A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Beaufort vs. Memphis for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Beaufort or Memphis?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Beaufort or Memphis, 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.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a southern, charming, and historic town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Beaufort offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches. See Beaufort travel costs.

Memphis

Memphis is a soulful, creative, and laid-back city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See Memphis travel costs.

Beaufort and Memphis: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Beaufort or Memphis?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Memphis than Beaufort, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Memphis is better known for its nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Beaufort is more popular for its beaches, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Beaufort is more touristy than Memphis and is popular for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes. Memphis is well known for its influential music scene and its southern barbecue. Also, Memphis is famous for Elvis Presley's Graceland.

How is Beaufort different from Memphis?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Beaufort or Memphis?

Beaufort
Memphis

Both Beaufort and Memphis have notable landmarks and museums for visitors.

Beaufort is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The town's museums highlight the region's past. There are four popular museums that you can visit - the Beaufort History Museum, Parris Island Museum, Verdier House Museum, and York W. Bailey Museum.

Memphis offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Many attractions in town are related to the city's history in music. There is the famed Graceland as well as the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The city also has several art museums that are worth checking out.


Is the Food Better in Beaufort or Memphis? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beaufort
Memphis

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at superb restaurants in both Beaufort and Memphis.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Beaufort makes for a great culinary experience. Soak up the charming atmosphere by dining at one of the local restaurants. Many serve Lowcountry cuisine which includes She-crab soup, fried green tomatoes, shrimp burgers, and barbecue.

Memphis has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town has grown into a foodie destination with excellent barbecue and ribs. There are many award winning barbecue joints, but you'll also find casual bars that serve nachos, pizza, and other quick bites.

Is Beaufort or Memphis Better for Nightlife?

Beaufort
Memphis

Memphis is notable for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

Memphis has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Music is at the heart of the nightlife scene. Head to Beale Street in Memphis's downtown for the most active nightlife that usually stays open the latest. You'll also find a lot of bars and clubs in Midtown around Overton Square.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Beaufort. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.

Is Beaufort or Memphis Better for Music?

Beaufort
Memphis

Memphis is renowned for live music. However, Beaufort is not a live music destination.

Memphis is a world class music destination. There are plenty of live music venues in the downtown area that you can explore. Several of the most famous include B.B. King's Blues Club, Handy Park Pavilion, and Blues City Cafe. The city is known for its influential role in several music genres including the blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll. There are also many music related museums and attractions in town like Graceland, the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music.

Beaufort is not a live music destination.


Is Beaufort or Memphis Better for Beaches?

Beaufort
Memphis

Beaufort is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Memphis is not a beach destination.

Beaufort has a beach worth visiting. The town has a nice waterfront, but you have to head about half an hour out of town for a real beach. One of the best options is Hunting Island State Park.

Memphis is not a beach destination.

Is Beaufort or Memphis Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort
Memphis

Beaufort is a great town for its historic old town charm. However, Memphis does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Beaufort to see the historical old town. Historic homes, some that were built before the Civil War, offer a glimpse into the past. Beaufort is the second oldest town in South Carolina and it holds on to much of its charm and character.

Memphis does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Memphis?

Beaufort
Memphis

Beaufort is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Memphis is not known for shopping.

Beaufort has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Memphis is a good destination for shopping. The city has plenty of malls and chain stores where you can grab anything you might need.


Is Beaufort or Memphis More Beautiful?

Beaufort
Memphis

Beaufort is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Memphis is not a destination known for its beauty.

Beaufort offers plenty of beauty for visitors. There are many beautiful spots to take in nature or watch the sunset.

Memphis is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Beaufort or Memphis Better for Families?

Beaufort
Memphis

Memphis is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Memphis is a family-friendly place to visit. The town has some great activities for kids including a zoo, several museums, petting farms, and a botanical garden.

Beaufort is not always a place people visit with their families. There are parks and outdoor activities in the area, but one of the best options is to head out of town to the beach.

Is Beaufort or Memphis Better for Couples?

Beaufort
Memphis

Beaufort is a great town for couples. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Beaufort is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. There are many charming and romantic spots around town as well as historic inns where you can stay. Couples will enjoy the waterfront area or exploring one of the nature parks that are nearby. There are also quaint local restaurants that make for a nice date night.

Memphis is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy good music and southern food will enjoy a weekend here. There are many music related landmarks including Graceland and the Rock 'n' Soul Museum. Live music is very popular as well.


Is Beaufort or Memphis Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beaufort
Memphis

Memphis is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Memphis. There are a couple of hostels and plenty of live music that make this a popular stop off for young travelers.

Beaufort is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There aren't any real places for backpackers to stay in the area.

Is Beaufort or Memphis Better for Students?

Beaufort
Memphis

Memphis is a nice place to visit for students. However, Beaufort is not popular with students.

Memphis is a good city to visit for students. The live music scene and great food options make this is a fun town for students.

Beaufort is not popular with students.

Is Beaufort or Memphis Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Beaufort
Memphis

Memphis is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Memphis. There is a trolley and bus system that the city operates, but a car is really helpful for getting around.

Public transit is quite limited in Beaufort. There is no reliable public transportation system in the area.


Is Beaufort or Memphis a more walkable city?

Beaufort
Memphis

Beaufort is a great town for its ease of walking around. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Beaufort is a very walkable destination. The quaint downtown is walkable and offers easy access to art galleries, restaurants, and shops.

Memphis is somewhat walkable. Most of the touristy parts of town are walkable, but if you want to explore further out you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Beaufort Worth Visiting? and Is Memphis Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Memphis or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Memphis?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Beaufort and Memphis. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Beaufort, and 2-3 days is enough time in Memphis.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Memphis than Beaufort 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 Memphis.


  • How many days in Beaufort or Memphis? Ideal Length of Stay
    Beaufort 1-3 
    Memphis 2-3

One day in Beaufort or Memphis?

Beaufort is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

The city of Memphis offers live music and food. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Beaufort or Memphis?

Beaufort might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beaufort has to offer.

Memphis is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Memphis, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Beaufort or Memphis?

Beaufort is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Memphis is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Beaufort or Memphis?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beaufort. Since Beaufort is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Memphis is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Memphis or Beaufort?

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

  • Beaufort Prices
    USA Prices
    Memphis Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Beaufort $154
    Memphis $199

The average daily cost (per person) in Beaufort is $154, while the average daily cost in Memphis is $199. 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 Beaufort and Memphis in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beaufort $100
    Memphis $84
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beaufort $200
    Memphis $168
Compare Hotels in Beaufort and Memphis

Looking for a hotel in Beaufort or Memphis? 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 Beaufort


Hotels in Memphis


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: Beaufort Hotel Prices and Memphis Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Memphis $59

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Memphis

Also for Memphis, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Memphis Airport Transfers: $60
  • Private Departure Transfer to Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Memphis Airport (MEM) to Memphis City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $170

Is it cheaper to fly into Beaufort or Memphis?

Prices for flights to both Memphis and Beaufort 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
    Beaufort $54
    Memphis $74

Typical Food Prices in Memphis

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Memphis:


  • Baskin Robins (for 2)
    $6.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Memphis

For Memphis, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Taste of Downtown Memphis Food Tour: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Memphis $45

Tours and Activities in Beaufort

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Beaufort are as follows:

  • Beaufort Tipsy Tour: $59
  • Gullah Heritage Tour: $52
  • Historic City Tour by Bus: $37
  • Local History and Film Sites Tour by golf cart: $38
  • Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart: $48

Tours and Activities in Memphis

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Memphis.

  • Memphis Grizzlies Basketball Game Ticket: $3.27
  • Beale Street Experience Audio App Self Guided Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Memphis Music Hall of Fame Admission Ticket: $8.00
  • Memphis Civil Rights Smartphone Guided Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Entry Ticket to the Edge Motor Museum: $10
  • Memphis Botanic Garden Entry Ticket: $12
  • A Self Guided Walking Tour of Brews, Blues and BBQ in Memphis: $15
  • Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum Admission Ticket in Memphis: $15
  • Memphis Self Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Beale Street Guided Walking Tour: $22
  • 1-Hour Beale Street Guided Walking Tour: $22
  • Mobsters, Mayhem, & Murder of Memphis Ghost Tour: $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Beaufort -
    Memphis $26

Sample the Local Flavors in Memphis

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Memphis:

  • Drinking Spirits with Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $27
  • Haunted Pub Crawl in Memphis: $31
  • Guided Bar Crawl on a Pedal Bike: $40
  • Memphis Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $69
  • Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $69
  • #1 Way To See Beale Street, Bar Crawl and Murals: $430


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Beaufort and Memphis, we can see that Memphis is more expensive. And not only is Beaufort much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Beaufort would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Beaufort and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Memphis would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Memphis than you might in Beaufort.

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


Which is Bigger, Beaufort or Memphis?

Memphis has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Beaufort and Memphis, 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.


When is the best time to visit Beaufort or Memphis?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Beaufort or Memphis in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Beaufort as well as Memphis. The summer months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Memphis this time of year.

In July, Beaufort is generally around the same temperature as Memphis. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 82°F (28°C), and Memphis fluctuates around 83°F (29°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Memphis. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beaufort this time of the year. In the summer, Beaufort often gets less sunshine than Memphis. Beaufort gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Memphis receives 328 hours of full sun.

Beaufort receives a lot of rain in the summer. Beaufort usually gets more rain in July than Memphis. Beaufort gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C) 
    Memphis 83°F (29°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Memphis in the Autumn?

Both Memphis and Beaufort are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Memphis for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Beaufort is a little warmer than Memphis in the autumn. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Memphis fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

It's quite sunny in Memphis. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. Beaufort usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Memphis during autumn. Beaufort gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Memphis receives 240 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Beaufort usually receives more rain than Memphis. Beaufort gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C) 
    Memphis 64°F (18°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Memphis in the Winter?

Both Memphis and Beaufort during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Beaufort for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Memphis in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Memphis can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Beaufort is much warmer than Memphis. Typically, the winter temperatures in Beaufort in January average around 48°F (9°C), and Memphis averages at about 40°F (5°C).

In the winter, Beaufort often gets more sunshine than Memphis. Beaufort gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Memphis receives 163 hours of full sun.

Beaufort usually gets more rain in January than Memphis. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 2.4 inches (62 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C) 
    Memphis 40°F (5°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Memphis in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Beaufort and Memphis. Many visitors come to Beaufort in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Memphis for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Beaufort is generally around the same temperature as Memphis. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 67°F (19°C), and Memphis fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Memphis this time of the year. In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beaufort usually receives more sunshine than Memphis during spring. Beaufort gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Memphis receives 254 hours of full sun in the spring.

Memphis receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Beaufort usually receives less rain than Memphis. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 4.3 inches (109 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C) 
    Memphis 64°F (18°C)

Typical Weather for Memphis and Beaufort

Beaufort Memphis
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 40°F (5°C) 2.4 inches (62 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 64°F (18°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 80°F (27°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 83°F (29°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 82°F (28°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)