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

Should you visit Jacksonville or Moncton?

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 Jacksonville and Moncton. 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.

Jacksonville

Jacksonville is a youthful, fun, and vibrant city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping. See Jacksonville travel costs.

Moncton

Moncton is a cultural, quaint, and compact city. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping. See Moncton travel costs.

Jacksonville and Moncton: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Jacksonville or Moncton?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Jacksonville than Moncton. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Jacksonville is famous for its beautiful beaches and lively downtown area. It is also well known for Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. Moncton is famous for its unique sense of place and its cultural activities.

How is Jacksonville different from Moncton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Jacksonville
Moncton

Jacksonville is great for its historical sights. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Jacksonville. The city has a number of museums that range from art museums to science or kid-friendly museums. Some favorites are the Museum of Science and History, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Mandarin Museum and Historical Society, and Kingsley Plantation.

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 Jacksonville or Moncton? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Jacksonville
Moncton

Jacksonville is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Jacksonville has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Local cuisine has its own identity. Unique dishes around town include garlic crabs, seafood boil, gumbo, and shrimp and grits. The local cuisine is similar to Lowcountry dishes with a lot of Cajun influence. If you want something different from seafood, you should try the barbecue.

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 Jacksonville or Moncton Better for Nightlife?

Jacksonville
Moncton

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

Many people head to Jacksonville for the nightlife scene. The young population brings out the nightlife scene. There's a great concentration of bars and clubs in the area known as The Elbow, which is at the intersection of N. Ocean and E. Bay Street. You'll find plenty of cocktail bars, lounges, and clubs around town that make for a fun night out.

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 Jacksonville or Moncton Better for Beaches?

Jacksonville
Moncton

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

Many people visit Jacksonville for it's beautiful beaches. There are a number of beaches that are just a short distance from the city. Some have a historic vibe while others are more lively. Atlantic Beach is about a half hour drive from the city. For a laid back vibe head to Neptune Beach and the most popular beach in the area is Jacksonville Beach.

Moncton is not a beach destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Jacksonville or Moncton?

Jacksonville
Moncton

Jacksonville is great for its shopping areas. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Jacksonville. There are countless malls and shopping districts around town. Some of the best shopping is found at St. John's Center, Five Points, and Avondale.

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 Jacksonville or Moncton Better for Families?

Jacksonville
Moncton

Both Jacksonville and Moncton are nice family-friendly destinations.

Jacksonville is a family-friendly city. It's filled with adventure parks, zoos, animal farms, nature centers, and gardens. Adults will have as much fun as kids exploring the city and all of its family-friendly attractions.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Moncton. 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 Jacksonville or Moncton Better for Couples?

Jacksonville
Moncton

Jacksonville and Moncton both nice destinations for a couple.

Jacksonville is a good city for couples to visit. It's a young city that's near nature and has plenty of adventurous activities. There's sailing, botanical gardens, restaurants, and plenty of bars around town.

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 Jacksonville or Moncton Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Jacksonville
Moncton

Jacksonville is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Moncton is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Jacksonville. There are a few hostels in town as well as affordable motels. The city has a young population with plenty to do. Although it's often overlooked by tourists, there's a surprising and underrated appeal to the backpacker crowd.

Moncton is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While there is a hostel in town, this is little more than a stopover for most backpackers.

Is Jacksonville or Moncton Better for Students?

Jacksonville
Moncton

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

It's common for students to visit Jacksonville. There are a few colleges and universities in town. The city's population is also very young, making it a great place to study.

Moncton is not popular with students.

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

Jacksonville
Moncton

Jacksonville is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Moncton is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Jacksonville offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The public transportation system includes trolleys, the Skyway, buses, water taxis, and the ferry.

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


Is Jacksonville or Moncton a more walkable city?

Jacksonville
Moncton

Jacksonville and Moncton are nice when it comes to walkability.

Jacksonville is a somewhat walkable city. Downtown Jacksonville is the most walkable part of the city.

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 Jacksonville Worth Visiting? and Is Moncton Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Moncton or Jacksonville?

How long in Jacksonville or Moncton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Jacksonville or Moncton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Jacksonville than Moncton because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Jacksonville, and 1-2 days is enough time in Moncton.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville.


  • How many days in Jacksonville or Moncton? Ideal Length of Stay
    Jacksonville 2-3 
    Moncton 1-2

One day in Jacksonville or Moncton?

In Jacksonville, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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

A weekend in Jacksonville or Moncton?

In Jacksonville, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Jacksonville has to offer.

Moncton 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.


Five days in Jacksonville or Moncton?

Jacksonville is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Moncton. 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.

A week in Jacksonville or Moncton?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Jacksonville. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Jacksonville. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Moncton 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best Camping Tours in Canada, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Moncton or Jacksonville?

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

  • Jacksonville Prices
    USA Prices
    Moncton Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Jacksonville $289
    Moncton $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Jacksonville is $289, while the average daily cost in Moncton is $148. 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 Jacksonville and Moncton in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Jacksonville $92
    Moncton $29
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Jacksonville $184
    Moncton $58
Compare Hotels in Jacksonville and Moncton

Looking for a hotel in Jacksonville or Moncton? 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 Jacksonville


Hotels in Moncton


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: Jacksonville Hotel Prices and Moncton Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Jacksonville $53
    Moncton -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Jacksonville

Also for Jacksonville, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer Jacksonville Airport to Downtown Savannah Hotels: $300
  • Jacksonville Airport Limo Transfer to Hammock Beach Golf Resort: $275
  • Car Transfer Jacksonville Airport to The Cloister at Sea Island: $199
  • Jacksonville Airport to Casa Monica Resort and Spa Transfer: $189
  • Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville Cruise Port -Arrival Private Transfer: $168
  • Jacksonville to Carnival Cruise Port Jacksonville - Departure Private Transfer: $159
  • Luxury Car Transfer JAX Airport to Margaritaville Beach Hotel: $155
  • Luxury Car Transfer Jacksonville Airport to Ponte Vedra Resorts: $145
  • Jacksonville Airport Private Lux Car Transfer to Downtown Hotels: $139
  • Private Transfer JAX Airport to Ritz Carlton Amelia Island: $135
  • Private Transfer Jacksonville Airport to Carnival Cruise Port: $135
  • Jacksonville Airport JAX to Jacksonville Arrival Private Transfer: $134

Is it cheaper to fly into Jacksonville or Moncton?

Prices for flights to both Moncton and Jacksonville 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
    Jacksonville $166
    Moncton $97

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jacksonville

For Jacksonville, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 1 Hour of Chocolate Pizza Making Class in Jacksonville: $20
  • San Marco Food Tour Culinary Journey in Jacksonville: $125

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Jacksonville $20
    Moncton $79

Tours and Activities in Jacksonville

For Jacksonville, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 20 Minutes Chocolate & Candy Factory Tour in Jacksonville: $8.00
  • 90 Minute Self-Guided Arcimoto FUV Adventure: $145
  • All-Inclusive Progressive Culinary & History Experience: $125
  • Amelia Island Area Kayak Rental on Lofton Creek with Adventures Up The Creek: $36
  • Amelia Island Floating Tiki Boat Cruise with BYOB Option: $75
  • Amelia Island Guided Kayak Tour of Lofton Creek : $65
  • Architecture and History Tour in San Marco: $96
  • Avondale Brunch Tour (Jacksonville): $135
  • Big Talbot Island Self Guided Tour with Smart Helmets: $115
  • Bike Ride Through Ponte Vedra Beach Private Tour Florida: $27
  • CraigCat Boat Tour from Fernandina Beach: $145
  • Daytona Beach: 3 Hour Coastal Discovery Boat Cruise: $150

Tours and Activities in Moncton

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Moncton.

  • Unexpected Downtown Food and Drink Tour: $68

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Jacksonville $20
    Moncton $4.54

Sample the Local Flavors in Jacksonville

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Jacksonville:

  • All-Inclusive Sips & Ships: Downtown Pub Crawl: $75
  • Jax Brewery Tour (Drinks Included): $135


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Jacksonville and Moncton, we can see that Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville Expensive? and Is Moncton Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Jacksonville or Moncton?

Jacksonville has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Moncton. When comparing the sizes of Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville or Moncton?

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 Jacksonville or Moncton in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Jacksonville and Moncton. The summer months attract visitors to Jacksonville because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Moncton this time of year.

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

Moncton receives a lot of rain in the summer. Jacksonville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Jacksonville usually receives more rain than Moncton. Jacksonville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Jacksonville 82°F (28°C) 
    Moncton 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Jacksonville or Moncton in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Jacksonville as well as Moncton. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Jacksonville this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Moncton for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Jacksonville is much warmer than Moncton. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Jacksonville in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Moncton averages at about 8°C (46°F).

It's quite rainy in Moncton. Jacksonville usually gets less rain in October than Moncton. Jacksonville gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Jacksonville is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Jacksonville 70°F (21°C) 
    Moncton 8°C (46°F)

Should I visit Jacksonville or Moncton in the Winter?

Both Moncton and Jacksonville are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Jacksonville for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Moncton in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Moncton can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Jacksonville is generally much warmer than Moncton. Daily temperatures in Jacksonville average around 53°F (12°C), and Moncton fluctuates around -8°C (17°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Moncton. In January, Jacksonville usually receives less rain than Moncton. Jacksonville gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Jacksonville 53°F (12°C) 
    Moncton -8°C (17°F)

Should I visit Jacksonville or Moncton in the Spring?

Both Moncton and Jacksonville during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Jacksonville in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

Moncton can be very cold during spring. Jacksonville is much warmer than Moncton in the spring. The daily temperature in Jacksonville averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Moncton fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Moncton gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Jacksonville usually gets less rain in April than Moncton. Jacksonville gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Jacksonville.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Jacksonville 68°F (20°C) 
    Moncton 3°C (38°F)

Typical Weather for Moncton and Jacksonville

Jacksonville Moncton
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) -8°C (17°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) -8°C (18°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) -3°C (27°F) 117 mm (4.6 in)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 3°C (38°F) 101 mm (4 in)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 10°C (50°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 16°C (60°F) 93 mm (3.7 in)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 19°C (66°F) 103 mm (4 in)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 13°C (56°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 8°C (46°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 2°C (36°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) -5°C (23°F) 126 mm (5 in)