Before you visit Las Vegas, use this travel cost guide to estimate your expenses and build a travel budget that works for you. This Las Vegas trip cost calculator includes average costs reported by thousands of previous travelers, with details on hotel prices, food and dining, sightseeing and entertainment, and transportation. Las Vegas is a fun-filled entertainment capital known for Bellagio Fountains, Las Vegas Strip, and Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, all of which have costs that you should know about beforehand. Whether you're exploring the museums, eating the delicious cuisine, or enjoying the nightlife, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip to Las Vegas, all while staying within budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Las Vegas?
A typical traveler spends $369 per day on a trip to Las Vegas. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Las Vegas based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $139 on meals
- $53 on local transportation
- $317 on hotels
A one-week trip to Las Vegas for two people costs, on average, $5,166. 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 Las Vegas expensive to visit?
In Las Vegas, budget travelers spend $139 per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $369 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $1,037 per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Las Vegas.
Las Vegas is a celebrated entertainment capital that boasts an international reputation. With such a draw, it welcomes a diverse mix of travelers, each with their own unique budgets and travel styles. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.
While Las Vegas can be quite expensive if you let it be, there are ways to lower your spending, such as eating at less expensive restaurants and finding free activities.
Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Las Vegas is a very expensive destination compared to other places. It is in the top 10% of cities in North America for its travel costs. There are only a few cities as expensive as Las Vegas in the region, such as Orlando or Oahu.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Las Vegas Expensive?
Las Vegas, Nevada
How much money do I need for a trip to Las Vegas?
The average Las Vegas trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Las Vegas travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Las Vegas cost?
Las Vegas on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$59
|
$158
|
$445
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$19
|
$53
|
$163
|
|
Food2
|
$53
|
$139
|
$377
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$30
|
$78
|
$215
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$10-30
|
$28-83
|
$85-254
|
Accommodation Budget in Las Vegas
The price of hotels in Las Vegas can be quite surprising. Higher-end hotels offer more luxury and amenities, but with much higher price tags, especially during peak season. Off-season averages are around $96, while peak fall or spring season averages can reach $179. Prices range from $47 to $330, but hostels are usually cheaper. Traveling during the low season and booking early are good ways to save money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Las Vegas for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $317. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $158 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Las Vegas? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Las Vegas include:
- Platinum Hotel and Spa starting at $177
- Signature at MGM Grand starting at $94
- Virgin Hotels Las Vegas Curio Collection by Hilton starting at $74
- Marriott's Grand Chateau starting at $216
- Residence Inn by Marriott Las Vegas Airport starting at $163
This entertainment capital has a variety of resorts to explore. You might find one that includes meals, or at least breakfast, and many come with onsite dining options.
With many visitors spending a week in Las Vegas, it could be useful to book a vacation rental with a kitchen if you're staying longer, so you can cook your meals.
If you travel during the low or shoulder season (and avoid fall or spring), you'll find lower accommodation prices and less tourist crowds.
Transportation Budget in Las Vegas
Las Vegas does not have a good public transit system. Many visitors use the Monorail to get around the Strip and the touristy areas. There's also a bus system that travels throughout the city.
Las Vegas is fairly walkable in some areas, which can make it easier to see some sights. The area around The Strip is very walkable and pedestrian-friendly. In this area you can access many restaurants, hotels, and casinos.
Public Transit: 
(moderate)
Walkability: (good)
Calculated from travelers like you
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On average, past travelers have spent $53 per person, per day, on local transportation in Las Vegas. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Las Vegas is significantly more than public transportation.
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Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$53
If you're planning to spend all of your time on the Strip, then you can easily walk between the casinos. Many are connected so that you don't even have to go outside, while others have convenient bridges to cross the streets. Still, the Strip is actually just under two miles long, so the walk can be long and tiring in the summer heat. The Las Vegas Monorail is a comfortable and reasonable option for traveling around. It runs along the east side of the Strip and there are stops at or near several hotels as well as the Las Vegas Convention Center. A one way ticket is $5 and a one day pass is $15. If you're traveling with a few friends, it may be cheaper to take a taxi or Uber/Lyft.
Buses are a cheap and good option as well. They travel both up and down the Strip and to and from downtown. The buses are also air conditioned, which makes for a refreshing break during the summer months. There are actually two routes along Las Vegas Boulevard. The Deuce is a London style double-decker bus and the Express is a long accordion style bus. You can buy a two hour pass for $6.00.
Taxis are also a good option in Las Vegas. They are relatively cheap but when there is a lot of traffic, prices can creep up quickly and walking is often the same speed. It is required that the taxi driver use the meter and take the shortest route. There is an extra charge if you're picking up a taxi at the airport.
If you're using a car, make sure your hotel has convenient parking available.
Some of the standard transportation options and hotel transfers include:
- Hidden Valley Springs Nature Getaway with Buffet Lunch & Transfer for $158 details
- Round trip Private Transfer Las Vegas Airport LAS by Eco Sedan for $168 details
- Private Transfer in Las Vegas with Personal Driver for $139 details
How much does it cost to go to Las Vegas? 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 Las Vegas 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.
Typical prices for transit in Las Vegas are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the overall transportation costs in Las Vegas. Keep in mind that your individual costs will vary based on your method of transit, as hired cars such as taxis are generally much more expensive than public transportation.
Food Budget in Las Vegas
The cuisine in Las Vegas is world-class, and you don't want to miss it. Make sure to take some time to eat at the local restaurants and taste some of the special dishes. It has become famous for it's all-you-can-eat buffets, which you'll find in almost every hotel along the strip. To fully experience the sin of gluttony, head for one of the more luxurious hotels, which have the more expensive, but also higher quality buffets. Celebrity chefs have also opened many five star restaurants around town that you must try.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Las Vegas can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Las Vegas is $139 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
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Food2
Meals for one day
$139
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Las Vegas is around $139 ($139) per person, with previous travelers spending from $53 to $377. 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 Las Vegas are as follows:
- Breakfast: $14 to $42
- Lunch: $21 to $56
- Dinner: $42 to $97
- Coffee: $11
- Fast Food or Street Food: $21
Las Vegas has vastly improved it's image as a top food city in the United States. Many of the country's top chefs have moved here and opened restaurants, meaning your food selection is endless. You can truly find world class restaurants with gourmet food selections. If you're a "foodie" then Las Vegas is becoming a new hotspot to try the newest culinary trends.
Las Vegas also made the all-you-can-eat buffet a mainstay. Like everything else in the city, buffets in Las Vegas are taken to the extreme. The high end hotels usually have the most expensive and most impressive buffets, with budget hotels offering cheaper counterparts. You can usually save a few dollars by enjoying the buffet on a week day or at lunch, although the selections may not be as good.
To save money, consider dining at nicer restaurants during lunch instead of dinner. Many establishments in tourist districts or business areas feature lunch specials or a 'menu of the day.' These are often just more affordable and smaller versions of their dinner selections. With a bit of searching, you could enjoy a complete multi-course gourmet meal at a reasonable price. Then, just have a light dinner.
Many hotels include breakfast in their price, while some add it on as an extra charge. The price and quality can vary depending on the hotel. Knowing ahead of time can help you decide if you need to spend even more money. Maybe it's worth your money for the delicious buffet at the hotel. Or, perhaps you should just go to a nearby bakery or cafe that's much cheaper.
Bring a reusable water bottle instead of purchasing drinks all the time. It's also a great way to help the environment.
If you're planning to take a tour, make sure you know which meals are included beforehand. You might be on the hook to pay for some of the food yourself which can add to your budget.
Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in Las Vegas. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Luxury French Cooking Class in Las Vegas (Includes 4-Course Meal) for $115 details
- Private Filipino Cooking Class in the Heart of Manila,Makati City for $110 details
- Manila Food Tour Experience with Local Guide for $70 details
Listed below are typical food prices in Las Vegas, based on the actual spending of previous travelers. These figures provide an estimate of what you might expect to pay for meals. However, your personal expenses will depend on your dining preferences, the restaurants you choose, and what you decide to order.
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Coffee
$5.00
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Deep Fried Twinkie
$1.07
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Chocolate Dip Banana
$1.07
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Gelato
$5.95
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Las Vegas
People come to Las Vegas in droves for food, nightlife, music, and resorts.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Las Vegas typically cost an average of $78 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.
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Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$78
A few of the most popular sights are:
- Bellagio Fountains (Free)
- Las Vegas Strip (Free)
- Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area for $15
- High Roller Observation Wheel for $25
- Madame Tussauds Las Vegas for $40
- Stratosphere Tower for $25
- The Venetian Resort for $
- The Fremont Street Experience (Free)
- Caesars Palace for $0 (Note: entry to the hotel and public areas is free but casino gameplay and shows cost money)
- Luxor Hotel & Casino for $50
- Paris Las Vegas (Eiffel Tower) for $20
- The Wynn Las Vegas for $0
- The Mob Museum for $29.95
Las Vegas is known for its glitzy and glamorous hotels, many of which are over the top. These hotels are an attraction in and of themselves. In recent years the city has attempted to clean up its image and several of the new hotels, including the Wynn and the Rio, are more elegant and high end. Some of the classic hotels remain favorites however. Definitely pop your head into the Venetian, with Venice like canals and real gondola rides. Also check out New York, New York, with props that create the image of a New York Street.
Whatever your interest, Las Vegas truly is a Disney World for adults. With so much to see and do in addition to the casinos, it would be quite easy to spend at least 3 days in Las Vegas to make sure you see everything. The city offers amusement park rides, theatre experiences, nightlife, and more.
While gambling is the obvious activity in this city, there are a surprising variety of activities you can enjoy if betting your money away isn't your style. There are countless shows you can see with some of the most popular being "Blue Man Group" and "Cirque du Soleil." Other attractions include Indoor Skydiving or Helicopter tours. You can also book trips to the Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam from Las Vegas.
Many of the large hotels also have plenty of other activities (some of which are free). You can visit the White Tiger habitat at the Mirage, pay a little bit of money to enjoy the Caesars Palace pool for a great swim, see the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay, watch the fountains and lights in front of the Bellagio at night, and see the amazing light-up "ceiling" on the old area of Fremont Street. Other popular sights include the Adventuredome at Circus Circus, the Botanical Gardens at the Bellagio, and The Mob Museum.
Nightlife is also a huge draw to Las Vegas, as the city never sleeps. Every major hotel and casino has some sort of nightclub or two. Bars are plentiful as well. Whether you want to dress up all fancy or go casual, Vegas has something for everyone. And keep an eye out for all of the couples that just got married, too. Vegas is a very popular place to elope, after all.
Plenty of nearby places in the region are also accessible from Las Vegas, including the Hoover Dam, some national parks, and good hiking spots. For more ideas, check out this guide to day trips from Las Vegas to help plan your trips.
Museums and Attractions:
Las Vegas is known for its famous museums and other landmarks. Just wander along the Strip and pop in to any of the hotels to see what makes this city unique. There are many replicas of iconic landmarks around the world including the Venetian canals and the Eiffel Tower. You can also check out the Mob Museum, the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay, and the Neon Museum.
Theatre Productions:
You shouldn't miss out on the theater scene. Long running shows along with traveling Broadway productions make the theater scene here diverse and entertaining.
Music:
The music scene in Las Vegas is popular and draws a crowd. There are a number of long running shows as well as frequent musicians that pass through. There are also free live concerts and music festivals throughout the year.
Shopping:
Shopping here is an experience not to be missed. The city's shopping scene combines high end brands with a style that is uniquely Las Vegas. Many hotels have their own malls or shopping areas where you can buy designer names or visit flagship stores.
A nice way to explore destinations in Las Vegas is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. 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:
- Shared Tour in Red Rock Canyon for $88 details
- 4-Hour Private Hidden Hot Springs Tour near Death Valley for $175 details
- Viva Old Manila! : Intramuros Walking Tour for $25 details
A few typical prices for sights, activities, and entry fees in Las Vegas are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers to provide you with an idea how much you might need to spend. Your individual costs will vary based on which activities you do, which attractions or museums you visit, and how often you participate in free or low-cost activities.
Nightlife Budget in Las Vegas
The nightlife scene in Las Vegas is world-class, and visitors come from around the world to experience it. From posh dance clubs to glitzy cocktail bars, its nightlife scene puts this city on the map. Many people forget to sleep here, whether they're gambling away their money, checking out a world class show, or partying in one of the many clubs.
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $55 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Las Vegas per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
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Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$55
Nights out are fun, but limiting your alcohol consumption can help keep your travel costs in check.
Be aware of your surrounding and stay safe if you're out at night and drinking. You could become a target for pickpockets or other crimes. Stay in groups and with people you trust.
Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Las Vegas. A few favorites from other travelers include:
- Bars Unknown: The Original Vegas Strip Bar Crawl for $49 details
- Las Vegas Night Tour Soiree-Burlesque, Cocktails, Keepsake Flask for $155 details
- Bar Crawls & Craft Beer Tours for $99 details
Travel cost data last updated: May 4, 2026
Traveling in Las Vegas
Las Vegas Skyline
Las Vegas has long been the gambling capital of the United States. Known as "Sin City," it is a hot spot for bachelor and bachelorette parties, but in recent years it has seen a dramatic increase in weddings and business conferences. It is the largest city in the state of Nevada and one of the most visited and well known cities in the country. It is located in the Mojave Desert in South Nevada and has a very arid climate with very hot and dry summers. The average high in July is 104 degrees Fahrenheit, but as many people like to say "its a dry heat." Winters are cooler and pleasant with highs around 60 degrees Fahrenheits. Snow is very rare but the surrounding mountains are often topped with snow during the winter months.
Las Vegas is no longer the budget destination it once was, but it is possible to still find some decent deals if you travel here during the week or stay away from the main "strip". On weekends, prices rise dramatically. It will also save you a lot of money if you find a hotel that is a block or two from the strip. You don't want to stay too far away though, particularly if you don't have access to a car, as the strip is where most of the activities are.
Neighborhoods & Around
Las Vegas can be divided into 14 neighborhoods. Paradise is where you'll find the Strip, UNLV and McCarran International Airport. Downtown Las Vegas is centered around Fremont Street, about a mile from the Strip, and is where you'll find vintage Vegas. Other neighborhoods around the city include Summerlin, Centennial Hills, Green Valley, Nellis Air Force Base, Chinatown, Sunrise Manor, Paradise Palms, Aliante/Sun City, Whitney, Spring Valley, Henderson, and Blue Diamond.
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Looking for a party hostel in Las Vegas or San Diego? Traveling alone to NYC or LA? Want a budget hostel in San Francisco?
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. While some think they can visit Las Vegas with minimal expenses, most people don't enjoy traveling that frugally. Consider what you prioritize on vacation. Do you prefer luxury hotels or budget stays? Hostels or hotels or vacation rentals? Are fun activities and dining out important to you? Your overall budget will depend on all of these questions.
Who Exactly is a Budget Traveler?
Although you may consider yourself a budget traveler, unless you're ready to cut out many creature comforts, you'll likely spend much more than the $139 per day that young budget travelers often get by on.
For backpackers, this tight budget typically involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest eateries or fast food joints, using public transportation, and sticking to free attractions.
Fortunately, there are plenty of hostels available in Las Vegas, such as Sin City Hostel. In these hostels, you can discover cheap dorm accommodations and a great social atmosphere, though amenities may be few. Food is also a highlight for all types of visitors to Las Vegas, but budget travelers often dine on street food or cook meals in their hostel, so they may not always experience the delicious cuisine.
Is Your Travel Style Average?
Couples and families traveling for leisure often prefer mid-range hotels, dine at popular eateries, and visit key museums and attractions that require an entry fee. Most visitors to Las Vegas will want to visit Bellagio Fountains, Las Vegas Strip, or Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. It's important to remember that most activities will cost you money. Consequently, you should anticipate your daily budget to be closer to $369 per person, per day.
There are a wide range of hotels and vacation rentals in Las Vegas. If you're traveling with others, you'll share your hotel with a partner, friend, or your children, so costs will be split accordingly, saving money. When traveling as a family, you'll want to find hotels and restaurants that cater to kids. Marriott's Grand Chateau is a good kid-friendly option, and The Cliffs at Peace Canyon is also terrific. You'll find more hotels that cater to families and couples in our hotel guide for Las Vegas here.
What Luxury Travel Looks Like
If you're used to premier amenities and elevated service, prepare to spend about $1,037 per day. Choosing comfortable hotels, dining at award-winning establishments, indulging in extravagant excursions, and relying on taxis or private drivers to explore the entertainment capital will demand a higher price range. Many high-end visitors also prefer unique experiences such as RoundTrip Private Transfer Las Vegas by Luxury SUV Cadillac Escalade up to 5 pax - 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.
We used to stay off the Strip because the hotels were cheaper, but honestly it was more hassle than it's worth. Pay the extra money and stay on the Strip where you can use the transportation or walk everywhere.