A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Pocono Mountains vs. Moncton for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Pocono Mountains or Moncton?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Pocono Mountains and Moncton 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.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a relaxing, scenic, and beautiful region. Pocono Mountains offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping. See Pocono Mountains travel costs.

Moncton

Moncton is a compact, cultural, and quaint city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See Moncton travel costs.

Pocono Mountains and Moncton: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Pocono Mountains or Moncton?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Pocono Mountains and Moncton are both popular with visitors, Pocono Mountains has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Pocono Mountains is more touristy than Moncton and is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also home to Bushkill Falls. Moncton is popular for its unique sense of place and its cultural activities.

How is Pocono Mountains different from Moncton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Pocono Mountains or Moncton Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains
Moncton

Pocono Mountains is great for skiing. However, Moncton is not a skiing destination.

Pocono Mountains draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. There are a number of ski resorts in the area that offer family-friendly skiing or more advanced options. Some of the most popular ski areas are Big Boulder, Blue Mountain, Camelback Mountain, and Jack Frost Mountain.

Moncton is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Pocono Mountains or Moncton?

Pocono Mountains
Moncton

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Pocono Mountains and Moncton.

Pocono Mountains offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Visiting a local museum is a great way to learn about the area's history and Native American population. For a glimpse back in time, you can visit the Asa Packer Mansion, Grey Towers National Historic Landmark, or Columns Museum. The Old Jail Museum is a fascinating place to visit and even offers ghost tours. The Pocono Indian Museum and Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm are both worth a visit as well.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Moncton. The city has a zoo at Magnetic Hill as well as several great museums and historic sites like Fort Beauséjour and the Acadian Museum.

Is the Food Better in Pocono Mountains or Moncton? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pocono Mountains
Moncton

Both Pocono Mountains and Moncton offer a number of good restaurants to choose from.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Pocono Mountains. Family-friendly restaurants are common. Many serve up casual American cuisine like burgers or pasta. There are also more upscale restaurants, some with impressive views, that will elevate your culinary experience. For a local experience, find a restaurant with a seasonal menu that makes the most of the local ingredients.

Moncton is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find a range of casual eateries around town as well as wine tasting and a few upscales places. Poutine is the local favorite, but you can also try fried seafood or a local stew.

Is Pocono Mountains or Moncton Better for Nightlife?

Pocono Mountains
Moncton

Evening events are decent in both Pocono Mountains and Moncton.

Most people don't head to Pocono Mountains specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There are some resorts with casinos and bars as well as local breweries and bars. You'll also find a theater or two in the area.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Moncton. Many of the local bars and clubs are geared toward a slightly younger crowd.


Is Pocono Mountains or Moncton Better for Resorts?

Pocono Mountains
Moncton

Pocono Mountains is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Moncton is not a resort destination.

Pocono Mountains has a few great resort options. Resorts range from family-friendly to romantic. Many have indoor pools or even water parks. Some also have spas, restaurants, and plenty of amenities.

Moncton is not a resort destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Moncton Better for Hiking?

Pocono Mountains
Moncton

Pocono Mountains is great for hiking. However, Moncton is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Pocono Mountains for the hiking trails. There are miles of hiking trails that take you through forests or to spectacular waterfalls. Trails range from easy to challenging and each offers a great way to escape into nature. Some of the more popular trails are found in Tobyhanna State Park and Promised Land State Park. The Appalachian Trail also passes through the area.

Moncton is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pocono Mountains or Moncton?

Pocono Mountains
Moncton

Both Pocono Mountains and Moncton are good shopping destinations.

Pocono Mountains offers some nice shopping areas. Head to the towns for some the best local shopping. The downtown areas in each of the major towns - Jim Thorpe, Stroudsburg, Milford, and Honesdale - have local vendors, antique shops, and the occasional flea market or farmer's market.

Moncton has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's a mix of independent shops and larger big box stores. Some of the largest shopping areas include Mapleton Plaza and Wheeler Park Power Centre.


Is Pocono Mountains or Moncton More Beautiful?

Pocono Mountains
Moncton

Pocono Mountains is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Moncton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Pocono Mountains offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The mountains, valleys, lakes, and streams offer impressive beauty and a peaceful setting.

Moncton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Pocono Mountains or Moncton Better for Families?

Pocono Mountains
Moncton

Pocono Mountains is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Pocono Mountains. There's horseback riding in the warmer seasons and kid-friendly skiing in the winter. The kids will also enjoy the hiking, ziplining, and indoor waterparks in the area. Animal farms and petting zoos are also popular, particularly with the younger kids.

Moncton is a family-friendly place to visit. It's a family-friendly town with indoor play spaces and outdoor parks. Highlights for families include a visit to Magnetic Hill Zoo and a stop at Butterfly World and the Boardwalk.

Is Pocono Mountains or Moncton Better for Couples?

Pocono Mountains
Moncton

Pocono Mountains is great for couples. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Pocono Mountains is a great region if you're traveling as a couple. Romantic resorts, cozy cabins, and luxurious spas all make this a wonderful couples destination. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the hiking and adventure sports in the area, while those looking for a more relaxed experience will appreciate the dining and cultural activities.

Moncton is a nice destination for couples. There are some great date night ideas like wine tasting at Magnetic Hill Winery or seeing a show at the theater.


Is Pocono Mountains or Moncton Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pocono Mountains
Moncton

Pocono Mountains is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Moncton is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Pocono Mountains. There's no shortage of campgrounds, cabins, and hiking opportunities that will let backpackers enjoy a bit of nature.

Moncton is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While there is a hostel in town, this is little more than a stopover for most backpackers.

Is Pocono Mountains or Moncton Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Pocono Mountains
Moncton

Both Pocono Mountains and Moncton offer decent public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Pocono Mountains. There are some bus services that run between a few towns, but they're not an efficient way to get around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Moncton. There is a bus system but it's better not to rely on it.

Is Pocono Mountains or Moncton a more walkable city?

Pocono Mountains
Moncton

Moncton is a city with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its ease of walking around.

Moncton is a somewhat walkable place. It's relatively compact and dense enough to get around on foot in many parts.

Pocono Mountains is generally not a very walkable region. While there are plenty of hiking trails and some walkable towns, you really need a car to explore the area.


For even more information, also check out Is Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting? and Is Moncton Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Moncton or Pocono Mountains?

How long in Pocono Mountains or Moncton?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Moncton 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 Pocono Mountains.


  • How many days in Pocono Mountains or Moncton? Ideal Length of Stay
    Pocono Mountains 3-7 
    Moncton 1-2

One day in Pocono Mountains or Moncton?

In Pocono Mountains, you'll find skiing and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This region offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find museums and food around the compact destination of Moncton. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Pocono Mountains or Moncton?

In Pocono Mountains, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find food and shopping around the quaint city of Moncton. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Pocono Mountains or Moncton?

Pocono Mountains is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pocono Mountains has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Moncton is a popular choice for travelers. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


A week in Pocono Mountains or Moncton?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pocono Mountains. In Pocono Mountains, you'll find museums and skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Moncton is a great place to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in Canada, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Moncton or Pocono Mountains?

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

  • Pocono Mountains Prices
    USA Prices
    Moncton Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Pocono Mountains $213
    Moncton $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Pocono Mountains is $213, while the average daily cost in Moncton 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 Pocono Mountains and Moncton in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pocono Mountains $89
    Moncton $29
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pocono Mountains $178
    Moncton $58
Compare Hotels in Pocono Mountains and Moncton

Looking for a hotel in Pocono Mountains or Moncton? 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 Pocono Mountains


Hotels in Moncton


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: Moncton Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pocono Mountains $49
    Moncton -

Is it cheaper to fly into Pocono Mountains or Moncton?

Prices for flights to both Moncton and Pocono Mountains 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
    Pocono Mountains $92
    Moncton $97

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pocono Mountains $30
    Moncton $79

Tours and Activities in Moncton

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

  • Unexpected Downtown Food and Drink Tour: $68

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Pocono Mountains $13
    Moncton $4.54


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Pocono Mountains and Moncton, we can see that Pocono Mountains is more expensive. And not only is Moncton much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Moncton would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Moncton 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 Pocono Mountains would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pocono Mountains than you might in Moncton.

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


Which is Bigger, Pocono Mountains or Moncton?

Moncton has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Pocono Mountains and Moncton, 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 Pocono Mountains or Moncton?

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 Pocono Mountains or Moncton in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Pocono Mountains as well as Moncton. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Moncton for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Pocono Mountains is a little warmer than Moncton. Typically, the summer temperatures in Pocono Mountains in July average around 75°F (24°C), and Moncton averages at about 19°C (66°F).

It's quite rainy in Moncton. Pocono Mountains receives a lot of rain in the summer. Pocono Mountains usually gets more rain in July than Moncton. Pocono Mountains gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Pocono Mountains 75°F (24°C) 
    Moncton 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Moncton in the Autumn?

Both Moncton and Pocono Mountains are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Moncton in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In October, Pocono Mountains is generally much warmer than Moncton. Daily temperatures in Pocono Mountains average around 55°F (13°C), and Moncton fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Moncton. In October, Pocono Mountains usually receives less rain than Moncton. Pocono Mountains gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Pocono Mountains 55°F (13°C) 
    Moncton 8°C (46°F)

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Moncton in the Winter?

Both Moncton and Pocono Mountains during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Moncton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Moncton can be very cold during winter. Pocono Mountains can get quite cold in the winter. Pocono Mountains is much warmer than Moncton in the winter. The daily temperature in Pocono Mountains averages around 28°F (-2°C) in January, and Moncton fluctuates around -8°C (17°F).

Moncton gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Pocono Mountains usually gets less rain in January than Moncton. Pocono Mountains gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Pocono Mountains 28°F (-2°C) 
    Moncton -8°C (17°F)

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Moncton in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Pocono Mountains and Moncton. Most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the natural beauty during these months.

The weather in Moncton can be very cold. In the spring, Pocono Mountains is much warmer than Moncton. Typically, the spring temperatures in Pocono Mountains in April average around 51°F (11°C), and Moncton averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Moncton receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Pocono Mountains usually receives around the same amount of rain as Moncton. Pocono Mountains gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Pocono Mountains 51°F (11°C) 
    Moncton 3°C (38°F)

Typical Weather for Moncton and Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains Moncton
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 28°F (-2°C) 3 inches (77 mm) -8°C (17°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Feb 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) -8°C (18°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Mar 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) -3°C (27°F) 117 mm (4.6 in)
Apr 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 3°C (38°F) 101 mm (4 in)
May 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 10°C (50°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 16°C (60°F) 93 mm (3.7 in)
Jul 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 19°C (66°F) 103 mm (4 in)
Aug 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 66°F (19°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 13°C (56°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 8°C (46°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Nov 45°F (7°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 2°C (36°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
Dec 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) -5°C (23°F) 126 mm (5 in)