A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Ocean City vs. Pittsburgh for Families, Attractions, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Ocean City or Pittsburgh?

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

Should I visit Ocean City or Pittsburgh? 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.

Ocean City

Ocean City is a energetic, fun-filled, and laid back city. It's also popular because of the beaches, nightlife, and food. See Ocean City travel costs.

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a under-rated, industrial, and authentic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Pittsburgh travel costs.

Ocean City and Pittsburgh: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Ocean City or Pittsburgh?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Pittsburgh. Although Ocean City and Pittsburgh are popular destinations, Pittsburgh has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pittsburgh is very popular for its museums and attractions, shopping, and big city activities, while Ocean City attracts visitors for its resorts and beaches. Ocean City is more touristy than Pittsburgh and is popular for its miles of sandy beach, fun-filled activities, and thrilling water sports. Pittsburgh is famous for its many bridges, its steel industry, and being the home of "Mr. Roger's Neighborhood". It is also well known for Mount Washington.

How is Ocean City different from Pittsburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ocean City or Pittsburgh?

Ocean City
Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Ocean City is not a good city for its museums and history.

Pittsburgh offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The museums range from science and nature focused, like the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden, to quirky and artsy, like the Mattress Factory. The Warhol Museum is dedicated to the works of Andy Warhol and it's not to be missed. Also worth a visit is the Heinz History Center, Randyland, and the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History.

While most people don't head to Ocean City specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people spend their time on the beach, but for the rainy days you can check out the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum or the Art League of Ocean City.


Is the Food Better in Ocean City or Pittsburgh? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ocean City
Pittsburgh

Foodies will find both Ocean City and Pittsburgh both to be nice destinations.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Ocean City area. Themed restaurants are popular in the area. You'll also find all-you-can-eat seafood buffets and casual diners with pancakes and waffles. Pizza, burgers, and other fast food options are also abundant.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Pittsburgh. The city is known for its working class roots, and the food is hearty and filling, which is great for those on a budget. Popular local dishes include pierogis, deli sandwiches, Pittsburgh salads (complete with French fries), and hotcakes.

Is Ocean City or Pittsburgh Better for Nightlife?

Ocean City
Pittsburgh

Both Ocean City and Pittsburgh are very good when it comes to partying.

Ocean City offers plenty to do in the evening. Happy hours are popular at the bars in the area. You'll also find live music and DJ led parties. Head to the boardwalk, which will overwhelm your senses. There are neon lights, colorful rides, and arcades filled with people and activities.

Pittsburgh has a large number of nightlife venues. There's an active music and dance scene in town. For the best bars and clubs, head to the Strip and South Side and for live entertainment and casinos check out the North Shore.

Is Ocean City or Pittsburgh Better for Resorts?

Ocean City
Pittsburgh

Ocean City is great for its luxury resorts. However, Pittsburgh is not a resort destination.

Ocean City is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are many oceanfront resorts with pools and rooms with ocean views. The hotels along the beach tend to be the most expensive, but if you find a place across from the Coastal Highway, it's very challenging to walk to the beach.

Pittsburgh is not a resort destination.


Is Ocean City or Pittsburgh Better for Beaches?

Ocean City
Pittsburgh

Ocean City is great for the beach. However, Pittsburgh is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Ocean City. There are ten miles of sandy beach that are lined with hotels and resorts. A festive boardwalk runs along the coastline and has many rides, arcades, restaurants, and more. The beach offers waves and warm water during the summer months.

Pittsburgh is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ocean City or Pittsburgh?

Ocean City
Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Ocean City is not a good city for shopping.

Many visitors go to Pittsburgh to go shopping. You'll find local fashion boutiques and shopping centers in the city's downtown. Other great shopping neighborhoods include Shadyside, Station Square, and Fifth Avenue Place.

Ocean City is a good destination for shopping. You'll find surf stores and souvenir shops along the three mile boardwalk. There are also many vendors and shopping centers along the Coastal Highway. For something a little more interesting you can head to the Inlet Village.

Is Ocean City or Pittsburgh Better for Families?

Ocean City
Pittsburgh

Ocean City is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Ocean City is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Beyond the family-friendly beach, there's also minigolf, dolphin tours, and themed-restaurants that are perfect for kids. Head to the Jolly Roger amusement park for a thrilling afternoon or spend some time visiting Ripley's Believe It or Not. The boardwalk is lined with activities for both kids and adults. There are also candy shops, ice cream parlors, and pizza joints where you can grab a bite to eat.

Pittsburgh is a family-friendly place to visit. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities packed into this city. Check out the National Aviary or visit the popular Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium. There are also kid-focused museums and science centers as well as parks and playgrounds. Also make sure you take the cable car up Duquesne Incline or enjoy a boat ride on one of the rivers as well.


Is Ocean City or Pittsburgh Better for Couples?

Ocean City
Pittsburgh

Ocean City is great for couples. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for romance.

Ocean City is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Hotels line the beach, many with beautiful views and nice pools. You can take long romantic walks along the coastline or head to one of the many seafood restaurants in town.

Pittsburgh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are a few good date night activities like taking river cruises, enjoying dinner and show, or going to a Pirate's game.

Is Ocean City or Pittsburgh Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ocean City
Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a popular place for its public transit. However, Ocean City is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Pittsburgh has a few public transit options. There are bus and lightrail options through the city's downtown. There's also the unique incline, which is an experience worth doing.

Public transit is mostly limited in Ocean City. There are boardwalk trams as well as shuttle buses, but most people have their own vehicle, and its recommended you have a private car to get around.

Is Ocean City or Pittsburgh a more walkable city?

Ocean City
Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Ocean City is not a good city for its walkability.

Pittsburgh is a somewhat walkable city. Some of the attractions are spread out, but if you're willing to do a bit of walking, it's possible to get around on foot.

Ocean City is generally not a very walkable city. If you stay at an oceanfront hotel or on the ocean block, it's possible to walk to the beach. If you stay further back, you'll have to cross the Coastal Highway, which is eight lanes of busy traffic.


For even more information, also check out Is Ocean City Worth Visiting? and Is Pittsburgh Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pittsburgh or Ocean City?

How long in Ocean City or Pittsburgh?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Ocean City and Pittsburgh. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Ocean City than in Pittsburgh. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Ocean City, and 2-3 days is enough time in Pittsburgh.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pittsburgh than Ocean City 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 Pittsburgh.


  • How many days in Ocean City or Pittsburgh? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ocean City 3-7 
    Pittsburgh 2-3

One day in Ocean City or Pittsburgh?

With food and nightlife around the laid back city of Ocean City, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With museums and nightlife around the industrial city of Pittsburgh, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Ocean City or Pittsburgh?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Ocean City, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Pittsburgh, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Ocean City or Pittsburgh?

Ocean City, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Pittsburgh, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Ocean City or Pittsburgh?

Ocean City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Pittsburgh is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Pittsburgh or Ocean City?

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

  • Ocean City Prices
    USA Prices
    Pittsburgh Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Ocean City $196
    Pittsburgh $220

The average daily cost (per person) in Ocean City is $196, while the average daily cost in Pittsburgh is $220. 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 Ocean City and Pittsburgh in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ocean City $83
    Pittsburgh $106
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ocean City $166
    Pittsburgh $212
Compare Hotels in Ocean City and Pittsburgh

Looking for a hotel in Ocean City or Pittsburgh? 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 Ocean City


Hotels in Pittsburgh


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: Ocean City Hotel Prices and Pittsburgh Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ocean City $47
    Pittsburgh $22

Is it cheaper to fly into Ocean City or Pittsburgh?

Prices for flights to both Pittsburgh and Ocean City 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
    Ocean City $85
    Pittsburgh $94

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pittsburgh

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

  • Handmade Sushi Cooking Class With Local Chef in Pittsburgh: $75
  • Downtown Pittsburgh Hidden Eats Food Tour with 6 Food Tastings: $95

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ocean City $18
    Pittsburgh $38

Tours and Activities in Pittsburgh

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Pittsburgh.

  • Pittsburgh's Downtown Smartphone Guided Audio Walking Tour : $9.75
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Pittsburgh by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Smartphone-Guided Tour of Downtown Pittsburgh Sights & Stories: $28
  • Echoes from the Iron Forge: Pittsburgh Phantoms Ghost Tour: $32
  • Reel Pittsburgh Movie Tour: $33
  • Black & Gold Sunset Tour: $33
  • Best of the Burgh Walking Tour of Pittsburgh: $33
  • Black & Ghost Tour: $33
  • Holiday Lights Tour: $33
  • JUST THE TOUR - Double Decker bus sightseeing tour of Pittsburgh.: $45
  • Whiskey Rebellion & Prohibition Tour: $45
  • HOP ON-HOP OFF TOUR PASS- All Day Sightseeing Tour Pass: $50

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ocean City $14
    Pittsburgh $33

Sample the Local Flavors in Pittsburgh

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Pittsburgh:

  • Pittsburgh Bar Hunt: Party Through Pittsburgh Bar Crawl: $13
  • Wigle Whiskey Rebellion Distillery Tour: $22
  • Beers in the Burgh: Pittsburgh Brewery Walk: $69
  • Bikes & Brews Tour: Pittsburgh Brewery Tour: $89
  • Pittsburgh Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105


When comparing the travel costs between Ocean City and Pittsburgh, we can see that Pittsburgh is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Ocean City or Pittsburgh?

Pittsburgh has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Ocean City. When comparing the sizes of Ocean City and Pittsburgh, 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.