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

Should you visit Houston or Monterey?

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 Houston and Monterey. 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.

Houston

Houston is a southern, one-of-a-kind, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping. See Houston travel costs.

Monterey

Monterey is a relaxing, nature-oriented, and laid back city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Monterey travel costs.

Houston and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Houston or Monterey?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Houston. Although Houston and Monterey are both popular with visitors, Houston has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Houston is more popular for its music and big city activities, while Monterey is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. Monterey is more touristy than Houston and is popular for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. Houston is popular for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA. It is also home to The Space Center Houston.

How is Houston different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Houston or Monterey?

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Houston and Monterey.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Houston. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's Museum.

Monterey offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

Is the Food Better in Houston or Monterey? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Houston and Monterey both to be excellent destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Houston. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

Monterey has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

Is Houston or Monterey Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Houston and Monterey.

Houston is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

Many people head to Monterey for the nightlife scene. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

Is Houston or Monterey Better for Music?

Houston is a good destination for its music scene. However, Monterey is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Houston. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Monterey is not a live music destination.

Is Houston or Monterey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monterey is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Houston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Monterey. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Houston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Houston or Monterey Better for Beaches?

Monterey is a good destination for the beach. However, Houston is not a beach destination.

Monterey offers a nice beach destination. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Houston is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Houston or Monterey?

Monterey is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Monterey is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

Houston has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

Is Houston or Monterey Better for Families?

Monterey is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Monterey is very family-friendly. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Houston. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

Is Houston or Monterey Better for Couples?

Monterey is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Monterey frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

Houston is a good city for couples to visit. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

Is Houston or Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Monterey is a good destination for backpackers. However, Houston is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Monterey. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

Houston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers skip this sprawling city, but there are some hostels and cheap motels.

Is Houston or Monterey Better for Students?

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

Plenty of students visit Houston. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

Monterey is not popular with students.

Is Houston or Monterey Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Houston and Monterey.

Public transit is generally limited in Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.

Public transit is mostly limited in Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

Is Houston or Monterey a more walkable city?

Monterey is well known for its high level of walkability. However, Houston is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

Monterey is a very walkable city. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

Houston is generally not a very walkable city. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Houston Worth Visiting? and Is Monterey Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Houston?

How long in Houston or Monterey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Houston and Monterey. In our opinion, Monterey has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Monterey than Houston. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Houston, and 1-3 days is enough time in Monterey.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Monterey than Houston 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 Monterey.

One day in Houston or Monterey?

Houston is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Monterey, you'll find shopping and museums. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Houston or Monterey?

Houston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Houston, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Monterey, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Monterey has to offer.

Five days in Houston or Monterey?

Houston is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Monterey is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Houston or Monterey?

Houston is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Monterey. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Monterey. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Houston or Monterey?

Houston has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Monterey. When comparing the sizes of Houston and Monterey, 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 Houston or Monterey?

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 Houston or Monterey in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Houston as well as Monterey. The summer months attract visitors to Houston because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Monterey this time of year.

In the summer, Houston is much warmer than Monterey. Typically, the summer temperatures in Houston in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Monterey averages at about 63°F (17°C).

Houston receives a lot of rain in the summer. Houston usually gets more rain in July than Monterey. Houston gets 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Houston or Monterey in the Autumn?

Both Monterey and Houston are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Houston this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Monterey for the shopping scene.

In October, Houston is generally a little warmer than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Houston average around 71°F (22°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

It's quite rainy in Houston. In October, Houston usually receives more rain than Monterey. Houston gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Houston or Monterey in the Winter?

Both Monterey and Houston during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Houston for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Monterey in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Houston is around the same temperature as Monterey in the winter. The daily temperature in Houston averages around 52°F (11°C) in January, and Monterey fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Houston usually gets more rain in January than Monterey. Houston gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Houston or Monterey in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Houston and Monterey. Many visitors come to Houston in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Monterey for the beaches during these months.

In the spring, Houston is much warmer than Monterey. Typically, the spring temperatures in Houston in April average around 70°F (21°C), and Monterey averages at about 56°F (13°C).

In April, Houston usually receives more rain than Monterey. Houston gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Monterey and Houston