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

Should you visit Raleigh or Los Angeles?

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

Should I visit Raleigh or Los Angeles? 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 friendly, southern, and student-friendly city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a sprawling, energetic, and dynamic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Is there more to do in Raleigh or Los Angeles?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Los Angeles than Raleigh. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Los Angeles is more touristy than Raleigh and is popular 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. Raleigh is famous for its many museums and being the home to North Carolina State University.

How is Raleigh different from Los Angeles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is very popular for its museums and landmarks. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

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 Raleigh or Los Angeles Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is well known for its shows and theatre. However, Raleigh is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in 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.

Raleigh is not a theatre destination.

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

Los Angeles 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, Los Angeles is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

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 Los Angeles Better for Nightlife?

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

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

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 Los Angeles Better for Music?

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

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

Raleigh is not a live music destination.

Is Raleigh or Los Angeles Better for Resorts?

Los Angeles is well known for its resorts. However, Raleigh is not a resort destination.

Los Angeles is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Raleigh is not a resort destination.

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

Los Angeles is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Raleigh is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Los Angeles has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Raleigh is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Raleigh or Los Angeles Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles is very popular for the beach. However, Raleigh is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Los Angeles. 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.

Raleigh is not a beach destination.

Is Raleigh or Los Angeles Better for Hiking?

Los Angeles is very popular for its hiking experiences. However, Raleigh is not a hiking destination.

People visit Los Angeles specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Raleigh is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Raleigh or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is very popular for its shopping areas. However, Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Los Angeles is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Raleigh or Los Angeles Better for Families?

Los Angeles is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Los Angeles is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Raleigh offers lots of family activities. 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.

Is Raleigh or Los Angeles Better for Couples?

Los Angeles is very popular for couples. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for romance.

Los Angeles makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

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 Los Angeles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Los Angeles is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

Raleigh is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Raleigh or Los Angeles Better for Students?

Los Angeles is very popular for students. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent Los Angeles. 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.

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

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

Los Angeles is a popular place for its public transit. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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.

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 Los Angeles a more walkable city?

Los Angeles is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for its walkability.

Los Angeles is a somewhat walkable city. 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.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Raleigh Worth Visiting? and Is Los Angeles Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Los Angeles or Raleigh?

How long in Raleigh or Los Angeles?

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

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

One day in Raleigh or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the student-friendly city of Raleigh. 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.

Because Los Angeles is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the suburban-style destination of Raleigh. 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.

Because Los Angeles is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Raleigh or Los Angeles?

The southern city of Raleigh offers museums and nightlife. 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 is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Los Angeles has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Raleigh or Los Angeles?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Raleigh. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 Los Angeles. Because Los Angeles is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Raleigh or Los Angeles?

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

When is the best time to visit Raleigh or Los Angeles?

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.

Should I visit Raleigh or Los Angeles in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Raleigh as well as Los Angeles. Most visitors come to Raleigh for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Raleigh is a little warmer than Los Angeles in the summer. The daily temperature in Raleigh averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

Raleigh receives a lot of rain in the summer. Raleigh usually gets more rain in July than Los Angeles. Raleigh gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Raleigh or Los Angeles in the Autumn?

Both Los Angeles and Raleigh are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Raleigh because of the city's sights and attractions. Also, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Los Angeles this time of year.

In the autumn, Raleigh is around the same temperature as Los Angeles. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Raleigh in October average around 61°F (16°C), and Los Angeles averages at about 64°F (18°C).

In October, Raleigh usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Raleigh gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Raleigh or Los Angeles in the Winter?

Both Los Angeles and Raleigh during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Raleigh this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Los Angeles for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Raleigh in the winter. In January, Raleigh is generally much colder than Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in Raleigh average around 40°F (5°C), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Raleigh usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Los Angeles. Raleigh gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Raleigh or Los Angeles in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Raleigh and Los Angeles. Many travelers come to Raleigh for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Los Angeles in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

Raleigh is around the same temperature as Los Angeles in the spring. The daily temperature in Raleigh averages around 60°F (16°C) in April, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

In April, Raleigh usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Raleigh gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Los Angeles and Raleigh