland are as follows:
Also for Cleveland, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Prices for flights to both Cleveland 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:
For Cleveland, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:
For Cleveland, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
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:
For Cleveland, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:
Also in Philadelphia, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Cleveland are as follows:
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Philadelphia and Cleveland, we can see that Philadelphia is more expensive. And not only is Cleveland much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cleveland would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cleveland 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 Cleveland.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Philadelphia Expensive? and Is Cleveland Expensive?.
Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Cleveland. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Cleveland, 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 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.
Both Cleveland and Philadelphia are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cleveland this time of year.
In July, Philadelphia is generally around the same temperature as Cleveland. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 77°F (25°C), and Cleveland fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).
It's quite sunny in Cleveland. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Philadelphia. Philadelphia usually receives less sunshine than Cleveland during summer. Philadelphia gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Cleveland receives 307 hours of full sun in the summer.
It rains a lot this time of the year in Cleveland. It's quite rainy in Philadelphia. In July, Philadelphia usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cleveland. Philadelphia gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 4 inches (101 mm) of rain each month for the summer.
Both Cleveland and Philadelphia during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cleveland for the shopping scene and the music scene.
Philadelphia is around the same temperature as Cleveland in the autumn. The daily temperature in Philadelphia averages around 56°F (14°C) in October, and Cleveland fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).
It's quite sunny in Philadelphia. In the autumn, Philadelphia often gets more sunshine than Cleveland. Philadelphia gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cleveland receives 165 hours of full sun.
Philadelphia usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Cleveland. Philadelphia gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 1.9 inches (49 mm) of rain this time of the year.
The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Philadelphia and Cleveland. Many travelers come to Philadelphia for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Cleveland in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.
Cleveland can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Philadelphia. In the winter, Philadelphia is much warmer than Cleveland. Typically, the winter temperatures in Philadelphia in January average around 30°F (-1°C), and Cleveland averages at about 28°F (-2°C).
Philadelphia usually receives more sunshine than Cleveland during winter. Philadelphia gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Cleveland receives 95 hours of full sun in the winter.
In January, Philadelphia usually receives more rain than Cleveland. Philadelphia gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 1.5 inches (39 mm) of rain each month for the winter.
The spring brings many poeple to Philadelphia as well as Cleveland. Many visitors come to Philadelphia in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.
In April, Philadelphia is generally around the same temperature as Cleveland. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 52°F (11°C), and Cleveland fluctuates around 51°F (10°C).
The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cleveland. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Philadelphia this time of the year. In the spring, Philadelphia often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cleveland. Philadelphia gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cleveland receives 213 hours of full sun.
Philadelphia usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Cleveland. Philadelphia gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.
Philadelphia | Cleveland | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 30°F (-1°C) | 2.3 inches (58 mm) | 28°F (-2°C) | 1.5 inches (39 mm) |
Feb | 33°F (1°C) | 2.1 inches (54 mm) | 30°F (-1°C) | 1.5 inches (37 mm) |
Mar | 42°F (6°C) | 2.7 inches (68 mm) | 40°F (5°C) | 1.9 inches (49 mm) |
Apr | 52°F (11°C) | 2.8 inches (70 mm) | 51°F (10°C) | 2.8 inches (71 mm) |
May | 63°F (17°C) | 2.8 inches (70 mm) | 61°F (16°C) | 2.6 inches (67 mm) |
Jun | 72°F (22°C) | 3 inches (76 mm) | 71°F (21°C) | 2.5 inches (64 mm) |
Jul | 77°F (25°C) | 3.9 inches (100 mm) | 75°F (24°C) | 4 inches (101 mm) |
Aug | 76°F (24°C) | 3 inches (75 mm) | 73°F (23°C) | 2.4 inches (60 mm) |
Sep | 68°F (20°C) | 2.8 inches (71 mm) | 67°F (19°C) | 3 inches (75 mm) |
Oct | 56°F (14°C) | 1.9 inches (48 mm) | 56°F (13°C) | 1.9 inches (49 mm) |
Nov | 46°F (8°C) | 2.5 inches (64 mm) | 45°F (7°C) | 2.2 inches (57 mm) |
Dec | 36°F (2°C) | 2.7 inches (69 mm) | 34°F (1°C) | 2.2 inches (55 mm) |