Which place is cheaper, Anchorage or Kailua-Kona?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
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Should you visit Kailua-Kona or Anchorage?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
If you're trying to decide where to visit between Kailua-Kona or Anchorage, 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.
Where Should I go: Kailua-Kona or Anchorage?
Kailua-Kona
Kailua-Kona, often simply called Kona, is a vibrant seaside town located on the west coast of Hawaii’s Big Island. Known for its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere, Kona offers travelers an appealing mix of natural beauty and Hawaiian culture. The town is famous for its historic waterfront, local coffee farms, and as the gateway to many of the island’s unique adventures. Despite its popularity, Kailua-Kona remains more relaxed and less crowded than some of Hawaii’s other tourist hubs. Beach lovers, water sports enthusiasts, history buffs, and foodies will all find plenty to enjoy here. With a mix of affordable accommodations, local eateries, and free or inexpensive attractions, it’s a great destination for budget travelers. The nearby volcanic landscapes, snorkeling spots, and lively marketplaces make it an excellent base for exploring the west side of the Big Island.
Anchorage
Anchorage, Alaska's largest city, is in the south-central part of the state on the Cook Inlet. It's known for its cultural sites and also as a gateway to nearby wilderness areas and mountains. From the sparkling waters of Cook Inlet to the tallest peaks of the Chugach Mountains, Anchorage encompasses incredible adventures and metropolitan appeals that are larger than life. With 1,500 moose, incredible national parks nearby and 60 glaciers a short drive away, it's a dream destination in Alaska.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.
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Kailua-Kona Prices
USA PricesAnchorage Prices
USA Prices -
Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayKailua-Kona $274Anchorage $228
The average daily cost (per person) in Kailua-Kona is $274, while the average daily cost in Anchorage is $228. 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 Kailua-Kona and Anchorage in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personKailua-Kona $141Anchorage $117
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomKailua-Kona $282Anchorage $234
Compare Hotels in Kailua-Kona and Anchorage
Looking for a hotel in Kailua-Kona or Anchorage? 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.
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: Kailua-Kona Hotel Prices and Anchorage Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Kailua-Kona $45Anchorage $27
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Kailua-Kona
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Kailua-Kona are as follows:
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Rental Car for One Day$35
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Anchorage
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Anchorage:
- One Way Private Transfer: $10
- Private Departure Transfer - to Anchorage Airport (ANC): $62
- Private Arrival Transfer from Anchorage Airport (ANC): $62
- Anchorage to Whittier Direct Transfer Tour: $75
- ANC Airport to City Centre Private Transfer: $79
- Private Transfer Alaska Anchorage Airport ANC to Anchorage City: $180
- Seward to Anchorage- Post Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $227
- Anchorage to Seward- Pre-Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $227
- Private Transfer, Anchorage to Seward Cruise Ship Terminal: $299
- Private Transfer, Anchorage to Whittier Cruise Ship Terminal: $299
- Private Transfer, Whittier Cruise ship to Anchorage: $299
- Matanuska Glacier Hike with Transfers: $299
Is it cheaper to fly into Kailua-Kona or Anchorage?
Prices for flights to both Anchorage and Kailua-Kona 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
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Food Meals for one dayKailua-Kona $100Anchorage $87
Typical Food Prices in Kailua-Kona
Some typical examples of dining costs in Kailua-Kona are as follows:
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Buffet Breakfast for Two$53
Typical Food Prices in Anchorage
Some typical examples of dining costs in Anchorage are as follows:
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Bread$4.25
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Breakfast for Two$17
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Anchorage
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Anchorage.
- City of Anchorage SIGHTSEEING & FOOD Tour - Winter & Summer: $195
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Kailua-Kona $40Anchorage $30
Typical Entertainment Prices in Kailua-Kona
Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Kailua-Kona are as follows:
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Diving with Manta Rays for Two$162
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Body Board Rental (1 Day)$12
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1 Day Kayak Rental$47
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2 Tank Morning Scuba Dive$115
Tours and Activities in Kailua-Kona
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Kailua-Kona are as follows:
- From Kona: Volcano & Waterfall Tour, Small Group: $295
Typical Entertainment Prices in Anchorage
Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Anchorage are as follows:
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1 Day Bike Rental$33
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1/2 Day Rafting Trip$105
Tours and Activities in Anchorage
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Anchorage are as follows:
- Anchorage Museum General Admission Ticket: $25
- Anchorage Trolley Tour: $25
- Alaska Native Heritage Center Admission Ticket: $30
- Anchorage Trolley's Deluxe City Tour: $50
- Anchorage's Winter City Tour = Samples + Stops + WildLife: $59
- Anchorage City Tour, w/Choc Factory Samplings: $59
- Anchorage City Tour w/ Taste of Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage: $69
- Anchorage City Tour w/ Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage: $69
- Winter - Anchorage All Around City Tour: $69
- Alaska: Ladies Only Snowshoe Adventure: $75
- Anchorage to Whittier Wildlife Adventure: $79
- Anchorage to Seward Wildlife Adventure: $99
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayKailua-Kona $15Anchorage $20
Sample the Local Flavors in Anchorage
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Anchorage:
- Chocolate and Wine Tasting Tour: $110
- Half-Day Anchorage Craft Brewery Tour and Tastings: $179
- Hike Matanuska Glacier w/Alaska Honey, Wine Tasting: $310
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kailua-Kona and Anchorage, we can see that Kailua-Kona is more expensive. And not only is Anchorage much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Anchorage would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Anchorage 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 Kailua-Kona would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kailua-Kona than you might in Anchorage.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Kailua-Kona Expensive? and Is Anchorage Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Kailua-Kona or Anchorage?
Anchorage has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Kailua-Kona. When comparing the sizes of Kailua-Kona and Anchorage, 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 Kailua-Kona or Anchorage?
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 Kailua-Kona or Anchorage in the Summer?
Both Anchorage and Kailua-Kona are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Also, many travelers come to Anchorage for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.
Kailua-Kona is much warmer than Anchorage in the summer. The daily temperature in Kailua-Kona averages around 78°F (25°C) in July, and Anchorage fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).
It's quite sunny in Anchorage. Kailua-Kona usually receives less sunshine than Anchorage during summer. Kailua-Kona gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 240 hours of full sun in the summer.
In July, Kailua-Kona usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Kailua-Kona gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain each month for the summer.
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Summer Average Temperatures JulyKailua-Kona 78°F (25°C)Anchorage 59°F (15°C)
Should I visit Kailua-Kona or Anchorage in the Autumn?
Both Anchorage and Kailua-Kona during the autumn are popular places to visit. Also, many visitors come to Anchorage in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.
Anchorage can get quite cold in the autumn. In the autumn, Kailua-Kona is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kailua-Kona in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Anchorage averages at about 35°F (2°C).
In the autumn, Kailua-Kona often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Kailua-Kona gets 138 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 118 hours of full sun.
Kailua-Kona usually gets less rain in October than Anchorage. Kailua-Kona gets 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain this time of the year.
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Autumn Average Temperatures OctoberKailua-Kona 78°F (26°C)Anchorage 35°F (2°C)
Should I visit Kailua-Kona or Anchorage in the Winter?
The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kailua-Kona and Anchorage. Also, most visitors come to Anchorage for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.
Anchorage can be very cold during winter. In January, Kailua-Kona is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Kailua-Kona average around 74°F (23°C), and Anchorage fluctuates around 15°F (-9°C).
Kailua-Kona usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during winter. Kailua-Kona gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 80 hours of full sun in the winter.
Kailua-Kona gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Kailua-Kona usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Kailua-Kona gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain each month for the winter.
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Winter Average Temperatures JanuaryKailua-Kona 74°F (23°C)Anchorage 15°F (-9°C)
Should I visit Kailua-Kona or Anchorage in the Spring?
The spring brings many poeple to Kailua-Kona as well as Anchorage. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Anchorage because of the natural beauty.
The weather in Anchorage can be very cold. Kailua-Kona is much warmer than Anchorage in the spring. The daily temperature in Kailua-Kona averages around 74°F (24°C) in April, and Anchorage fluctuates around 36°F (2°C).
The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Anchorage. In the spring, Kailua-Kona often gets less sunshine than Anchorage. Kailua-Kona gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 233 hours of full sun.
Kailua-Kona usually gets more rain in April than Anchorage. Kailua-Kona gets 3 inches (76 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.
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Spring Average Temperatures AprilKailua-Kona 74°F (24°C)Anchorage 36°F (2°C)
Typical Weather for Anchorage and Kailua-Kona
| Kailua-Kona | Anchorage | |||
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| Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
| Jan | 74°F (23°C) | 3.9 inches (100 mm) | 15°F (-9°C) | 0.7 inches (19 mm) |
| Feb | 73°F (23°C) | 3.2 inches (82 mm) | 19°F (-7°C) | 0.8 inches (21 mm) |
| Mar | 74°F (23°C) | 4.4 inches (111 mm) | 26°F (-3°C) | 0.7 inches (18 mm) |
| Apr | 74°F (24°C) | 3 inches (76 mm) | 36°F (2°C) | 0.7 inches (18 mm) |
| May | 76°F (24°C) | 1.6 inches (40 mm) | 47°F (8°C) | 0.8 inches (20 mm) |
| Jun | 77°F (25°C) | 1.8 inches (47 mm) | 55°F (13°C) | 1.1 inches (27 mm) |
| Jul | 78°F (25°C) | 2.3 inches (58 mm) | 59°F (15°C) | 1.7 inches (44 mm) |
| Aug | 78°F (26°C) | 1.9 inches (49 mm) | 57°F (14°C) | 2.6 inches (67 mm) |
| Sep | 79°F (26°C) | 1.1 inches (29 mm) | 49°F (9°C) | 2.6 inches (66 mm) |
| Oct | 78°F (26°C) | 1.6 inches (41 mm) | 35°F (2°C) | 2.1 inches (53 mm) |
| Nov | 76°F (25°C) | 3.3 inches (85 mm) | 22°F (-6°C) | 1.1 inches (27 mm) |
| Dec | 74°F (24°C) | 3.4 inches (87 mm) | 17°F (-8°C) | 1.1 inches (28 mm) |
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.