A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Miami vs. El Paso for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Miami or El Paso?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Miami and El Paso can help you decide which place is right for you.

Miami

Miami is a exciting, diverse, and bustling beach city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and nightlife. See Miami travel costs.

El Paso

El Paso is a laid-back, low-key, and undiscovered city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See El Paso travel costs.

Miami and El Paso: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Miami or El Paso?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Miami than El Paso. While El Paso is larger than Miami, Miami has more sights and attractions for tourists. Miami is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while El Paso is known for its museums and attractions. Miami is more touristy than El Paso and is popular for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. It is also home to South Beach. El Paso is popular for its Spanish missions and its outstanding Mexican food.

How is Miami different from El Paso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Miami or El Paso?

Miami
El Paso

El Paso is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

El Paso is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Visitors can learn about local art, culture, and history at the El Paso Museum of Art, the El Paso Museum of History, the 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss Museum, and the Eduardo Pedregón Memorial Veterans Museum.

Miami does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Miami or El Paso? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Miami
El Paso

Miami is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Miami has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American flavors and it is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. There is everything from award-winning restaurants to local dives that offer excellent dishes and experiences. The city is known for its stone crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in El Paso. Mexican food and barbecue are popular around town but you'll also find burgers, pizza, and other American favorites.

Is Miami or El Paso Better for Nightlife?

Miami
El Paso

Miami is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Miami is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. From the posh nightlife clubs in South Beach, to the local salsa dancing venues in Little Havana, Miami is a city that thrives with energy. There are many world-renowned clubs that keep the music and drinks flowing through the entire night. There's also a glitzy and glamourous scene where the wealthy like to see and be seen.

El Paso has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are a number of bars, nightclubs, and lounges around town where you can enjoy a fun night out.

Is Miami or El Paso Better for Music?

Miami
El Paso

Miami is an unbeatable place for live music. However, El Paso is not a live music destination.

Miami is known as a music capital around the world. Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

El Paso is not a live music destination.


Is Miami or El Paso Better for Resorts?

Miami
El Paso

Miami is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, El Paso is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Miami is a perfect choice. Known for it's luxury, you'll find many resorts in the area. Popular options include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Fontainebleau, and Carillon Miami.

El Paso is not a resort destination.

Is Miami or El Paso Better for Beaches?

Miami
El Paso

Miami is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, El Paso is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Miami is a very popular vacation destination. If you're looking for long sandy beaches, luxury yacht clubs, and fine dining restaurants, the area's beaches have them all. Some of the best beaches in the area include the world-famous South Beach, the North Beach Oceanside Park, Sunny Isles Beach, and Surfside. Many beaches are lined with high rise hotels that offer an urban beach experience.

El Paso is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Miami or El Paso?

Miami
El Paso

Miami is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Miami. The city has every high end brand you could want, along with diverse neighborhoods with local finds and unique purchases. You'll find many diverse shopping opportunities that are influenced by the city's cultural scene. You'll also find many souvenir stands and t-shirt shops.

El Paso offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of malls and outlet centers around town. One of the most well known is Bassett Place, but other options include Cielo Vista Mall and the Fountains at Farah.


Is Miami or El Paso Better for Families?

Miami
El Paso

Miami is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Miami is a very family-friendly destination. Because it's so big, you'll find a number of kid-friendly activities in the area. There's the Miami Zoo, various waterparks, the Everglades Alligator Park, Miccosukee Indian Village, and plenty of indoor playgrounds in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in El Paso. There are adventure parks, playgrounds, outdoor centers and nature activities that families can enjoy.

Is Miami or El Paso Better for Couples?

Miami
El Paso

Miami is a very popular place for romance. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Miami makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For couples who love nightlife, wining and dining, and high end beach clubs, this is the place to be. There are many award-winning restaurants and plenty of glitz and glam that make for a great romantic getaway.

Most people don't think of El Paso as a couple's destination. Couples can enjoy dinner and a show or taking a romantic drive up to the overlook.

Is Miami or El Paso Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Miami
El Paso

Miami is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Miami is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the backpackers.

El Paso is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's little in the area that appeals to backpackers.


Is Miami or El Paso Better for Students?

Miami
El Paso

Miami is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, El Paso is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Miami. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

El Paso is not popular with students.

Is Miami or El Paso Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Miami
El Paso

Miami is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Miami has some public transit options. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around the city.

Public transit is generally limited in El Paso. While there are some bus routes in town, you shouldn't rely on them and must have a private vehicle to efficiently visit the city.

Is Miami or El Paso a more walkable city?

Miami
El Paso

Miami is a very popular place for its walkability. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

Miami is very walkable. Many parts of city are surprisingly walkable and pedestrian friendly, allowing you to eat out, go shopping, or explore without the need for a car.

El Paso is generally not very walkable. You really need a car to get around town.


For even more information, also check out Is Miami Worth Visiting? and Is El Paso Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in El Paso or Miami?

How long in Miami or El Paso?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Miami than El Paso 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 Miami.


  • How many days in Miami or El Paso? Ideal Length of Stay
    Miami 7 
    El Paso 1-2

One day in Miami or El Paso?

Because Miami is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This beach city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In El Paso, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this low-key destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Miami or El Paso?

You'll find live music and food around the diverse big city of Miami. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in El Paso. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Miami or El Paso?

Miami is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

El Paso is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of El Paso. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Miami or El Paso?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Miami. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Miami. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the low-key destination of El Paso. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


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


Which place is cheaper, El Paso or Miami?

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

  • Miami Prices
    USA Prices
    El Paso Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Miami $258
    El Paso $200

The average daily cost (per person) in Miami is $258, while the average daily cost in El Paso is $200. 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 Miami and El Paso in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Miami $154
    El Paso $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Miami $308
    El Paso $162
Compare Hotels in Miami and El Paso

Looking for a hotel in Miami or El Paso? 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 Miami


Hotels in El Paso


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: Miami Hotel Prices and El Paso Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Miami $38
    El Paso $37
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Miami

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Miami are as follows:


  • Car Rental for a Day
    $18

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Miami

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Miami:

  • VIP Transfer to Miami International Airport and Port of Miami: $118
  • Transfers from Miami Airport to any Miami and Miami Beach area: $145
  • Transfer from Port Miami to Miami Airport. Up to 11 passengers.: $190
  • Transfer from Miami Airport to Miami Hotel or Miami Port: $160
  • Transfer Service Miami Port to Miami Airport: $125
  • Transfer Service Miami Airport to Miami Port: $140
  • Round Trip Motorcoach Transfer to Key West from Miami: $245
  • Private transfer from Miami hotel to Port of Miami: $160
  • Private Transfer in Miami (MIA) Airport/Home/Hotel/Work : $69
  • Private Transfer from Miami Hotels to Miami International Airport: $120
  • Private Transfer from Miami Hotels to Miami International Airport: $94
  • Private Transfer from Hotel in Miami to Port Miami. Up to 11 pax.: $160

Hired Cars and Shuttles in El Paso

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

  • El Paso Airport (ELP) to Truth or Consequences Arrival Transfer: $293
  • El Paso International Airport (ELP) to El Paso - Arrival Private Transfer : $67
  • El Paso International Airport (ELP) to El Paso - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $134
  • El Paso to El Paso International Airport (ELP) - Departure Private Transfer: $67

Is it cheaper to fly into Miami or El Paso?

Prices for flights to both El Paso and Miami 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
    Miami $72
    El Paso $93
Typical Food Prices in Miami

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Miami:


  • Lunch with Drinks (for 2)
    $45
  • David's Cafe Lunch (for 1)
    $16

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Miami

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Miami.

  • The Ultimate Little Havana Food Tour: $67
  • Little Havana Street Food Tour with Enthusiastic Guide: $69
  • South Beach Food Tour: $70
  • Taste of Little Havana Food Tour in Miami with Cuban Street Food: $75
  • Miami Mosaic Signature Food Tour: $75
  • Guided Small Group Little Havana Food Tour: $91
  • Mango's Tropical Cafe Dinner & Show: $98
  • Miami Dinner Party w/ Night Club Experience: $100
  • Ukrainian cooking class in Miami: $150
  • Traditional Cuban Cooking Class in Miami: $155
  • Food Tour in Little Havana, Miami: $216
  • Miami : Small Group Cuban Cooking Class: $620

Typical Food Prices in El Paso

For El Paso, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Rudy's BBQ (family of 4)
    $40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Miami $31
    El Paso $27

Tours and Activities in Miami

Here are a few actual costs in Miami for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 30 Minute- Ocean Drive Segway Tour: $42
  • Bayside Marketplace Miami Full Day Shopping Experience : $100
  • Discover Miami Beach with a Shared Golf Cart Tour: $55
  • Miami Beach Art Deco Tour with Cocktails: $75
  • Miami to Key West Bus Tour with Narration: $39
  • Miami's Most Authentic Walking Tour of Little Havana: $39
  • South Beach Top Highlights Tour with Lincoln Rd and Espanola Way: $49
  • #1 Private Boat Tour and 1 Hour Free Jet Ski Rental in Miami: $349
  • 1 Hour Lady Buggy Art Tour Experience in Wynwood: $160
  • 1 Hour Star Island Segway Tour: $74
  • 1 hr Private Airboat Everglades Tour near Miami: $225
  • 1-Hour ATV Tours: $130

Tours and Activities in El Paso

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

  • Wraiths of the West Texas Wind: El Paso Ghost Tour: $24
  • Wraiths of the West Texas Wind: El Paso Ghost Tour: $26
  • Texas and New Mexico Bundle 4 day Self Guided National Park Tours: $40
  • El Paso Indoor Skydiving Experience with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate: $102
  • Private Downtown City Sightseeing Tour of Juarez Mexico: $120
  • Colorado Springs: Pikes Peak Jeep Tour: $130
  • Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods Jeep Tour: $190
  • UTV Adventure Tour / Rental: $275

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Miami $22
    El Paso $27
Typical Alcohol Prices in Miami

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Miami are as follows:


  • Evening at a Bar
    $32

Sample the Local Flavors in Miami

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Miami:

  • Miami Florida Bar Crawl: $15
  • #1 Miami Pub Crawl + Clubbing Experience: $19
  • Guided Pub Crawl Miami and Club Entry Wynwood: $21
  • Miami Bar Crawl: $29
  • Guided Bar Crawl with Drinks Discounts and Club Entry: $29
  • Pub Crawl Miami: $30
  • Ghosts, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Miami Bachelorette Bar Crawl: $40
  • Pedal Pub Art District Party Bike Pub Crawl: $41
  • Miami Pedal Pub: Arts District Party Bike Pub Crawl: $58
  • Small-Group Brewery Golf Cart Tour of Wynwood with a Local Guide: $59
  • Wynwood Graffiti Brewery Golf Cart Tour: $63


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

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


Which is Bigger, Miami or El Paso?

El Paso has a larger population, and is about 47% larger than the population of Miami. When comparing the sizes of Miami and El Paso, 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.