A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Boston vs. Moab for Attractions, Families, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Boston or Moab?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Boston and Moab. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Boston

Boston is a classic, proud, and loyal city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Boston is a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater. See Boston travel costs.

Moab

Moab is a adventurous, active, and scenic town. You'll find world class beauty in Moab as well. It's also known for hiking and shopping. See Moab travel costs.

Boston and Moab: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Freedom Trail
Things to Consider
  • Less charming
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Boston or Moab?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Boston. Although Boston and Moab are both popular with visitors, Boston has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Boston is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Moab is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Moab is more touristy than Boston and is popular for its desert landscapes and the iconic arches found at Arches National Park. Boston is popular for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also home to The Freedom Trail.

How is Boston different from Moab?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Boston or Moab?

Boston
Moab

Boston is very popular for its historical sights. However, Moab is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Boston from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

Moab offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in the area that will teach you about the geology and history. You can pop in the Moab Museum or the Film Museum at Red Cliffs Ranch, as well as the galleries around town.


Is Boston or Moab Better for Theater?

Boston
Moab

Boston is great for theatre. However, Moab is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Boston. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Moab is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Boston or Moab? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Boston
Moab

Boston is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Moab is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Boston. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Moab. The town has grown over the years and now you'll find a diverse selection of restaurants that serve decent food. There are steakhouses, pizzerias, and even a couple ice cream shops.

Is Boston or Moab Better for Nightlife?

Boston
Moab

Boston is great for nightlife. However, Moab is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Boston for the nightlife scene. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

Most people don't head to Moab specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town has grown significantly and you'll find bars, taverns, and breweries where you can hang out in the evening, but it's still a quiet place with a laid back atmosphere.


Is Boston or Moab Better for Music?

Boston
Moab

Boston is a popular place for live music. However, Moab is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Boston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Moab is not a live music destination.

Is Boston or Moab Better for Beaches?

Boston
Moab

Boston is adequate for its beaches. However, Moab is not a beach destination.

Boston is a good spot to see the beach. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Moab is not a beach destination.

Is Boston or Moab Better for its Old Town?

Boston
Moab

Boston is very popular for its historic old town. However, Moab does not have a historic old town.

Boston has a world-famous historical area. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Moab does not have a historic old town.


Is Boston or Moab Better for Hiking?

Boston
Moab

Moab is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. However, Boston is not a hiking destination.

Moab is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The area is filled with hiking trails, both inside the nearby national parks as well as outside. Canyonlands National Park is large with impressive overlooks, while Arches National Park has fun hikes that take you by diverse arches and include many opportunities for scrambling. Outside of the park, hikers can visit Corona Arch or search for dinosaur footprints at Dinosaur Tracks Trail.

Boston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Boston or Moab?

Boston
Moab

Both Boston and Moab are good shopping destinations.

Boston is a great destination for shopping. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Moab. There are gift shops, places to buy outdoor equipment, and convenient stores around town. There are also a number of art galleries that sell local items or impressive photography.

Is Boston or Moab More Beautiful?

Boston
Moab

Moab is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Moab as well. The desert landscapes and unique geological features make this a fascinating and beautiful area to explore. The dramatic arches in Arches National Park tell a unique story of how the geology of the area has changed.

Boston is a beautiful place to visit, too. The history, architecture, and world renowned university campuses all give this city its unique beauty.


Is Boston or Moab Better for Families?

Boston
Moab

Boston is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Moab is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Boston is a very family-friendly destination. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

Moab is a very kid-friendly city. It's a world of outdoor adventures. You'll find river rafting, mountain biking, rock climbing, and many kid-friendly trails. There's also the Tracks Museum, where kids can learn about dinosaurs as well as swimming pools or swimming holes in the area.

Is Boston or Moab Better for Couples?

Boston
Moab

Moab is notable for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Moab is a very popular place to visit for couples. The area is filled with adventurous fun, with everything from world-class hikes to impressive rafting trips. The dramatic landscape provides the backdrop for a truly spectacular trip.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is Boston or Moab Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boston
Moab

Moab is notable for backpackers. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Moab. The town has many campgrounds and even a few hostels. Arches National Park has only a few backcountry overnight camping sites. Terrain is rough and most areas aren't accessible by trail.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.


Is Boston or Moab Better for Students?

Boston
Moab

Boston is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, Moab is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Boston. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Moab is not popular with students.

Is Boston or Moab Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Boston
Moab

Boston is very popular for times when you don't have a car. However, Moab is not a good destination for its public transit.

Boston has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Moab. There are efforts to create a transportation program within town, but there are limited transportation options available. If you book a tour, they usually provide transportation.

Is Boston or Moab a more walkable city?

Boston
Moab

Boston is very popular for its walkability. However, Moab is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Boston is a very easy city to get around on foot. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

Moab is generally not very walkable. While it's possible to walk around within the town, most visitors don't come to visit they town, they come to explore the area. You'll need a car to access most points of interest in the area.


For even more information, also check out Is Boston Worth Visiting? and Is Moab Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Moab or Boston?

How long in Boston or Moab?

In either Boston or Moab, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Boston has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Boston than Moab. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Boston, and 2-5 days is enough time in Moab.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boston than Moab 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 Boston.


  • How many days in Boston or Moab? Ideal Length of Stay
    Boston 3-5 
    Moab 2-5

One day in Boston or Moab?

Boston is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping when visiting the destination of Moab. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Boston or Moab?

Boston is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the museums. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Moab is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Boston or Moab?

Boston is a historic big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Moab. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Boston or Moab?

The classic city of Boston offers food and shopping. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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 shopping when visiting the scenic destination of Moab. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Moab or Boston?

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

  • Boston Prices
    USA Prices
    Moab Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Boston $291
    Moab $416

The average daily cost (per person) in Boston is $291, while the average daily cost in Moab is $416. 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 Boston and Moab in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Boston $166
    Moab $336
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Boston $332
    Moab $672
Compare Hotels in Boston and Moab

Looking for a hotel in Boston or Moab? 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 Boston


Hotels in Moab


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: Boston Hotel Prices and Moab Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Boston $37
    Moab $17
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Boston

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Boston are as follows:


  • Taxi
    $35
  • Subway Daily Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Boston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Boston:

  • Round trip Airport Transfer: Boston Logan to Downton Boston : $300
  • Private Transfer from Boston Airport to Providence RI: $294
  • Flynn Cruise port Boston to Boston hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $245
  • Private Luxury Airport Transfer from Boston Logan (BOS): $200
  • Private arrival OR departure transfer in Boston (hotel OR airport pick-up): $196
  • Private Transfer from Boston Logan Airport (BOS) to Newport Port: $192
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Boston Logan Airport (BOS) : $192
  • Private Transfer from Boston City Hotels to Newport Cruise Port: $192
  • Private Transfer from Newport Cruise Port to Boston city hotels: $192
  • Private Transfer in Boston (BOS) Airport/Home/Hotel/Work : $190
  • Boston Logan Airport (BOS) to Flynn Cruise Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $190
  • Boston Airport (BOS): Transfer to Flynn Cruise Port Boston: $184

Is it cheaper to fly into Boston or Moab?

Prices for flights to both Moab and Boston 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
    Boston $86
    Moab $64

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Boston

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

  • Self Guided "The North End Pizza, Cannoli and Picnic" Solo Walking Tour : $5.50
  • Morning Walks with Salem Food Tours: $34
  • Boston Freedom Trail History and Food Tour: $39
  • Freedom Trail History and Food Tour: $39
  • Pizza Beer and Paul Revere Tour: $65
  • Boston Pizza Lovers Food & History Walking Food Tour: $69
  • North End Pizza Walking Tour with 3 Slices & Cannoli: $69
  • 2-Hour Pasta Making Cooking Class With Local Chef in Boston: $75
  • North End Food Experience with Pizza, Meats & Cheese: $75
  • Pizza, Beer, and Paul Revere Tour: $75
  • City Cruises Harbor Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise: $89
  • Boston’s Politically Incorrect North End Food tour: $98

Typical Food Prices in Moab

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


  • Moab Brewery
    $42
  • Breakfast for Two
    $17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Moab

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

  • Colorado River Dinner Cruise with Music and Light Show: $108

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Boston $33
    Moab $3.13
Typical Entertainment Prices in Boston

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Boston are as follows:


  • Two Tickets to Celtics Game
    $101
  • Duck Tour
    $32

Tours and Activities in Boston

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

  • Boston Massachusetts Private Photography Tour: $130
  • Freedom Trail Walking Tour: $26
  • Salem Witch Tour: $80
  • "Ghosts of Boston" Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • "Witch Trials" Walking Tour in Salem: $30
  • 1 Hour Boston Segway Tour: $69
  • 1 If By Land Walking Tours: $45
  • 1 or 2 Day Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour of Boston With *20+ Stops: $48
  • 1692 Salem Day Tour: $35
  • 1692 Salem Night Walking Tour: $35
  • 2 Hour Boston Historical and Heritage Walking Tour: $5.00
  • 2-Day Niagara Falls USA Tour from Boston: $49

Typical Entertainment Prices in Moab

For Moab, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Slickrock Trail Pass
    $5.00

Tours and Activities in Moab

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

  • Arches National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Utah Mighty 5 National Parks Self-Guided Driving Audio Tours: $33
  • BEST! Hell's Revenge U-Drive 4X4 Tour in Moab +Dinosaur Tracks!: $48
  • Hell's Revenge 4x4 Off-Roading Tour from Moab: $49
  • US Classic Southwest Adventure Self Guided Audio Tours: $72
  • 30+ National Parks Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $85
  • BEST! Catacomb *CAVES* U-Drive 4X4 UTV Tour in Moab +Petroglyphs!: $89
  • Flatwater Stand-Up Paddleboard Tour on Colorado River: $95
  • Hell's Revenge Hummer Adventure: $97
  • Moab’s Premier Sunset U-Drive UTV Hell’s Revenge Tour: $99
  • Moab’s #1 Rated Guided U-Drive Hell’s Revenge Off-Road Tour: $99
  • Moab’s Original Hummer Adventure: Hell’s Revenge Trail Experience: $99

For more ideas for your next trip, check out Free Things to Do in Boston, Must-See Monuments and Memorials In Boston, and The Best Things To Do in Boston with Kids.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Boston $27
    Moab $66

Sample the Local Flavors in Boston

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Boston:

  • Boston Bar Crawl Back Bay Beat Bar Craw: $15
  • Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl: $29
  • Boston Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Haunted Pub Crawl of Historic Pubs and Taverns: $35
  • 2 Hour Historic Pub Crawl in Boston: $35
  • Salem Booze and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl by US Ghost Adventures: $36
  • Boston Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl : $36
  • History Pub Crawl Tour Along the Freedom Trail: $56
  • Boston Freedom Trail History Pub Crawl Small-Group Tour: $60
  • Freedom Trail History Tour and Brewery Taste: $71
  • Sushi Making Class at a Local Brewery in Boston: $75
  • Sushi Making Class at a Local Distillery in Boston: $75


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Boston and Moab, we can see that Moab is more expensive. And not only is Boston much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Boston would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Boston 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 Moab would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Moab than you might in Boston.

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


Which is Bigger, Boston or Moab?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 120 times larger than the population of Moab. When comparing the sizes of Boston and Moab, 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.