A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Key West vs. Moncton for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Key West or Moncton?

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

Should I visit Key West or Moncton? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Key West

Key West is a active, lively, and quaint town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, Key West attracts visitors from all around. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the beaches, nightlife, and food. See Key West travel costs.

Moncton

Moncton is a compact, cultural, and quaint city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See Moncton travel costs.

Key West and Moncton: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Moncton?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and Moncton are both popular with visitors, Key West has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Key West is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Moncton is known for its museums and attractions and shopping. Key West is more touristy than Moncton and is popular for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. It is also home to Duval Street. Moncton is popular for its unique sense of place and its cultural activities.

How is Key West different from Moncton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Key West or Moncton?

Moncton is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Moncton offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The city has a zoo at Magnetic Hill as well as several great museums and historic sites like Fort Beauséjour and the Acadian Museum.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Key West or Moncton? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Key West 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.

Key West has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, but the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

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 Key West or Moncton Better for Nightlife?

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

Many people head to Key West for the nightlife scene. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

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 Key West or Moncton Better for Resorts?

Key West is great for its luxury resorts. However, Moncton is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Key West to choose from. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

Moncton is not a resort destination.

Is Key West or Moncton Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Moncton is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Key West. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Moncton is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Moncton Better for Beaches?

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

Many people visit Key West for it's beautiful beaches. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

Moncton is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or Moncton Better for its Old Town?

Key West is great for its historic old town charm. However, Moncton does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Key West. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

Moncton does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Moncton?

Moncton is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

Moncton offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Key West has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Key West or Moncton More Beautiful?

Key West is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Moncton is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Key West attracts visitors from all around. There are blue waters as far as the eye can see. It doesn't get much more beautiful than this.

Moncton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Key West or Moncton Better for Families?

Key West is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Key West. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

Moncton is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Key West or Moncton Better for Couples?

Key West is great for couples. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Key West is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

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 Key West or Moncton Better for Students?

Key West is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Moncton is not popular with students.

Many students visit Key West. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Moncton is not popular with students.

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

Moncton is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Key West is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is quite limited in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Is Key West or Moncton a more walkable city?

Key West and Moncton both are good when exploring on foot.

Key West is a somewhat walkable place. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

Moncton is a somewhat walkable town. It's relatively compact and dense enough to get around on foot in many parts.

For even more information, also check out Is Key West Worth Visiting? and Is Moncton Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Moncton or Key West?

How long in Key West or Moncton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Key West or Moncton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Key West than Moncton because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 1-2 days is enough time in Moncton.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Key West 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 Key West.

One day in Key West or Moncton?

In Key West, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The city of Moncton offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Key West or Moncton?

In Key West, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Moncton 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 Moncton, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Key West or Moncton?

Key West is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Key West has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Moncton 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.

A week in Key West or Moncton?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Key West. In Key West, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Moncton 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in Canada, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada.

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

Which is Bigger, Key West or Moncton?

Moncton has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Key West. When comparing the sizes of Key West 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 Key West or Moncton?

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 Key West or Moncton in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Key West as well as Moncton. Most visitors come to Key West for the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Moncton because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Key West is much warmer than Moncton. Typically, the summer temperatures in Key West in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Moncton averages at about 19°C (66°F).

It's quite rainy in Moncton. Key West usually gets less rain in July than Moncton. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key West or Moncton in the Autumn?

Both Moncton and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Key West because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Moncton this time of year.

In October, Key West is generally much warmer than Moncton. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 80°F (27°C), and Moncton fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Moncton. It's quite rainy in Key West. In October, Key West usually receives more rain than Moncton. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.

Should I visit Key West or Moncton in the Winter?

Both Moncton and Key West during the winter are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Key West this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Moncton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Moncton. Key West is much warmer than Moncton in the winter. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and Moncton fluctuates around -8°C (17°F).

Moncton gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Key West usually gets less rain in January than Moncton. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key West or Moncton in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Moncton. Many travelers come to Key West for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Moncton can get quite cold in the spring. In the spring, Key West is much warmer than Moncton. Typically, the spring temperatures in Key West in April average around 77°F (25°C), and Moncton averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Moncton receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Key West usually receives less rain than Moncton. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Key West is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Moncton and Key West