Planning a trip to Jacksonville? This travel cost guide will help you understand what to expect before you go. Our Jacksonville trip cost calculator uses average expenses from thousands of real travelers, including hotel rates, food and dining costs, sightseeing and entertainment prices, and transportation expenses. Jacksonville is an under-rated city known for its beautiful beaches and lively downtown area, and you shouldn't miss out on anything because you did't plan your budget. This guide will help you plan the best trip to Jacksonville and stay within your ideal travel budget, whether you're exploring the museums, eating the delicious cuisine, or enjoying the nightlife.
How much does it cost to travel to Jacksonville?
A typical traveler spends $289 per day on a trip to Jacksonville. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Jacksonville based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $166 on meals
- $53 on local transportation
- $185 on hotels
A one-week trip to Jacksonville for two people costs, on average, $4,046. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from thousands of other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
Is Jacksonville expensive to visit?
In Jacksonville, budget travelers spend $126 per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $289 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $557 per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Jacksonville.
Jacksonville is a smaller place that appeals to a wide spectrum of travelers, featuring different styles, expenditure habits, and budget ranges. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.
Although Jacksonville can be quite pricey if you let it be, you can cut costs by eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Jacksonville is a somewhat more expensive destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in North America for its travel costs. While some cities in the region are more expensive, Jacksonville is generally more expensive than most.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Jacksonville Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Jacksonville?
The average Jacksonville trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Jacksonville travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Jacksonville cost?
Jacksonville on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$40
|
$92
|
$189
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$23
|
$53
|
$102
|
|
Food2
|
$73
|
$166
|
$307
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$8.86
|
$20
|
$39
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$4-13
|
$10-31
|
$20-59
|
Accommodation Budget in Jacksonville
In Jacksonville, hotel prices can be quite surprising. Higher-end hotels offer more amenities and luxury, but come at a higher price tag, especially during the peak spring season. Off-season prices average around $114, but in peak season, they can average around $213. Prices generally range from $83 to $289, and hostels remain the cheaper option. Booking early or traveling during the low season can save you money, and you might find special deals along the way.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Jacksonville for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $185. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $92 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Jacksonville? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Jacksonville include:
- Riverdale Inn - Jacksonville starting at $176
- Sheraton Jacksonville Hotel starting at $173
- Aloft Jacksonville Tapestry Park starting at $167
- Residence Inn by Marriott Jacksonville South Bartram Park starting at $162
- Hotel Indigo Jacksonville-Deerwood Park starting at $151
Jacksonville has a good public transit that lets you stay outside the city to save on accommodations. But you'll likely end up spending more time and money on transportation.
By avoiding the peak spring season and traveling during the low or shoulder seasons, you will be able to save on accommodation and avoid heavy tourist crowds.
Transportation Budget in Jacksonville
Jacksonville has a solid public transit system that covers many major attractions. The public transportation system includes trolleys, the Skyway, buses, water taxis, and the ferry. If you're looking to save time and money, public transit is a great choice as long as it's close to your destination. Taxis and rideshares are also available throughout town.
Jacksonville offers a fairly walkable experience in some areas, simplifying your sightseeing adventures. Downtown Jacksonville is the most walkable part of the city.
Public Transit: 
(good)
Walkability: (good)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $53 per person, per day, on local transportation in Jacksonville. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Jacksonville is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$53
While Jacksonville is a pedestrian city, the town also provides alternative methods as well. Visitors can rent a car from Jacksonville International Airport or throughout Jacksonville or make use of the more than 30 JTA bus routes the city has available. If you are looking to take advantage of the brilliant river within Jacksonville, the St. John's Ferry takes a break from the busy highways to retire to the blissful streams. This ferry carries passenger and cars between Mayport and Ft. George Island. The Jacksonville River Taxi also works as a convenient method of transportation for both sides of the St. Johns River. The river taxi is probably one of the easiest ways to get where you need to go all while enjoying the golden skyline of Jacksonville.
Be sure your hotel has hassle-free parking if you're planning to drive.
A few of the typical transportation options and hotel transfers include:
- Private Transfer JAX Airport to Ritz Carlton Amelia Island for $165 details
- Private Transfer from Jacksonville to Cruise Port Jacksonville for $105 details
- Jacksonville Airport JAX to Jacksonville Arrival Private Transfer for $131 details
How much does it cost to go to Jacksonville? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Jacksonville will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Jacksonville
The culinary delights in Jacksonville are remarkable, so be sure to set aside time to taste all the local specialties. Local cuisine has its own identity. Unique dishes around town include garlic crabs, seafood boil, gumbo, and shrimp and grits. The local cuisine is similar to Lowcountry dishes with a lot of Cajun influence. If you want something different from seafood, you should try the barbecue.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Jacksonville can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Jacksonville is $166 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$166
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Jacksonville is around $166 ($166) per person, with previous travelers spending from $73 to $307. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Jacksonville are as follows:
- Breakfast: $17 to $50
- Lunch: $25 to $66
- Dinner: $50 to $116
- Coffee: $13
- Fast Food or Street Food: $25
If you want to wine and dine in a stylish and slick atmosphere, Bb's Restaurant should satisfy you nicely. Bb's offers American cuisine with international influences including great salads, seafood, pizzas and sandwiches as well as daily specials of fish, steaks, chops and pasta. Some of Bb's most sought after dishes include stuffed mozzarella bruschetta, duck wonton napoleon, lemon chicken and rice soup, almond crusted calamari, and white truffle pizza. Bb's prides themselves on service from-scratch dishes, using only fresh, local ingredients. If you yearn for a first-class dining affair, be sure to stop at Bb's!
Some hotels include breakfast in the overall cost, while others add it as an extra charge. The quality and price of breakfast can vary greatly depending on the hotel. Being informed beforehand can help you determine if you need to set aside additional funds. The hotel's buffet may be worth it, or you might consider visiting a local bakery or cafe for a more budget-friendly option.
Carry a water bottle with you instead of buying drinks everywhere. It's also good for the environment.
If you're going to take a tour, make sure you understand which meals are included. You could end up paying for some food yourself, which might affect your budget.
Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in Jacksonville. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- San Marco Food Tour Culinary Journey in Jacksonville for $125 details
- Fun 2-Hour Dumpling Cooking Class in Jacksonville for $75 details
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Jacksonville
It's easy to see why people visit Jacksonville, given its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and beaches.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Jacksonville typically cost an average of $20 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$20
One of Jacksonville's main points of interest sits at the west end of the Southbank Riverwalk adjacent to the Museum of Science and History: Friendship Fountain. Built in 1965, Friendship Fountain is one of the largest self-containing fountains built, pumping 3,500 to 6,500 gallons of water per minute. The elegant cascades of water is illuminated by 265 lights, allowing its waters to dazzle the night. In 2010, the municipality of Jacksonville initiated a $3.1 million-project to transform the surrounding area of the fountain into a full-fledged park. Whether one wishes to admire the beauties of the river or picnic by the calming sound of the fountain, Friendship Fountain works as Jacksonville's most attractive locations.
Jacksonville's shopping district is known by all to be the most diverse, bustling examples of retail therapy in northern Florida. No matter your taste or style, Jacksonville has the shop just for you. If you are looking to visit trendy, upscale boutiques, take a walk through the San Marco and Avondale areas. Be sure to peruse the sale racks at the St. Augustine outlets, or discover vintage goodies in the Five Points and Southside areas. If you are looking for more centralized methods of shopping, Jacksonville holds an ample supply of malls, with Avenues Mall and St. Johns Town Center being the most popular.
If you are feeling more adventurous, the Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary gives locals and tourists alike a taste of the wild all while located in a thriving metropolitan area. The Catty Shack Ranch is a non-profit organization that rescues big cats from dangerous situations. Resident cats currently staying at the ranch include tigers, lions, cougars, leopards, bobcats, arctic foxes, and coatimundis. The Catty Shack Ranch offers both daytime and nighttime feeding tours, where visitors will become acquainted with all the cats as well as their histories and the history of Catty Shack itself. Be sure to plan promptly as admission for these tours runs from only 1 PM to 4 PM and 6 PM to 8 PM.
The white sands of Jacksonville's shimmering beaches has attracted surfers and swimmers alike to this great city. A favorite for tourists and locals, Atlantic Beach has two miles of white sandy beach with 18 ocean accesses. Besides its magnificent shores, Atlantic Beach also holds a large picnic pavilion (available by reservation), 6 tennis courts, 2 racquetball courts, 2 playground areas, 2 baseball diamonds, a full basketball court, and a soccer field. Whether one wants to surf or play tennis, Atlantic Beach provides a plethora of options for its visitors to make the most out of the Florida sun.
Museums and Attractions:
Jacksonville stands out for its impressive museums and notable landmarks. The city has a number of museums that range from art museums to science or kid-friendly museums. Some favorites are the Museum of Science and History, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Mandarin Museum and Historical Society, and Kingsley Plantation.
Beaches:
Visitors to Jacksonville often come to enjoy a laid-back day at the beach. There are a number of beaches that are just a short distance from the city. Some have a historic vibe while others are more lively. Atlantic Beach is about a half hour drive from the city. For a laid back vibe head to Neptune Beach and the most popular beach in the area is Jacksonville Beach.
Shopping:
You'll find shopping here to be an experience worth having. There are countless malls and shopping districts around town. Some of the best shopping is found at St. John's Center, Five Points, and Avondale.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Jacksonville. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Ride the Waves 2 Hour Scenic Jet Ski Tour in Amelia Island for $280 details
- Electric Bike Tour with Free Application for Navigation for $50 details
- Jacksonville Junior Explorers Summer Tour for $25 details
Nightlife Budget in Jacksonville
Visitors to Jacksonville find the nightlife exhilarating, enjoying nights filled with fun at the local bars, clubs, and parties. The young population brings out the nightlife scene. There's a great concentration of bars and clubs in the area known as The Elbow, which is at the intersection of N. Ocean and E. Bay Street. You'll find plenty of cocktail bars, lounges, and clubs around town that make for a fun night out.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $20 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Jacksonville per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$20
Nights out are a travel highlight, but reducing your drink tab is a smart way to stretch your budget further.
Drinking at night can be fun, but make sure you're aware of your surroundings. You could attract pickpockets, so it's best to stick with people you trust and stay in a group.
Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Jacksonville. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:
- Jax Brewery Tour (Drinks Included) for $135 details
Travel cost data last updated: May 6, 2026
Traveling in Jacksonville
Jacksonville, Florida
As the sky above you darkens, the city around you glows with a vividness of a thousand colors as you hear the soft swell of waves upon the shore. Such an urban paradise is none other than Jacksonville, Florida. Located on the northeastern side of the sunshine state, Jacksonville stands where the St. John's River meets the Atlantic Ocean. Estimated to be the 12th most populous city in the United States, Jacksonville works as the cultural, commercial and financial hive of north Florida. The large city is known for its exquisite beaches, interactive museums, and golf course areas. Surf, shop, and socialize in one of Florida's most popular metropolitan areas.
Related:
Looking for a party hostel in Hawaii or Miami? Traveling alone to LA or New Orleans? Want a budget hostel in NYC?
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Having realistic expectations about your travel budget in Jacksonville is important. While you might think you can save money by cutting expenses, traveling comfortably requires a bit more spending for most people. Think about your favorite vacation activities and ideal travel style. Staying in a resort or comfortable hotel, along with sightseeing and dining out are generally what many people prefer. Your travel preferences will determine how much you'll end up spending on your trip.
Jacksonville on a Shoestring Budget?
You might think you're a budget traveler, but unless you're willing to sacrifice many comforts, expect to spend a lot more than the average of $126 per day that backpackers typically manage.
Younger budget travelers sometimes stick to a shoestring budget, which usually means staying in hostel dorms, eating at budget restaurants or fast food, relying on public transportation or walking, and limiting activities to free attractions.
For many travelers to Jacksonville, food is a key attraction, yet budget-conscious visitors often stick to street food or hostel cooking, missing out on the delicious local dining experiences.
Do You Fit the Profile of an Average Traveler?
If you're a family or couple enjoying a vacation, you'll probably want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at well-liked restaurants, and check out significant museums and attractions that charge entry fees. It's common for visitors to Jacksonville to seek out the major attractions, museums, and significant landmarks. Most activities aren't free. So, you should realistically expect your daily budget to be around $289 per person, per day.
In Jacksonville, you'll find a broad range of hotels and vacation rentals. If traveling with companions, you can share accommodations with a partner, friend, or your children, helping to cut costs. Families will want to look for hotels and restaurants that are kid-friendly. Hotel Indigo Jacksonville-Deerwood Park is a fantastic option for families, and Hilton Garden Inn Jacksonville JTB/Deerwood Park is also a great pick. Explore more family and couple-oriented hotels in our hotel guide for Jacksonville here.
Looking to Travel in Luxury?
If you're looking for a luxurious getaway that offers top-notch amenities and exceptional service, you should budget around $557 per day. To enjoy a nicer hotel, dine at renowned restaurants, indulge in extravagant activities, and use taxis or private drivers to explore the city, prepare for a luxury price tag. Many luxury travelers also enjoy unique experiences such as Private Transfer from Jacksonville to Cruise Port Jacksonville - offered by Viator.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
