A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Pittsburgh vs. Los Angeles for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Pittsburgh or Los Angeles?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Pittsburgh 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.

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a under-rated, industrial, and authentic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a glamourous, diverse, and multicultural city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Pittsburgh and Los Angeles: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
  • Home to Hollywood


Is there more to do in Pittsburgh or Los Angeles?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Los Angeles than Pittsburgh. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Los Angeles is more touristy than Pittsburgh 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 well known for Hollywood. Pittsburgh is famous for its many bridges, its steel industry, and being the home of "Mr. Roger's Neighborhood".

How is Pittsburgh different from Los Angeles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Pittsburgh or Los Angeles?

Pittsburgh
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Los Angeles has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Pittsburgh. The museums range from science and nature focused, like the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden, to quirky and artsy, like the Mattress Factory. The Warhol Museum is dedicated to the works of Andy Warhol and it's not to be missed. Also worth a visit is the Heinz History Center, Randyland, and the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History.


Is Pittsburgh or Los Angeles Better for Theater?

Pittsburgh
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is great for its shows and theatre. However, Pittsburgh is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Los Angeles. 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.

Pittsburgh is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Pittsburgh or Los Angeles? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pittsburgh
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Pittsburgh offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city is known for its working class roots, and the food is hearty and filling, which is great for those on a budget. Popular local dishes include pierogis, deli sandwiches, Pittsburgh salads (complete with French fries), and hotcakes.

Is Pittsburgh or Los Angeles Better for Nightlife?

Pittsburgh
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

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.

Pittsburgh has plenty to do after the sun goes down. There's an active music and dance scene in town. For the best bars and clubs, head to the Strip and South Side and for live entertainment and casinos check out the North Shore.


Is Pittsburgh or Los Angeles Better for Music?

Pittsburgh
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for its music scene. However, Pittsburgh is not a live music destination.

Los Angeles has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. 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.

Pittsburgh is not a live music destination.

Is Pittsburgh or Los Angeles Better for Resorts?

Pittsburgh
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is great for its luxury resorts. However, Pittsburgh 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.

Pittsburgh is not a resort destination.

Is Pittsburgh or Los Angeles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Pittsburgh
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Pittsburgh 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.

Pittsburgh is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Pittsburgh or Los Angeles Better for Beaches?

Pittsburgh
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Pittsburgh 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.

Pittsburgh is not a beach destination.

Is Pittsburgh or Los Angeles Better for Hiking?

Pittsburgh
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Pittsburgh 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.

Pittsburgh is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pittsburgh or Los Angeles?

Pittsburgh
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to Los Angeles specifically to go shopping. 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.

Pittsburgh is a great destination for shopping. You'll find local fashion boutiques and shopping centers in the city's downtown. Other great shopping neighborhoods include Shadyside, Station Square, and Fifth Avenue Place.


Is Pittsburgh or Los Angeles Better for Families?

Pittsburgh
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Pittsburgh is a family-friendly place to visit. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities packed into this city. Check out the National Aviary or visit the popular Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium. There are also kid-focused museums and science centers as well as parks and playgrounds. Also make sure you take the cable car up Duquesne Incline or enjoy a boat ride on one of the rivers as well.

Is Pittsburgh or Los Angeles Better for Couples?

Pittsburgh
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for couples. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for romance.

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.

Pittsburgh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are a few good date night activities like taking river cruises, enjoying dinner and show, or going to a Pirate's game.

Is Pittsburgh or Los Angeles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pittsburgh
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Pittsburgh is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's usually overlooked by backpackers, but there is some cheap accommodation in town.


Is Pittsburgh or Los Angeles Better for Students?

Pittsburgh
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Pittsburgh is not popular with 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.

Pittsburgh is not popular with students.

Is Pittsburgh or Los Angeles Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Pittsburgh
Los Angeles

Pittsburgh and Los Angeles both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Pittsburgh offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are bus and lightrail options through the city's downtown. There's also the unique incline, which is an experience worth doing.

Los Angeles has a few public transit options. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

Is Pittsburgh or Los Angeles a more walkable city?

Pittsburgh
Los Angeles

Pittsburgh and Los Angeles are nice when it comes to walkability.

Pittsburgh is a somewhat walkable city. Some of the attractions are spread out, but if you're willing to do a bit of walking, it's possible to get around on foot.

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 Pittsburgh Worth Visiting? and Is Los Angeles Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Los Angeles or Pittsburgh?

How long in Pittsburgh or Los Angeles?

Both Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Pittsburgh, and 5-7 days is enough time in Los Angeles.

Families should spend more time in Los Angeles than Pittsburgh. 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 Pittsburgh. 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 Pittsburgh 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.


  • How many days in Pittsburgh or Los Angeles? Ideal Length of Stay
    Pittsburgh 2-3 
    Los Angeles 5-7

One day in Pittsburgh or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the under-rated city of Pittsburgh. 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.

When visiting Los Angeles, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Pittsburgh or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the under-rated destination of Pittsburgh. 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.

When visiting Los Angeles, people usually allow for lots of time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Pittsburgh or Los Angeles?

The under-rated city of Pittsburgh offers shopping and museums. 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.

Los Angeles, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Pittsburgh or Los Angeles?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Pittsburgh. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Los Angeles is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


Which place is cheaper, Los Angeles or Pittsburgh?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Pittsburgh is $181, while the average daily cost in Los Angeles is $258. 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 Pittsburgh and Los Angeles in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pittsburgh $106
    Los Angeles $140
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pittsburgh $212
    Los Angeles $280
Compare Hotels in Pittsburgh and Los Angeles

Looking for a hotel in Pittsburgh 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.

Hotels in Pittsburgh


Hotels in Los Angeles


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: Pittsburgh Hotel Prices and Los Angeles Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pittsburgh $22
    Los Angeles $42

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pittsburgh

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

  • Pittsburgh City to Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) - Departure Private Transfer: $48
  • Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) to Pittsburgh hotel/address - Arrival Private Transfer: $48
  • Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) to Pittsburgh City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $97

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Los Angeles

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Los Angeles:


  • Hotel Parking for a Day
    $22
  • Taxi to Airport
    $55

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Los Angeles

Also for Los Angeles, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private City Highlights Tour with Transfer: $999
  • LA: City Highlights Private Guided Tour with Transfer: $999
  • Los Angeles Airport (LAX): Private Transfer to Los Angeles: $775
  • Private Transfers between LAX Airport and Los Angeles: $520
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Airport LAX to Los Angeles in Luxury Car: $284
  • Departure Private Transfer: Los Angeles to Airport LAX in Luxury Car: $275
  • Departure Private Transfer: Los Angeles to Ontario Airport ONT in Luxury Van: $275
  • Los Angeles Airport (LAX) to Desert Hot Springs Arrival Transfer: $254
  • San Diego Private Transfer To or From Universal Studios/Burbank.: $248
  • One-Way Private Transfers From/To Los Angeles Airport: $245
  • Private Transfer: Los Angeles to Ontario Airport ONT in Business Car: $242
  • Private Round-trip Airport Transfer: LAX International Airport to Anaheim Hotels: $240

Is it cheaper to fly into Pittsburgh or Los Angeles?

Prices for flights to both Los Angeles and Pittsburgh 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
    Pittsburgh $54
    Los Angeles $60

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pittsburgh

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

  • Pittsburgh's Strip District Food Tour: $70
  • Pittsburgh's Strip District Food Tour: $70

Typical Food Prices in Los Angeles

For Los Angeles, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Mexican Dinner (family of 4)
    $32
  • Burritos for Two
    $15
  • Coffee and Danish
    $7.70

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Los Angeles

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

  • Santa Monica Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Venice Beach Food Tour with Tastings: $75
  • 3-Hour Secret Food Tour: $88
  • Venice Beach LA Food Tour: $89
  • Downtown Los Angeles Food Tour: $89
  • Downtown Food Tour: $89
  • Venice Beach Food Tour: $89
  • LA Venice Beach Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $99
  • Original Downtown Los Angeles Walking Food Tour with Six Taste: $110
  • Night Cruise in Marina del Rey with Dinner: $124
  • Vegan African Dinner Party in Playa Del Ray: $132
  • Marina Del Rey: Thanksgiving Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $136

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pittsburgh $38
    Los Angeles $82

Tours and Activities in Pittsburgh

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

  • Best of the Burgh Walking Tour: $30
  • Bike the Burgh Tour: $50
  • Black & Ghost Tour: $30
  • Discover Oakland Tour: $30
  • Eastbound Pennsylvania Turnpike: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $6.22
  • Entrance Ticket to AT BLAQK House Collections: $7.00
  • Essential Pittsburgh Experience - The One Tour to Take: $75
  • HOP ON-HOP OFF TOUR PASS- All Day Sightseeing Tour Pass: $40
  • New! Bikes & Brews Tour: $75
  • Pittsburg 101 Tour: $30
  • Pittsburgh Penguins Ice Hockey Game Ticket at PPG Paints Arena: $51
  • Pittsburgh Pirates Baseball Game Ticket at PNC Park: $49

Typical Entertainment Prices in Los Angeles

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Los Angeles's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Santa Monica Pier Rides (family of 4)
    $37
  • Bowling
    $13
  • Hollywood Tour for Two
    $30
  • Six Flags for 2
    $96

Tours and Activities in Los Angeles

For Los Angeles, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 1-Hour Private Ferrari Driving Tour: Hollywood to Beverly Hills: $289
  • 2 Hour Celebrity Homes Tour: $175
  • 2-Hour Hollywood Bus Tour: $45
  • 2.5 Hour Fright Sights Tour of Hollywood and Beverly Hills: $219
  • 2.5 Hour Private Tour of Hollywood and Beverly Hills: $219
  • 2.5-hour Hollywood Chills Tour - Celebrity Scandals and Cemeteries : $219
  • 20 Min Ferrari driving tour in Hollywood: $99
  • 20 Min Lamborghini driving tour in Hollywood: $139
  • 3-Hour Private Bike Tour with a Local Beverly Hills Guide: $166
  • 3-Hour Small Group Tour: Hollywood to Beverly Hills: $49
  • 30 Minute Lamborghini Huracan Spyder Driving Tour in Hollywood: $189
  • 30-Minute Private Ferrari Driving Tour To Hollywood Sign: $139

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Pittsburgh $33
    Los Angeles $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Pittsburgh

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Pittsburgh:

  • Pittsburgh Bar Hunt: Party Through Pittsburgh Bar Crawl: $13
  • Wigle Whiskey Rebellion Distillery Tour: $22
  • New! Bites & Brews: Pittsburgh Brewery Walk: $40
  • Bike and Brewery Tour: $69
  • Pittsburgh Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105

Sample the Local Flavors in Los Angeles

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Los Angeles:

  • LA Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • LA Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $40
  • Salsa Lesson, Burlesque and Mojitos : $149
  • Salsa Lesson and Burlesque Show: $149
  • Malibu: Vintage VW Sightseeing Tour and Wine Tasting: $195


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

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


Which is Bigger, Pittsburgh or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Pittsburgh. When comparing the sizes of Pittsburgh 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.