Travel Budget for Pocono Mountains Visit Pocono Mountains on a Budget or Travel in Style

Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania, United States of America

Pocono Mountains is a scenic region known for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. 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. Whether you're skiing on the slopes or hiking in nature, we'll help you plan the ideal trip to Pocono Mountains that stays within your budget.

How much does it cost to travel to Pocono Mountains?

You should plan to spend around $213 per day on your vacation in Pocono Mountains. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $92 on meals
  • $49 on local transportation
  • $178 on hotels

A one week trip to Pocono Mountains for two people costs, on average, $2,982. 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.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $213
  • One Week Per person
    $1,491
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $2,982
  • One Month Per person
    $6,390
  • One Week For a couple
    $2,982
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $5,964
  • One Month For a couple
    $12,780
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Pocono Mountains cost?

A one week trip to Pocono Mountains usually costs around $1,491 for one person and $2,982 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Pocono Mountains on average costs around $2,982 for one person and $5,964 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 Pocono Mountains will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Pocono Mountains on average costs around $6,390 for one person and $12,780 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Pocono Mountains expensive to visit?

Pocono Mountains is a terrific region that attracts a multitude of tourists with a broad spectrum of travel styles and budgeting preferences. 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.

Pocono Mountains 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.

On average, budget travelers spend $93 per day, mid-range travelers spend $213 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $407 per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Pocono Mountains.

Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Pocono Mountains is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Columbia River Gorge or Milwaukee.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Pocono Mountains Expensive?

The Poconos, Pennsylvania The Poconos, Pennsylvania

How much money do I need for a trip to Pocono Mountains?

The average Pocono Mountains trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Pocono Mountains travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Pocono Mountains cost?

Pocono Mountains on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
$39 $89 $170
Local Transportation 1 $21 $49 $94
Food 2 $40 $92 $175
Entertainment 1 $13 $30 $58
Alcohol 2 $3-9 $7-20 $13-38

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

It's important to set realistic expectations for your travel budget in Pocono Mountains. While many think they can cut costs for many things, the reality is that most people won't enjoy such a low-budget experience. Consider your preferences and travel style. Do you like resorts, hotels, vacation rentals, or hostels? Are activities and dining out a big part of your travel plans? Your answers will shape your budget and itinerary.

Who are Budget Travelers?

You might think that you're a budget traveler. But unless you're willing to eliminate a lot of comforts from your trip, prepare to spend a lot more than the daily average of $93 that backpackers often get by on.

Young backpackers often get away with this shoestring budget, but it usually involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest restaurants or fast food places, taking public transit or walking, and only visiting free attractions.

Could You Be an Average Traveler?

As a couple or family looking for fun, you're likely to choose a mid-range hotel, dine at popular restaurants, and explore the major museums and attractions with entry fees. Visitors to Pocono Mountains typically prioritize the major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks during their stay. After all, most activities do cost money. Therefore, it's sensible to expect your daily budget to be approximately $213 per person, per day.

Dreaming of a Stylish Getaway?

For those wanting a high-end experience complete with every luxury and high-quality service, expect to spend about $407 each day. To enjoy nicer accommodations, award-winning dining, extravagant adventures, and convenient transport like taxis or private chauffeurs in the region, prepare for a pricier experience. Also, higher-end tours are common with luxury travelers, such as Private Mount Pocono Observation Air Tour - offered by Viator.

Accommodation Budget in Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains has a wide range of hotel prices. Luxury hotels come with higher price tags and better amenities, and prices are much steeper during peak season. On average, a room costs $172 in the off-season and averages $321 during peak summer or fall season. Overall, you can expect prices from $101 to $668. Hostels, especially dorms, are cheaper alternatives. You can save by traveling in the low season, booking in advance, or looking for special offers.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Pocono Mountains for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $178. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $89 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $89
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $178

Hotels in Pocono Mountains

Looking for a hotel in Pocono Mountains? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Pocono Mountains

The average hotel room price in Pocono Mountains based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $172 in the low season and $321 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

The most affordable highest rated hotels in Pocono Mountains include:

  • Mount Airy Casino Resort starting at $180
  • Woodfield Manor Resort A Sundance Vacations Resort starting at $234
Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a very family-friendly place, and when traveling with children, it's important to find accommodations with extra space.

If you're headed to Pocono Mountains for a honeymoon, then luxury hotels are the way to go. There are plenty, with some of the favorites being Mount Airy Casino Resort.

Many visitors spend up to a week in Pocono Mountains. If you're going to be in town for a long time, you may want to find a vacation rental with a kitchen. This will let you prepare at least some of your own meals.

By skipping summer or fall and traveling during the low or shoulder season, you'll enjoy lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds.

During ski season, prices can climb so book ahead. Many of the places with easy access to the slopes can fill up quickly and may be expensive.


Recommended Properties


Transportation Budget in Pocono Mountains

In Pocono Mountains, the public transit system is not very good. There are some bus services that run between a few towns, but they're not an efficient way to get around.

Unfortunately, most of the region is not very walkable. While there are plenty of hiking trails and some walkable towns, you really need a car to explore the area.

Public Transit:  starstarstarstarstar (moderate)
Walkability:      starstarstarstarstar (moderate)

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $49 per person, per day, on local transportation in Pocono Mountains. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Pocono Mountains is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $49

Transportation Tips

When driving, confirm that your hotel has convenient parking options.



Flights to Pocono Mountains
How much does it cost to go to Pocono Mountains? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Pocono Mountains
The price of renting a car in Pocono Mountains 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 Pocono Mountains

The food and cuisine in Pocono Mountains is good, but not enough to draw visitors specifically for the restaurants. You'll find a few gems around the region that are worth visiting. Family-friendly restaurants are common. Many serve up casual American cuisine like burgers or pasta. There are also more upscale restaurants, some with impressive views, that will elevate your culinary experience. For a local experience, find a restaurant with a seasonal menu that makes the most of the local ingredients.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Pocono Mountains can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Pocono Mountains is $92 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $92

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Pocono Mountains is around $92 ($92) per person, with previous travelers spending from $40 to $175. 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 Pocono Mountains are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $9 to $28
  • Lunch: $14 to $37
  • Dinner: $28 to $64
  • Coffee: $7
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $14

As the Poconos are a popular tourist destination, visitors can find plenty of great food at restaurants, breweries, wineries, and cafes. Most of the small town areas have locally run restaurants that are terrific. While many are casual, it's also easy to find a restaurant that is more high-end if you're having a special occasion. Fast food options are also ubiquitous, and grocery stores are very common if you stay somewhere with a kitchen and plan to cook.

Food & Dining Tips

When you're on the road with kids, look for eateries that have a kids' menu. This can lead to considerable savings, as those meals are generally less expensive. Some restaurants might not highlight their kids' options, so don't hesitate to ask the waiter before you order.

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.



Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Pocono Mountains

It's not surprising that visitors come to Pocono Mountains, as it offers skiing, hiking, family-friendly activities, and romance.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Pocono Mountains typically cost an average of $30 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.
    $30

Plenty of places to visit fill this beautiful and scenic region. A variety of small towns, combined with mountain and wilderness experiences, mixed in with adventure sports and water parks all make the Poconos a very appealing destination for many visitors.

Historic Towns

Much of the four counties that make up the Poconos region were settled early in America's history. And now, many of these small towns have revitalized historic town centers filled with bars, restaurants, museums, art galleries, antique shops, wineries and breweries, and historic homes. Some of these towns include Stroudsburg, Millford, Jim Thorpe, Hawley, and Bushkill, among others.

Lakes

Over 150 lakes can be found in the Poconos. While some are large enough for boating and watersports, others are smaller tranquil destinations for swimming or canoeing. All of them are great summer getaway spots for anyone looking for a serene, outdoor experience. Lake Wallenpaupack is the largest, and other popular lakes include Lake Naomi and Stillwater Lake in Pocono Pines, and Beltzville Lake near the towns of Jim Thorpe and Lehighton.

State Parks and Conservation Areas

If you want to get out into nature, plenty of park land is available for hiking, mountain biking, camping, swimming, kayaking, and fishing. Nearly all of the towns have some sort of park area nearby. Some of the most popular park areas are along the Delaware River, such as the Delaware Water Gap NRA.



The Poconos are popular all year long, as every season offers fun activities. In fact, several indoor water parks can be found in the region that are open all-year (Aquatopia at Camelback, Kalahari Resort, Great Wolf Lodge).

In the winter, skiing and snowboarding is popular at several ski resort areas. Camelback Mountain is one of the most popular, as is Blue Mountain Resort, Jack Frost Big Boulder, Big Bear, and Shawnee Mountain.

In the summer, hiking, swimming, camping, mountain biking, golf, and other outdoor activities are very popular. Camelback Mountain becomes Camelbeach in the summer, which is a large outdoor water park on the mountain. Wildlife viewing, boating, and fishing on the many lakes are also favorites of the recurring visitors year after year.

In the autumn, the changing of the leaves is very popular. Visitors often come to experience the outdoors by staying in cabins, hiking, biking, camping, or just visiting the small towns.

The Poconos are also known to be a romantic destination for couples, honeymooners, or even for weddings. A variety of romance themed adults-only resorts can be found in the region, such as Cove Haven, Paradise Stream, and Pocono Palace Resort. Naturally, a large number of smaller Inns and Bed & Breakfasts cater to couples, too.

Sightseeing Tips

Skiing:
The skiing and snowboarding in Pocono Mountains are some of the main attractions here. There are a number of ski resorts in the area that offer family-friendly skiing or more advanced options. Some of the most popular ski areas are Big Boulder, Blue Mountain, Camelback Mountain, and Jack Frost Mountain.

Hiking:
The hiking around Pocono Mountains is terrific. There are miles of hiking trails that take you through forests or to spectacular waterfalls. Trails range from easy to challenging and each offers a great way to escape into nature. Some of the more popular trails are found in Tobyhanna State Park and Promised Land State Park. The Appalachian Trail also passes through the area.

Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Pocono Mountains. 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:

  • Delaware Water Gap Air Tour for $141 details
  • Private Mount Pocono Observation Air Tour for $78 details
  • Trolley Tour in Historic Jim Thorpe for $24 details

Recommended Activities


Nightlife Budget in Pocono Mountains

The nightlife in Pocono Mountains is fairly quiet and relaxed. There are some resorts with casinos and bars as well as local breweries and bars. You'll also find a theater or two in the area.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $13 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Pocono Mountains per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $13
Nightlife Tips

Nightlife is a blast when traveling, but scaling back on drinks can really help stretch your travel budget.



Budgeting and Travel Tips for Pocono Mountains

  • During summer or fall, the region can get really crowded, and prices go up significantly. To avoid the crowds and save some money, it's best to visit during the shoulder seasons or low season.
  • Taking it easy while traveling can help you save some cash, letting you appreciate the area's beauty without the stress. If you rush through your days with nonstop activities, you'll end up spending more. Slowing down often leads to a more enjoyable trip and less money spent.

Budgeting Challenges

  • Many visitors come for the area's skiing and snowboarding in the winter months. These activities can be expensive and there's not much flexibility to help you save money. Lift tickets, ski equipment, and peak-season hotel rooms will be a major part of your trip's budget. Also, double check your travel insurance to make sure it covers everything.
  • With limited public transportation in Pocono Mountains, it could be wise to rent a car or arrange for transportation, such as a tour. Just keep in mind that this might affect your budget in other areas.
  • Pocono Mountains isn't known for its hostels, so if you're banking on finding a cheap dorm, it might be time to adjust your travel plans. A budget hotel or apartment rental could work better for you.
Expert Advice from Local Travelers

We're asking our community members and registered users to contribute their experiences about Pocono Mountains.

How can you save money during your time in Pocono Mountains?

I found some cheaper hotels a little further away from the main ski areas. Skiing here can get pricey, but it's not as much as in the western states, so it's somewhat affordable for a weekend. Restaurants aren't too bad either, and we had a kitchen so we could make meals.

cole_508
-
Sep 22 2023

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Traveling in Pocono Mountains
Pocono Mountains Camelback Mountain

The Poconos are a region of mountains, small towns, and natural areas in Eastern Pennsylvania. Located just a few hours from both New York City and Philadelphia, this region of 4 counties (Wayne, Pike, Monroe, & Carbon) consists of plenty of mountain scenery, gorgeous lakes, historic small towns, ski resorts, state parks, water parks, and more.

Overall, the area is generally not too expensive, as plenty of activities and places to stay are reasonably priced. The smaller towns, resorts, and wilderness areas are all fairly affordable destinations for typical family vacations, road trips, and couples getaways.



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.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.