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

Should you visit Raleigh or Phoenix?

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

Should I visit Raleigh or Phoenix? 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 student-friendly, suburban-style, and 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.

Phoenix

Phoenix is a laid back, sprawling, and desert city. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Raleigh and Phoenix: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Raleigh or Phoenix?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Raleigh than Phoenix. While Phoenix is larger than Raleigh, Raleigh has more sights and attractions for tourists. Raleigh is very popular for its big city activities, while Phoenix attracts visitors for its hiking and shopping. Raleigh is famous for its many museums and being the home to North Carolina State University. It is also well known for North Carolina State University. Phoenix is famous for its desert landscapes, high number of golf courses, and year round warm weather.

How is Raleigh different from Phoenix?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Raleigh
Phoenix

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Raleigh or Phoenix.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Raleigh. 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.

Phoenix is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll find art, science, and cultural museums around town. Favorites include the Heard Museum, the Phoenix Art Museum, S'edav Va'aki Museum, and the Arizona Science Museum.


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

Raleigh
Phoenix

Both Raleigh and Phoenix offer nice local cuisine and restaurants.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Raleigh area. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Phoenix. There are many mom-and-pop shops around town that serve everything from casual meals to quality steaks. There's also a huge selection of Mexican restaurants, as well as other international options such as sushi, dim sum, and Italian.

Is Raleigh or Phoenix Better for Nightlife?

Raleigh
Phoenix

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Raleigh and Phoenix.

Raleigh has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Phoenix has a few options to choose from. The best nightlife scene is found in downtown and central Phoenix. There are bars, restaurants, and venues where you can catch a show. North Phoenix also has grown into a popular evening spot with cocktail bars and pubs.

Is Raleigh or Phoenix Better for Hiking?

Raleigh
Phoenix

Phoenix is a popular place for its hiking experiences. However, Raleigh is not a hiking destination.

Phoenix is a good destination for hiking. You don't have to head far out of town for impressive hiking opportunities. You'll find trails that range from easy to challenging, and many pass through other-worldly landscapes. You'll find popular trails in Usery Mountain Regional Park, Papago Park, White Tank Mountain Regional Park, South Mountain Park and many others.

Raleigh is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Raleigh or Phoenix?

Raleigh
Phoenix

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

Many visitors go to Phoenix to go shopping. There are plenty of shopping centers, outlets, and malls where you'll find the standard chain stores. You'll also find farmer's markets around town.

Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Raleigh or Phoenix Better for Families?

Raleigh
Phoenix

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Raleigh or Phoenix.

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.

Phoenix offers lots of family activities. Kids will love the Phoenix Zoo, the Arizona Science Center, the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, and the Bearizona Wildlife Park. There's also a number of parks and gardens as well as a children's museum and several other interactive museums for kids.

Is Raleigh or Phoenix Better for Couples?

Raleigh
Phoenix

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

Phoenix is a good city for couples to visit. There are many parks and gardens in town as well as beautiful hikes and outdoor activities that couples will enjoy. In the evening, there's theater, shows, and many romantic restaurants.

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 Phoenix Better for Students?

Raleigh
Phoenix

Raleigh is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Phoenix is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Raleigh. The city has a diverse student population with many nearby universities and colleges.

Phoenix is not popular with students.

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

Raleigh
Phoenix

Phoenix 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 Phoenix. There's a bus and light rail system, but you really need your own vehicle to get around.

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 Phoenix a more walkable city?

Raleigh
Phoenix

Raleigh and Phoenix both are reasonable 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.

Phoenix is generally not a very walkable city. It's a sprawling city and the only real area that's walkable is the downtown.


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

Should I spend more time in Phoenix or Raleigh?

How long in Raleigh or Phoenix?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Raleigh and Phoenix. In our opinion, Phoenix has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Phoenix than Raleigh. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Raleigh, and 1-3 days is enough time in Phoenix.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Phoenix 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 Phoenix.


  • How many days in Raleigh or Phoenix? Ideal Length of Stay
    Raleigh 2-3 
    Phoenix 1-3

One day in Raleigh or Phoenix?

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

In Phoenix, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Raleigh or Phoenix?

In Raleigh, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Raleigh has to offer.

In Phoenix, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Phoenix has to offer.

Five days in Raleigh or Phoenix?

Raleigh 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.

Phoenix 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 Phoenix?

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

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


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Phoenix or Raleigh?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Raleigh is $189, while the average daily cost in Phoenix is $238. 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 Raleigh and Phoenix in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Raleigh $104
    Phoenix $144
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Raleigh $208
    Phoenix $288
Compare Hotels in Raleigh and Phoenix

Looking for a hotel in Raleigh or Phoenix? 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 Raleigh


Hotels in Phoenix


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: Raleigh Hotel Prices and Phoenix Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Raleigh $37
    Phoenix $39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Raleigh

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Raleigh:

  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Durham - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $126
  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Raleigh - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $119
  • Durham to Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) - Departure Private Transfer: $63
  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Durham - Arrival Private Transfer: $63
  • Raleigh to Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) - Departure Private Transfer: $59
  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Raleigh Arrival Private Transfer: $59

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Phoenix

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

  • Arrival Private Transfer Phoenix Airport PHX to Phoenix City : $117
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Sky Harbor Airport PHX to Phoenix in Luxury SUV: $110
  • Departure Private Transfer Phoenix City to Phoenix Airport PHX : $110
  • Departure Private Transfer: Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury SUV: $110
  • Departure Private Transfer: Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury Van: $149
  • Phoenix International Airport (PHX) - Private transfer From/to Hotels: $118
  • Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX) to Phoenix - Arrival Private Transfer: $59
  • One-Way Transfer Sky Harbor Airport to Phoenix: $104
  • Private Transfer From Hotels To Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport PHX : $41
  • Private Transfer from Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury SUV: $110
  • Private Transfer from Sky Harbor Airport PHX to Phoenix in Business Car: $96
  • Private Transfer from Sky Harbor Airport PHX to Phoenix in Luxury SUV: $110

Is it cheaper to fly into Raleigh or Phoenix?

Prices for flights to both Phoenix and Raleigh 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
    Raleigh $57
    Phoenix $52
Typical Food Prices in Raleigh

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Raleigh:


  • The Pit Authentic BBQ (for 3)
    $84

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Raleigh

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Raleigh.

  • Private Cooking Class in Durham with an Expert Home Cook: $104

Typical Food Prices in Phoenix

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Phoenix:


  • Nice Lunch (for 2)
    $36
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Phoenix

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

  • Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour: $92
  • Downtown Phoenix Food Tour: $92
  • Scottsdale Waterfront Food Tour: $95
  • Quiche Lorraine French Cooking Class in Scottsdale: $129

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Raleigh $37
    Phoenix $40

Tours and Activities in Raleigh

Here are a few actual costs in Raleigh for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Carolina Hurricanes Ice Hockey Game Ticket at PNC Arena: $68
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Chapel Hill, NC: $15
  • Private Pedicab Tour of Downtown Raleigh: $60
  • Raleigh African American History Tour: $13
  • Raleigh Downtown: Historic Walking Tours: $16
  • Raleigh Ghost and Urban Legend Tour: $16
  • Raleigh Ghosts and Ghouls Hauntings Tour: $30
  • Raleigh Historian-Guided Downtown Walking Tour: $16
  • Raleigh Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Ghosts and Ghouls Hauntings Walking Tour: $26
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • True Crime History Guided Walking Tour: $16

Tours and Activities in Phoenix

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

  • SEA LIFE Aquarium Arizona Admission Ticket: $19
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Mesa by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Ghosts & Poltergeists Guided Haunted Walking Tour: $26
  • Arizona Diamondbacks Baseball Game Ticket: $28
  • Phoenix Zoo Admission Ticket: $38
  • Phoenix Zoo: One Day General Admission Ticket: $38
  • Urban Adventure Quest Scavenger Hunt in Phoenix: $44
  • Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour via Smartphone: $49
  • Phoenix Suns Basketball Game Ticket: $55
  • Phoenix Suns Basketball Game Ticket at Footprint Center: $56
  • Discover Phoenix! City Tour: $65
  • Gold Rush - Guided Hiking & Gold Panning Tour: $66

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Raleigh $27
    Phoenix $17

Sample the Local Flavors in Phoenix

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

  • Scottsdale Bar Hunt: Scorching Scottsdale Bar Crawl: $12
  • Pedal Bar Crawl of Old Town Scottsdale: $55
  • Verde Valley Wine Tasting From Scottsdale/Phoenix/Tempe: $199
  • Haunted Jerome Wine & Brewery tasting from Scottsdale: $225
  • Custom Arizona Brewery / Vineyard Tour: $245


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


Which is Bigger, Raleigh or Phoenix?

Phoenix has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Raleigh. When comparing the sizes of Raleigh and Phoenix, 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 Phoenix?

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 Phoenix in the Summer?

Both Phoenix and Raleigh during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Raleigh in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Phoenix for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

The heat can be very extreme in Phoenix. Raleigh is cooler than Phoenix in the summer. The daily temperature in Raleigh averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Phoenix fluctuates around 98°F (36°C).

In Phoenix, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Raleigh. In the summer, Raleigh often gets less sunshine than Phoenix. Raleigh gets 259 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Phoenix receives 380 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Raleigh. Raleigh usually gets more rain in July than Phoenix. Raleigh gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Raleigh 79°F (26°C) 
    Phoenix 98°F (36°C)

Should I visit Raleigh or Phoenix in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Raleigh and Phoenix. Most visitors come to Raleigh for the city's sights and attractions during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Phoenix because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Raleigh is much colder than Phoenix. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Raleigh in October average around 61°F (16°C), and Phoenix averages at about 79°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Phoenix this time of the year. In Raleigh, it's very sunny this time of the year. Raleigh usually receives less sunshine than Phoenix during autumn. Raleigh gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Phoenix receives 305 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Raleigh usually receives more rain than Phoenix. Raleigh gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Raleigh 61°F (16°C) 
    Phoenix 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Raleigh or Phoenix in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Raleigh as well as Phoenix. The winter months attract visitors to Raleigh because of the museums and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Phoenix this time of year.

The weather in Raleigh can be very cold. In January, Raleigh is generally much colder than Phoenix. Daily temperatures in Raleigh average around 40°F (5°C), and Phoenix fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Phoenix. In the winter, Raleigh often gets less sunshine than Phoenix. Raleigh gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Phoenix receives 254 hours of full sun.

Raleigh usually gets more rain in January than Phoenix. Raleigh gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Raleigh 40°F (5°C) 
    Phoenix 58°F (14°C)

Should I visit Raleigh or Phoenix in the Spring?

Both Phoenix and Raleigh are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city are the main draw to Raleigh this time of year.

Raleigh is cooler than Phoenix in the spring. The daily temperature in Raleigh averages around 60°F (16°C) in April, and Phoenix fluctuates around 74°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Phoenix. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Raleigh. Raleigh usually receives less sunshine than Phoenix during spring. Raleigh gets 251 hours of sunny skies, while Phoenix receives 355 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Raleigh usually receives more rain than Phoenix. Raleigh gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Raleigh 60°F (16°C) 
    Phoenix 74°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Phoenix and Raleigh

Raleigh Phoenix
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Feb 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Mar 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Apr 60°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 74°F (23°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
May 68°F (20°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 83°F (28°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jun 76°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 92°F (34°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 98°F (36°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 4.9 inches (125 mm) 96°F (35°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
Sep 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 90°F (32°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Oct 61°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 79°F (26°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Nov 53°F (11°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 58°F (15°C) 1 inches (25 mm)