A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America New Orleans vs. Santa Barbara for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Old Town

Should you visit New Orleans or Santa Barbara?

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 Santa Barbara 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 vibrant, energetic, and fun-filled city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include food, nightlife, and live music. See New Orleans travel costs.

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a affluent, scenic, and stunning coastal town. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Santa Barbara is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Santa Barbara travel costs.

New Orleans and Santa Barbara: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in New Orleans or Santa Barbara?

You'll generally find more things to do in New Orleans than Santa Barbara. New Orleans is bigger than Santa Barbara, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. New Orleans is better known for its food, nightlife, music, and historical sights, while Santa Barbara is more popular for its museums and attractions, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. New Orleans is more touristy than Santa Barbara and is popular for its jazz festivals, local cuisine, quaint balconies, and world class Mardi Gras parties. Also, New Orleans is famous for The French Quarter. Santa Barbara is well known for its historic missions, pristine beaches, world-class surfing, and scenic hikes that are full of coastal views.

The French Quarter

How is New Orleans different from Santa Barbara?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, New Orleans does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Santa Barbara. The city is famous for its missions, with Mission Santa Barbara being the most iconic. Also visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History and Sea Center.

New Orleans does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in New Orleans or Santa Barbara? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

New Orleans is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Santa Barbara is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, New Orleans is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Santa Barbara. The city is best known for its fine dining, particularly if you enjoy seafood. The scallops, oysters, clam chowder, and sea urchin (when available) are all world class. Head for a waterfront setting for the best views and some of the freshest seafood.

Is New Orleans or Santa Barbara Better for Nightlife?

New Orleans is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Santa Barbara is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for nightlife.

New Orleans is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Santa Barbara. For the best nightlife in the city, head downtown to State Street. This is where you'll find the most active bars and biggest crowds. There's a large student population in town, so you'll find much of the nightlife scene is focused on the younger population.

Is New Orleans or Santa Barbara Better for Music?

New Orleans is renowned for its music scene. However, Santa Barbara is not a live music destination.

In New Orleans you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. 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.

Santa Barbara is not a live music destination.

Is New Orleans or Santa Barbara Better for Resorts?

Santa Barbara is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, New Orleans is not a resort destination.

In Santa Barbara, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Many people enjoy the luxurious vacation rentals around Santa Barbara, but there are also a number of high end resorts including the Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort, The Ritz-Carlton, and Hotel Californian.

New Orleans is not a resort destination.

Is New Orleans or Santa Barbara Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Santa Barbara is a decent place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, New Orleans is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Santa Barbara. Snorkeling areas not far from town include Refugio State Beach and Tajiguas. You'll see a few fish, beautiful rocks, and anemones that are unique and impressive.

New Orleans is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is New Orleans or Santa Barbara Better for Beaches?

Santa Barbara is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, New Orleans is not a beach destination.

Santa Barbara is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The city is famous for its pristine, sandy beaches. Whether you want to enjoy world class surfing or enjoy a gentle ocean setting, Santa Barbara has many options.

New Orleans is not a beach destination.

Is New Orleans or Santa Barbara Better for its Old Town?

New Orleans is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. Also, Santa Barbara is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting New Orleans. The French Quarter is filled with old architecture and beautiful historic landmarks.

Santa Barbara is a good destination for visiting its old town. The city's downtown "Old Town" is a high end, pedestrian-friendly area with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Is New Orleans or Santa Barbara Better for Hiking?

Santa Barbara is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, New Orleans is not a hiking destination.

Around Santa Barbara visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Just outside of town are countless hiking opportunities that offer spectacular ocean views. Popular hikes include Inspiration Point, San Ysidro Trail, and Cold Spring East Fork.

New Orleans is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in New Orleans or Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara is a world-class destination for shopping. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Santa Barbara. The city is famous as a high end shopping destination. Head to State Street for a palm tree lined street with local boutiques.

If you're looking to go shopping, New Orleans has some nice offerings. New Orleans shopping is mostly centered around shopping malls and chain stores.

Is New Orleans or Santa Barbara More Beautiful?

Santa Barbara is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, New Orleans is not a destination known for its beauty.

Santa Barbara is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The city is beautifully situated right by the ocean and offers stunning views and and an amazing setting. It is also filled with opulent houses and grand estates, giving it an air of grandeur.

New Orleans is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is New Orleans or Santa Barbara Better for Families?

Santa Barbara is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Santa Barbara is a very family-friendly destination. The city has some nice family-friendly activities including a zoo, some cool museums, and even whale watching. There are also many beautiful beaches where everyone can run around and play, as well as parks and other outdoor settings. For animal-lovers, there are wildlife centers and sea life opportunities.

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 Santa Barbara Better for Couples?

Santa Barbara is a world-class destination for romance. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Santa Barbara is a great coastal town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The town is a stunningly beautiful destination with beautiful beaches, excellent shopping, and nice resorts that make for a great honeymoon or romantic trip.

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.

Is New Orleans or Santa Barbara Better for Students?

Santa Barbara is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Santa Barbara. With a major university right in town, there's plenty of student life that international students or locals can enjoy.

New Orleans is popular with students. Students head to New Orleans to enjoy spring break and Mardi Gras.

Is New Orleans or Santa Barbara Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Santa Barbara is a coastal town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its public transit.

Santa Barbara has some public transit options. Transit options include buses, trolleys and water taxis.

Public transit is generally 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.

Is New Orleans or Santa Barbara a more walkable city?

Santa Barbara is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Santa Barbara is very walkable. The downtown area is very pedestrian-friendly and best explored on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Santa Barbara or New Orleans?

How long in New Orleans or Santa Barbara?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both New Orleans and Santa Barbara. In our opinion, Santa Barbara has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Santa Barbara than New Orleans. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Santa Barbara than New Orleans 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 Santa Barbara.

One day in New Orleans or Santa Barbara?

Many travelers enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the energetic destination of New Orleans. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the stunning coastal town of Santa Barbara. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in New Orleans or Santa Barbara?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in New Orleans. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the opulent destination of Santa Barbara. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This coastal 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 Santa Barbara?

Travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the fun-filled destination of New Orleans. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 opulent coastal town of Santa Barbara offers shopping and museums. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Santa Barbara?

You'll find food and nightlife around the city of New Orleans. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Santa Barbara. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between New Orleans and Santa Barbara, we can see that New Orleans is more expensive. And not only is Santa Barbara much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Santa Barbara would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara.

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 Santa Barbara Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, New Orleans or Santa Barbara?

New Orleans has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Santa Barbara. When comparing the sizes of New Orleans and Santa Barbara, 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 New Orleans or Santa Barbara?

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 New Orleans or Santa Barbara in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to New Orleans as well as Santa Barbara. Many travelers come to New Orleans for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Santa Barbara in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, New Orleans is generally a little warmer than Santa Barbara. Daily temperatures in New Orleans average around 82°F (28°C), and Santa Barbara fluctuates around 65°F (19°C).

New Orleans receives a lot of rain in the summer. New Orleans usually gets more rain in July than Santa Barbara. New Orleans gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit New Orleans or Santa Barbara in the Autumn?

Both Santa Barbara and New Orleans are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to New Orleans in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, most visitors come to Santa Barbara for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

New Orleans is a little warmer than Santa Barbara in the autumn. The daily temperature in New Orleans averages around 69°F (21°C) in October, and Santa Barbara fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In October, New Orleans usually receives more rain than Santa Barbara. New Orleans gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit New Orleans or Santa Barbara in the Winter?

Both Santa Barbara and New Orleans during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to New Orleans for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Santa Barbara because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, New Orleans is around the same temperature as Santa Barbara. Typically, the winter temperatures in New Orleans in January average around 51°F (11°C), and Santa Barbara averages at about 52°F (11°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in New Orleans. New Orleans usually gets more rain in January than Santa Barbara. New Orleans gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit New Orleans or Santa Barbara in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both New Orleans and Santa Barbara. The spring months attract visitors to New Orleans because of the activities around the city. Furthermore, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Santa Barbara this time of year.

In April, New Orleans is generally a little warmer than Santa Barbara. Daily temperatures in New Orleans average around 68°F (20°C), and Santa Barbara fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

New Orleans gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, New Orleans usually receives more rain than Santa Barbara. New Orleans gets 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Santa Barbara and New Orleans