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

Should you visit Roswell, New Mexico or Seattle?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Roswell, New Mexico and Seattle. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

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.

Seattle

Seattle is a progressive, cultural, and outdoorsy city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Seattle is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and beaches. See Seattle travel costs.

Roswell, New Mexico and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Space Needle


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Seattle. Although Roswell, New Mexico and Seattle are both popular with visitors, Seattle has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Seattle is more touristy than Roswell, New Mexico and is popular for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. It is also home to The Space Needle. Roswell, New Mexico is popular for being the site of an alleged UFO crash.

How is Roswell, New Mexico different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Seattle and Roswell, New Mexico. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Roswell, New Mexico or Seattle?

Roswell, New Mexico
Seattle

Seattle is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Seattle. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

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.


Is Roswell, New Mexico or Seattle Better for Theater?

Roswell, New Mexico
Seattle

Seattle is a good destination for its theatre productions. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a theatre destination.

You'll find a nice selection of shows in Seattle. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Roswell, New Mexico or Seattle? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Roswell, New Mexico
Seattle

Seattle is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Seattle has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Roswell, New Mexico area. 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 Roswell, New Mexico or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Roswell, New Mexico
Seattle

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

Seattle has a large number of nightlife venues. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

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 Roswell, New Mexico or Seattle Better for Music?

Roswell, New Mexico
Seattle

Seattle is a very popular place for its live music scene. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Seattle while you're in town. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a live music destination.

Is Roswell, New Mexico or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Roswell, New Mexico
Seattle

Seattle is a good destination for the beach. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a beach destination.

Seattle offers a nice beach destination. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a beach destination.

Is Roswell, New Mexico or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Roswell, New Mexico
Seattle

Seattle is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Seattle. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Roswell, New Mexico or Seattle?

Roswell, New Mexico
Seattle

Seattle is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Roswell, New Mexico has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find the typical suburban chains where you can pick up essentials or food while you're in town.

Is Roswell, New Mexico or Seattle More Beautiful?

Roswell, New Mexico
Seattle

Seattle is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a destination known for its beauty.

Seattle is a beautiful place to visit, too. Set against the backdrop of Mt. Rainier, the city has both natural and architectural beauty. It's also beautifully situated on the water with lots of parks and vegetation throughout.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Roswell, New Mexico or Seattle Better for Families?

Roswell, New Mexico
Seattle

Both Roswell, New Mexico and Seattle are good family-friendly destinations.

Roswell, New Mexico is a family-friendly town. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Seattle. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.


Is Roswell, New Mexico or Seattle Better for Couples?

Roswell, New Mexico
Seattle

Seattle is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for couples.

Seattle makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

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 Roswell, New Mexico or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Roswell, New Mexico
Seattle

Seattle is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Seattle. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Roswell, New Mexico is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most people pass through in route to other destinations, and backpackers are no different.

Is Roswell, New Mexico or Seattle Better for Students?

Roswell, New Mexico
Seattle

Seattle is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not popular with students.

Many students visit Seattle. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Roswell, New Mexico is not popular with students.


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

Roswell, New Mexico
Seattle

Seattle is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Seattle has some public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

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

Is Roswell, New Mexico or Seattle a more walkable city?

Roswell, New Mexico
Seattle

Seattle is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Seattle is a very walkable city. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Roswell, New Mexico Worth Visiting? and Is Seattle Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Roswell, New Mexico or Seattle?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Roswell, New Mexico and Seattle. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Seattle than in Roswell, New Mexico. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Roswell, New Mexico, and 2-3 days is enough time in Seattle.

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

Couples should spend more time in Seattle than Roswell, New Mexico. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Seattle that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Seattle than Roswell, New Mexico 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 Seattle.


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

One day in Roswell, New Mexico or Seattle?

In Roswell, New Mexico, you'll find food and museums. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Each neighborhood in Seattle has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.


A weekend in Roswell, New Mexico or Seattle?

In Roswell, New Mexico, you'll find museums and food. 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 Roswell, New Mexico has to offer.

Many people visit Seattle for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Seattle, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Roswell, New Mexico or Seattle?

Roswell, New Mexico 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.

The big city destination of Seattle offers museums and theater. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Roswell, New Mexico or Seattle?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Roswell, New Mexico. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Roswell, New Mexico. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Seattle. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.


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


Which place is cheaper, Seattle or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

  • Roswell, New Mexico Prices
    USA Prices
    Seattle Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Roswell, New Mexico $148
    Seattle $242

The average daily cost (per person) in Roswell, New Mexico is $148, while the average daily cost in Seattle is $242. 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 Roswell, New Mexico and Seattle in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Roswell, New Mexico $46
    Seattle $120
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Roswell, New Mexico $92
    Seattle $240
Compare Hotels in Roswell, New Mexico and Seattle

Looking for a hotel in Roswell, New Mexico or Seattle? 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 Roswell, New Mexico


Hotels in Seattle


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: Roswell, New Mexico Hotel Prices and Seattle Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Roswell, New Mexico $38
    Seattle $30

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Seattle

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Seattle:


  • Lightrail from Airport (for 2)
    $5.50
  • Roundtrip Ferry to Bainbridge Island (for 2)
    $15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Seattle

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Seattle:

  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Seattle APT-HTL (SEA): $143
  • Transfer Pier 91 to International SeaTac Airport One Way: $27
  • Smith Cove Terminal to Seattle hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $171
  • SEA Airport Private Transfer to Seattle City|Hotels: $37
  • SEA Airport Private Transfer to Seattle City|Hotels: $140
  • One Way Airport Transfer Service: $112
  • Seattle to Seattle Tacoma Airport (SEA) - Departure Private Transfer: $65
  • Seattle Tacoma Airport (SEA) to Smith Cove Terminal - RoundTrip Private Transfer: $263
  • Seattle Tacoma Airport (SEA) to Smith Cove Terminal - Arrival Private Transfer: $131
  • Seattle Tacoma Airport (SEA) to Seattle - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $129
  • Seattle Roundtrip Chauffeur Driven Airport Transfer: $150
  • Seattle Airport Transfer Arrival & Departures (outer city): $135

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

Prices for flights to both Seattle and Roswell, New Mexico 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
    Roswell, New Mexico $76
    Seattle $88

Typical Food Prices in Seattle

Some typical examples of dining costs in Seattle are as follows:


  • Expresso & cookie at Pier 70
    $7.00
  • Cashews at Pike Place Market
    $6.00
  • 6 Mini Donuts at Pike Place Market
    $3.25
  • Chinese Lunch in International District (for 2)
    $21
  • Breakfast at Lowel's in Pike Place Market (for 2)
    $32
  • Breakfast at French Cafe (for 2)
    $37

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Seattle

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Seattle.

  • Meet Me at the Market Food Tour: $44
  • Meet Me at the Market Food Tour: $44
  • Seattle Holiday Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Pike Place Market Chef-Guided Food Tour: $71
  • Chef Guided Food Tour of Pike Place Market: $72
  • Secret Food Tours: Seattle Pike Place Market: $73
  • Traditional Japanese Ramen Cooking Class in Seattle: $75
  • Japanese Ramen Cooking Class With Local Chef: $75
  • Street Food Tour of South Lake Union- Area of Amazon Spheres : $77
  • Festive Flavors of Pike Place Market Holiday Food Tour: $110
  • Pike Place Market Gourmet Food Tour: $115
  • Authentic Italian Cooking Class in Seattle (5-Course Meal): $129

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Roswell, New Mexico $33
    Seattle $16

Tours and Activities in Seattle

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Seattle are as follows:

  • 2 Hour Guided Boat Tour in Gig Harbor and Narrows Bridges: $55
  • Leavenworth Exclusive Tour from Seattle: $195
  • Bainbridge Island Discovery Tour: $165
  • Bainbridge Island Electric Bike Tour: $175
  • Bainbridge Island Serenity Forest Hike & Cultural Landmarks Tour: $235
  • Bald Eagles Nesting Area Tour at Skagit River: $135
  • Beneath The Streets Underground History Tour: $29
  • Best of Seattle Small Group Walking Tour W/ Space Needle: $244
  • Boeing Factory Tour with Guided Transport from Seattle: $125
  • Chef Guided Happy Hour Tour - Cocktails, Bubbles and Bites: $140
  • Chihuly Garden and Glass in Seattle Ticket: $37
  • Christmas Lights and Snowflake Lane photo tour: $85

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Roswell, New Mexico $9.29
    Seattle $16

Sample the Local Flavors in Seattle

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

  • Seattle Terrors Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $29
  • Seattle Terrors Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Woodinville's Downtown Wine Tasting Pass: $65
  • Diverse Wine Tasting Experience with Bites: $75
  • Woodinville Guided Wine Tour with Optional Tastings: $109
  • Hollywood Artisan Wine Tasting Experience: $249
  • All-inclusive Wine Tasting and Lunch Experience: $249
  • From Snoqualmie Falls & Woodinville Wine Tasting: $344


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


Which is Bigger, Roswell, New Mexico or Seattle?

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Roswell, New Mexico. When comparing the sizes of Roswell, New Mexico and Seattle, 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.