Which place is cheaper, Los Angeles or Philadelphia?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Los Angeles, 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 cultural, diverse, and historic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Philadelphia offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music. See Philadelphia travel costs.
Los Angeles is a multicultural, sprawling, and energetic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Los Angeles travel costs.
Travelers will usually find more to do in Los Angeles than Philadelphia, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Los Angeles is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Philadelphia is known for its historical sights, christmas markets, and impressive beauty. Los Angeles is more touristy than Philadelphia and is known for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. It is also home to Hollywood. Philadelphia is popular for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history.
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Los Angeles and Philadelphia. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Philadelphia and Los Angeles.
The museums and tourist attractions in Philadelphia are world-renowned. 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 many recognizable landmarks that put Los Angeles on the map. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.
Visitors will find great theaters and performances in Philadelphia and Los Angeles.
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.
Los Angeles attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.
Los Angeles 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, Los Angeles is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.
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.
Los Angeles 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.
Los Angeles is a world class party destination. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.
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.
Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles. Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.
Philadelphia has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.
Los Angeles is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Philadelphia is not a resort destination.
Los Angeles is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.
Philadelphia is not a resort destination.
Los Angeles is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Philadelphia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.
Los Angeles has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.
Philadelphia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.
Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Philadelphia is not a beach destination.
The beaches in Los Angeles are among the best in the world. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.
Philadelphia is not a beach destination.
Philadelphia is a good destination for its historic old town charm. However, Los Angeles does not have a historic old town.
Philadelphia has an old town worth visiting. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.
Los Angeles does not have a historic old town.
Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. However, Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.
Known for its hiking, Los Angeles draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.
Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.
Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.
Known for shopping, Los Angeles draws large crowds to its stores. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.
Browsing through shops is a popular activity in 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.
Philadelphia is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Los Angeles is not a destination known for its beauty.
Philadelphia offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With its diverse neighborhoods and rich history, this city offers its own type of beauty.
Los Angeles is not a destination known for its beauty.
Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.
Los Angeles is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.
Philadelphia is known to be 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.
Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.
Los Angeles has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.
Philadelphia is a good city for couples to visit. 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.
Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.
Philadelphia is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.
Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.
Los Angeles is a great destination for students. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.
Students come from all over to stay in Philadelphia. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.
Philadelphia is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.
Many visitors use the public transit system in Philadelphia. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.
You'll find some public transit in Los Angeles, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.
Philadelphia is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.
Los Angeles is somewhat walkable. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.
For even more information, also check out Is Philadelphia Worth Visiting? and Is Los Angeles Worth Visiting?.
Both Philadelphia and Los Angeles have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Los Angeles than in Philadelphia. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Philadelphia, and 5-7 days is enough time in Los Angeles.
Families should spend more time in Los Angeles than Philadelphia. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Los Angeles, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Los Angeles than Philadelphia. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Los Angeles that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles.
Philadelphia is a historic city where you can fill many days. Most people visit for the museums. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.
In Los Angeles, many people enjoy the theater and nightlife that this glamourous city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 historic big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.
Los Angeles is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.
The historic city of Philadelphia offers food and shopping. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.
In Los Angeles, many people enjoy the live music and food that this glamourous big city offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.
Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Philadelphia. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the museums. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.
Los Angeles is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. 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. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
The average daily cost (per person) in Philadelphia is $224, while the average daily cost in Los Angeles is $300. 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 Los Angeles in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Philadelphia or Los Angeles? 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:
Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Los Angeles:
Also for Los Angeles, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Prices for flights to both Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:
For Los Angeles, 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:
Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Los Angeles's activities, tours, and tickets:
For Los Angeles, 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:
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Los Angeles:
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Philadelphia and Los Angeles, we can see that Los Angeles is more expensive. And not only is Philadelphia much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Philadelphia would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Philadelphia 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 Los Angeles would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Los Angeles than you might in Philadelphia.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Philadelphia Expensive? and Is Los Angeles Expensive?.
Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Philadelphia. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles and Philadelphia are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Philadelphia for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Los Angeles in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.
In the summer, Philadelphia is a little warmer than Los Angeles. Typically, the summer temperatures in Philadelphia in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Los Angeles averages at about 72°F (22°C).
It's quite rainy in Philadelphia. In July, Philadelphia usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Philadelphia gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain each month for the summer.
Both Los Angeles and Philadelphia during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Philadelphia in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Los Angeles for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.
In October, Philadelphia is generally cooler than Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 56°F (14°C), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).
Philadelphia usually gets more rain in October than Los Angeles. Philadelphia gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.
The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Philadelphia and Los Angeles. Most visitors come to Philadelphia for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.
Philadelphia can be very cold during winter. Philadelphia is much colder than Los Angeles in the winter. The daily temperature in Philadelphia averages around 30°F (-1°C) in January, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).
In January, Philadelphia usually receives less rain than Los Angeles. Philadelphia gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain each month for the winter.
The spring brings many poeple to Philadelphia as well as Los Angeles. The spring months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Los Angeles this time of year.
In the spring, Philadelphia is cooler than Los Angeles. Typically, the spring temperatures in Philadelphia in April average around 52°F (11°C), and Los Angeles averages at about 61°F (16°C).
Philadelphia usually gets more rain in April than Los Angeles. Philadelphia gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain this time of the year.
Philadelphia | Los Angeles | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 30°F (-1°C) | 2.3 inches (58 mm) | 55°F (13°C) | 3.1 inches (79 mm) |
Feb | 33°F (1°C) | 2.1 inches (54 mm) | 55°F (13°C) | 3 inches (76 mm) |
Mar | 42°F (6°C) | 2.7 inches (68 mm) | 57°F (14°C) | 2.8 inches (71 mm) |
Apr | 52°F (11°C) | 2.8 inches (70 mm) | 61°F (16°C) | 1 inches (25 mm) |
May | 63°F (17°C) | 2.8 inches (70 mm) | 63°F (17°C) | 0.4 inches (10 mm) |
Jun | 72°F (22°C) | 3 inches (76 mm) | 66°F (19°C) | 0.1 inches (3 mm) |
Jul | 77°F (25°C) | 3.9 inches (100 mm) | 72°F (22°C) | 0 inches (0 mm) |
Aug | 76°F (24°C) | 3 inches (75 mm) | 72°F (22°C) | 0 inches (0 mm) |
Sep | 68°F (20°C) | 2.8 inches (71 mm) | 70°F (21°C) | 0.2 inches (5 mm) |
Oct | 56°F (14°C) | 1.9 inches (48 mm) | 64°F (18°C) | 0.6 inches (15 mm) |
Nov | 46°F (8°C) | 2.5 inches (64 mm) | 63°F (17°C) | 1.2 inches (31 mm) |
Dec | 36°F (2°C) | 2.7 inches (69 mm) | 57°F (14°C) | 2.6 inches (66 mm) |