A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Petersburg vs. Anchorage for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Petersburg or Anchorage?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Saint Petersburg and Anchorage can help you decide which place is right for you.

Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a relaxed, fun-filled, and underrated coastal city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Anchorage

Anchorage is a outdoorsy, scenic, and breathtaking city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking.

Saint Petersburg and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Saint Petersburg or Anchorage?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Saint Petersburg. Although Saint Petersburg and Anchorage are both popular with visitors, Saint Petersburg has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Saint Petersburg is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, and beaches, while Anchorage is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Saint Petersburg is popular for its warm weather, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities. It is also home to St. Pete Beach. Anchorage is popular for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture.

How is Saint Petersburg different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Petersburg or Anchorage?

Saint Petersburg
Anchorage

Saint Petersburg is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Saint Petersburg. There are a variety of history, science, and art museums in the area. The Dalí Museum, Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, The Florida Holocaust Museum, and Imagine Museum of Contemporary Glass Art are some of the favorites.

Anchorage offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. While most people visit for the outdoor experiences, there are a few museums where you can learn about the local culture and wildlife. Popular museums include the the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center, the Alaska Aviation Museum, and the Alaska Museum of Science and Nature.


Is the Food Better in Saint Petersburg or Anchorage? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Petersburg
Anchorage

Saint Petersburg is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Saint Petersburg makes for a great culinary experience. It's location on the Gulf Coast means that seafood is everywhere. You'll enjoy fresh oysters, fried calamari, grilled fish, and fried shrimp on many menus. Casual restaurants and local eateries are common around town.

Anchorage has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Food is expensive in town, but there are some unique local specialties that you must try. Many restaurants offer fresh seafood and local meats. Favorites include yak meat, king crab, and fresh oysters.

Is Saint Petersburg or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Saint Petersburg
Anchorage

Saint Petersburg is a coastal city with good options for nightlife. However, Anchorage is not a good city for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Saint Petersburg. There are beachside bars, rooftop restaurants, and dance clubs around town for those looking for a night out.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Anchorage. The town's nightlife mostly consists of local bars where you can hang out. Check out Koot's, which is a longstanding favorite.

Is Saint Petersburg or Anchorage Better for Resorts?

Saint Petersburg
Anchorage

Saint Petersburg is a coastal city with good options for its resorts. However, Anchorage is not a resort destination.

Saint Petersburg has a handful of resorts to choose from. You'll find most of the resorts near the beach. Many have pools and they range in style and budget level.

Anchorage is not a resort destination.


Is Saint Petersburg or Anchorage Better for Beaches?

Saint Petersburg
Anchorage

Saint Petersburg is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Anchorage is not a beach destination.

Saint Petersburg is considered to be a world-class beach destination. You'll find great sandy beaches with calm blue water and a relaxed atmosphere. Some of the best beaches include Egmont Key, Fort DeSoto Beach, Maximo Beach, and St. Pete's Municipal Beach.

Anchorage is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Petersburg or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Saint Petersburg
Anchorage

Anchorage is terrific for hiking. However, Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Anchorage specifically for its hiking. The town is surrounded by wilderness and it's not hard to escape into nature. You can choose between short walks, long day trips, and multi-day treks, with everything in between available as well. There are more than 300 miles of hiking trails near town and several favorites include Byron Glacier Trail, Thunderbird Falls Trail, and Flattop Mountain.

Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Petersburg or Anchorage?

Saint Petersburg
Anchorage

If you're looking to go shopping, Saint Petersburg and Anchorage both offer plenty of good spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Saint Petersburg. You'll find plenty of shopping malls and shopping centers around town. Along the boardwalk and in John's Pass Village there are also restaurants and souvenir stores.

Anchorage offers some nice shopping areas. There are plenty of local gift shops and boutiques where you can pick up local Alaskan crafts and products. There's no sales tax, but prices can still be a bit steep. But if you're looking for something uniquely local to remember your trip, you don't have to look hard.


Is Saint Petersburg or Anchorage Better for Families?

Saint Petersburg
Anchorage

Saint Petersburg is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Saint Petersburg is a very family-friendly place to visit. The beaches, waterparks, nature reserves, and entertainment centers all offer plenty of activities for families. There are plenty of places to play, laugh, and act silly around town so the whole family can have a good time. There's also the Great Explorations Children’s Museum and other educational opportunities for the young ones.

Anchorage is a family-friendly coastal city. Kids who appreciate nature will appreciate this unique setting. Everyone will enjoy a glacier cruise, but you can hang out with the locals in Westchester Lagoon, see the animals at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and learn about the area at the Anchorage Museum.

Is Saint Petersburg or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Saint Petersburg
Anchorage

Both Saint Petersburg and Anchorage are superb destinations to visit as a couple.

Saint Petersburg is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. There are sunset cruises, long sandy beaches, nice restaurants, and many other romantic activities around town. You can wander down the boardwalk or enjoy nature at the gardens and nature parks around town.

Anchorage is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city makes a good base for couples who want to explore the surrounding beauty. The landscapes make a beautiful backdrop for a romantic trip, and the adventure activities will make for an unforgettable experience. There are plenty of outdoor activities and adventure sports that couples can enjoy together and the beauty of the region is breathtaking.

Is Saint Petersburg or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saint Petersburg
Anchorage

Anchorage is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for backpackers.

Anchorage is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few good budget places to stay, and backpackers will also have plenty of outdoor wilderness to explore near town. It's important to remember that Alaska is known for its challenging wilderness so, unless you're experienced, you should take a guide.

Saint Petersburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the list for many backpackers, but budget travelers will appreciate the affordable accommodation around town.


Is Saint Petersburg or Anchorage Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saint Petersburg
Anchorage

Saint Petersburg is a moderate coastal city for its public transit. However, Anchorage is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Saint Petersburg. There's a bus system, but most people rely on their own car to get around.

Public transit is quite limited in Anchorage. There is the People Mover bus system that transports riders around town, but to truly experience the region, you must have a car.

Is Saint Petersburg or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Saint Petersburg
Anchorage

Saint Petersburg and Anchorage are decent when it comes to walkability.

Saint Petersburg is generally not a very walkable coastal city. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, but you really need a car to access most places.

Anchorage is generally not very walkable. The downtown area is compact so you can wander to the nearby shops and restaurants on foot, but most people visit with the goal of exploring outside of town. For that you need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint Petersburg Worth Visiting? and Is Anchorage Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Saint Petersburg?

How long in Saint Petersburg or Anchorage?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saint Petersburg and Anchorage. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Saint Petersburg than in Anchorage. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Petersburg, and 1-3 days is enough time in Anchorage.

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

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


  • How many days in Saint Petersburg or Anchorage? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Petersburg 2-4 
    Anchorage 1-3

One day in Saint Petersburg or Anchorage?

You'll find shopping and museums around the coastal city of Saint Petersburg. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find museums and food around the outdoorsy destination of Anchorage. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.


A weekend in Saint Petersburg or Anchorage?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fun-filled destination of Saint Petersburg. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find food and shopping around the scenic city of Anchorage. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the hiking. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Saint Petersburg or Anchorage?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the relaxed coastal city of Saint Petersburg. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Anchorage is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

A week in Saint Petersburg or Anchorage?

Saint Petersburg is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Anchorage is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Anchorage or Saint Petersburg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Petersburg is $204, while the average daily cost in Anchorage is $191. 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 Saint Petersburg and Anchorage in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Petersburg $127
    Anchorage $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Petersburg $254
    Anchorage $234
Compare Hotels in Saint Petersburg and Anchorage

Looking for a hotel in Saint Petersburg or Anchorage? 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 Saint Petersburg


Hotels in Anchorage


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: Saint Petersburg Hotel Prices and Anchorage Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Petersburg $47
    Anchorage $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Anchorage

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Anchorage:

  • SUV-Private Transfer, Anchorage to Whittier Cruise Ship Terminal: $299
  • SUV-Private Transfer, Anchorage to Seward Cruise Ship Terminal: $299
  • SUV-Private Transfer, Whittier Cruise ship to Anchorage: $299
  • Private Transfer Anchorage Airport (ANC) to Whittier Cruise Port: $232
  • Anchorage to Seward- Pre-Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $219
  • Seward to Anchorage- Post Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $197
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Anchorage Airport (ANC): $62
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Anchorage Airport ANC: $62

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Petersburg or Anchorage?

Prices for flights to both Anchorage and Saint Petersburg 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
    Saint Petersburg $49
    Anchorage $50
Typical Food Prices in Saint Petersburg

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


  • Burger Dinner (for 2)
    $20
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $37
  • Gelato (for 2)
    $8.00
  • Breakfast at Piper's Patio (for 2)
    $17

Typical Food Prices in Anchorage

Some typical examples of dining costs in Anchorage are as follows:


  • Bread
    $4.25
  • Breakfast for Two
    $17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Anchorage

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

  • City of Anchorage SIGHTSEEING & FOOD Tour: $190

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Petersburg $13
    Anchorage $30

Typical Entertainment Prices in Anchorage

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Anchorage are as follows:


  • 1 Day Bike Rental
    $33
  • 1/2 Day Rafting Trip
    $105

Tours and Activities in Anchorage

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Anchorage are as follows:

  • Adventurers Ready To Jump Into the Void Alaska Style Wanted: $39
  • Private Mat-Su Valley, Hatcher Pass & Local Wildlife Tour: $199
  • Spenard Neighborhood FOOD & TRUE CRIME Walking Tour: $150
  • 26 Glacier Tour, Self-Drive from Anchorage, AK: $226
  • 3 Hour Ladies Only Kayak Tour in Knik River: $130
  • Advanced Snowshoeing Adventure: $238
  • Afternoon Wilderness, Wildlife, Glacier Experience from Anchorage: $199
  • Alaska 9 Day Ocean Wildlife to Interior Wilderness Adventure: $6,999
  • Alaska Wildlife Day Tour with Free Hotel Pickup: $115
  • Alaska Wildlife Tour: $110
  • Alaska's Most Scenic E-Bike Adventure: $224
  • Alyeska Tram - A Self-Guided Tour: $99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Petersburg $41
    Anchorage $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Anchorage

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Anchorage:

  • Chocolate and Wine Tasting Tour: $109
  • Half-Day Anchorage Craft Brewery Tour and Tastings: $179
  • Guided Tour on Matanuska Glacier w/Alaska Honey & Wine Tasting: $285


When comparing the travel costs between Saint Petersburg and Anchorage, we can see that Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg Expensive? and Is Anchorage Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint Petersburg or Anchorage?

Anchorage has a larger population, and is about 6% larger than the population of Saint Petersburg. When comparing the sizes of Saint Petersburg and Anchorage, 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 Saint Petersburg or Anchorage?

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 Saint Petersburg or Anchorage in the Summer?

Both Anchorage and Saint Petersburg during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Saint Petersburg for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Anchorage in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Saint Petersburg is much warmer than Anchorage in the summer. The daily temperature in Saint Petersburg averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Anchorage fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

In Anchorage, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saint Petersburg. In the summer, Saint Petersburg often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Saint Petersburg gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 240 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Saint Petersburg. Saint Petersburg usually gets more rain in July than Anchorage. Saint Petersburg gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Petersburg 82°F (28°C) 
    Anchorage 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Anchorage in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Petersburg and Anchorage. Many visitors come to Saint Petersburg in the autumn for the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Anchorage for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Anchorage can be very cold during autumn. In the autumn, Saint Petersburg is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint Petersburg in October average around 76°F (24°C), and Anchorage averages at about 35°F (2°C).

In Saint Petersburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Petersburg usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during autumn. Saint Petersburg gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 118 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saint Petersburg usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Saint Petersburg gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Saint Petersburg is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Petersburg 76°F (24°C) 
    Anchorage 35°F (2°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Anchorage in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Saint Petersburg as well as Anchorage. Most visitors come to Saint Petersburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Anchorage because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Anchorage can be very cold. In January, Saint Petersburg is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Saint Petersburg average around 59°F (15°C), and Anchorage fluctuates around 15°F (-9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Petersburg this time of the year. In the winter, Saint Petersburg often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Saint Petersburg gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 80 hours of full sun.

Saint Petersburg usually gets more rain in January than Anchorage. Saint Petersburg gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Petersburg 59°F (15°C) 
    Anchorage 15°F (-9°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Anchorage in the Spring?

Both Anchorage and Saint Petersburg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Saint Petersburg because of the beaches. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Anchorage this time of year.

It's quite cold in Anchorage in the spring. Saint Petersburg is much warmer than Anchorage in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint Petersburg averages around 73°F (23°C) in April, and Anchorage fluctuates around 36°F (2°C).

It's quite sunny in Anchorage. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Petersburg. Saint Petersburg usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during spring. Saint Petersburg gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 233 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saint Petersburg usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Saint Petersburg gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Saint Petersburg is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Petersburg 73°F (23°C) 
    Anchorage 36°F (2°C)

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg Anchorage
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 59°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 15°F (-9°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Feb 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 67°F (20°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Apr 73°F (23°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
May 78°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 47°F (8°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 55°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 49°F (9°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Oct 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 35°F (2°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
Nov 69°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 22°F (-6°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 17°F (-8°C) 1.1 inches (28 mm)