A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Ocean City vs. Roswell, New Mexico for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Ocean City or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

Should I visit Ocean City or Roswell, New Mexico? 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. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and nightlife. See Ocean City travel costs.

Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a infamous, quirky, and mysterious town. Other popular activities here include food and museums. See Roswell, New Mexico travel costs.

Ocean City and Roswell, New Mexico: 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
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ocean City. Although Ocean City and Roswell, New Mexico are both popular with visitors, Ocean City has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Ocean City is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, and beaches, while Roswell, New Mexico is known for its museums and attractions. Ocean City is more touristy than Roswell, New Mexico and is popular for its miles of sandy beach, fun-filled activities, and thrilling water sports. It is also home to the Ocean City boardwalk. Roswell, New Mexico is popular for being the site of an alleged UFO crash.

How is Ocean City 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 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 Roswell, New Mexico?

Ocean City
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Ocean City is not a good city for its museums and history.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Roswell, New Mexico. 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.

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 Roswell, New Mexico? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ocean City
Roswell, New Mexico

Foodies will find both Ocean City and Roswell, New Mexico both to be good 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 Roswell, New Mexico. 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 Ocean City or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Nightlife?

Ocean City
Roswell, New Mexico

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

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.

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 Ocean City or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Resorts?

Ocean City
Roswell, New Mexico

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

There are plenty of resorts in Ocean City to choose from. 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.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a resort destination.


Is Ocean City or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Beaches?

Ocean City
Roswell, New Mexico

Ocean City is a very popular place for the beach. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Ocean City for it's beautiful beaches. 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.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ocean City or Roswell, New Mexico?

Ocean City
Roswell, New Mexico

Both Ocean City and Roswell, New Mexico are decent shopping destinations.

Ocean City has some good spots for those that want to go 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.

Roswell, New Mexico is a good destination for shopping. You'll find the typical suburban chains where you can pick up essentials or food while you're in town.

Is Ocean City or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Families?

Ocean City
Roswell, New Mexico

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

With a huge array of activities for kids, Ocean City is very family-friendly. 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 Roswell, New Mexico. 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.


Is Ocean City or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Couples?

Ocean City
Roswell, New Mexico

Ocean City is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for couples.

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.

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

Ocean City
Roswell, New Mexico

Both Ocean City and Roswell, New Mexico offer decent public transit options.

Public transit is generally 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.

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

Is Ocean City or Roswell, New Mexico a more walkable city?

Ocean City
Roswell, New Mexico

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

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

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 Roswell, New Mexico Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Ocean City or Roswell, New Mexico?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Ocean City or Roswell, New Mexico to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Ocean City than Roswell, New Mexico because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Ocean City, and 1-2 days is enough time in Roswell, New Mexico.

Families should spend more time in Ocean City than Roswell, New Mexico. 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 Roswell, New Mexico. 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.


  • How many days in Ocean City or Roswell, New Mexico? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ocean City 3-7 
    Roswell, New Mexico 1-2

One day in Ocean City or Roswell, New Mexico?

In Ocean City, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

With museums and food around the quirky town of Roswell, New Mexico, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Roswell, New Mexico, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Ocean City or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people visit Ocean City for a weekend. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With food and museums around the destination of Roswell, New Mexico, 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 town.

Five days in Ocean City or Roswell, New Mexico?

In Ocean City, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ocean City, five days is sufficent for most.

Roswell, New Mexico, a popular town, 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 Roswell, New Mexico?

In Ocean City, many people enjoy the food and nightlife that this energetic destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This is a popular place to visit for one week. This city offers something for everyone. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ocean City has to offer.

Roswell, New Mexico 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, Roswell, New Mexico 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
    Roswell, New Mexico Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Ocean City $196
    Roswell, New Mexico $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Ocean City is $196, 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 Ocean City and Roswell, New Mexico in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ocean City $83
    Roswell, New Mexico $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ocean City $166
    Roswell, New Mexico $92
Compare Hotels in Ocean City and Roswell, New Mexico

Looking for a hotel in Ocean City 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 Ocean City


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: Ocean City Hotel Prices and Roswell, New Mexico Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ocean City $47
    Roswell, New Mexico $38

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

Prices for flights to both Roswell, New Mexico 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
    Roswell, New Mexico $76

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ocean City $18
    Roswell, New Mexico $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ocean City $14
    Roswell, New Mexico $9.29


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ocean City and Roswell, New Mexico, we can see that Ocean City 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 Ocean City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Ocean City 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 Ocean City Expensive? and Is Roswell, New Mexico Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Ocean City or Roswell, New Mexico?

Roswell, New Mexico has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Ocean City. When comparing the sizes of Ocean City 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.