Nantucket is a charming island known for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. So, whether you're eating the delicious cuisine, relaxing on the beaches, or hiking in nature, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip to Nantucket, all while staying within budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Nantucket?
You should plan to spend around $409 per day on your vacation in Nantucket. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $141 on meals
- $47 on local transportation
- $474 on hotels
A one week trip to Nantucket for two people costs, on average, $5,726. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
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One Week
Per person
$2,863
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2 Weeks
Per person
$5,726
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One Month
Per person
$12,270
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One Week
For a couple
$5,726
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2 Weeks
For a couple
$11,452
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One Month
For a couple
$24,540
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Nantucket cost?
A one week trip to Nantucket usually costs around $2,863 for one person and $5,726 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Nantucket on average costs around $5,726 for one person and $11,452 for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Nantucket will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Nantucket on average costs around $12,270 for one person and $24,540 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Nantucket expensive to visit?
Nantucket is a popular island that appeals to many visitors, featuring an array of travel styles and spending habits. Affordable hotel choices are available, but luxury hotels also cater to the more affluent clientele, along with mid-range accommodations that are perfect for families and couples.
If you're not cautious, Nantucket can become costly, but you can save with strategies like eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
On average, budget travelers spend $171 per day, mid-range travelers spend $409 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $900 per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Nantucket.
Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Nantucket 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, Nantucket is generally more expensive than most.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Nantucket Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Nantucket?
The average Nantucket trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Nantucket travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Nantucket cost?
Nantucket on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$96
|
$237
|
$556
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$20
|
$47
|
$95
|
|
Food2
|
$61
|
$141
|
$277
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$14
|
$34
|
$76
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$7-22
|
$17-52
|
$36-109
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's essential to keep realistic expectations for your travel budget. Many people think they can visit Nantucket cheaply, but most travelers aren't comfortable with an extreme "shoestring" budget. Consider what you truly enjoy on vacation. Do you prefer resorts, vacation homes, or hostels? Is experiencing attractions and dining important to you? Your budget and itinerary will depend on your answers to these questions.
Nantucket on a Shoestring Budget?
You might consider yourself a budget traveler, but if you're not ready to give up some comforts, prepare to spend a lot more than the $171 per day that younger budget travelers manage.
Backpackers will usually stick to this shoestring budget by staying in hostel dorms, dining at the cheapest spots such as fast food places, using public transit, and mostly visiting free attractions.
For many travelers to Nantucket, 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 couple or family taking a fun trip, you'll probably prefer a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at favorite restaurants, and visit the main museums and attractions that require entry fees. Exploring the major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks is a must for most visitors to Nantucket. Most activities have costs involved. Thus, it's realistic to expect your daily budget to be closer to $409 per person, per day.
Want to Experience a Luxurious Trip?
If you're looking for a luxurious getaway that offers top-notch amenities and exceptional service, you should budget around $900 per day. To enjoy a nicer hotel, dine at renowned restaurants, indulge in extravagant activities, and use taxis or private drivers to explore the island, prepare for a luxury price tag.
Accommodation Budget in Nantucket
Nantucket offers a broad range of hotel prices, from budget to luxury. Higher-end hotels come with more amenities and higher prices, particularly during peak season. Off-season, you'll find average rates around $562, but during peak summer season, they can average $1,049. Prices range from $374 to $1,758, and hostels tend to be much cheaper. Save money by visiting during the low season or by taking advantage of early booking and special promotions.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Nantucket for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $474. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $237 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Nantucket? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
Nantucket has a good public transit system, which means you could stay outside the island and commute in, but you'll have to balance cheaper accommodation with higher transport costs.
Nantucket is known for being family friendly, so when traveling with kids, look for accommodations that offer more space.
This island boasts numerous resorts to pick from. You might come across options that include meals or at least breakfast, and many resorts have their own restaurants.
If you plan to avoid summer and visit during the low or shoulder season, you'll find cheaper accommodation rates and fewer tourists.
Though Nantucket is a popular tourist spot, its small size means hotels can sell out fast. To avoid any issues during summer, make your reservations well in advance.
Walking is a favored way to experience Nantucket, so finding a central accommodation is a great idea. Just remember, this might come with a steeper price tag.
The island's historic old town is a significant draw for tourists. Hotels here may be more expensive, but they often feature a lot of character and a prime location for easy access to attractions.
Transportation Budget in Nantucket
Nantucket's public transit system connects to several major sights. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months. To save money and travel efficiently, public transport is a good option if it's near your location, but taxis and rideshares are always around for convenience.
Anyone who likes to wander around on foot will appreciate their time here. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.
Public Transit: 
(good)
Walkability: (great)
Calculated from travelers like you
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On average, past travelers have spent $47 per person, per day, on local transportation in Nantucket. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Nantucket is significantly more than public transportation.
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Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$47
Driving is probably the fastest way to get around the island, but parking can be limited and challenging. It's also not necessary to drive to explore many parts of the town. Many visitors enjoy biking as the area is very biker friendly. There are a number of bike paths that are both convenient and safe for all skill levels. You can rent bikes from a number of shops around town or at the Steamship Authority ferry dock on Broad St.
Another option is to take the shuttle bus service which connects many parts of the island. The shuttle service is operated by the Nantucket Regional Transit Authority and is referred to as "The Wave". There are a number of loops and the fare is around $2 each way.
Check that your hotel has convenient parking if you're planning on driving.
How much does it cost to go to Nantucket? 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 Nantucket 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 Nantucket
With its world-class cuisine, Nantucket is a food lover's paradise. Make it a priority to eat at local restaurants and try their standout dishes. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Nantucket can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Nantucket is $141 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$141
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Nantucket is around $141 ($141) per person, with previous travelers spending from $61 to $277. 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 Nantucket are as follows:
- Breakfast: $14 to $42
- Lunch: $21 to $56
- Dinner: $42 to $98
- Coffee: $11
- Fast Food or Street Food: $21
Nantucket has no shortage of five star restaurants where you can enjoy world class cuisine and excellent service. There's all kinds of cuisine available but many visitors enjoy the fresh seafood. There are also a number of more casual restaurants around as well as sandwich shops, ice cream shops, and pizza.
When eating out with children, look for places that provide a kids' menu. This can help you save a significant amount since those meals are typically priced lower. Be aware that some restaurants may not list the kids' options, so it's wise to inquire with your waiter beforehand.
Many accommodations throw in breakfast at no extra cost, though others might charge you for it. The price and quality can greatly vary by hotel. Knowing this in advance can help you figure out if you need to spend more money. You might find the hotel's buffet is worth it, or you may prefer to grab a cheaper bite at a local bakery or cafe.
Save money while enjoying the scenery by planning a picnic. Visit a local grocery store or market, gather some fresh treats, and find a lovely park or scenic spot to relish your meal.
Having a water bottle can help you save on drinks and do your part for the environment.
Before you head out on a tour, be sure to find out which meals are included. You could end up paying for some meals out of pocket, which can impact your budget.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Nantucket
It's no surprise that Nantucket sees many visitors since it offers food, romance, resorts, and beaches.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Nantucket typically cost an average of $34 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.
$34
Nantucket is a sight, in and of itself. The entire island has been declared a National Historic District by the National Park Service and there are plenty of historical and informational spots throughout. Some of the most famous include the African Meeting House, Brant Point Light, the First Congregational Church, the Hadwen House, and the Whaling Museum. Many of the homes on the island date back to the 1800s and each has its own rich history. Other notable sights in Nantucket include Great Point Lighthouse, Maria Mitchell Aquarium, the Oldest House, the Old Windmill, and Sankaty Head.
Nantucket has plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy. There's hiking, fishing, golfing, shopping and more. The most popular activity is hanging out on one of the many beaches. The sandy beaches make the perfect place to relax for the day. Some beaches are great for kayaking, while others are more popular for surfing or simply lounging in the sun. The more southern beaches have cooler water and stronger surf, while the northern beaches are a bit calmer. Some of the more popular beaches include Children's Beach, Cisco Beach, Coatue, Dionis Beach, Jetties Beach, Madaket Beach, Siasconset Beach, and Surfside Beach.
Boating is also very popular in Nantucket. The harbor is where you'll find sailboats, motor boats, fishing boats, and private yachts. For information you can contact the town pier's Harbormaster.
Beaches:
Numerous beach lovers choose Nantucket as their destination for unwinding. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.
Historical Sights:
The charming old town is a magnet for tourists. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.
Hiking:
The hiking opportunities around Nantucket are outstanding. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.
Shopping:
You won't want to miss out on the shopping here. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.
A nice way to explore destinations in Nantucket 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:
- Nantucket Coast to Coast Self-Guided Biking or Driving Tour for $13 details
- Historical Tour of Nantucket for $57 details
- Beyond the Cobblestones Self Guided Walking Tour of Nantucket for $10 details
Nightlife Budget in Nantucket
Nantucket does have some nightlife activities, but it doesn't compare to the excitement found in more popular destinations. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $35 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Nantucket per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$35
While nightlife is a key part of many trips, scaling back on drinks can help free up some extra cash in your budget.
When enjoying the nightlife, stay alert and cautious, as you may attract the attention of pickpockets or other criminals. It's best to stay with a group of people you trust.
Travel cost data last updated: May 2, 2025
Traveling in Nantucket
Nantucket, MA
Nantucket is both an island and a town in Massachusetts that is famous for its beautiful homes, scenic harbours, and historic lighthouses. It's a famous New England destination and is a popular vacation spot for the area's rich and famous. Although it's beloved by CEOs and executives, there are still plenty of options for the more casual visitors as well.
The island is small, about 14 miles long and 3.5 miles wide and is just 30 miles from Cape Cod. It's most popular during the warmer summer months, but can also be a peaceful retreat during the fall or spring, when it's less crowded and more relaxed. Some of the restaurants are open seasonally though, and ferry services are less frequent during these times.
Neighborhoods & Around
Nantucket has a number of neighborhoods, but some of the most popular for tourists include the Downtown/Brant Point area, Madaket, Siasconset ('Sconset), and Surfside.
The Brant Point area is the most famous part of Nantucket. It's filled with five star restaurants, world class shopping, and plenty of history and character. Brant Point Lighthouse is also in the area.
Madaket is on the western side of the island, not far from downtown. This is where you'll find the most peaceful long, sandy beaches. It's the perfect place to relax for hours in the sun with a good book.
'Sconset is another small town that is filled with impressive views, luxurious homes, and Sankaty Light Head. The best way to experience the area is along the 'Sconset Bluff Walk, where you can soak up the natural beauty. The downtown has great local restaurants and a charming atmosphere.
On the southern end of the island is Surfside. This area also has nice sandy beaches, larger waves, and a beachy vibe that makes it the perfect place to hang out.
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.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.