A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Raleigh vs. Austin for Food, Nightlife, Attractions, and Families

Should you visit Raleigh or Austin?

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

Should I visit Raleigh or Austin? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Raleigh

Raleigh is a southern, student-friendly, and suburban-style city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and museums.

Austin

Austin is a lively, entrepreneurial, and eccentric city. With a variety of activities, it's a big city. This is a very beautiful destination, too. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Raleigh and Austin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Raleigh or Austin?

You'll generally find more things to do in Austin than Raleigh. Austin is bigger than Raleigh, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Austin is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Raleigh is more popular for its big city activities. Austin is more touristy than Raleigh and is known for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population. Also, Austin is famous for The Texas Capital. Raleigh is well known for its many museums and being the home to North Carolina State University.

How is Raleigh different from Austin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Raleigh or Austin?

Austin is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Austin offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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

Raleigh is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. As the state capital, there are a number of free museums in the area. There are also some kid-friendly options and other activities that are affiliated with the colleges and universities. Popular options include the NC Museum of Natural Sciences (free), the NC Museum of History (free), the NC Museum of Art (free), and Marbles Kids Museum.

Is the Food Better in Raleigh or Austin? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Austin is very popular for its restaurant scene. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Austin is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Raleigh. In addition to the standard chain restaurants, you'll find a number of local eateries with great southern dishes. Try some southern classics like barbecue, pimento cheese, and fried chicken and waffles. There are also good international options including Nepalese, Laotian, and Ethiopian flavors.

Is Raleigh or Austin Better for Nightlife?

Austin is very popular for its evening party scene. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Austin is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Raleigh has a few options to choose from. Head to downtown Raleigh or the areas around NC State University for some of the best nightlife. Trivia nights and happy hours are popular and you'll find breweries popping up in many places.

Is Raleigh or Austin Better for Music?

Austin is very popular for its music scene. However, Raleigh is not a live music destination.

In Austin you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. 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.

Raleigh is not a live music destination.

Is Raleigh or Austin Better for Hiking?

Austin is a city with a few options for its hiking experiences. However, Raleigh is not a hiking destination.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Austin. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Raleigh is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Raleigh or Austin?

Austin is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Austin to go shopping. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Raleigh or Austin Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Raleigh or Austin.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Raleigh. For such a small city, Raleigh has a number of unique kid-friendly activities like the popular Pullen Park and Marbles Kids' Museum. Pullen Park has small rides and a playground that are perfect for young kids. There's also the NC Museum of Natural History which is free and fun to explore with kids.

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.

Is Raleigh or Austin Better for Couples?

Austin is a popular place for couples. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for romance.

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.

Raleigh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. While it's often overlooked by couples who want a weekend away, there are a number of museums and some nice restaurants to explore.

Is Raleigh or Austin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Austin is well known for backpackers. However, Raleigh is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Austin is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

Raleigh is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Raleigh or Austin Better for Students?

Raleigh and Austin are very good places to visit for students.

Raleigh is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a diverse student population with many nearby universities and colleges.

Austin is very popular with students. 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.

Is Raleigh or Austin Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Austin is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

Public transit is quite limited in Raleigh. The city's public transportation options are limited to a few bus lines that are mostly used by students.

Is Raleigh or Austin a more walkable city?

Raleigh and Austin both are respectable when exploring on foot.

Raleigh is generally not very walkable. The city is somewhat walkable in the downtown area, but everywhere else you'll need a car.

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 Raleigh Worth Visiting? and Is Austin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Austin or Raleigh?

How long in Raleigh or Austin?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Raleigh and Austin. In our opinion, Austin has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Austin than Raleigh. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Austin than Raleigh 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.

One day in Raleigh or Austin?

Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Raleigh. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Austin, you'll find shopping and museums. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Raleigh or Austin?

Raleigh is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Austin, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Austin has to offer.

Five days in Raleigh or Austin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Raleigh. 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.

Austin is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Raleigh or Austin?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the student-friendly destination of Raleigh. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Austin. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Austin. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Raleigh and Austin, we can see that Raleigh 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 Raleigh would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Raleigh 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 Raleigh Expensive? and Is Austin Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Raleigh or Austin?

Austin has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Raleigh. When comparing the sizes of Raleigh 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.

When is the best time to visit Raleigh or Austin?

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.

Should I visit Raleigh or Austin in the Summer?

Both Austin and Raleigh are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Raleigh for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Austin in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Raleigh is cooler than Austin. Typically, the summer temperatures in Raleigh in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Austin averages at about 87°F (30°C).

It's quite sunny in Austin. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Raleigh. Raleigh usually receives less sunshine than Austin during summer. Raleigh gets 259 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 318 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Raleigh. In July, Raleigh usually receives more rain than Austin. Raleigh gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Raleigh or Austin in the Autumn?

Both Austin and Raleigh during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Raleigh in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions. Furthermore, most visitors 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 during these months.

In October, Raleigh is generally cooler than Austin. Daily temperatures in Raleigh average around 61°F (16°C), and Austin fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Austin, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Raleigh. In the autumn, Raleigh often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Austin. Raleigh gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 214 hours of full sun.

Raleigh usually gets less rain in October than Austin. Raleigh gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Austin receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Raleigh or Austin in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Raleigh and Austin. Most visitors come to Raleigh for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Austin because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Raleigh can be very cold during winter. Raleigh is much colder than Austin in the winter. The daily temperature in Raleigh averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Austin fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Raleigh usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Austin during winter. Raleigh gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Raleigh usually receives more rain than Austin. Raleigh gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Raleigh or Austin in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Raleigh as well as Austin. The spring months attract visitors to Raleigh because of the activities around the city. Additionally, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Austin this time of year.

In the spring, Raleigh is cooler than Austin. Typically, the spring temperatures in Raleigh in April average around 60°F (16°C), and Austin averages at about 71°F (22°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Austin. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Raleigh this time of the year. In the spring, Raleigh often gets more sunshine than Austin. Raleigh gets 251 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 209 hours of full sun.

Raleigh usually gets less rain in April than Austin. Raleigh gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Austin receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Austin and Raleigh