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

Should you visit Ocean City or Portland?

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

Should I visit Ocean City or Portland? 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 laid back, active, and energetic city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and beaches. See Ocean City travel costs.

Portland

Portland is a eclectic, tree-lined, and nature-filled city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Portland offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and hiking. See Portland travel costs.

Ocean City and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ocean City or Portland?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Portland than Ocean City, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Portland is better known for its music, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Ocean City is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, and beaches. Ocean City is more touristy than Portland and is popular for its miles of sandy beach, fun-filled activities, and thrilling water sports. Portland is well known for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty. Also, Portland is famous for Washington Park.

How is Ocean City different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Ocean City or Portland.

Ocean City offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. 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.

While most people don't head to Portland specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

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

Ocean City is a city with good options for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Ocean City. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Ocean City or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Ocean City is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Ocean City has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Portland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Is Ocean City or Portland Better for Music?

Portland is a popular place for its music scene. However, Ocean City is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Portland is active and vibrant. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Ocean City is not a live music destination.

Is Ocean City or Portland Better for Resorts?

Ocean City is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Portland is not a resort destination.

In Ocean City, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Portland is not a resort destination.

Is Ocean City or Portland Better for Beaches?

Ocean City is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Portland is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Ocean City attract visitors from all over. 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.

Portland is not a beach destination.

Is Ocean City or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Ocean City is not a hiking destination.

Portland is a popular spot for hiking. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

Ocean City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ocean City or Portland?

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

Many visitors go to Portland to go shopping. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

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 Portland More Beautiful?

Portland is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Ocean City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Portland offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Surrounded by mountains and filled with parks and greenspace, many people find this town to be quite beautiful.

Ocean City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Ocean City or Portland Better for Families?

Ocean City is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Ocean City is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Portland. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Is Ocean City or Portland Better for Couples?

Ocean City is a very popular place for romance. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Ocean City makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Portland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

Is Ocean City or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Ocean City is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Portland is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

Ocean City is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any hostels in the area, but there are some affordable motels if you look beyond the beachfront properties.

Is Ocean City or Portland Better for Students?

Portland is a popular place for students. However, Ocean City is not popular with students.

Portland is a good city to visit for students. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

Ocean City is not popular with students.

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

Portland 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.

Portland has a few public transit options. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

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 Portland a more walkable city?

Portland is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Ocean City is not a good city for its walkability.

Portland is a very walkable destination. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

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 Portland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland or Ocean City?

How long in Ocean City or Portland?

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

Families should spend more time in Ocean City than Portland. 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 Portland. 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 Portland 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 Portland.

One day in Ocean City or Portland?

The city of Ocean City offers food and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With shopping and nightlife around the tree-lined city of Portland, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Ocean City or Portland?

Ocean City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and live music around the destination of Portland, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Portland?

Ocean City is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ocean City, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Portland, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Portland?

Ocean City is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ocean City has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Portland 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.

When comparing the travel costs between Ocean City and Portland, we can see that Portland 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 Portland Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Ocean City or Portland?

Portland has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Ocean City. When comparing the sizes of Ocean City and Portland, 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 Ocean City or Portland?

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 Ocean City or Portland in the Summer?

Both Portland and Ocean City during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Ocean City in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Portland for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Ocean City is a little warmer than Portland. Typically, the summer temperatures in Ocean City in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Portland averages at about 68°F (20°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ocean City. Ocean City usually gets more rain in July than Portland. Ocean City gets 4.3 inches (110 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ocean City or Portland in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Ocean City and Portland. Most visitors come to Ocean City for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Portland because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Ocean City is generally a little warmer than Portland. Daily temperatures in Ocean City average around 58°F (14°C), and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In October, Ocean City usually receives more rain than Portland. Ocean City gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Ocean City or Portland in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Ocean City as well as Portland. The winter months attract visitors to Ocean City because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

It's quite cold in Portland in the winter. The weather in Ocean City can be very cold. Ocean City is much colder than Portland in the winter. The daily temperature in Ocean City averages around 35°F (2°C) in January, and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

It's quite rainy in Portland. Ocean City usually gets less rain in January than Portland. Ocean City gets 3.6 inches (93 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ocean City or Portland in the Spring?

Both Portland and Ocean City are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches are the main draw to Ocean City this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Ocean City is a little warmer than Portland. Typically, the spring temperatures in Ocean City in April average around 54°F (12°C), and Portland averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In April, Ocean City usually receives more rain than Portland. Ocean City gets 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Portland and Ocean City