A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America New Orleans vs. Roswell, New Mexico for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit New Orleans or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between New Orleans and Roswell, New Mexico can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

New Orleans

New Orleans is a energetic, fun-filled, and festive city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the live music, food, and nightlife. See New Orleans travel costs.

Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a quirky, mysterious, and infamous town. Other reasons to visit include food and museums. See Roswell, New Mexico travel costs.

New Orleans and Roswell, New Mexico: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Home to the French Quarter
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in New Orleans or Roswell, New Mexico?

Travelers will usually find more to do in New Orleans. Although New Orleans and Roswell, New Mexico are popular destinations, New Orleans has more sights and attractions for tourists. New Orleans is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, historical sights, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Roswell, New Mexico attracts visitors for its museums and attractions. New Orleans is more touristy than Roswell, New Mexico and is known for its jazz festivals, local cuisine, quaint balconies, and world class Mardi Gras parties. It is also well known for The French Quarter. Roswell, New Mexico is famous for being the site of an alleged UFO crash.

The French Quarter
The French Quarter

How is New Orleans different from Roswell, New Mexico?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in New Orleans or Roswell, New Mexico?

New Orleans
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a town with good options for its museums and history. However, New Orleans does not have museums and landmarks.

Roswell, New Mexico is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Most people stop in town specifically for the International UFO Museum and Research Center. It has a lot of information on the 1947 Roswell Crash and other supposed UFO incidents. Other museums in town include the Roswell UFO Spacewalk, the Roswell Museum, and the Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art.

New Orleans does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in New Orleans or Roswell, New Mexico? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

New Orleans
Roswell, New Mexico

New Orleans is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through New Orleans, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It has rapidly grown into one of the United State's most well known foodie destinations. It's the birthplace of bananas foster and popular for it's gumbo, crawfish etouffee, jambalaya, and red beans and rice. While there are a number of celebrity chefs from New Orleans, you'll also find many local restaurants that aren't as well known but are equally worth visiting.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Roswell, New Mexico area. It's a good place to grab lunch as there are many casual restaurants that serve everything from burgers to tacos or other Mexican dishes.

Is New Orleans or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Nightlife?

New Orleans
Roswell, New Mexico

New Orleans is very popular for nightlife and partying. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

New Orleans is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The nightlife scene is at its best during Mardi Gras. But year-round you'll find Bachelor and Bachelorette parties, spring breakers, and anyone who wants to enjoy a crazy time heads to New Orleans. New Orleans is a destination that attracts partiers any time of the year, and the French Quarter is the place to be if you're looking for a party.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Roswell, New Mexico. There's no real nightlife scene and many visitors stop over in route somewhere else.

Is New Orleans or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Music?

New Orleans
Roswell, New Mexico

New Orleans is very popular for its live music scene. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in New Orleans. The city is known for its music festivals that feature jazz, blues, and many other types of live music. The Jazz Festival is a great time to visit.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a live music destination.


Is New Orleans or Roswell, New Mexico Better for its Old Town?

New Orleans
Roswell, New Mexico

New Orleans is a very popular place for its old town. However, Roswell, New Mexico does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of New Orleans. The French Quarter is filled with old architecture and beautiful historic landmarks.

Roswell, New Mexico does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in New Orleans or Roswell, New Mexico?

New Orleans
Roswell, New Mexico

Shoppers can find a variety of reasonable stores in both New Orleans and Roswell, New Mexico.

New Orleans is a good destination for shopping. New Orleans shopping is mostly centered around shopping malls and chain stores.

If you're looking to go shopping, Roswell, New Mexico has some nice offerings. You'll find the typical suburban chains where you can pick up essentials or food while you're in town.

Is New Orleans or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Families?

New Orleans
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a town with good options for its kid-friendly activities. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Roswell, New Mexico is a family-friendly town. Kids who enjoy a mystery will appreciate a visit to the International UFO Museum and Research Center. There's also the Spring River Park and Zoo which has native animals and a carousel.

New Orleans doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. While there are some family-friendly activities in New Orleans like a zoo and several great parks, the city is more known for its parties and nightlife scene. Particularly during certain seasons, most people choose to visit New Orleans without kids.


Is New Orleans or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Couples?

New Orleans
Roswell, New Mexico

New Orleans is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for couples.

New Orleans makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy a lively evening, fun festivals, and exploring absolutely amazing restaurants will enjoy a visit to New Orleans. It has a festive and unique atmosphere any time of the year. There are also nice hotels and beautiful parks.

Roswell, New Mexico is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's a bit outside the box as far as destinations go, so couples who enjoy the weird and quirky will enjoy a stop here.

Is New Orleans or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Students?

New Orleans
Roswell, New Mexico

New Orleans is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit New Orleans. Students head to New Orleans to enjoy spring break and Mardi Gras.

Roswell, New Mexico is not popular with students.

Is New Orleans or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

New Orleans
Roswell, New Mexico

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both New Orleans and Roswell, New Mexico.

Public transit is mostly limited in New Orleans. The city has streetcar lines and bus lines that you can use, but you'll want to have a car if you want to venture outside of these main areas.

Public transit is generally limited in Roswell, New Mexico. There are buses, but it's easier to have your own car.


Is New Orleans or Roswell, New Mexico a more walkable city?

New Orleans
Roswell, New Mexico

New Orleans and Roswell, New Mexico are nice when it comes to walkability.

New Orleans is somewhat walkable. If you stick to the French Quarter and downtown areas, most things are walkable in New Orleans.

Roswell, New Mexico is a somewhat walkable place. The historic district is compact and walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is New Orleans Worth Visiting? and Is Roswell, New Mexico Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Roswell, New Mexico or New Orleans?

How long in New Orleans or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New Orleans than Roswell, New Mexico 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 New Orleans.


  • How many days in New Orleans or Roswell, New Mexico? Ideal Length of Stay
    New Orleans 2-3 
    Roswell, New Mexico 1-2

One day in New Orleans or Roswell, New Mexico?

In New Orleans, many people enjoy the food and nightlife that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the infamous town of Roswell, New Mexico. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in New Orleans or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people visit New Orleans for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. While some people choose to spend more or less time in New Orleans, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the quirky destination of Roswell, New Mexico. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in New Orleans or Roswell, New Mexico?

The destination of New Orleans offers live music and food. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The mysterious town of Roswell, New Mexico offers food and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in New Orleans or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting New Orleans. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers something for everyone. One week 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Roswell, New Mexico. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Roswell, New Mexico or New Orleans?

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

  • New Orleans Prices
    USA Prices
    Roswell, New Mexico Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    New Orleans $271
    Roswell, New Mexico $148

The average daily cost (per person) in New Orleans is $271, while the average daily cost in Roswell, New Mexico 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 New Orleans and Roswell, New Mexico in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    New Orleans $125
    Roswell, New Mexico $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    New Orleans $250
    Roswell, New Mexico $92
Compare Hotels in New Orleans and Roswell, New Mexico

Looking for a hotel in New Orleans or Roswell, New Mexico? 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 New Orleans


Hotels in Roswell, New Mexico


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: New Orleans Hotel Prices and Roswell, New Mexico Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    New Orleans $51
    Roswell, New Mexico $38
Typical Local Transportation Prices in New Orleans

Some typical examples of transportation costs in New Orleans are as follows:


  • Taxi Ride
    $10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in New Orleans

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

  • Transfer from New Orleans MSY or Port to New Orleans by Minibus: $190
  • Transfer from New Orleans MSY or Port to New Orleans City by SUV: $106
  • Private Transfer: New Orleans to Louis Armstrong Airport MSY in Luxury SUV : $126
  • Private Transfer: Louis Armstrong Airport MSY to New Orleans in Luxury SUV: $125
  • Private Transfer: Louis Armstrong Airport MSY to New Orleans in Business Car: $112
  • Private Transfer: Cruise Port to New Orleans Airport MSY in SUV: $125
  • Private Transfer to/from Louis Armstrong Intl Airport and NOLA: $40
  • Private Transfer from Port Of New of New Orleans Cruise: $210
  • Private Transfer from New Orleans Port to New Orleans city: $48
  • Private Transfer New Orleans MSY or Port to New Orleans by Sedan: $80
  • Private Mercedes Sprinter Transfer NOLA, Airport, Cruise Ship: $175
  • Private Luxury Transfer in New Orleans: $75

Is it cheaper to fly into New Orleans or Roswell, New Mexico?

Prices for flights to both Roswell, New Mexico and New Orleans 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
    New Orleans $78
    Roswell, New Mexico $76

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in New Orleans

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

  • New Orleans Demonstration Cooking Class with Meal: $42
  • Steamboat Natchez Evening Jazz Cruise with Dinner Option: $58
  • Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Jazz Dinner Cruise in New Orleans: $60
  • French Quarter Food Tour: Signature Tastes of New Orleans: $75
  • New Orleans Sunset Food Tour Experience: $85
  • Private New Orleans Food Tour of the French Quarter : $85
  • Lower Garden District Food Tour: $89
  • NOLA Carte Food Tours: $96
  • Voodoo, Vampires and Delicious Bites Food Tour: $97
  • New Orleans Cooking Class and Cocktail Walking Tour: $106
  • New Orleans Small-Group Food Walking Tour and Cooking Class: $109
  • Food Tour of New Orleans Garden District: Group of Nine or Less: $129

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    New Orleans $55
    Roswell, New Mexico $33
Typical Entertainment Prices in New Orleans

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for New Orleans's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Zoo & Aquarium Tickets (2)
    $75
  • Riverboat Cruise
    $70
  • French Quarter City Tour
    $100

Tours and Activities in New Orleans

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

  • Bom Creole Dining Experience w/ Pool and Louisiana Native Chef : $135
  • Creole French Quarter Walking Tour: $35
  • 45-Minute French Quarter Highlights Tour in New Orleans: $23
  • 45-Minute Garden District Highlights Tour in New Orleans: $22
  • 45-Minute Marigny Triangle Highlights Tour in New Orleans: $22
  • 60-minute Tremé Walking Tour & Photo Experience: $15
  • 90-Minute Jean Lafitte Swamp and Bayou Tour with Transportation: $62
  • A Local's Garden District Tour: $165
  • A Locals' Drink Dat! Cocktail Tour: $200
  • A Walk in the Park: City Park New Orleans Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Adults-Only Garden District Cemetery Anne Rice True Crime Tour: $35
  • Adults-Only New Orleans Ghost, Crime, Voodoo, and Vampire Tour: $37

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    New Orleans $60
    Roswell, New Mexico $9.29

Sample the Local Flavors in New Orleans

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in New Orleans:

  • Ghost Tour and Haunted Pub Crawl Party with Free Shot!: $24
  • New Orleans Small-Group History Tour Pub Crawl of The Irish Channel: $25
  • NOLA Distillery Tour: $30
  • New Orleans Spooky Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl and Ghost Tour: $30
  • Vixens and Villains Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • New Orleans Happy Hour Ghost Walking Tour Pub Crawl: $33
  • New Orleans Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Till Death Do Us Part: Haunted Pub Crawl Where Love Meets Death: $35
  • Sin and Tonic Pub Crawl in New Orleans: $35
  • New Orleans Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $36
  • Adults Only Haunted Pub Crawl in New Orleans: $37
  • New Orleans' Finest Haunted Pub Tour: $40


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

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


Which is Bigger, New Orleans or Roswell, New Mexico?

New Orleans has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Roswell, New Mexico. When comparing the sizes of New Orleans and Roswell, New Mexico, 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.