Travel Budget for Saint Augustine Visit Saint Augustine on a Budget or Travel in Style

Saint Augustine, Florida, United States of America

Saint Augustine is a historic city known for being the oldest consistently inhabited city in the United States.. 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 exploring the museums, eating the delicious cuisine, or relaxing on the beaches, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip to Saint Augustine, all while staying within budget.

How much does it cost to travel to Saint Augustine?

You should plan to spend around $195 per day on your vacation in Saint Augustine. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $85 on meals
  • $39 on local transportation
  • $172 on hotels

A one week trip to Saint Augustine for two people costs, on average, $2,730. 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
    $195
  • One Week Per person
    $1,365
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $2,730
  • One Month Per person
    $5,850
  • One Week For a couple
    $2,730
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $5,460
  • One Month For a couple
    $11,700
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 Saint Augustine cost?

A one week trip to Saint Augustine usually costs around $1,365 for one person and $2,730 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Saint Augustine on average costs around $2,730 for one person and $5,460 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 Saint Augustine will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Saint Augustine on average costs around $5,850 for one person and $11,700 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Saint Augustine expensive to visit?

Saint Augustine is a terrific city that brings in many travelers, showcasing a range of travel styles and spending choices. Visitors can find a range of options for accommodation from high-end luxury hotels to mid-range places to budget-friendly hostels.

If you choose to make it so, Saint Augustine can be very pricey, but you can reduce your expenses by eating at less expensive restaurants and exploring on foot.

On average, budget travelers spend $84 per day, mid-range travelers spend $195 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $395 per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Saint Augustine.

Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Saint Augustine is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Durham or Marathon.

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

How much money do I need for a trip to Saint Augustine?

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

Saint Augustine on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
$37 $86 $177
Local Transportation 1 $17 $39 $80
Food 2 $37 $85 $168
Entertainment 1 $7.53 $18 $36
Alcohol 2 $5-15 $12-37 $30-91

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

Having realistic expectations for your budget when visiting Saint Augustine is important. While it's tempting to aim for a shoestring budget, most travelers don't find that style of travel to be enjoyable. Think about your priorities and how you've traveled in the past. Do you prefer staying in budget accommodations or enjoying more luxurious options? Do you like to explore attractions and dine out at local restaurants? These choices will influence your travel costs and itinerary.

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 $84 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.

Food is also a highlight for all types of visitors to Saint Augustine, 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?

If you're traveling for leisure as a couple or family, you'll likely opt for a mid-range hotel, dine at trendy restaurants, and visit the main museums and attractions that require entry fees. Most guests in Saint Augustine will want to take in the essential attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Remember, most activities come at a cost. Hence, it's realistic to anticipate your daily budget will be about $195 per person, per day.

Saint Augustine offers a fantastic variety of hotels and vacation rentals. When traveling with others, you can share your hotel with a partner, friend, or your children, which can help save money. Families should focus on hotels and restaurants that cater to kids. Edgewater Inn - St Augustine is an excellent choice, while St George Inn - Saint Augustine is also a great option. To find more accommodations that are family and couple-friendly, check our hotel guide for Saint Augustine.

What Luxury Travel Looks Like

If you're used to premier amenities and elevated service, prepare to spend about $395 per day. Choosing comfortable hotels, dining at award-winning establishments, indulging in extravagant excursions, and relying on taxis or private drivers to explore the city will demand a higher price range. Many high-end visitors also prefer unique experiences such as Private Golf Cart Tours, LLC in St. Augustine - offered by Viator.

Accommodation Budget in Saint Augustine

The hotel prices in Saint Augustine might surprise you. Some places charge much more for added luxury and amenities, especially during peak season. In the off-season, a room averages $218, but during peak summer season, expect to pay around $407. Prices vary from $126 to $690, but hostels are often cheaper. Booking in advance and traveling during the low season can help save you money.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Saint Augustine for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $172. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $86 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $86
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $172

Hotels in Saint Augustine

Looking for a hotel in Saint Augustine? 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 Saint Augustine

The average hotel room price in Saint Augustine based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $218 in the low season and $407 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 Saint Augustine include:

  • Casa Monica Resort & Spa Autograph Collection starting at $267
  • Cedar House Inn starting at $226
  • The Old Powder House Inn starting at $255
  • Marker 8 Hotel and Marina starting at $222
  • St George Inn - Saint Augustine starting at $250
Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Saint Augustine

If you're traveling to Saint Augustine with kids, you'll want to choose an apartment or accommodation with more space to enjoy.

Visiting in the low or shoulder season, rather than summer, will allow you to find cheaper accommodation and fewer tourists.

Walking is a popular way to explore Saint Augustine, so staying in a prime area is recommended. Just be prepared for potentially higher prices.

The city's unique old town is a big attraction for tourists. Though hotels here can be more expensive, they often showcase a lot of character and are conveniently located for access to local sights.


Recommended Properties


Transportation Budget in Saint Augustine

Saint Augustine does not has a good public transit system. The Old Town Trolley travels through the historic center. There's also a bus service through the region, but you really need a private vehicle to explore everything.

Visitors who like to explore on foot will enjoy their time here. It's one of the more walkable cities in the area. Downtown, Uptown, and even near the beach have accessible areas with sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly zones.

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

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $39 per person, per day, on local transportation in Saint Augustine. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Saint Augustine is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $39

Transportation Tips

If you're taking a car, verify that your hotel offers convenient parking.



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

Rental Cars in Saint Augustine
The price of renting a car in Saint Augustine 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 Saint Augustine

The food in Saint Augustine is terrific, and you should make sure to take time to taste all of the local flavors. The food scene is influenced by the long history of the city. You'll find flavors that are influenced by Spanish, African, and Native American cultures. There are several popular dishes around town such as fried shrimp, clam chowder, and shrimp and grits.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Saint Augustine can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Saint Augustine is $85 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $85

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Saint Augustine is around $85 ($85) per person, with previous travelers spending from $37 to $168. 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 Saint Augustine are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $8 to $25
  • Lunch: $13 to $34
  • Dinner: $25 to $59
  • Coffee: $7
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $13

Restaurants of all kinds line the streets of St. Augustine. Casa Maya serves organic food (not "tex-mex") from the Yucatn peninsula, while Creekside Dinery features much local seafood. Those who like Asian or South African cuisine should check out the Old City House, and fans of European dishes will love Le Pavillion. Another great dining experience, Saltwater Cowboy, is in the midst of saltwater marshes!

Food & Dining Tips

When dining out with children, prioritize restaurants with a kids' menu. This can help you save a fair amount of money, as those options are typically less expensive. Some eateries might not showcase kids' meals on their menus, so it's a good idea to check with the waiter.

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.

Instead of buying drinks, bring a water bottle. It's also an environmentally friendly option.

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 Saint Augustine. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:

  • Feast of Saint Augustine Historical Walking Food Tour for $139 details
  • Cooking Class/Dinner W/ Celebrity French Chef OR Private Chef Ser for $105 details

Recommended


Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Saint Augustine

Travelers flock to Saint Augustine because it is well-known for its historical sights, museums and attractions, food, and beaches.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Saint Augustine typically cost an average of $18 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.
    $18

The oldest landmark in St. Augustine is the Castillo de San Marcos is also its second oldest masonry fort in the United States, after the Castillo San Felipe del Morro in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Viewed from the air, it is seen to have the shape of a square with an arrowhead at each corner. It was first built in 1672 at the orders of Governor Francisco de la Guerra de la Vega to fend off the English privateer Robert Searles, who had been raiding the surrounding settlement. Since 1924, the fort has been a national monument.

The Cathedral Basilica, the oldest church in the state, was first built in 1565, burnt several times and rebuilt in its present form in 1797. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1970. The clay roof tiles and curving bell gables are characteristic of Spanish mission architecture.

Other attractions and landmarks in the city range from historical to touristy, and include the Fountain of Youth, Fort Matanzas National Monument and Ripley’s Believe It or Not.



A variety of recreational activities take place in St. Augustine. There is Anastasia Watersports in the state park of the same name where visitors can rent a canoes, kayaks, pedal boats and sailboats. Guided tours are also conducted of the historic areas, including nightly walking tours and Flagley College Legacy.

Sightseeing Tips

Museums and Attractions:
Saint Augustine is known for its famous museums and other landmarks. It's history is brought to life with many monuments and museums. The Lightner Museum, the Old Jail Museum, the Lincolnville Museum, and Castillo De San Marcos are among the city's most notable sights. Also worth a visit is the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum.

Beaches:
Numerous guests come to Saint Augustine to enjoy the tranquil beach vibe. Head to the beach to relax and swim. There are miles of sandy beach nearby, with some of the most popular being Ponte Vedra Beach, known for its golf courses, Vilano Beach, with its charming atmosphere, and the scenic Anastasia State Park.

Historical Sights:
Visitors love to explore the historic old town area. As the longest running, continuously occupied city in the United States, the Historic Downtown is at the heart of the city. It's filled with quaint restaurants, historic hotels, and charming streets. You can take carriage rides or wander through the historic sites. Many of the buildings date back to the 1700s and offer a glimpse into Florida's past.

Shopping:
Shopping here is an experience not to be missed. The Historic Downtown has unique art galleries and boutiques. St. George Street is the perfect place to pick up a souvenir and Aviles Street is the oldest street in the United States. It's also filled with artisan boutiques. Plaza de la Constitución is known for its long running public market and it often has live entertainment.

A nice way to explore destinations in Saint Augustine 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:

  • Guardian Angels of St. Augustine Walking Tour for $27 details
  • Saint Augustine Evening Architectural Photo Tour for $99 details
  • Four Seater Slingshot Adventure Rental & Self-Guided Tour for $200 details

Recommended Activities


Nightlife Budget in Saint Augustine

Though Saint Augustine has some nightlife options, it's relatively quieter compared to other more popular cities. There are wineries, pubs, live music venues, and a number of activities that take advantage of the outdoor setting.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $25 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Saint Augustine per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $25
Nightlife Tips

The nightlife scene is a lot of fun, but reducing how much you drink can go a long way in keeping your budget on track.

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 Saint Augustine. A few favorites from other travelers include:

  • Wine Tasting Cruise in St. Augustine for $49 details
  • The Original Haunted Pub Tour for $27 details
  • St. Augustine Haunted Pub Crawl for $30 details

Recommended


Travel cost data last updated: Nov 27, 2024

Budgeting and Travel Tips for Saint Augustine

  • When it's peak season in summer, expect to pay more and see more people in the city. Save some cash and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere by visiting during the shoulder or low seasons.
  • Slowing your travel tempo can not only save you money but also let you enjoy the stunning beauty of your surroundings. When you pack each day with activities, costs can rise rapidly. However, a more relaxed pace usually leads to lower expenses and a more enjoyable experience.

Budgeting Challenges

  • Saint Augustine doesn't have many public transport options available. You may want to consider renting a car or setting up transportation ahead of time, like booking a tour. Just be aware that this might affect your budget elsewhere.
  • Saint Augustine isn't exactly teeming with hostels, so if you were hoping to find a low-cost dorm, you might want to rethink that. Finding a budget hotel or renting an apartment could be your best bet.
Traveling in Saint Augustine
Saint Augustine St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine is the oldest European-established settlement in the United States. Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Leon landed nearby and claimed the land now known as Florida in the name of Spain in 1513. They had originally named the land La Florida, which means "Land of Flowers". The city was founded by Spanish explorer Pedro Menendez de Aviles in 1565. Sir Francis Drake and John Davis burnt the city to the ground in 1586 and 1665 respectively, but St. Augustine soon became strong enough to fend off such attacks. Florida was purchased by the United States from Spain in 1819; it seceded during the Civil War, during which St. Augustine was occupied by Union forces.

St. Augustine has a humid subtropical climate, with mild weather during winters and hot weather during summers. It is common for daily thunderstorms to erupt during a typical summer afternoon, due to the heating of the land and water, combined with extremely high humidity. Sometimes in the winter it can freeze, but rarely. Most rains come from June to September.

St. Augustine is located on a peninsula between two rivers, the San Sebastian and the Matanzas. Tourism forms the backbone of its economy, though a few industries also make a significant contribution to the city’s yearly revenue.



Neighborhoods & Around

While most of the "tourist" sights and activities are in the central part of the historic district, St. Augustine includes a number of other vital neighborhoods. Crescent Beach, to the south, is a small community that stretches along a beautiful portion of the Florida coast. There is little economic development here, but people like to take part in boogie boarding, water boarding and other sea sports. Butler Beach figured prominently in black American history - it was named for a black businessman - and also has a park where many endangered species live. Other neighborhoods include City Center, College Park, Hilden and Moultrie Junction.

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.