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

Should you visit Raleigh or Portland?

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

Should I visit Raleigh or Portland? 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. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and museums.

Portland

Portland is a quirky, eclectic, and tree-lined city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Raleigh and Portland: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Raleigh or Portland?

You'll generally find more things to do in Portland than Raleigh. Portland is bigger than Raleigh, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Portland is better known for its music, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Raleigh is more popular for its museums, food, and big city activities. Portland is more touristy than Raleigh and is popular for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty. Also, Portland is famous for Washington Park. Raleigh is well known for its many museums and being the home to North Carolina State University.

How is Raleigh different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Raleigh
Portland

Raleigh is a city with good options for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.


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

Raleigh
Portland

Raleigh is a city with good options for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Raleigh or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Raleigh
Portland

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

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 Portland has a few options to choose from. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Is Raleigh or Portland Better for Music?

Raleigh
Portland

Portland is a popular place for its music scene. However, Raleigh is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Portland is active and vibrant. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Raleigh is not a live music destination.


Is Raleigh or Portland Better for Hiking?

Raleigh
Portland

Portland is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Raleigh is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Portland. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

Raleigh is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Raleigh or Portland?

Raleigh
Portland

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

Many visitors go to Portland to go shopping. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Raleigh or Portland Better for Families?

Raleigh
Portland

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Raleigh or Portland.

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.

Portland offers lots of family activities. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.


Is Raleigh or Portland Better for Couples?

Raleigh
Portland

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

Portland is a good city for couples to visit. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

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 Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Raleigh
Portland

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

Portland is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

Raleigh is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Raleigh or Portland Better for Students?

Raleigh
Portland

Raleigh is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

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

Portland is popular with students. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.


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

Raleigh
Portland

Portland 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 Portland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

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 Portland a more walkable city?

Raleigh
Portland

Portland is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for its walkability.

Portland is a very walkable destination. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

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 Portland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland or Raleigh?

How long in Raleigh or Portland?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Raleigh or Portland?

The city of Raleigh offers nightlife and food. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Portland, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Portland?

Raleigh is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Raleigh, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Portland, you'll find nightlife and live music. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Portland has to offer.

Five days in Raleigh or Portland?

Raleigh is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Portland is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Portland?

Raleigh is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portland. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Portland. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


Which place is cheaper, Portland 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 Portland is $180. 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 Portland in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Raleigh $104
    Portland $97
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Raleigh $208
    Portland $194
Compare Hotels in Raleigh and Portland

Looking for a hotel in Raleigh or Portland? 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 Portland


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 Portland Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Raleigh $37
    Portland $28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Raleigh

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Raleigh:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portland

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

  • Arrival Private Transfer Portland Airport PDX to Portland City: $148
  • Lake Oswego to Portland Airport (PDX) - Departure Private Transfer: $72
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Beaverton hotel - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $152
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Beaverton hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $76
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Lake Oswego - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $143
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Portland downtown - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $123
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Tigard hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $76
  • Portland downtown to Portland Airport (PDX) - Departure Private Transfer: $62
  • Waterfall Express -PDX: Waterfall Trolley Tickets + Transfer: $60

Is it cheaper to fly into Raleigh or Portland?

Prices for flights to both Portland 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
    Portland $43
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 Portland

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


  • Afternoon Drinks (for 2)
    $9.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Portland

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

  • Portland Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Walking Pizza Tour: $75
  • Secret Food Tour with Local Guide: $95
  • Brunch on Mississippi Food Tour: $95
  • Brunch on Mississippi Food Tour: $95
  • Mississippi Avenue Walking Food Tour: $105
  • The Vibrant Kerns Hood Food Tour: $105
  • The Bustling Buckman Hood Food Tour: $105
  • Portland Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $109
  • Mississippi Avenue Walking Food Tour: $110
  • All-Inclusive Downtown Portland Food Tour: $119
  • All-Inclusive Walking Food Tour: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Raleigh $37
    Portland $24

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 Portland

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

  • Smartphone Old Port Portland, ME Audio Walking Tour APP/GPS: $6.75
  • Downtown Portland In-App Audio Tour (ENG): $9.00
  • Portland, Maine: Walking Tour Audio Guide: $9.99
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Smartphone Audio Guide: $10
  • Waterfront Scavenger Hunt Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • Downtown Scavenger Hunt & Self-Guided Walking Tour: $13
  • Portland (Along the Waterfront) Scavenger Hunt & Self-Guided Tour: $14
  • Self-Guided Sightseeing Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Portland Exploration: Self-Guided Driving & Walking Tour: $17
  • Portland Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Portland: $25
  • Ghosts, Poltergeists, and Psychopaths Walking Tour: $26

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Portland

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Portland:

  • Portland Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $40
  • Haunted Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour with Brewery Tastings: $40
  • Guided Bike Tour with Brewery Visits: $49
  • Weird Bar Crawl with Fanatical Local: $59
  • Eastside Craft Brewery Walking Tour: $59
  • Portland, Maine: Old Port Brewery & Pub Walking Tour: $89
  • Portland, Maine: Local Brewery & Spirits Bus Tour: $99
  • Waterfalls, Mt Hood, and Wine Tour (Tasting Fees Included): $135
  • Full-Day Mt Hood Waterfall Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting: $179
  • Silver Falls Hike and Wine Tour: $179
  • Multnomah Falls, Hood River Excursion Train Ride & Wine Tour: $210
  • From Willamette Valley Full-Day Wine Tour: $210


When comparing the travel costs between Raleigh and Portland, we can see that Raleigh is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Raleigh or Portland?

Portland has a larger population, and is about 96% larger than the population of Raleigh. When comparing the sizes of Raleigh and Portland, 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 Portland?

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 Portland in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Raleigh as well as Portland. Many visitors come to Raleigh in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Portland for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Raleigh is a little warmer than Portland. Typically, the summer temperatures in Raleigh in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Portland averages at about 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Raleigh this time of the year. In the summer, Raleigh often gets less sunshine than Portland. Raleigh gets 259 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun.

Raleigh receives a lot of rain in the summer. Raleigh usually gets more rain in July than Portland. Raleigh gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Raleigh 79°F (26°C) 
    Portland 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Raleigh or Portland in the Autumn?

Both Portland and Raleigh are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Raleigh for the city's sights and attractions during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Portland because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Raleigh is generally a little warmer than Portland. Daily temperatures in Raleigh average around 61°F (16°C), and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Raleigh. Raleigh usually receives more sunshine than Portland during autumn. Raleigh gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Raleigh usually receives around the same amount of rain as Portland. Raleigh gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Raleigh 61°F (16°C) 
    Portland 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Raleigh or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and Raleigh during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Raleigh because of the museums and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

It's quite cold in Portland in the winter. The weather in Raleigh can be very cold. Raleigh is around the same temperature as Portland in the winter. The daily temperature in Raleigh averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

In the winter, Raleigh often gets more sunshine than Portland. Raleigh gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun.

Portland gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Raleigh usually gets less rain in January than Portland. Raleigh gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Raleigh 40°F (5°C) 
    Portland 40°F (4°C)

Should I visit Raleigh or Portland in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Raleigh and Portland. The activities around the city are the main draw to Raleigh this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Raleigh is a little warmer than Portland. Typically, the spring temperatures in Raleigh in April average around 60°F (16°C), and Portland averages at about 51°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. In Raleigh, it's very sunny this time of the year. Raleigh usually receives more sunshine than Portland during spring. Raleigh gets 251 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Raleigh usually receives more rain than Portland. Raleigh gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Raleigh 60°F (16°C) 
    Portland 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Portland and Raleigh

Raleigh Portland
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 40°F (4°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Feb 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Mar 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 60°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm)
May 68°F (20°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (51 mm)
Jun 76°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 68°F (20°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 4.9 inches (125 mm) 69°F (20°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Sep 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Oct 61°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Nov 53°F (11°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 46°F (8°C) 5.4 inches (136 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 40°F (5°C) 6.1 inches (156 mm)