This Phoenix travel cost guide breaks down the typical expenses you can expect when visiting Phoenix, making it easier to plan a fun and affordable trip. Our Phoenix trip cost calculator includes average spending data from thousands of travelers, including hotels, restaurants, sightseeing, entertainment, and transportation. Phoenix is a desert city known for its desert landscapes, high number of golf courses, and year round warm weather, so don't miss out because you didn't plan the right budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Phoenix?
A typical traveler spends $275 per day on a trip to Phoenix. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Phoenix based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $90 on meals
- $39 on local transportation
- $287 on hotels
A one-week trip to Phoenix for two people costs, on average, $3,850. 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 Phoenix expensive to visit?
In Phoenix, budget travelers spend $98 per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $275 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $855 per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Phoenix.
Phoenix is a small yet inviting city that captivates travelers with a mix of travel preferences, spending habits, and budgetary ranges. Budget-conscious travelers will find suitable hotel options, but there are also high-end hotels for those seeking luxury, plus mid-range accommodations for families or couples.
Phoenix can be very expensive if you want it to be, but there are ways to cut down on your costs, like eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying the free hiking trails.
Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Phoenix is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Panama City or Naples.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Phoenix Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Phoenix?
The average Phoenix trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Phoenix travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Phoenix cost?
Phoenix on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$48
|
$144
|
$493
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$14
|
$39
|
$114
|
|
Food2
|
$34
|
$90
|
$249
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$14
|
$40
|
$121
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$3-10
|
$8-25
|
$19-57
|
Accommodation Budget in Phoenix
The range of hotel prices in Phoenix can be pretty surprising. Luxury hotels tend to offer more amenities, but come with higher price tags, especially during peak season. The average off-season room is $126, but during peak summer season the average price can reach $235. From $79 for budget hotels to $536 for luxury, there's something for everyone. Hostels are cheaper, especially dorms. Book early or travel during the off-season to save money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Phoenix for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $287. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $144 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Phoenix? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Phoenix include:
- JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa starting at $259
- The Westin Kierland Villas starting at $209
- The Hermosa Inn starting at $298
- JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa starting at $196
- Westin Kierland Resort & Spa starting at $188
By avoiding the peak summer 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 Phoenix
Unfortunately, Phoenix does not provide a solid public transit network. There's a bus and light rail system, but you really need your own vehicle to get around.
Sadly, much of the city is not particularly pedestrian-friendly. It's a sprawling city and the only real area that's walkable is the downtown.
Public Transit: 
(moderate)
Walkability: (moderate)
Calculated from travelers like you
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On average, past travelers have spent $39 per person, per day, on local transportation in Phoenix. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Phoenix is significantly more than public transportation.
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Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$39
If you're flying into Phoenix, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is the main way of entry. The airport is a main hub for both American Airlines and Southwest Airlines, and is served by many other airlines from three main terminals. From the airport there are buses, a sky rail, and low-cost shuttles to downtown Phoenix. The next best option for flying is Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport located east of Phoenix in Mesa. Within the United States, visitors can also arrive by car or bus.
When you're driving, make sure that your hotel has convenient parking, and confirm how much you'll need to pay for it.
A few of the typical hotel transfers and transportation services include:
- Private Roundtrip Transfer From Phoenix Harbor Airport to Phoenix for $299 details
- Phoenix to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX) - Departure Private Transfer for $82 details
- Private Transfer Phoenix Airport PHX to Phoenix Downtown / Hotels for $110 details
How much does it cost to go to Phoenix? 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 Phoenix 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 Phoenix
The food in Phoenix is decent, though people don't specifically come here for the food. However, there are a few hidden gems in the city worth checking out. There are many mom-and-pop shops around town that serve everything from casual meals to quality steaks. There's also a huge selection of Mexican restaurants, as well as other international options such as sushi, dim sum, and Italian.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Phoenix can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Phoenix is $90 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
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Food2
Meals for one day
$90
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Phoenix is around $90 ($90) per person, with previous travelers spending from $34 to $249. 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 Phoenix are as follows:
- Breakfast: $9 to $27
- Lunch: $13 to $36
- Dinner: $27 to $63
- Coffee: $7
- Fast Food or Street Food: $13
Like much of Arizona, Phoenix is known for its huge spicy plates of Southwestern food. Most dishes are based in a spicy sauce made from red or green chili peppers, or a mix of both. Typical dishes of the American southwest that most people are familiar with include items like burrito, chimichanga, enchilada, fajitas, nachos, chili con carne, chili con queso, quesadilla, stuffed peppers, tacos, and tostados, many of which are often served with sides of rice and beans and salsa or guacamole. Arizona is actually the home of the chimichanga-a deep-fried burrito. Cactus is also popular, either fried or in salads. When in Arizona it's best to take advantage of the abundance of authentic southwestern food, though there are additionally plenty of standard chain restaurants and other fare in Phoenix for the less adventurous palette.
Numerous hotels offer breakfast as part of the room rate, but some might charge extra for it. The cost and quality can differ from one hotel to another. Being aware of this beforehand can help you determine if you need to allocate additional funds. It could be worth it for a fantastic buffet at the hotel, or you might want to opt for a nearby bakery or cafe that's more budget-friendly.
Opt for a water bottle instead of constantly buying drinks. It's not only convenient but also eco-friendly.
If you're thinking about taking a tour, it's wise to check in advance which meals are covered. You may need to cover some of your own food costs, which could increase your overall budget.
If you want to experience the culture in Phoenix, a food tour or cooking class is a great way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Scottsdale Sunset Dinner Tour for $125 details
- Scottsdale's Original Food Tour for $108 details
- Phoenix Food Tour on Trendy Roosevelt Row with 7 Food Tastings for $100 details
Typical prices for food in Phoenix are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the food prices in Phoenix. However, your individual costs will vary based on your travel style, selected restaurants, and the items that you order.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Phoenix
It's evident that Phoenix is a hotspot for tourists, largely due to its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and hiking.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Phoenix typically cost an average of $40 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.
$40
Phoenix is home to many sights, both indoors and out. For those seeking refuge from the hot southwestern sun, check out some of the city's best museums. The Arizona Science Center features a planetarium and IMAX theatre, the Heard Museum celebrates local Native American cultures and arts, and the Phoenix Art Museum hosts a collection of about 16,000 works of art in American, Asian, Latin American, and modern and contemporary styles.
For those who don't mind the heat, Phoenix has a plethora of outdoor attractions as well. The Phoenix Zoo is the largest privately owned, non-profit zoo in the United States, placing an emphasis on animal conservation, often breeding and reintroducing endangered species back into the wild. Next to the zoo, visitors can also see the Phoenix Botanical Gardens, acclaimed worldwide for their exhibits and educational programs, with the largest collection of arid plants in the United States. South Mountain Park is another great stop for experiencing a preserved desert mountain environment.
S'edav Va'aki Museum (formerly known as Pueblo Grande Museum and Archaeological Park) is also of interest for anyone wanting to channel their inner Indiana Jones. It is the only city-operated archaeological site in the U.S., showcasing ancient pre-Columbian Hohokam inhabitants of the area. There are too many sights within and around the city to name them all, but a few additional items of note include the Japanese Friendship Garden, Historic Heritage Square, Phoenix Mountains Park, Tovrea Castle, Camelback Mountain, Hole in the Rock, Mystery Castle, St. Mary’s Basilica, Taliesin West, and the Wrigley Mansion.
Being the largest, most populous city of the general area, Phoenix is host to a wide range of activities both within and without. The arts and entertainment scene is alive with opportunities to enjoy opera, symphony, theatre, and a number of festivals held throughout the year. Historic sites and museums are abundant, as are opportunities to get outdoors and enjoy hiking in a unique desert environment.
There are also many sites of interest just outside the city, some of which include National Monuments like Agua Fria, Casa Grande Ruins, and Organ Pipe Cactus, as well as other destinations like Lost Dutchman State Park, Montezuma’s Castle, and Montezuma’s Well.
If you're looking for adventure or relaxation, you should do a day trip or weekend trip out of Phoenix to go Whitewater Rafting in Arizona. A variety of types of trips are available from relaxing floats to adrenaline-filled rapid-cresting adventures.
Phoenix is also often a starting point for popular southwest locations like the Grand Canyon, Painted Desert, Tombstone, Sedona, Meteor Crater, Lake Havasu, and the Petrified Forest.
Plenty of hotel options can be found in the Phoenix area at all price ranges. The central area of downtown tends to have the highest priced hotels. Cheaper accommodation can be found on the outskirts of the city. Another option is to find an AirBnB in Phoenix, too.
A nice way to explore destinations in Phoenix 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:
- Epic Camelback Mountain Guided Hiking Adventure in Phoenix, Arizona for $145 details
- Sonoran Desert To MountainTop Jeep Tour minutes from Scottsdale for $175 details
- Phoenix Ghost Tour: Phoenix Screamix Haunts & Ghost Hunting for $45 details
Nightlife Budget in Phoenix
In Phoenix, you can find some nightlife options, but it isn't as lively as in other more popular tourist spots. The best nightlife scene is found in downtown and central Phoenix. There are bars, restaurants, and venues where you can catch a show. North Phoenix also has grown into a popular evening spot with cocktail bars and pubs.
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $17 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Phoenix 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
$17
Nightlife is a blast when traveling, but scaling back on drinks can really help stretch your travel budget.
Always be mindful of your surroundings, especially if you're drinking at night. You could become a target for pickpockets or other crimes, so stick with trusted friends and avoid wandering alone.
Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Phoenix. A few favorites from other travelers include:
- Pedal Bar Crawl Tour of Downtown Phoenix for $70 details
- Make Alfredo Pasta at a Local Brewery in Phoenix for $75 details
- Ultimate Bachelorette Party-Wine Tasting From Scottsdale/Phoenix for $175 details
Travel cost data last updated: Mar 27, 2026
Traveling in Phoenix
Phoenix, Arizona
The most populous city in the American Southwest, Phoenix is the capital city of Arizona and busiest hub of activity in the general area. Geographically it is located in the Sonoran Desert, making for long hot summers and mild winters. This climate has ensured a thriving tourism industry with plenty of attractions both in and around Phoenix.
Neighborhoods & Around
Greater Phoenix is divided into seven districts: Downtown, Midtown, West Phoenix, North Phoenix, South Phoenix, Camelback East, and Ahwatukee. Downtown is the center of activity, especially for visitors, spanning 2-3 square miles and a few main thoroughfares-Central Avenue and Washington and Jefferson Streets. Midtown is home to a number of historic neighborhoods as well as several cultural, performance, and sporting venues. West Phoenix has seen some urban decline except for its Cricket Pavilion concert venue, while North Phoenix is a good home base for hiking and outdoor activities. South Phoenix is another district that has seen decline, but is home to South Mountain Regional Park-the largest municipal park in the country. And finally, both Camelback East and Ahwatukee are upscale districts, with Camelback East being home to the Phoenix Zoo and world class resorts.
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to set realistic expectations for your travel budget. Many assume they can get by cheaply in Phoenix, but most people don't enjoy traveling on a very tight budget. Think about how you like to travel, and whether you prefer resorts, hostels, or vacation rentals. Do activities like sightseeing and dining out matter to you? These factors will help shape your travel budget.
What Does It Mean to Be a Budget Traveler?
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 $98 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.
What Makes You an Average Traveler?
If you're a family or couple enjoying a vacation, you'll most likely want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at trendy restaurants, and check out the main museums and attractions that charge for entry. Tourists visiting Phoenix generally aim to explore the major attractions, museums, and significant landmarks. Keep in mind that most activities have costs associated with them. Hence, you should realistically expect your daily budget to hover around $275 per person, per day.
In Phoenix, 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. Arizona Biltmore Waldorf Astoria Resort is a fantastic option for families, and Westin Phoenix Downtown is also a great pick. Explore more family and couple-oriented hotels in our hotel guide for Phoenix here.
Looking to Travel in Luxury?
If you want an all encompassing getaway with top-notch amenities and exceptional service, get ready for a daily cost around $855. Staying in upscale hotels, dining at acclaimed restaurants, indulging in lavish activities, and using taxis or private drivers to navigate the city will require a more luxurious budget. Many luxury travelers also enjoy unique experiences such as 3 Hour Sonoran Desert Private Guided Mountain Bike Tour - 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.
