A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cincinnati vs. Myrtle Beach for Nightlife, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cincinnati or Myrtle Beach?

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

Should I visit Cincinnati or Myrtle Beach? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Cincinnati

Cincinnati is a authentic, hard-working, and blue collar city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Cincinnati travel costs.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a busy, jam-packed, and high energy beach city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife and beaches. See Myrtle Beach travel costs.

Cincinnati and Myrtle Beach: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Cincinnati or Myrtle Beach?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Myrtle Beach. Although Cincinnati and Myrtle Beach are both popular with visitors, Myrtle Beach has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Myrtle Beach is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and big city activities, while Cincinnati is known for its museums and attractions, food, and shopping. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than Cincinnati and is known for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. It is also home to the Myrtle Beach boardwalk. Cincinnati is popular for its breweries and down-to-earth personality.

the Myrtle Beach boardwalk
The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Cincinnati different from Myrtle Beach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cincinnati or Myrtle Beach?

Cincinnati
Myrtle Beach

Cincinnati is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Cincinnati specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. You'll find both traditional and quirky museums around town. For outside-the-box, check out the American Sign Museum or the Behringer-Crawford Museum. Art museums include the Cincinnati Art Museum, the Contemporary Arts Center, and the Taft Museum of Art. Other popular museums include the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, and the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Cincinnati or Myrtle Beach? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cincinnati
Myrtle Beach

Cincinnati is very good for its restaurant scene. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Cincinnati area. Mixed in with the standard chain and fast food options, you'll find some local restaurants that serve up the iconic Midwestern favorites. For a taste of the town, try Cincinnati chili, barbecue ribs, and a corned beef Reuben.

Myrtle Beach offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Slices of pizza and seafood buffets are the most common options in the area. There are also themed restaurants and dinner shows that make for a fun night, even if the food isn't the highest quality.

Is Cincinnati or Myrtle Beach Better for Nightlife?

Cincinnati
Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Cincinnati is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

People head to Myrtle Beach just to party. This beach is famous for its nightlife. From all-night bars and clubs, to music concerts and outdoor venues, there's no shortage of things to do. Bachelor and Bachelorette parties and spring break crowds make this the place to be for a party.

If you're looking for night time activities Cincinnati has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is diverse and includes music venues, breweries, and nightclubs. In addition to the city's downtown, you'll find trendy places to hang out in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. Breweries are popular in the city, in part because of its German roots.

Is Cincinnati or Myrtle Beach Better for Resorts?

Cincinnati
Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a beach city with a few options for its resorts. However, Cincinnati is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Myrtle Beach offers a few options. While there are a handful of resorts in the area, like the popular Marriott Vacation Club, most hotels are crowded and lacking in space.

Cincinnati is not a resort destination.


Is Cincinnati or Myrtle Beach Better for Beaches?

Cincinnati
Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is well known for the beach. However, Cincinnati is not a beach destination.

Myrtle Beach is considered a top beach destination. Most people head to the center of town and boardwalk for the nightlife and vibrant activities more than the actual beach. The stretches north and south have nice beaches lined with hotels and resorts, and a much more family-friendly atmosphere. If you want a more relaxed beach setting without the huge crowds, check out Myrtle Beach State Park.

Cincinnati is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cincinnati or Myrtle Beach?

Cincinnati
Myrtle Beach

Cincinnati is very good for its shopping areas. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for shopping.

Many visitors go to Cincinnati to go shopping. There are large shopping malls and retail outlets. You'll also find local boutiques in the Montgomery or Mariemont areas.

Myrtle Beach is a good destination for shopping. The town is filled with souvenir shops, t-shirt shops, and candy vendors that make shopping entertaining.

Is Cincinnati or Myrtle Beach Better for Families?

Cincinnati
Myrtle Beach

Cincinnati is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cincinnati. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities around town like the Cincinnati Zoo, the Cincinnati Museum Center, Newport Aquarium, and Smale Riverfront Park.

For families, Myrtle Beach is not always the best place to visit. While this area isn't generally considered a family destination, there are some newer vacation clubs and resorts that cater specifically to families and have become popular. The Marriott Vacation Club is one of the most popular with families in Myrtle Beach.


Is Cincinnati or Myrtle Beach Better for Couples?

Cincinnati
Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a popular place for its romantic activities. However, Cincinnati is not particularly known for couples.

Myrtle Beach makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The beach area isn't exactly a romantic destination but for couples who enjoy going out and having fun together, there is no shortage of night time activities.

Cincinnati is not always the best place to visit for a couple. If you do find yourself in town for a few days, there are several good restaurants and a number of music venues that can keep the visit fun and entertaining.

Is Cincinnati or Myrtle Beach Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cincinnati
Myrtle Beach

Cincinnati is very good for backpackers. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Cincinnati is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are actually a couple of hostels in town for backpackers or students.

Myrtle Beach is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The nightlife scene brings the young crowd, but this isn't exactly a backpacker destination.

Is Cincinnati or Myrtle Beach Better for Students?

Cincinnati
Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is well known for students. However, Cincinnati is not popular with students.

Myrtle Beach is a very popular beach city for students and younger travelers. University students flock to the area for spring break and end of year celebrations. If you're a student during those times, this is the place to be, otherwise, the area is best avoided.

Cincinnati is not popular with students.


Is Cincinnati or Myrtle Beach Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cincinnati
Myrtle Beach

Cincinnati is very good for its public transit. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Cincinnati, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are two bus systems around town - the METRO and TANK bus systems. There's also a streetcar that travels through the downtown.

Public transit is quite limited in Myrtle Beach. There are no real public transit options so you'll need a car to get around.

Is Cincinnati or Myrtle Beach a more walkable city?

Cincinnati
Myrtle Beach

Cincinnati is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its walkability.

Cincinnati is a very walkable destination. There are several surprisingly walkable areas, particularly downtown and the nearby neighborhoods.

Myrtle Beach is generally not a very walkable city. By the Boardwalk, it's easy to walk around, but traffic can still be congested and once you're out of the main strip, a car is essential.

For even more information, also check out Is Cincinnati Worth Visiting? and Is Myrtle Beach Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Myrtle Beach or Cincinnati?

How long in Cincinnati or Myrtle Beach?

Both Cincinnati and Myrtle Beach have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Myrtle Beach than in Cincinnati. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Cincinnati, and 2-7 days is enough time in Myrtle Beach.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cincinnati than Myrtle Beach 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 Cincinnati.


  • How many days in Cincinnati or Myrtle Beach? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cincinnati 1-2 
    Myrtle Beach 2-7

One day in Cincinnati or Myrtle Beach?

In Cincinnati, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this blue collar city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

With nightlife around the jam-packed beach city of Myrtle Beach, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Cincinnati or Myrtle Beach?

Cincinnati is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

With nightlife around the destination of Myrtle Beach, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this beach city.

Five days in Cincinnati or Myrtle Beach?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the hard-working destination of Cincinnati. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Myrtle Beach, a popular beach city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this beach city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Cincinnati or Myrtle Beach?

Cincinnati is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Myrtle Beach is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this beach city makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this beach city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Myrtle Beach or Cincinnati?

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

  • Cincinnati Prices
    USA Prices
    Myrtle Beach Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cincinnati $223
    Myrtle Beach $214

The average daily cost (per person) in Cincinnati is $223, while the average daily cost in Myrtle Beach is $214. 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 Cincinnati and Myrtle Beach in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cincinnati $102
    Myrtle Beach $88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cincinnati $204
    Myrtle Beach $176
Compare Hotels in Cincinnati and Myrtle Beach

Looking for a hotel in Cincinnati or Myrtle Beach? 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 Cincinnati


Hotels in Myrtle Beach


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: Cincinnati Hotel Prices and Myrtle Beach Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cincinnati $25
    Myrtle Beach $24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Myrtle Beach

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Myrtle Beach:

  • One Way To/From Airport Transfer: $50
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Myrtle Beach Airport MYR: $36
  • Private Departure Transfer to Myrtle Beach Airport (MYR): $36

Is it cheaper to fly into Cincinnati or Myrtle Beach?

Prices for flights to both Myrtle Beach and Cincinnati 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
    Cincinnati $95
    Myrtle Beach $97

Typical Food Prices in Myrtle Beach

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Myrtle Beach:


  • Dinner for Two
    $49
  • Diner Breakfast for Two
    $21

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Myrtle Beach

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

  • Riga Tony's Murder Mystery Dinner Show : $60
  • Polynesian Fire Luau and Dinner Show Ticket in Myrtle Beach: $67
  • Adventure Luau - Polynesian Dinner Show: $69
  • North Dinner Cruise on a Paddle Wheel Boat: $69
  • Luau with Polynesian Dinner and Live Show: $71

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cincinnati $26
    Myrtle Beach $46

Typical Entertainment Prices in Myrtle Beach

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


  • Mini Golf for Two
    $18
  • Beach Chairs
    $15

Tours and Activities in Myrtle Beach

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

  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Myrtle Beach SC: $15
  • SkyWheel Entry Ticket: $22
  • Murrells Inlet: Scenic Sunset Cruise: $29
  • Mayhem, Mystique, & Murder in Myrtle Beach Ghost Tour : $32
  • Mayhem, Mystique & Murder in Myrtle Beach Ghost Tour: $32
  • Murrells Inlet: Saltwater Marsh Eco Tour w/ Marine Biologist: $32
  • 2 HR Dolphin Tour in North Myrtle Beach: $37
  • Catamaran Dolphin Cruise in Myrtle Beach with Barrier Island Stop: $40
  • Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach Entry Ticket: $43
  • Waccamaw River Pontoon Boat Tour: $44
  • Treehouse Experience: $44
  • Myrtle Beach Military History Trolley Tour: $45

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cincinnati $11
    Myrtle Beach $16


When comparing the travel costs between Cincinnati and Myrtle Beach, we can see that Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati Expensive? and Is Myrtle Beach Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cincinnati or Myrtle Beach?

Cincinnati has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Myrtle Beach. When comparing the sizes of Cincinnati and Myrtle Beach, 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 Cincinnati or Myrtle Beach?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cincinnati or Myrtle Beach in the Summer?

Both Myrtle Beach and Cincinnati are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cincinnati this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cincinnati is around the same temperature as Myrtle Beach. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cincinnati in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Myrtle Beach averages at about 81°F (27°C).

It's quite sunny in Myrtle Beach. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cincinnati. Cincinnati usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Myrtle Beach during summer. Cincinnati gets 298 hours of sunny skies, while Myrtle Beach receives 283 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. In July, Cincinnati usually receives less rain than Myrtle Beach. Cincinnati gets 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cincinnati 79°F (26°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Cincinnati or Myrtle Beach in the Autumn?

Both Myrtle Beach and Cincinnati during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cincinnati for the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Myrtle Beach in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Cincinnati is generally cooler than Myrtle Beach. Daily temperatures in Cincinnati average around 58°F (15°C), and Myrtle Beach fluctuates around 65°F (18°C).

In Myrtle Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Cincinnati often gets less sunshine than Myrtle Beach. Cincinnati gets 188 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Myrtle Beach receives 227 hours of full sun.

Cincinnati usually gets less rain in October than Myrtle Beach. Cincinnati gets 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cincinnati 58°F (15°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 65°F (18°C)

Should I visit Cincinnati or Myrtle Beach in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cincinnati and Myrtle Beach. Many visitors come to Cincinnati in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Myrtle Beach for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Cincinnati can get quite cold in the winter. Cincinnati is much colder than Myrtle Beach in the winter. The daily temperature in Cincinnati averages around 31°F (-0°C) in January, and Myrtle Beach fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

Cincinnati usually receives less sunshine than Myrtle Beach during winter. Cincinnati gets 129 hours of sunny skies, while Myrtle Beach receives 180 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cincinnati usually receives less rain than Myrtle Beach. Cincinnati gets 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cincinnati 31°F (-0°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 45°F (7°C)

Should I visit Cincinnati or Myrtle Beach in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cincinnati as well as Myrtle Beach. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Myrtle Beach because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Cincinnati is cooler than Myrtle Beach. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cincinnati in April average around 56°F (14°C), and Myrtle Beach averages at about 62°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cincinnati this time of the year. In the spring, Cincinnati often gets less sunshine than Myrtle Beach. Cincinnati gets 215 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Myrtle Beach receives 278 hours of full sun.

Cincinnati usually gets more rain in April than Myrtle Beach. Cincinnati gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cincinnati 56°F (14°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Myrtle Beach and Cincinnati

Cincinnati Myrtle Beach
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Feb 35°F (2°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Mar 46°F (8°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 70°F (21°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)
Jun 74°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 77°F (25°C) 6 inches (152 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm)
Aug 77°F (25°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 80°F (26°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm)
Sep 71°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 75°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm)
Oct 58°F (15°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 65°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 48°F (9°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 57°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)