A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Fort Lauderdale vs. Moab for Couples, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale 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.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is a scenic, bustling, and spirited coastal city. Fort Lauderdale is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Fort Lauderdale travel costs.

Moab

Moab is a adventurous, active, and scenic town. The famous beauty of Moab is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking and shopping. See Moab travel costs.

Fort Lauderdale and Moab: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Local Beaches
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • 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 popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Moab?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Fort Lauderdale. Although Fort Lauderdale and Moab are both popular with visitors, Fort Lauderdale has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Fort Lauderdale is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Moab is known for its museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty. Fort Lauderdale is popular for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. It is also home to The Local Beaches. Moab is popular for its desert landscapes and the iconic arches found at Arches National Park.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Moab?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Fort Lauderdale or Moab?

Fort Lauderdale
Moab

Moab is a town with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Fort Lauderdale
Moab

Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale. Seafood is the obvious option with popular dishes being fish tacos, sea bass, and scallop risotto. There are many waterfront restaurants or you could head to Las Olas Boulevard, which has many bistros, cafes, and restaurants.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Moab Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale
Moab

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

Many people head to Fort Lauderdale for the nightlife scene. Trendy and upscale partying is the name of the game in this Florida city. Most people head to the beach, Las Olas Blvd, River Front and The New Hard Rock Seminole Hotel Complex for the best bars and clubs. You'll find the most activity around the weekends, but there really is something going on any night of the week.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Moab Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale
Moab

Fort Lauderdale is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Moab is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Fort Lauderdale is a great choice. Luxury beachfront resorts are plentiful in the area. Several of the most impressive include the Ritz-Carlton, W Fort Lauderdale, and the Dalmar. Most resorts have a beachfront pool, hot tubs, and depending on the resort, a kid's club.

Moab is not a resort destination.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Moab Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fort Lauderdale
Moab

Fort Lauderdale is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Moab is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Fort Lauderdale has a few good snorkeling spots. Although the snorkeling doesn't compare to what you'll find further south around the Florida Keys, there are some great places to pull your mask and fins out in the area. Popular snorkeling spots nearby include the Vista Park Reef, Pompano Beach, and Hollywood North Beach Park.

Moab is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Moab Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale
Moab

Fort Lauderdale is very popular for its beaches. However, Moab is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches, a fun boardwalk, and impressive views, the beaches here are among the best in the area. They are surprisingly walkable and, while there can be crowds, there's still a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere.

Moab is not a beach destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Moab Better for Hiking?

Fort Lauderdale
Moab

Moab is a must-visit destination for its hiking experiences. However, Fort Lauderdale 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.

Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Moab?

Fort Lauderdale
Moab

Shopping is a popular activity in both Moab and Fort Lauderdale.

Fort Lauderdale is a great destination for shopping. For interesting local boutiques head to Las Olas Boulevard and for name brand stores you'll want to visit Sawgrass Mills Mall.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Moab More Beautiful?

Fort Lauderdale
Moab

Moab is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Moab is one of the main draws. 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.

The beauty of Fort Lauderdale is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Seven miles of scenic coastline with a boardwalk to explore make this a beautiful Florida beach destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Moab Better for Families?

Fort Lauderdale
Moab

Both Fort Lauderdale and Moab are superb family-friendly destinations.

Fort Lauderdale is a very family-friendly place to visit. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches and a number of kid-oriented activities, the kids will love it here. Fun activities include Bluefoot Pirate Adventures, Butterfly World, and Funderdome. On sunny days there are many outdoor recreation areas and when the weather isn't cooperating, there are hands-on museums.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Moab is very family-friendly. 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 Fort Lauderdale or Moab Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale
Moab

Fort Lauderdale is very popular for romance. Also, Moab is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its romantic activities.

Fort Lauderdale makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Fine dining, beautiful beaches, and great shopping make for a great romantic getaway. Couples and honeymooners love relaxing at the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. A sunset walk on the beach and a stay at a romantic resort will make for an unforgettable trip.

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.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Moab Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fort Lauderdale
Moab

Moab is a great destination for backpackers. However, Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city with minimal options 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.

Fort Lauderdale is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. You'll find few backpackers heading to the high end city.

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

Fort Lauderdale
Moab

Fort Lauderdale is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Moab is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Fort Lauderdale. Transportation options include a water taxi and the Sun Trolley Hop-on Bus.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Moab a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale
Moab

Fort Lauderdale is great for its walkability. However, Moab is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Fort Lauderdale is very walkable. It is one of the most walkable Florida communities with a boardwalk and several pedestrian areas that are fun to wander around.

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 Fort Lauderdale Worth Visiting? and Is Moab Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Moab or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Moab?

In either Fort Lauderdale or Moab, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Moab because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Fort Lauderdale, and 2-5 days is enough time in Moab.

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

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


  • How many days in Fort Lauderdale or Moab? Ideal Length of Stay
    Fort Lauderdale 3-7 
    Moab 2-5

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Moab?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Fort Lauderdale. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The active destination of Moab offers shopping. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Fort Lauderdale or Moab?

Fort Lauderdale is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the beaches. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

The town of Moab offers shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.


Five days in Fort Lauderdale or Moab?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the luxury destination of Fort Lauderdale. This coastal city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Moab is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. This town offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Fort Lauderdale or Moab?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the luxury coastal city of Fort Lauderdale. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Many people enjoy the shopping when visiting Moab. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Moab or Fort Lauderdale?

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

  • Fort Lauderdale Prices
    USA Prices
    Moab Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Fort Lauderdale $218
    Moab $416

The average daily cost (per person) in Fort Lauderdale is $218, 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 Fort Lauderdale and Moab in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Fort Lauderdale $96
    Moab $336
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Fort Lauderdale $192
    Moab $672
Compare Hotels in Fort Lauderdale and Moab

Looking for a hotel in Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale


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: Fort Lauderdale Hotel Prices and Moab Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Fort Lauderdale $51
    Moab $17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Fort Lauderdale

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Fort Lauderdale:

  • Bimini Day Cruise from Fort Lauderdale with Round-Trip Miami Transfer: $289
  • Private Transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport to Islamorada : $287
  • Private Transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport to Key Largo: $287
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer in Fort Lauderdale APT-HTL (FLL): $285
  • Transfer from Fort Lauderdale (FLL or Port Everglades) to Miami.: $220
  • Private transfer from Port of Miami to Fort Lauderdale: $220
  • Transfer to Miami: $200
  • Private Transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Miami : $182
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Port Everglades - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $180
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport Private Transfer to Port Everglades: $180
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport(FLL) to Key Largo/ Marathon -Roundtrip Private Transfer: $177
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Airport FLL to Fort Lauderdale in Luxury Car: $166

Is it cheaper to fly into Fort Lauderdale or Moab?

Prices for flights to both Moab and Fort Lauderdale 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
    Fort Lauderdale $85
    Moab $64
Typical Food Prices in Fort Lauderdale

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Fort Lauderdale:


  • Quick Lunch
    $12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Fort Lauderdale

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

  • Fort Lauderdale Intracoastal & Dinner Cruise: $64
  • Immersive Sushi Cooking Class in Fort Lauderdale: $75
  • Intracoastal Cruise with Waterfront Dinner: $80
  • All You Can Eat BBQ Dinner and Show at Tropical Isle with Sightseeing Cruise: $80
  • Hollywood Florida Walking Food Tour : $109
  • Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner & Drinks Tour: $109
  • Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner and Drinks Tour: $114
  • Fort Lauderdale Beach Food Tour: $114
  • Fort Lauderdale Historic District Food Tour Experience: $120
  • Fort Lauderdale, Las Olas, Around the World Food Tour Experience: $120
  • Hollywood Beach Walking Food Tour: $139
  • Haitian Cooking Class: $190

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.
    Fort Lauderdale $15
    Moab $3.13

Tours and Activities in Fort Lauderdale

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

  • 1 Hour-Relaxing Private Boat Tour - Fort Lauderdale (Up to 6 Pax): $150
  • 1-Hour Interactive Pirate Cruise (arrive 30 minutes early): $35
  • 2 Hours Electric Bike Experience on Ft Lauderdale: $50
  • 2 to 6 hours Private Yacht Cruise around Fort Lauderdale: $299
  • 90-Minute Ocean Parasailing Adventure In Fort Lauderdale, FL: $100
  • 90-Minute Snorkel & Seabob Underwater Guided Reef Tour in Fort Lauderdale: $214
  • Affordable Angler Adventure In Fort Lauderdale South Florida: $120
  • Atlantic Ocean Snorkeling Experience: $79
  • Beach Snorkeling Adventure in Lauderdale by the Sea: $45
  • Best of Fort Lauderdale Small Group Tour with Intercoastal Cruise: $199
  • Classic Fort Lauderdale Bike Tour: $75
  • Comedy Segway Tour Music Edition: $85

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
  • Self Guided Audio Tour Bundle for Utah's Mighty Five: $30
  • 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 Original Hummer Adventure: Hell’s Revenge Trail Experience: $99
  • Moab’s #1 Rated Guided U-Drive Hell’s Revenge Off-Road Tour: $99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Fort Lauderdale $33
    Moab $66
Typical Alcohol Prices in Fort Lauderdale

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Fort Lauderdale are as follows:


  • Beer
    $7.30

Sample the Local Flavors in Fort Lauderdale

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Fort Lauderdale:

  • Fort Lauderdale Bar Crawl: $15
  • Ft. Lauderdale: Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Ft Lauderdale Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $36


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Fort Lauderdale and Moab, we can see that Moab is more expensive. And not only is Fort Lauderdale much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Fort Lauderdale would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale.

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


Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Moab?

Fort Lauderdale has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Moab. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale 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.