A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Austin vs. Roswell, New Mexico for Food, Attractions, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Austin or Roswell, New Mexico?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Austin or Roswell, New Mexico, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Austin

Austin is a unconventional, lively, and entrepreneurial city. It's a big city with many activities to entertain visitors, too. Austin is beautiful destination to visit. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping. See Austin travel costs.

Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a quirky, mysterious, and infamous town. It's also known for food and museums. See Roswell, New Mexico travel costs.

Austin and Roswell, New Mexico: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Austin or Roswell, New Mexico?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Austin. Although Austin and Roswell, New Mexico are popular destinations, Austin has more sights and attractions for tourists. Austin is famous for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population. It is also well known for The Texas Capital. Roswell, New Mexico is famous for being the site of an alleged UFO crash.

How is Austin different from Roswell, New Mexico?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Roswell, New Mexico and Austin. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Austin or Roswell, New Mexico?

Austin
Roswell, New Mexico

Austin is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Austin. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Roswell, New Mexico. Most people stop in town specifically for the International UFO Museum and Research Center. It has a lot of information on the 1947 Roswell Crash and other supposed UFO incidents. Other museums in town include the Roswell UFO Spacewalk, the Roswell Museum, and the Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art.


Is the Food Better in Austin or Roswell, New Mexico? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Austin
Roswell, New Mexico

Austin is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Austin, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Roswell, New Mexico area. It's a good place to grab lunch as there are many casual restaurants that serve everything from burgers to tacos or other Mexican dishes.

Is Austin or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Nightlife?

Austin
Roswell, New Mexico

Austin is very popular for nightlife and partying. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Austin is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Roswell, New Mexico. There's no real nightlife scene and many visitors stop over in route somewhere else.

Is Austin or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Music?

Austin
Roswell, New Mexico

Austin is very popular for its live music scene. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Austin. Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a live music destination.


Is Austin or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Hiking?

Austin
Roswell, New Mexico

Austin is a decent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Austin. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Austin or Roswell, New Mexico?

Austin
Roswell, New Mexico

Austin is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Austin. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

Roswell, New Mexico has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find the typical suburban chains where you can pick up essentials or food while you're in town.

Is Austin or Roswell, New Mexico More Beautiful?

Austin
Roswell, New Mexico

Austin is a decent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a destination known for its beauty.

Austin is beautiful destination to visit. The city has some nearby natural beauty as well as an eclectic style.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Austin or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Families?

Austin
Roswell, New Mexico

Austin and Roswell, New Mexico are both nice destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Austin. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.

Roswell, New Mexico offers lots of family activities. Kids who enjoy a mystery will appreciate a visit to the International UFO Museum and Research Center. There's also the Spring River Park and Zoo which has native animals and a carousel.

Is Austin or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Couples?

Austin
Roswell, New Mexico

Austin is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for couples.

Austin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.

Roswell, New Mexico is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's a bit outside the box as far as destinations go, so couples who enjoy the weird and quirky will enjoy a stop here.

Is Austin or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Austin
Roswell, New Mexico

Austin is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Austin. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

Roswell, New Mexico is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most people pass through in route to other destinations, and backpackers are no different.


Is Austin or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Students?

Austin
Roswell, New Mexico

Austin is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not popular with students.

Many students visit Austin. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

Roswell, New Mexico is not popular with students.

Is Austin or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Austin
Roswell, New Mexico

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Austin and Roswell, New Mexico.

Public transit is generally limited in Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

Public transit is mostly limited in Roswell, New Mexico. There are buses, but it's easier to have your own car.

Is Austin or Roswell, New Mexico a more walkable city?

Austin
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Roswell, New Mexico is somewhat walkable. The historic district is compact and walkable.

Austin is generally not a very walkable city. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.


For even more information, also check out Is Austin Worth Visiting? and Is Roswell, New Mexico Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Roswell, New Mexico or Austin?

How long in Austin or Roswell, New Mexico?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Austin or Roswell, New Mexico to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Austin than Roswell, New Mexico because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Austin, and 1-2 days is enough time in Roswell, New Mexico.

Families should spend more time in Austin than Roswell, New Mexico. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Austin, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Austin than Roswell, New Mexico. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Austin that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Austin than Roswell, New Mexico if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Austin.


  • How many days in Austin or Roswell, New Mexico? Ideal Length of Stay
    Austin 2-3 
    Roswell, New Mexico 1-2

One day in Austin or Roswell, New Mexico?

In Austin, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this destination offers. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Roswell, New Mexico. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Austin or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people visit Austin for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Austin, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Roswell, New Mexico is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Austin or Roswell, New Mexico?

The destination of Austin offers food and shopping. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Roswell, New Mexico. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Austin or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Austin. This city offers something for everyone. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the mysterious destination of Roswell, New Mexico. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Roswell, New Mexico or Austin?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Austin Prices
    USA Prices
    Roswell, New Mexico Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Austin $167
    Roswell, New Mexico $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Austin is $167, while the average daily cost in Roswell, New Mexico is $148. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Austin and Roswell, New Mexico in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Austin $56
    Roswell, New Mexico $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Austin $112
    Roswell, New Mexico $92
Compare Hotels in Austin and Roswell, New Mexico

Looking for a hotel in Austin or Roswell, New Mexico? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Austin


Hotels in Roswell, New Mexico


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Austin Hotel Prices and Roswell, New Mexico Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Austin $47
    Roswell, New Mexico $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Austin

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Austin:

  • Private Transfer in a Luxury Vehicle to and/or from AUS Airport: $125
  • Private Transfer Austin Airport AUS to Austin City: $100
  • Private Transfer Between Airport and Hotels: $80
  • Austin-Bergstrom Airport (AUS) to Austin City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $242
  • AUS Airport Private Transfer to Austin(downtown): $70

Is it cheaper to fly into Austin or Roswell, New Mexico?

Prices for flights to both Roswell, New Mexico and Austin change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Austin $60
    Roswell, New Mexico $76

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Austin

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Austin.

  • Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Brewery in Austin: $75
  • Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Tap Room in Austin: $75
  • Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Tap Room: $75
  • Street Art and Street Food Tour: $85
  • Austin Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $99
  • Austin South Congress Food Tour +6 Tastings, Local BBQ & Sweets: $99
  • Austin Taco Tasting Walking Food Tour (Small Group): $99
  • Downtown Food Tour with 6+ Tastings of Local Flavors: $104
  • South Congress District Food Tour with 6 Tastings: $115
  • Austin Small-Group BBQ Walking Food Tour: $129

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Austin $28
    Roswell, New Mexico $33
Typical Entertainment Prices in Austin

Here are a few typical costs in Austin for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Austin Duck Tour
    $31

Tours and Activities in Austin

Here are a few actual costs in Austin for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Austin's Best Speakeasies 3-Hour Guided Tour: $50
  • 1 Hour Private Electric Duffy Cruise on Lake Austin: $200
  • 1 Hour Private Electric Duffy Cruise on Lake Austin: $200
  • 3D Printer Factory Tour plus 2 ft Tall Rocket!: $22
  • Austin Aquarium Entry Ticket: $31
  • Austin Art & Architecture Bicycle Tour: $56
  • Austin Art and Architecture Bicycle Tour: $56
  • Austin Biker Gang E-Bike Tour: $85
  • Austin E-Bike Brunch Tour : $118
  • Austin E-Bike Tour: $75
  • Austin Electric Bike Tour: Let it Ride: $54
  • Austin Good Vibes E-Bike Tours: $68

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Austin $28
    Roswell, New Mexico $9.29

Sample the Local Flavors in Austin

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Austin:

  • Austin’s Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $35
  • Austin Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $35
  • Austin Bar Crawl: Austin's 6th Street Bar Crawl: $43
  • Austin 6th Street Bar Crawl | The Epic Group: $43
  • Public Party Bike Pub Crawl Tour in Austin: $54
  • East Austin Brewery Tour by Pedicab: $65
  • At-Home Private Wine or NA Wine Tasting Experience in Austin: $75
  • Street Art and Brewery Bike Tour: $77
  • 4-Hour Austin Signature Brewery Tour: $100
  • Brewery Tour with Live Music and Beer Tastings: $130
  • Brewery 5K Fun Run, BBQ, and Texas History Museum in Austin : $175


When comparing the travel costs between Austin and Roswell, New Mexico, we can see that Austin is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Austin Expensive? and Is Roswell, New Mexico Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Austin or Roswell, New Mexico?

Austin has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Roswell, New Mexico. When comparing the sizes of Austin and Roswell, New Mexico, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.