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

Should you visit Wilmington or Berkeley?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Wilmington or Berkeley, 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.

Wilmington

Wilmington is a welcoming, charming, and historic city. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a quirky, progressive, and diverse city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Wilmington and Berkeley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Wilmington or Berkeley?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Wilmington than Berkeley, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Wilmington is better known for its beaches and historical sights, while Berkeley is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty. Berkeley is more touristy than Wilmington and is popular for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques. Wilmington is well known for its laid back beaches, historical waterfront area, and university setting. Also, Wilmington is famous for the Battleship North Carolina.

How is Wilmington different from Berkeley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Wilmington or Berkeley?

Wilmington
Berkeley

Berkeley is great for its historical sights. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Berkeley can be an interesting and educational experience. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.

Wilmington offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are art, history, and science museums around town. The Battleship North Carolina is a popular destination. Science enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science or the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. For art, head to the Cameron Art Museum or Art in Bloom Gallery.


Is the Food Better in Wilmington or Berkeley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Wilmington
Berkeley

Berkeley is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Berkeley. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Wilmington. Head to the waterfront for local seafood restaurants that offer outdoor seating and fresh caught fish. There are also farm-to-table restaurants and local diners with casual food.

Is Wilmington or Berkeley Better for Nightlife?

Wilmington
Berkeley

Berkeley is great for nightlife. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Berkeley for the nightlife scene. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Wilmington. Live music is popular around town. There are also bars, lounges and dance clubs. When the weather is warm, many places make use of the outdoor setting, which makes for a relaxed and fun evening.

Is Wilmington or Berkeley Better for Beaches?

Wilmington
Berkeley

Wilmington is notable for the beach. However, Berkeley is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Wilmington. Nearby you'll find Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They have long stretches of sand and great waves. The water is usually warm enough for swimming between the months of April and October. During these peak months parking can be challenging, but during the quieter times, you shouldn't have trouble.

Berkeley is not a beach destination.


Is Wilmington or Berkeley Better for its Old Town?

Wilmington
Berkeley

Wilmington is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Berkeley does not have a historic old town.

Wilmington offers a nice historic old town area. The Historic District is along the waterfront and has 18th and 19th century architecture. There are also great restaurants and interesting shops.

Berkeley does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Wilmington or Berkeley?

Wilmington
Berkeley

Berkeley is great for shopping. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Berkeley. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Wilmington offers some nice shopping areas. Head downtown for the most interesting local shops. You'll find boutiques and souvenir shops where you can pick up art, accessories, or antiques.

Is Wilmington or Berkeley Better for Families?

Wilmington
Berkeley

Wilmington is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Wilmington is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Near town you'll find several beaches - Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They're all family-friendly and perfect for a day's activity. The city also has the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, the Children's Museum of Wilmington, and the Wilmington Railroad Museum. For a rainy day there are also indoor play areas and entertainment centers.

Berkeley is a family-friendly city. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.


Is Wilmington or Berkeley Better for Couples?

Wilmington
Berkeley

Wilmington is notable for couples. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Wilmington is a very popular place to visit for couples. The beaches are great for a relaxing day of swimming and sunbathing. In the evening head into town and enjoy one of the local seafood restaurants on the waterfront. You'll also find great shopping and historical sights in the area.

Berkeley is a nice destination for couples. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.

Is Wilmington or Berkeley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Wilmington
Berkeley

Berkeley is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Wilmington is not a good destination for backpackers.

Berkeley is very popular with the backpacker crowd. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.

Wilmington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, the university and great beaches make this a surprisingly fun destination.

Is Wilmington or Berkeley Better for Students?

Wilmington
Berkeley

Berkeley is great for its student-friendly activities. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Berkeley is a great city to visit as a student. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for students.

Wilmington is a good city to visit for students. The University of North Carolina at Wilmington is a popular school that brings many students to town.


Is Wilmington or Berkeley Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Wilmington
Berkeley

Berkeley is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Wilmington is not a good destination for its public transit.

Berkeley has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

Public transit is generally limited in Wilmington. There are public buses around town, but for practical reasons, you'll want to have your own vehicle.

Is Wilmington or Berkeley a more walkable city?

Wilmington
Berkeley

Berkeley is a must-visit destination for its walkability. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Berkeley is a very easy city to get around on foot. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

Wilmington is a somewhat walkable place. The Historic District is best explored on foot. You can also get around Wrightsville Beach on foot, but traveling between these places requires a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Wilmington Worth Visiting? and Is Berkeley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Berkeley or Wilmington?

How long in Wilmington or Berkeley?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Wilmington and Berkeley. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Wilmington than in Berkeley. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Wilmington, and 2-3 days is enough time in Berkeley.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berkeley than Wilmington 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 Berkeley.


  • How many days in Wilmington or Berkeley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Wilmington 2-5 
    Berkeley 2-3

One day in Wilmington or Berkeley?

The city of Wilmington offers food and shopping. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

With museums and nightlife around the quirky city of Berkeley, 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 Wilmington or Berkeley?

Wilmington 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. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Wilmington, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Berkeley, 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 Wilmington or Berkeley?

Wilmington is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Wilmington, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Berkeley, 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 Wilmington or Berkeley?

Wilmington is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

Berkeley 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.


Which place is cheaper, Berkeley or Wilmington?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Wilmington is $204, while the average daily cost in Berkeley is $190. 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 Wilmington and Berkeley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Wilmington $120
    Berkeley $131
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Wilmington $240
    Berkeley $262
Compare Hotels in Wilmington and Berkeley

Looking for a hotel in Wilmington or Berkeley? 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 Wilmington


Hotels in Berkeley


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: Wilmington Hotel Prices and Berkeley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Wilmington $47
    Berkeley $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berkeley

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Berkeley:

  • Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK to San Francisco by SUV: $232
  • Private Transfer: Oakland International Airport to Hotel: $200
  • Private Departure Transfer to Oakland Airport OAK: $97
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland: $93
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $88
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco hotel/address - Private Arrival Transfer: $64
  • Oakland hotel or address to Oakland Airport (OAK) - Departure Private Transfer: $44

Is it cheaper to fly into Wilmington or Berkeley?

Prices for flights to both Berkeley and Wilmington 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
    Wilmington $56
    Berkeley $36

Typical Food Prices in Berkeley

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


  • Chocolates at Sweet Dreams
    $4.46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Berkeley

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

  • North 3-Hour Food Tour: $116
  • Best of North Berkeley Food Tour: $130
  • Black Food Tour - Downtown Oakland: $130

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Wilmington $17
    Berkeley $30

Tours and Activities in Wilmington

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

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Wilmington Pirate Walking Tour: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Wilmington by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Eagles Island 50 minute Narrated Boat Cruise: $21
  • History and Architecture Walking Tour : $25
  • Wilmington History and Architecture Tour: $25
  • Ghosts of the Port City Haunted Walking Tour: $26
  • Craft Beer and History Crawl Shared Experience in Wilmington: $30
  • Wilmington Ghosts: Phantoms of Pirates and Patriots Tour: $33
  • Black Water Adventure Cruise: $33
  • Trolley Pub Public Tour: $49
  • Island Hopper Cruise in Wrightsville Beach: $50

Tours and Activities in Berkeley

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

  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Berkeley: $20
  • Classic Sausalito Wooden Boat Tour: $135
  • Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn Show Tickets: $20
  • Historic Houseboat Tour: $65
  • Oakland Athletics Baseball Game Ticket at RingCentral Coliseum: $14
  • Oakland's Temescal Tastes Tour: $120
  • Redwoods of Marin and Mt. Tamalpais Walking Tour with Local Guide: $59
  • Ruth Bancroft Garden General Admission Ticket: $12
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Berkeley by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Self-Guided Oakland Tour in an Urban Excursion: $20
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Antioch by Zombie Scavengers: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Wilmington $39
    Berkeley $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Wilmington

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Wilmington:

  • 2-Hour Wilmington E-Bike Bar Crawl: $55
  • 2-Hour Wilmington E-Bike Bar Crawl: $55

Sample the Local Flavors in Berkeley

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

  • Guided Wine Tasting at Berkeley Wineries with Local Sommelière : $175
  • Guided Wine Tasting with Local Sommelière: $175


When comparing the travel costs between Wilmington and Berkeley, we can see that Wilmington 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 Wilmington Expensive? and Is Berkeley Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Wilmington or Berkeley?

Berkeley has a larger population, and is about 8% larger than the population of Wilmington. When comparing the sizes of Wilmington and Berkeley, 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 Wilmington or Berkeley?

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 Wilmington or Berkeley in the Summer?

Both Berkeley and Wilmington during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Wilmington because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Berkeley this time of year.

In July, Wilmington is generally much warmer than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Wilmington average around 81°F (27°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Wilmington. Wilmington usually gets more rain in July than Berkeley. Wilmington gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Wilmington 81°F (27°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Wilmington or Berkeley in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Wilmington and Berkeley. The shopping scene are the main draw to Wilmington this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Berkeley for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Wilmington is around the same temperature as Berkeley in the autumn. The daily temperature in Wilmington averages around 65°F (18°C) in October, and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

In October, Wilmington usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Wilmington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Wilmington 65°F (18°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Wilmington or Berkeley in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Wilmington as well as Berkeley. Many travelers come to Wilmington for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Berkeley in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Wilmington is cooler than Berkeley. Typically, the winter temperatures in Wilmington in January average around 45°F (7°C), and Berkeley averages at about 50°F (10°C).

Wilmington usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Berkeley. Wilmington gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Wilmington 45°F (7°C) 
    Berkeley 50°F (10°C)

Should I visit Wilmington or Berkeley in the Spring?

Both Berkeley and Wilmington are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Wilmington in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Berkeley for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Wilmington is generally a little warmer than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Wilmington average around 63°F (17°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

In April, Wilmington usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Wilmington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Wilmington 63°F (17°C) 
    Berkeley 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Berkeley and Wilmington

Wilmington Berkeley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 45°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 47°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 55°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 63°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 58°F (14°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm) 63°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 75°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 65°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 56°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)