A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America San Francisco vs. Fairbanks for Attractions, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit San Francisco or Fairbanks?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between San Francisco or Fairbanks, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a outdoorsy, quirky, and eccentric coastal city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and beaches.

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a unique, outdoorsy, and remote city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, hiking, and shopping.

San Francisco and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Francisco or Fairbanks?

Travelers will usually find more to do in San Francisco. Although San Francisco and Fairbanks are popular destinations, San Francisco has more sights and attractions for tourists. San Francisco is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Fairbanks attracts visitors for its skiing. San Francisco is more touristy than Fairbanks and is known for its striking bayfront setting, stunning urban hikes, quirky personality, and reputation within the tech industry. It is also well known for The Golden Gate Bridge. Fairbanks is famous for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights.

How is San Francisco different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is San Francisco or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Fairbanks is adequate for skiing. However, San Francisco is not a skiing destination.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Fairbanks for snow skiing. The closest ski areas are the ski resorts of Fort Wainwright/Birch Hill, Moose Mountain and Skiland. The area also has dog mushing, snowshoeing, sledding, tubing and sleigh riding.

San Francisco is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Francisco or Fairbanks?

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, San Francisco has many famous sights for visitors. The city's landmarks are as diverse as the people who live there. The most recognizable landmark is the famous Golden Gate Bridge, but visitors also enjoy seeing Alcatraz Island, the Legion of Honor, the Palace of Fine Arts, as well as the small but fascinating Cable Car Museum.

Fairbanks is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city is mostly known for its outdoor activities, but you can also visit the Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center, the Aurora Ice Museum, Fountainhead Auto Museum, the Museum of the North, and Pioneer Park.

Is San Francisco or Fairbanks Better for Theater?

San Francisco is a popular place for its shows and theatre. However, Fairbanks is not a theatre destination.

You'll find a nice selection of shows in San Francisco. The city has around a dozen theaters where you can enjoy musicals or plays.

Fairbanks is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in San Francisco or Fairbanks? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its restaurants. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, San Francisco is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are local dives as well as five star restaurants, with everything in between. Popular local dining experiences include sourdough bread bowls and Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf, and dim sum in Chinatown. Head away from the touristy neighborhoods if you want to sample some of the more local restaurants around town.

Fairbanks offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Food can be expensive and of varying quality, but many restaurants use local meats and seafood. There's a surprising number of international restaurants in town as well. Also make sure you try the local specialties like reindeer sausage, Yukon gold potatoes, and Alaskan salmon.

Is San Francisco or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

San Francisco is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in San Francisco. It has a great nightlife with many local bars and trendy clubs. For the best nightlife away from the tourists, head to Valencia Street or Polk Street. If you want to be in a more touristy area, check out Union Square. Popular clubs in the city include Temple San Francisco, Monarch, and Audio Nightclub.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Fairbanks. You will find some bars around town, but for the most part, the city stays quiet at night.

Is San Francisco or Fairbanks Better for Music?

San Francisco is a popular place for its music scene. However, Fairbanks is not a live music destination.

The music scene in San Francisco is active and vibrant. Well known music venues include the Great American Music Hall, Slim's, and The Chapel.

Fairbanks is not a live music destination.

Is San Francisco or Fairbanks Better for Beaches?

San Francisco is a very popular place for the beach. However, Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

San Francisco is considered a top beach destination. Whether you're interested in surfing or simply taking in the dramatic views, the beaches of San Francisco will take your breath away. Some of the best beaches include Ocean Beach, Baker Beach, and Muir Beach.

Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

Is San Francisco or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

People visit San Francisco specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The city's hikes take in the dramatic views of the bay and city. Just outside of town there are also countless hikes through the Redwoods and along the coastline. Popular hikes in the area include Lands End, Tomales Point Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore, and Muir Woods.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Fairbanks. While the town serves as a gateway to the Arctic and all that it has to offer, there are also hiking trails both in town and nearby. There are trails that connect the city's historic sites as well as day hikes that start at the edge of town.

Is the Shopping Better in San Francisco or Fairbanks?

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to San Francisco specifically to go shopping. The city has excellent shopping from local vendors to recognizable brands. Union Square, Embarcadero, Fillmore Street and Haight Street are some of the best neighborhoods for shopping.

Fairbanks is a great destination for shopping. There are interesting local shops and boutiques that sell native Alaskan handmade items. You'll find "Made in Alaska" merchandise at many boutiques and souvenir shops. There are also larger retailers available in case you forgot clothing or other items at home.

Is San Francisco or Fairbanks Better for Families?

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, San Francisco is a very family-friendly destination. With its many outdoor parks, hiking trails, beaches, and kid-friendly museums, this city makes a great family-friendly destination. There are also many amazing playgrounds with stunning views of the bay and city. Head to Chinatown for some unique and kid-friendly food, or down to Pier 39 for fun activities that the whole family can enjoy.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Fairbanks. Kids who enjoy searching for wildlife, playing in the snow, and exploring nature will love a visit to Fairbanks. Make sure you visit the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge as well as Pioneer Park.

Is San Francisco or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

San Francisco is a very popular place for couples. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

San Francisco makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples enjoy the romantic backdrop of this beautiful city. There are world-class restaurants and plenty of spas that couples can enjoy during a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are also many scenic walks and breathtaking views that couples can appreciate.

Fairbanks is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy hiking and nature will love a visit here. If you're hoping to see the northern lights, Fairbanks is your best destination in Alaska. Try to visit sometime between August to April for the best chance of enjoying the lights.

Is San Francisco or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both San Francisco and Fairbanks are very good places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit San Francisco. The city is one of the more backpacker friendly cities in the United States. There are a handful of hostels throughout, many concentrated in the popular Union Square and Downtown neighborhoods of the city.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Fairbanks. There are many outdoor recreation areas where backpackers can explore. Alaska, and Fairbanks in particular, can have very harsh conditions, so unless you know what you're doing, it's best to take a guide.

Is San Francisco or Fairbanks Better for Students?

San Francisco is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Fairbanks is not popular with students.

San Francisco is a very popular coastal city for students and younger travelers. As a large and dynamic city, the area is popular with international students who want to experience this unique side of the United States. Major universities in the area include University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and nearby, the University of California, Berkeley.

Fairbanks is not popular with students.

Is San Francisco or Fairbanks Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit in San Francisco is top-notch. The transit network includes a subway (the BART), trams, cable cars, ferries, and buses.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Fairbanks. There is a public bus system that connects the downtown area with the shopping areas and the university. However, you really can't rely on it to explore the region and you should have your own vehicle.

Is San Francisco or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

San Francisco is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its walkability.

San Francisco is a very walkable destination. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but given the large hills, it's a bit of a challenge, even for the most fit among us.

Fairbanks is not a walkable coastal city. The city was built for cars and there are very few walkable areas around town.

For even more information, also check out Is San Francisco Worth Visiting? and Is Fairbanks Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or San Francisco?

How long in San Francisco or Fairbanks?

It's fun to spend time in either San Francisco or Fairbanks. Generally, people tend to spend more time in San Francisco due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for San Francisco, and 2-4 days is enough time in Fairbanks.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Francisco than Fairbanks 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 San Francisco.

One day in San Francisco or Fairbanks?

People visit San Francisco because there is so much to do. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the remote destination of Fairbanks. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in San Francisco or Fairbanks?

People visit San Francisco because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fairbanks. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in San Francisco or Fairbanks?

People visit San Francisco because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the unique destination of Fairbanks. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

A week in San Francisco or Fairbanks?

San Francisco is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in San Francisco, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find museums and shopping around the beautiful city of Fairbanks. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between San Francisco and Fairbanks, we can see that Fairbanks is more expensive. And not only is San Francisco much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to San Francisco would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in San Francisco 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 Fairbanks would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Fairbanks than you might in San Francisco.

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

Which is Bigger, San Francisco or Fairbanks?

San Francisco has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Fairbanks. When comparing the sizes of San Francisco and Fairbanks, 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 San Francisco or Fairbanks?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit San Francisco or Fairbanks in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both San Francisco and Fairbanks. Many visitors come to San Francisco in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Fairbanks for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

San Francisco is around the same temperature as Fairbanks in the summer. The daily temperature in San Francisco averages around 63°F (17°C) in July, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

In July, San Francisco usually receives less rain than Fairbanks. San Francisco gets 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit San Francisco or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to San Francisco as well as Fairbanks. Most visitors come to San Francisco for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Fairbanks because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

The weather in Fairbanks can be very cold. In the autumn, San Francisco is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the autumn temperatures in San Francisco in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 27°F (-3°C).

San Francisco usually gets more rain in October than Fairbanks. San Francisco gets 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Francisco or Fairbanks in the Winter?

Both Fairbanks and San Francisco are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to San Francisco because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Fairbanks this time of year.

It's quite cold in Fairbanks in the winter. In January, San Francisco is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in San Francisco average around 50°F (10°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around -9°F (-23°C).

In January, San Francisco usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. San Francisco gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit San Francisco or Fairbanks in the Spring?

Both Fairbanks and San Francisco during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to San Francisco this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Fairbanks for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Fairbanks. San Francisco is much warmer than Fairbanks in the spring. The daily temperature in San Francisco averages around 58°F (14°C) in April, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

San Francisco usually gets more rain in April than Fairbanks. San Francisco gets 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and San Francisco