A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Charleston vs. Moncton for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Charleston or Moncton?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Charleston or Moncton, 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.

Charleston

Charleston is a picturesque, charming, and southern coastal town. With stunning beauty, Charleston attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music. See Charleston travel costs.

Moncton

Moncton is a cultural, quaint, and compact city. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping. See Moncton travel costs.

Charleston and Moncton: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Charleston or Moncton?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Charleston. Although Charleston and Moncton are roughly the same size, Charleston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Charleston is more touristy than Moncton and is popular for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. It is also well known for The Waterfront Park. Moncton is famous for its unique sense of place and its cultural activities.

How is Charleston different from Moncton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Charleston or Moncton?

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Charleston or Moncton.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Charleston. This city is famous for its many historic churches and plantations. The plantations are open to visit and will educate you on the city's past, which is heavily involved in slavery. You can also visit Fort Sumter National Monument by boat or take a tour of the USS Yorktown.

Moncton is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city has a zoo at Magnetic Hill as well as several great museums and historic sites like Fort Beauséjour and the Acadian Museum.

Is the Food Better in Charleston or Moncton? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Charleston is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Charleston, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Food lovers will enjoy the city's low country classics. There are many local restaurants in town that serve southern specialties. You can also head a bit out of the town center if you want a waterfront restaurant. Local favorites include she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, cornbread, and fried green tomatoes.

Moncton offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a range of casual eateries around town as well as wine tasting and a few upscales places. Poutine is the local favorite, but you can also try fried seafood or a local stew.

Is Charleston or Moncton Better for Nightlife?

Charleston is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Moncton is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Charleston has a few options to choose from. As a college town, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs around town. There's also a lively music scene. Head to the areas near the college for the most affordable and active nightlife. Popular clubs in town include Cure Night Club, Deco Nightclub, and Mynt.

Most people don't head to Moncton specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Many of the local bars and clubs are geared toward a slightly younger crowd.

Is Charleston or Moncton Better for Music?

Charleston is a good destination for its music scene. However, Moncton is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Charleston. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Moncton is not a live music destination.

Is Charleston or Moncton Better for Resorts?

Charleston is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Moncton is not a resort destination.

Charleston has a few great resort options. The town has mostly hotels and bed and breakfasts in the downtown area, but nearby Kiawah Island has a number of nice resorts to choose from. Kiawah Island is particularly kid-friendly if you're looking for a family beach vacation. If you have a bit more money to spend and want something more residential, check out nearby Seabrook Island.

Moncton is not a resort destination.

Is Charleston or Moncton Better for Beaches?

Charleston is great for the beach. However, Moncton is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Charleston for it's beautiful beaches. The area has a number of beautiful and fun nearby beaches including Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Folly Beach is an active and quirky beach area, while Kiawah is more family-friendly. Seabrook is more residential and more expensive.

Moncton is not a beach destination.

Is Charleston or Moncton Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Moncton does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Charleston is revered around the world. Charleston's downtown is one of the most charming and well preserved Old Town's in the United States. It's easy to see why it's become a world class destination.

Moncton does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Charleston or Moncton?

Charleston is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to Charleston specifically to go shopping. The city is famous for its historic market in the center of town. Local goods, foods, and crafts are sold daily here. There are also many clothing and local shops throughout town, particularly along King Street, which has boutiques and high end outlets. Outside of town, stop by Tanger Outlet Mall if you want name brands at a discount price.

Moncton is a great destination for shopping. There's a mix of independent shops and larger big box stores. Some of the largest shopping areas include Mapleton Plaza and Wheeler Park Power Centre.

Is Charleston or Moncton More Beautiful?

Charleston is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Moncton is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Charleston attracts visitors from all around. The charming history, beautiful architecture, and historic churches all make this city one of the most beautiful in the southern United States.

Moncton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Charleston or Moncton Better for Families?

Charleston and Moncton are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Charleston is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of family-friendly activities like carriage rides and boat rides. There's also an aquarium, a waterfront park, and many kid-friendly museums. The nearby beaches also make it a wonderful place to visit with kids.

Moncton is a family-friendly coastal town. It's a family-friendly town with indoor play spaces and outdoor parks. Highlights for families include a visit to Magnetic Hill Zoo and a stop at Butterfly World and the Boardwalk.

Is Charleston or Moncton Better for Couples?

Charleston is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Charleston is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This beautiful city is one of the most popular wedding destinations in America. It's a very romantic setting with beautiful hotels and bed and breakfasts that are perfect for couples on their honeymoon or looking for a romantic setting.

Moncton is a nice destination for couples. There are some great date night ideas like wine tasting at Magnetic Hill Winery or seeing a show at the theater.

Is Charleston or Moncton Better for Students?

Charleston is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Moncton is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Charleston. The city is a college town with a young vibe that is perfect for students. There's a nice university area where you'll find cheaper places to eat and a good nightlife scene.

Moncton is not popular with students.

Is Charleston or Moncton Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Charleston and Moncton offer reasonable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Charleston. While there are some buses, you really must have a car to fully experience the entire area.

Public transit is mostly limited in Moncton. There is a bus system but it's better not to rely on it.

Is Charleston or Moncton a more walkable city?

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

Charleston is a very walkable destination. The downtown area is very walkable, but once you leave the historic heart, it's best to have a car.

Moncton is somewhat walkable. It's relatively compact and dense enough to get around on foot in many parts.

For even more information, also check out Is Charleston Worth Visiting? and Is Moncton Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Moncton or Charleston?

How long in Charleston or Moncton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Charleston or Moncton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Charleston than Moncton because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Charleston, and 1-2 days is enough time in Moncton.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charleston than Moncton 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 Charleston.

One day in Charleston or Moncton?

In Charleston, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This coastal town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With museums and food around the cultural city of Moncton, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Moncton, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Charleston or Moncton?

In Charleston, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 Charleston has to offer.

With food and shopping around the destination of Moncton, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Charleston or Moncton?

Charleston is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Charleston has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Moncton, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Charleston or Moncton?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Charleston. In Charleston, you'll find live music and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Moncton is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in Canada, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Charleston or Moncton?

Charleston has a larger population, and is about 10% larger than the population of Moncton. When comparing the sizes of Charleston and Moncton, 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 Charleston or Moncton?

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 Charleston or Moncton in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Charleston as well as Moncton. Many travelers come to Charleston for the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Moncton in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Charleston is a little warmer than Moncton in the summer. The daily temperature in Charleston averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Moncton fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite rainy in Moncton. Charleston receives a lot of rain in the summer. Charleston usually gets more rain in July than Moncton. Charleston gets 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Charleston or Moncton in the Autumn?

Both Moncton and Charleston are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Charleston in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Moncton for the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Charleston is much warmer than Moncton. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Charleston in October average around 67°F (19°C), and Moncton averages at about 8°C (46°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Moncton. In October, Charleston usually receives less rain than Moncton. Charleston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Charleston or Moncton in the Winter?

Both Moncton and Charleston during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Charleston for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Moncton because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Moncton can be very cold. In January, Charleston is generally much warmer than Moncton. Daily temperatures in Charleston average around 47°F (9°C), and Moncton fluctuates around -8°C (17°F).

Moncton gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Charleston usually gets less rain in January than Moncton. Charleston gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Charleston or Moncton in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Charleston and Moncton. The spring months attract visitors to Charleston because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

It's quite cold in Moncton in the spring. Charleston is much warmer than Moncton in the spring. The daily temperature in Charleston averages around 64°F (18°C) in April, and Moncton fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Moncton receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Charleston usually receives less rain than Moncton. Charleston gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Moncton and Charleston