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

North America / Comparisons /
Jump to  down-arrow

Should you visit Washington or Houston?

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 Washington and Houston can help you decide which place is right for you.

Washington

Washington is a active, monument-filled, and international city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Houston

Houston is a sprawling, southern, and one-of-a-kind city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Washington and Houston: Pros and Cons

Washington
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Houston
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Big city activities
Cons
  • Less popular for food
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


How is Washington different from Houston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Washington or Houston Better for Museums and Historical Sights?

Washington
Houston

Spend time exploring the sights and museums in either Washington or Houston.

Travelers visit Washington from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Houston can be an interesting and educational experience. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area.


Is Washington or Houston Better for Food?

Washington
Houston

Foodies will appreciated the dining options available in Washington a bit more than Houston.

Washington has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. You can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here, so it's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Houston. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods.

Is Washington or Houston Better for Nightlife?

Washington
Houston

The vibe at night is comparable in Washington and Houston.

Many people head to Washington for the nightlife scene. Head into Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington to enjoy some of the area's best nightlife.

Houston has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life.

Is Washington or Houston Better for Music?

Washington
Houston

Washington and Houston are both destinations where visitors can find live music.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Washington. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

The music scene helps keep Houston active and fun. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Is Washington or Houston Better for Shopping?

Washington
Houston

If you're looking to go shopping, Washington and Houston both offer plenty of spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Washington. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping.

Houston offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.


Is Washington or Houston Better for Families?

Washington
Houston

You'll find kid-friendly activities in either Washington or Houston.

Washington is a very family-friendly destination. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world.

Houston is a family-friendly place to visit. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center.

Is Washington or Houston Better for Public Transit?

Washington
Houston

Washington has better public transit to get you around.

With a huge network, the transit system in Washington can get you around easily. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

Public transit is generally limited in Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail.

Is Washington or Houston a more walkable city?

Washington
Houston

Washington is generally more walkable than Houston.

Washington is a very easy city to get around on foot. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

Houston is generally not very walkable. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights.

Should I spend more time in Houston or Washington?

How long in Washington or Houston?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Washington and Houston. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Washington than Houston.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Washington is 3-7 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Houston is 2-3 days.


  • How many days in Washington or Houston? Ideal Length of Stay
    Washington 3-7 
    Houston 2-3

One day in Washington or Houston?

Because Washington is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With live music and food around the one-of-a-kind city of Houston, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Washington or Houston?

Because Washington is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

With food and shopping around the big city destination of Houston, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Washington or Houston?

Washington is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Washington has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Houston, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Washington or Houston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Washington. Because Washington is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Houston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Which city is cheaper, Houston or Washington?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Washington is $155, while the average daily cost in Houston is $210. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Washington and Houston in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Washington $91
    Houston $113
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Washington $182
    Houston $226
Compare Hotels in Washington and Houston

Looking for a hotel in Washington or Houston? 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 Washington


Hotels in Houston


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: Washington Hotel Prices and Houston Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Washington $37
    Houston $58
Typical Local Transportation prices in Washington

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Washington are as follows:


  • Metro Day Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Washington

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

  • Airport Transfer to and from Dulles International IAD Airport: $160
  • BWI Airport: Transfer to Baltimore or Washington DC: $200
  • DCA Private 1-Way Transfer from D.C. City Center Hotels: $97
  • DCA to D.C. City Center Hotels: 1-Way Private Transfer: $102
  • Departure Private Transfers : Washington to Dulles Airport IAD in Business Car: $118
  • Departure Private Transfers : Washington to Dulles Airport IAD in Luxury SUV: $154
  • Departure Private Transfers : Washington to Dulles Airport IAD in Luxury Van: $154
  • Departure Private Transfers: Washington to Baltimore Airport BWI in Business Car: $119
  • Departure Private Transfers: Washington to Baltimore Airport BWI in Luxury SUV: $151
  • Departure Private Transfers: Washington to Baltimore Airport BWI in Luxury Van: $159
  • Departure Private Transfers: Washington to National Airport DCA in Business Car: $72
  • Departure Private Transfers: Washington to National Airport DCA in Luxury SUV: $78

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Houston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Houston:

  • Private Transfer: Houston International Airport (HOU) to Houston: $622
  • Private Transfer: Houston to Houston International Airport (HOU): $622
  • Low Cost Private Transfer From George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport to Houston City - One Way: $471
  • Sprinter Van IAH Transfer to Galveston: $462
  • Galveston Private Transfer - Houston Airport to Galveston Port/Hotel: $408
  • Sprinter Van Airport Transfer in Houston: $320
  • SUV Airport Transfer to Galveston: $299
  • Sedan Airport Transfer IAH to Galveston: $256
  • Departure Private Transfer Houston City to Houston Airport HOU by Minibus: $200
  • Arrival Private Transfer Houston Airport HOU to Houston City by Sprinter Minibus: $200
  • Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) to Houston - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $187
  • Arrival Private Transfer Houston George Bush Airport IAH to Houston by Minibus: $175

Is it cheaper to fly into Washington or Houston?

Prices for flights to both Houston and Washington 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
    Washington $30
    Houston $28
Typical Food prices in Washington

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


  • Water
    $2.00
  • Snacks on Monuments Tour
    $6.15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Washington

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

  • Seattle: Pike Place Market Plant-Based Food Tour: $64
  • Washington D.C.: 3.5-Hour Georgetown Food Tour: $65
  • Washington DC: 3-Hour Italian Food Tour: $65
  • Washington DC Food Tour: Italian Cuisine in Dupont Circle: $65
  • Washington, DC: The Original Brew Tour with Tasting & Dinner: $70
  • Adams Morgan Food Tour: $76
  • Washington DC: Private Food Tour Experience: $79
  • Capitol Hill Walking Food Tour: $79
  • U Street Neighborhood Food Tour: $99
  • Washington DC Odyssey Dinner Cruise: $100
  • Private French Cooking Class with an Expert in the Heart of Washington DC: $108
  • Washington, DC 3-Hour Dinner Buffet Cruise: $122

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Houston

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

  • Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access: $65
  • Downtown Houston Food Tour: $74
  • The Heights Food Tour: $74
  • Culinary Food Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access: $77

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Washington $19
    Houston $11

Tours and Activities in Washington

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

  • Tidal Basin: Stroll around the cherry blossoms and monuments on an audio tour: $5.00
  • The National Mall: Discover the monuments and their memories on an audio tour: $5.00
  • Lincoln's Assassination: Explore Lincoln's final day on this audio walking tour: $5.55
  • The Kennedy Homes: Explore the colonial architecture on this audio walking tour: $5.55
  • Washington DC Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Washington DC Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Virtual Tour of Martin Luther King Memorial: $18
  • Virtual Tour African American Heritage in Washington DC: $19
  • Washington, DC: US Capitol Building Entry with 1-Hour Tour: $20
  • City Sightseeing Chester Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour: $21
  • DC Ghost Tour: $24
  • Advance Tickets to Washington, D.C.'s Newseum: $24

Tours and Activities in Houston

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

  • 1-Day Houston City Tour ( Houston departure ) (HU1): $60
  • 1-Day Mexico Gulf+NASA Tour (Houston departure) (X1): $60
  • 2-Day Austin+San Antonio Tour (Huston departure)(HS2): $198
  • 2-Days New Orleans Tour (Houston departure)(HN2): $238
  • 3D Printer Factory Tour plus 2 ft Tall Rocket!: $31
  • 7-Day Texas Tour ( Houston departure ) ( APH7 ): $788
  • Astroville Light Rail Train Tour of Houston with Tunnel Access: $40
  • Astroville Rockets Basketball Game Day Tour with Tunnel Access: $36
  • Astroville Underground Tunnel Tour of Downtown Houston: $26
  • Astroville Weekend Downtown Houston Tour With Tunnel Access: $35
  • Audi R8 Supercar Experience at Grandsport Speedway: $435
  • Best City Tour 2 hours: $51

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Washington $15
    Houston $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Washington

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Washington:

  • Epic Washington DC Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • Haunted Washington D.C. Ghost and Pub Walking Tour: $27
  • Washington DC: Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $34
  • DC: 'New York Times Journeys' Walking Tour with Beer, Cheese and Wine Tasting: $120
  • Seattle All-Inclusive: Hike Mt. Rainier and Wine Tasting: $278
  • NOVA Private Custom Wine Tours & Tasting from DMV: $645
  • 6 Hours Northern VA Wine Tour: $920

Sample the Local Flavors in Houston

Also in Houston, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Skip the Line: Distillery Tour Ticket: $21
  • Haunted Houston Ghost and Pub Walking Tour: $27
  • Brewery Tour: $53
  • Astroville Downtown Bar Crawl & Tunnel Access (2 Cocktails Beverages Included): $58
  • SUV St. Arnold Brewery Tour: $487

About these numbers

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


When is the best time to visit Washington or Houston?

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 Washington or Houston in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Washington is around the same temperature as Houston. Typically, the summer temperatures in Washington in July are around 79°F (26°C), and Houston is about 84°F (29°C).

It's quite rainy in Houston. Washington usually gets less rain in July than Houston. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Houston receives 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Washington 79°F (26°C) 
    Houston 84°F (29°C)

Should I visit Washington or Houston in the Autumn?

Both Houston and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Washington 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 Houston because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Washington is generally cooler than Houston. Temperatures in Washington average around 60°F (15°C), and Houston stays around 71°F (22°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Houston. In October, Washington usually receives less rain than Houston. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Houston receives 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Washington 60°F (15°C) 
    Houston 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Washington or Houston in the Winter?

Both Houston and Washington during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Washington because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Houston this time of year.

The weather in Washington can be very cold. Washington is much colder than Houston in the winter. The temperature in Washington is usually 35°F (1°C) in January, and Houston stays around 52°F (11°C).

Washington usually gets less rain in January than Houston. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Houston receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Washington 35°F (1°C) 
    Houston 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Washington or Houston in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Houston. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Washington this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Houston for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Washington is much colder than Houston. Typically, the spring temperatures in Washington in April are around 56°F (14°C), and Houston is about 70°F (21°C).

In April, Washington usually receives less rain than Houston. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Houston receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Washington 56°F (14°C) 
    Houston 70°F (21°C)

Typical Weather for Houston and Washington

Washington Houston
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Feb 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 76°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Jun 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 81°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 84°F (29°C) 4.8 inches (122 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 83°F (29°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)
Sep 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm)
Oct 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 71°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Dec 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)


Budget Your Trip

Budget Your Trip has average travel costs for thousands of cities around the world, all provided by other travelers. You can also register to organize your spending by category and location with graphs, maps, charts, and tables.
Sign Up

More City Comparisons
Washington vs. Clearwater
Washington vs. Fort Lauderdale
Washington vs. Gainesville
Washington vs. Jacksonville
Washington vs. Miami
Washington vs. Orlando
Washington vs. Saint Petersburg
Washington vs. Tallahassee
Washington vs. Tampa
Washington vs. Atlanta
Washington vs. Savannah
Washington vs. New Orleans
Washington vs. Baltimore
Washington vs. Kansas City
Washington vs. Saint Louis
Washington vs. Asheville
Washington vs. Charlotte
Washington vs. Durham
Washington vs. Greensboro
Washington vs. Raleigh
Washington vs. Winston-Salem
Washington vs. Cincinnati
Washington vs. Columbus
Washington vs. Dayton
Washington vs. Philadelphia
Washington vs. Charleston
Washington vs. Columbia
Washington vs. Chattanooga
Share This Page
Pin This Page
Washington vs. Houston Travel Comparison

Some of the links on this website are sponsored or affiliate links which help to financially support this site. By clicking the link and making a purchase, we may receive a small commission, but this does not affect the price of your purchase.