A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Gainesville vs. The Hamptons for Nightlife, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Gainesville or The Hamptons?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Gainesville or The Hamptons, 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.

Gainesville

Gainesville is a active, vibrant, and high energy city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Gainesville travel costs.

The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a wealthy, opulent, and lavish beach destination. The Hamptons is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, nightlife, and food. See The Hamptons travel costs.

Gainesville and The Hamptons: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Gainesville or The Hamptons?

Tourists will generally find more to do in The Hamptons. Although Gainesville and The Hamptons are both popular with visitors, The Hamptons has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. The Hamptons is more popular for its resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Gainesville is known for its museums and attractions and nightlife. The Hamptons is more touristy than Gainesville and is known for its long sandy beaches, charming seaside communities, opulent villas, and vacationing celebrities. It is also home to The Montauk Lighthouse. Gainesville is popular for being the home of the University of Florida

How is Gainesville different from The Hamptons?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Gainesville or The Hamptons?

Gainesville
The Hamptons

Gainesville is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Gainesville. There's a surprising number of museums around town such as the Florida Museum of Natural History, the Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art, and the Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention. Also fascinating is the Historic Haile Homestead, the Butterfly Rainforest, and the city's planetarium.

The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Gainesville or The Hamptons? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Gainesville
The Hamptons

Both Gainesville and The Hamptons offer good local cuisine and restaurants.

Gainesville offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Casual eateries are popular around town, particularly with the student population. There are grills, diners, and bistros that serve local dishes at affordable prices.

The Hamptons has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of fine dining restaurants in the area and seafood is a favorite. Some restaurants are known to be frequented by vacationing celebrities, so if you're hoping to spot someone famous, do some research and you may have some luck.

Is Gainesville or The Hamptons Better for Nightlife?

Gainesville
The Hamptons

Gainesville is a great destination for nightlife. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Gainesville know how to have a good time. The nightlife centers around the student population. The two main party areas are Midtown and Downtown. Midtown is between Northwest 17th Street and Northwest 18th Street and it's convenient for students who live on campus. The area has a great stretch of bars and clubs. The Downtown area has many of the city's top clubs, and it's popular with upperclassmen and students who live off campus.

If you're looking for night time activities The Hamptons has a few options to choose from. There are plenty of nightclubs and bars throughout the area. Head to East Hampton for some of the best options.

Is Gainesville or The Hamptons Better for Resorts?

Gainesville
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is notable for its resorts. However, Gainesville is not a resort destination.

The Hamptons is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Known as a hangout for the rich and famous, there is no shortage of luxury hotels and resorts in the area.

Gainesville is not a resort destination.


Is Gainesville or The Hamptons Better for Beaches?

Gainesville
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Gainesville is not a beach destination.

The Hamptons has a beach worth visiting. The beaches in the area feature long stretches of soft sand and plenty of space to spread out. Many beaches do come with a hefty price tag though as they require you to pay for parking or a permit.

Gainesville is not a beach destination.

Is Gainesville or The Hamptons Better for Hiking?

Gainesville
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a nice place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Gainesville is not a hiking destination.

The Hamptons has hiking trails worth exploring. There are a number of picturesque walks through the dunes and wetlands around the area. There is plenty of peaceful nature to explore if you're looking for a break from city life.

Gainesville is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Gainesville or The Hamptons?

Gainesville
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is very popular for shopping. Also, Gainesville is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

The Hamptons is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Known as a playground for the rich and famous, you can be assured there are plenty of shopping opportunities where you can flash your cash around town.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Gainesville. You'll find all of the standard shopping options around town such as malls, shopping centers, and retail outlets. Two popular areas are the Neighborhoods at Butler and Celebration Pointe.


Is Gainesville or The Hamptons More Beautiful?

Gainesville
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Gainesville is not a destination known for its beauty.

The Hamptons is a gorgeous place to visit. For a beautiful, upscale setting, this is a great destination near NYC.

Gainesville is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Gainesville or The Hamptons Better for Families?

Gainesville
The Hamptons

Gainesville and The Hamptons are both good destinations for the whole family.

Gainesville is a family-friendly place to visit. You'll find outdoor activities, nature parks, and a couple of museums that will appeal to all ages. Highlights for families include A. Quinn Jones Museum and Cultural Center, the Adventure Outpost, and Alfred A. Ring Park.

The Hamptons is a family-friendly city. The area has a family-friendly setting with many outdoor activities and a children's museum. There are music events, children's parks, small zoos, and, of course, the beach. Also make sure you pick up some ice cream and enjoy that quintessential beach experience.

Is Gainesville or The Hamptons Better for Couples?

Gainesville
The Hamptons

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

The Hamptons is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy beaches, dining out, and escaping the chaos of city life will enjoy a retreat here. The area has many beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, but there are also amazing restaurants that make for a great date night.

Gainesville makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy wine tasting and fine dining or enjoying the city's many outdoor activities. Go on a picnic or explore one of the museums in Downtown Gainesville.


Is Gainesville or The Hamptons Better for Students?

Gainesville
The Hamptons

Gainesville is a great destination for students. However, The Hamptons is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Gainesville. As the location of the University of Florida, you'll find many students around town. This keeps the energy high with plenty of evening activities and affordable entertainment options.

The Hamptons is not popular with students.

Is Gainesville or The Hamptons Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Gainesville
The Hamptons

Gainesville is a city with good options for its public transit. However, The Hamptons is a beach destination with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Gainesville, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a decent bus system that's free to students and employees of the university.

Public transit is quite limited in The Hamptons. While there are trains between towns, there aren't many options when it comes to public transit.

Is Gainesville or The Hamptons a more walkable city?

Gainesville
The Hamptons

Gainesville and The Hamptons both are good when exploring on foot.

Gainesville is somewhat walkable. Biking is actually a popular way to get around town and some areas are pedestrian-friendly.

The Hamptons is a somewhat walkable place. While some of the towns offer a nice place for a stroll, most of the Hamptons is not very walkable and it's best to have a car.


For even more information, also check out Is Gainesville Worth Visiting? and Is The Hamptons Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in The Hamptons or Gainesville?

How long in Gainesville or The Hamptons?

Both Gainesville and The Hamptons have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in The Hamptons than in Gainesville. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Gainesville, and 3-7 days is enough time in The Hamptons.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Gainesville than The Hamptons 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 Gainesville.


  • How many days in Gainesville or The Hamptons? Ideal Length of Stay
    Gainesville 1-2 
    The Hamptons 3-7

One day in Gainesville or The Hamptons?

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

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the lavish beach destination of The Hamptons. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the shopping. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Gainesville or The Hamptons?

Gainesville 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the lavish destination of The Hamptons. It's also a relaxing resort destination. This beach destination offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Gainesville or The Hamptons?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the active destination of Gainesville. 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the wealthy beach destination of The Hamptons. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A week in Gainesville or The Hamptons?

Gainesville 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of The Hamptons. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the shopping. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this beach destination.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, and The Best Camping Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, The Hamptons or Gainesville?

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

  • Gainesville Prices
    USA Prices
    The Hamptons Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Gainesville $267
    The Hamptons $267

The average daily cost (per person) in Gainesville is $267, while the average daily cost in The Hamptons is $267. 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 Gainesville and The Hamptons in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Gainesville $115
    The Hamptons $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Gainesville $230
    The Hamptons $252
Compare Hotels in Gainesville and The Hamptons

Looking for a hotel in Gainesville or The Hamptons? 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 Gainesville


Hotels in The Hamptons


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: Gainesville Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Gainesville $39
    The Hamptons $63

Is it cheaper to fly into Gainesville or The Hamptons?

Prices for flights to both The Hamptons and Gainesville 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
    Gainesville $121
    The Hamptons $104
Typical Food Prices in Gainesville

Some typical examples of dining costs in Gainesville are as follows:


  • Diner Breakfast for Two
    $17
  • Lunch at Chop Stix (for 2)
    $24

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Gainesville $43
    The Hamptons $22
Typical Entertainment Prices in Gainesville

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


  • Manatee Tour for Two
    $98
  • Tour Guide Tip
    $5.00

Tours and Activities in Gainesville

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

  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Gainesville by Operation City Quest: $10
  • 2 Hour Guided Clear Glass Bottom Kayak Tour Gilchrist Blue Spring: $60

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Gainesville $49
    The Hamptons $31


When comparing the travel costs between Gainesville and The Hamptons, we can see that The Hamptons 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 Gainesville Expensive? and Is The Hamptons Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Gainesville or The Hamptons?

Gainesville has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of The Hamptons. When comparing the sizes of Gainesville and The Hamptons, 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 Gainesville or The Hamptons?

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 Gainesville or The Hamptons in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Gainesville and The Hamptons. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Gainesville this time of year. Also, many travelers come to The Hamptons for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Gainesville is a little warmer than The Hamptons in the summer. The daily temperature in Gainesville averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and The Hamptons fluctuates around 76°F (25°C).

The Hamptons receives a lot of rain in the summer. Gainesville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Gainesville usually receives more rain than The Hamptons. Gainesville gets 6.8 inches (174 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Gainesville 81°F (27°C) 
    The Hamptons 76°F (25°C)

Should I visit Gainesville or The Hamptons in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Gainesville as well as The Hamptons. Many travelers come to Gainesville for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to The Hamptons in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Gainesville is much warmer than The Hamptons. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Gainesville in October average around 71°F (22°C), and The Hamptons averages at about 58°F (14°C).

Gainesville usually gets less rain in October than The Hamptons. Gainesville gets 2 inches (51 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Gainesville is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Gainesville 71°F (22°C) 
    The Hamptons 58°F (14°C)

Should I visit Gainesville or The Hamptons in the Winter?

Both The Hamptons and Gainesville are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Gainesville in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to The Hamptons for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

The Hamptons can be very cold during winter. In January, Gainesville is generally much warmer than The Hamptons. Daily temperatures in Gainesville average around 54°F (12°C), and The Hamptons fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

In January, Gainesville usually receives less rain than The Hamptons. Gainesville gets 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Gainesville 54°F (12°C) 
    The Hamptons 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Gainesville or The Hamptons in the Spring?

Both The Hamptons and Gainesville during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to The Hamptons because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Gainesville is much warmer than The Hamptons in the spring. The daily temperature in Gainesville averages around 69°F (20°C) in April, and The Hamptons fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Gainesville usually gets less rain in April than The Hamptons. Gainesville gets 2 inches (50 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Gainesville.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Gainesville 69°F (20°C) 
    The Hamptons 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for The Hamptons and Gainesville

Gainesville The Hamptons
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 54°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Feb 57°F (14°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 69°F (20°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 75°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 6.8 inches (174 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 6.8 inches (174 mm) 76°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Sep 78°F (26°C) 5.5 inches (139 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 2 inches (51 mm) 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 56°F (14°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 37°F (3°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)