Which place is cheaper, Calgary or Phoenix?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
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Should you visit Phoenix or Calgary?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Phoenix and Calgary 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.
Phoenix
Phoenix is a desert, laid back, and sprawling city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Phoenix travel costs.
Calgary
Calgary is a authentic, western, and local city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping. See Calgary travel costs.
Phoenix and Calgary: Pros and Cons
Phoenix
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Active nightlife
- Good for hiking
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Less popular with backpackers
Calgary
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Active nightlife
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Is there more to do in Phoenix or Calgary?
Travelers will usually find more to do in Phoenix than Calgary, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Calgary is more touristy than Phoenix and is popular for its farming and oil industries as well as the Calgary Stampede. Phoenix is popular for its desert landscapes, high number of golf courses, and year round warm weather. It is also home to Desert Botanical Garden.
How is Phoenix different from Calgary?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Calgary and Phoenix. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Phoenix or Calgary?
Phoenix
Calgary
You'll find a number of good museums and attractions in both Calgary and Phoenix.
If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Phoenix. You'll find art, science, and cultural museums around town. Favorites include the Heard Museum, the Phoenix Art Museum, S'edav Va'aki Museum, and the Arizona Science Museum.
Calgary is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It's worth visiting the Calgary Zoo, Fort Calgary, the Hangar Flight Museum, and Heritage Park, among others.
Is the Food Better in Phoenix or Calgary? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?
Phoenix
Calgary
Phoenix is a city with good options for its restaurant scene. However, Calgary is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.
Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Phoenix. There are many mom-and-pop shops around town that serve everything from casual meals to quality steaks. There's also a huge selection of Mexican restaurants, as well as other international options such as sushi, dim sum, and Italian.
Calgary may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The food scene is constantly evolving and you'll find plenty of casual restaurants. The city is known for its beef, so you should definitely sample a local steak.
Is Phoenix or Calgary Better for Nightlife?
Phoenix
Calgary
If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find good options in both Phoenix and Calgary.
If you're looking for night time activities Phoenix has a few options to choose from. The best nightlife scene is found in downtown and central Phoenix. There are bars, restaurants, and venues where you can catch a show. North Phoenix also has grown into a popular evening spot with cocktail bars and pubs.
There's a variety of activities in the evening in Calgary. Visitors often head to Stephen Avenue Walk for its bars and pubs. There's also a decent theater scene around town.
Is Phoenix or Calgary Better for Hiking?
Phoenix
Calgary
Phoenix is a city with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Calgary is not a hiking destination.
Plenty of visitors go hiking around Phoenix. You don't have to head far out of town for impressive hiking opportunities. You'll find trails that range from easy to challenging, and many pass through other-worldly landscapes. You'll find popular trails in Usery Mountain Regional Park, Papago Park, White Tank Mountain Regional Park, South Mountain Park and many others.
Calgary is not a hiking destination.
Is the Shopping Better in Phoenix or Calgary?
Phoenix
Calgary
If you're looking to go shopping, Phoenix and Calgary both offer plenty of good spots.
Phoenix has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are plenty of shopping centers, outlets, and malls where you'll find the standard chain stores. You'll also find farmer's markets around town.
Calgary is a great destination for shopping. There are plenty of independent shops around town as well as some great shopping neighborhoods. Make sure you check out Fourth Street and 17th Avenue. There are also large shopping malls.
Is Phoenix or Calgary Better for Families?
Phoenix
Calgary
Both Phoenix and Calgary are good to visit with kids.
Phoenix offers lots of family activities. Kids will love the Phoenix Zoo, the Arizona Science Center, the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, and the Bearizona Wildlife Park. There's also a number of parks and gardens as well as a children's museum and several other interactive museums for kids.
Calgary is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a surprising number of things around town to do with kids such as petting zoos, museums, and even amusement parks. The Calgary Zoo is worth a visit, but also make sure you check out Calaway Park Amusement Park and the Telus Spark science center.
Is Phoenix or Calgary Better for Couples?
Phoenix
Calgary
Both Phoenix and Calgary are good destinations for a couple's getaway.
Phoenix is a good city for couples to visit. There are many parks and gardens in town as well as beautiful hikes and outdoor activities that couples will enjoy. In the evening, there's theater, shows, and many romantic restaurants.
Calgary is a nice destination for couples. You'll find outdoor sports, boat tours, and plenty of great restaurants around town. If you're looking for a low key destination with a great vibe, then this is a great city for a weekend trip.
Is Phoenix or Calgary Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Phoenix
Calgary
Calgary is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Phoenix is not known for backpackers.
Calgary is a good city to visit for backpackers. A surprising number of backpackers end up passing through town, so you'll find a handful of hostels to choose from.
Phoenix is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel or two around town for budget travelers.
Is Phoenix or Calgary Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?
Phoenix
Calgary
Calgary is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Phoenix is not known for its public transit.
While Calgary offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The public transportation system is relatively efficient with both light rail and buses.
Public transit is generally limited in Phoenix. There's a bus and light rail system, but you really need your own vehicle to get around.
Is Phoenix or Calgary a more walkable city?
Phoenix
Calgary
Phoenix and Calgary are decent when it comes to walkability.
Phoenix is generally not a very walkable city. It's a sprawling city and the only real area that's walkable is the downtown.
Calgary is generally not very walkable. While there are a couple of walkable neighborhood's around town, it's definitely not the most walkable city.
For even more information, also check out Is Phoenix Worth Visiting? and Is Calgary Worth Visiting?.
Should I spend more time in Calgary or Phoenix?
How long in Phoenix or Calgary?
You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Phoenix or Calgary to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Phoenix than Calgary because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Phoenix, and 1-2 days is enough time in Calgary.
Families should spend more time in Phoenix than Calgary. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Phoenix, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Phoenix than Calgary. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Phoenix that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Calgary than Phoenix 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 Calgary.
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How many days in Phoenix or Calgary? Ideal Length of StayPhoenix 1-3Calgary 1-2
One day in Phoenix or Calgary?
In Phoenix, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.
In Calgary, you'll find museums and nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.
A weekend in Phoenix or Calgary?
In Phoenix, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Phoenix has to offer.
In Calgary, you'll find nightlife and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Calgary has to offer.
Five days in Phoenix or Calgary?
Phoenix is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.
Calgary is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.
A week in Phoenix or Calgary?
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Phoenix. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Phoenix. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Calgary. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Calgary. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Canada.
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Phoenix Prices
USA PricesCalgary Prices
Canada Prices -
Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayPhoenix $276Calgary $177
The average daily cost (per person) in Phoenix is $276, while the average daily cost in Calgary is $177. 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 Phoenix and Calgary in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personPhoenix $144Calgary $73
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomPhoenix $288Calgary $146
Compare Hotels in Phoenix and Calgary
Looking for a hotel in Phoenix or Calgary? 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.
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: Phoenix Hotel Prices and Calgary Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Phoenix $39Calgary $12
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Phoenix
Also for Phoenix, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Departure Private Transfer: Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury Van: $154
- Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX) Private Transfer: $80
- Phoenix to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX) - Departure Private Transfer: $84
- One Way Airport Transfer Service: $68
- One-Way Transfer Sky Harbor Airport to Phoenix: $104
- Sky Harbor Airport Private Transfer: $195
- Private Transfer Phoenix Airport PHX to Phoenix Downtown / Hotels: $110
- Private Transfer: Phoenix Airport PHX to Scottsdale by Luxury SUV: $152
- Private Transfer: Phoenix Airport PHX to Scottsdale by Sedan Car: $125
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Calgary
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Calgary:
- Calgary Airport: Private Transfer to Vancouver: $2,153
- Banff, Lake Louise, or Jasper Shuttle Transfer: $1,256
- Calgary Airport: Private Transfer to Jasper: $861
- Calgary Airport: Private Transfer to Fernie, BC: $517
- Calgary Airport: Private Transfer to Edmonton: $502
- Calgary Airport: Private Transfer to Golden BC: $502
- Calgary Airport: Private Transfer to Lake Louis: $359
- Black Car Airport Transfers in Bow Valley: $295
- Calgary Airport: Private Transfer to Red Deer: $251
- Calgary Airport: Private Transfer to Kananaskis: $222
- Calgary Airport: Private Transfer to Drumheller: $215
- Calgary YYC Airport to Banff Canmore Private Transfer: $215
Is it cheaper to fly into Phoenix or Calgary?
Prices for flights to both Calgary and Phoenix 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
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Food Meals for one dayPhoenix $90Calgary $54
Typical Food Prices in Phoenix
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Phoenix:
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Nice Lunch (for 2)$36
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Indian Food Dinner (for 2)$32
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Phoenix
For Phoenix, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Wine Bar: $75
- Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Brewery in Phoenix: $75
- Secret Food Tours Phoenix: $92
- Phoenix Food Tour on Trendy Roosevelt Row with 7 Food Tastings: $95
- Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour: $95
- Scottsdale Waterfront Food Tour: $95
- Scottsdale Old Town Food Tour of Hidden Gems with 6 Food Tastings: $105
- Sunset at Desert Botanical Garden: Dinner & Walking Tour : $135
Typical Food Prices in Calgary
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Calgary:
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Bread, Chips, Cheese$8.10
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Calgary
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Calgary.
- Sushi Cooking Class at a Local Distillery in Calgary: $63
- Pasta Cooking Class at a Local Distillery in Calgary: $63
- Light Brunch & Food Tour at Calgary Farmers' Market WEST: $80
- Iconic Eats of Calgary Food Tour: $127
- Iconic Eats of Calgary Food Tour: $130
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Phoenix $40Calgary $15
Tours and Activities in Phoenix
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Phoenix.
- Old Town Scottsdale's Art District: A Self-Guided Tour: $9.99
- Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Scottsdale by Operation City Quest: $10
- Phoenix Suns Basketball Game Ticket: $10
- Scottsdale Audio Tour Adventure: $15
- SEA LIFE Aquarium Arizona Admission Ticket: $18
- Hall of Flame Museum of Firefighting Entry Ticket: $19
- Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Mesa by Zombie Scavengers: $20
- Historic Walking Tour: $25
- RoRo Street Art Walking Tour: $25
- Wings of Fire & Whispers of the Desert Phoenix Ghost Tours: $27
- Drunk Shakespeare Ticket: Phoenix, AZ: $29
- Ultimate Dead of Night Walking Ghost Tour: $30
Typical Entertainment Prices in Calgary
Here are a few typical costs in Calgary for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:
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Stampede Admission (for 2)$22
Tours and Activities in Calgary
Here are a few actual costs in Calgary for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- 1 Day of Drumheller Dinosaurs and Badlands Guided Group Tour : $132
- 1 Day of Drumheller Dinosaurs and Badlands in Private Custom Tour: $88
- 2-Day Lake Louise, Moraine Lake & Columbia Icefield Rockies Tour: $80
- 3 Day Banff Moraine Lake Louise Johnston Columbia Icefield Tour : $242
- 6-Hour Private City Tour Drive to Calgary Tower: $682
- Airport Pickup & Private Tour from Calgary to The Rockies!: $257
- Badlands Tour: Drumheller with Museum, Hoodoos & Coal Mine: $121
- Banff Explorer™ Private Tour with Moraine Lake & Lake Louise: $537
- Banff Gondola Hot Springs Bow Falls and Three Lakes tour: $74
- Banff Gondola Upper Hot Springs & Top 3 Lakes Tour from Calgary: $88
- Banff Johnston Canyon and Banff Gondola 1 Day Tour from Calgary: $118
- Banff Mountain Adventure with Hiking and Canoeing Options: $116
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayPhoenix $17Calgary $11
Sample the Local Flavors in Phoenix
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Phoenix:
- Phoenix Bar Crawl: $15
- Pedal Bar Crawl Tour of Downtown Phoenix: $70
- Pedal Bar Crawl of Old Town Scottsdale: $70
- Stretch Limo Party Cart - Custom Bar Crawls, Wine Tastings, Night Clubs & More: $189
- Ultimate Bachelorette Party-Wine Tasting From Scottsdale/Phoenix: $200
Sample the Local Flavors in Calgary
Also in Calgary, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
- Brewery Tours at Award Winning Venues: $82
- Calgary Brewery Tour: $88
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Phoenix and Calgary, we can see that Phoenix is more expensive. And not only is Calgary much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Calgary would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Calgary 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 Phoenix would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Phoenix than you might in Calgary.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Phoenix Expensive? and Is Calgary Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Phoenix or Calgary?
Phoenix has a larger population, and is about 30% larger than the population of Calgary. When comparing the sizes of Phoenix and Calgary, 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.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.