Which place is cheaper, Portland, Maine or Saint Thomas?
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 Saint Thomas or Portland, Maine?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
Should I visit Saint Thomas or Portland, Maine? 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.
Where Should I go: Saint Thomas or Portland, Maine?
Saint Thomas
Saint Thomas is a beautiful island in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Together with St. John, St. Croix, and Water Island, it forms the unincorporated territory of the United States. The island is also home to the territorial capital and port of Charlotte Amalie. The island's population is just over 50,000, which is slightly less than half of the territory's total population.
Portland, Maine
The largest city in the U.S. state of Maine, Portland has much to offer with its most visited areas being the historic Old Port and the Arts District. They are a mix of the old and new, with a historic feel of the waterfront port versus the contemporary culture of the local art scene. In addition to these popular locations, the Portland area is marked with historical landmarks and museums, places to shop, award-winning restaurants, and activities in areas just outside the city as well.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.
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Saint Thomas Prices
USVI PricesPortland, Maine Prices
USA Prices -
Average Daily Cost Per person, per daySaint Thomas $258Portland, Maine $227
The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Thomas is $258, while the average daily cost in Portland, Maine is $227. 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 Saint Thomas and Portland, Maine in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personSaint Thomas $131Portland, Maine $115
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomSaint Thomas $262Portland, Maine $230
Compare Hotels in Saint Thomas and Portland, Maine
Looking for a hotel in Saint Thomas or Portland, Maine? 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: Portland, Maine Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Saint Thomas $37Portland, Maine $34
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Saint Thomas
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Saint Thomas are as follows:
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Scooter Rental$65
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Taxi Ride$5.00
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Saint Thomas
Also for Saint Thomas, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Cyril E. King Airport STT to Charlotte Amalie RoundTrip Transfer: $204
- Exclusive Airport Transfers (up to 4 persons) One-Way: $135
- PARADISE TAXI & TOURS USVI-St. Thomas- Airport Transfer to Ritz Carlton Elysian : $170
- PARADISE TAXI & TOURS USVI-St.Thomas-Airport Transfer to Marriott Frenchman Cove: $110
- Paradise Taxi & Tours USVI- St. Thomas - Airport Transfer to Red Hook Ferry: $160
- Paradise Taxi & Tours USVI- St.Thomas Airport Transfer to Bolongo Bay / Limetree: $110
- Paradise Taxi & Tours USVI-St Thomas- Airport Transfer Sapphire / Crystal Cove : $160
- Prince Taxi & Tours St.Thomas Airport transfer to Redhook Ferry: $200
- Prince Taxi ST.Thomas Airport transfer to Yacht Haven/Bluebeards: $175
- Prince Taxi USVI ST.Thomas Airport transfer to Westin : $180
- Prince Taxi USVI-ST.Thomas Airport Transfer to Ritz Carlton : $180
- Private Airport Transfer in Luxury Vehicle- St. Thomas, USVI: $179
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portland, Maine
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Portland, Maine:
- Private Transfer from Portland Port to Portland Jetport (PWM): $136
- Private Transfer from Portland city to Portland Cruise Port: $75
- Private Transfer from Portland Cruise Port to Portland city: $75
Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Thomas or Portland, Maine?
Prices for flights to both Portland, Maine and Saint Thomas 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 daySaint Thomas $94Portland, Maine $84
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Saint Thomas
For Saint Thomas, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Flavors: Cultural Cooking Class, St Thomas, USVI, USA : $81
- St. John Sail with Bar and Hors d'Oeuvres to Lovango Dinner: $119
- Sunset & Harbor Lights Dinner Sail from the Marriott's Frenchman's Cove: $119
- Afternoon Snorkel, Pizza & Sunset Tour departing from St. Thomas & St. John: $120
- Local Experience, St. John U.S. Virgin Islands Food Tour: $125
- Pizza Pi Shuttle (Official) - Jet Ski Trip St Thomas: $148
- St. John PiZZA Pi Snorkel Sail with Beach Stop, Lunch & Open Bar - Westin: $149
- Christmas Cove and Pizza Pi Happy Hour Sail Tour: $185
- Turtles, Pizza Pi & Sunset trip: $295
Typical Food Prices in Portland, Maine
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Portland, Maine:
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Breakfast for 2$17
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Dinner for 2$30
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Portland, Maine
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Portland, Maine.
- Portland: Walking Food Tour – Warm Donuts & History: $57
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Saint Thomas $60Portland, Maine $39
Tours and Activities in Saint Thomas
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Saint Thomas.
- Nature and Sightseeing Tour at Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden: $16
- Children's Treasure Hunt Walking Tour: $25
- Coral World Ocean Park General Admission Ticket: $29
- Cruise Ship Shuttle to Ferry going to St. John: $34
- Rum Tasting Experience in the Old Barrel House: $35
- Admission Ticket to Coral World & Coki Point Beach with Snorkeling: $40
- St. Thomas Sightseeing Tour with a Guide: $40
- Guided Tour of Coral World Ocean Park & Happy Hour: $40
- St. Thomas Ghost Tour of Historic Charlotte Amalie : $41
- Prince taxi & Tours St.Thomas Virgin Islands-Island Scenic Tour: $45
- Guided Kayak Tour from Margaritaville: $48
- Guided Kayak Tour from Elysian: $48
Tours and Activities in Portland, Maine
Here are a few actual costs in Portland, Maine for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- 2 Hour Scenic Powerboat Cruise Experience Portland's Waterfront: $143
- 2-Hour Portland Old Port Ghost Walking Tour: $29
- A Walk Through Time Tour in Portland: $49
- Afternoon Lighthouse Cruise Along the Coast of Portland Maine: $62
- Afternoon Windjammer Cruise Along the Coast of Portland Maine: $67
- Around The Peninsula Bike Tour: $85
- Audio Guided Walking Tour from Old Port of Portland, Maine: $7.75
- Discover Portland City and Lighthouse Tour: $56
- Guided RIB Boat Adventure of Casco Bay: $75
- Harbor Lights and Sights Cruise: $56
- Historical Walking Tour of Portland’s Old Port District: $7.99
- Lighthouse Bicycle Tour from South Portland with 4 Lighthouses: $99
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one daySaint Thomas $27Portland, Maine $24
Sample the Local Flavors in Portland, Maine
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Portland, Maine:
- Portland Old Port Wine Tasting Walking Tour: $99
- Local Brewery & Spirits Bus Tour: $99
- Old Port Brewery & Pub Walking Tour: $99
When comparing the travel costs between Saint Thomas and Portland, Maine, we can see that Saint Thomas 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. Even though Saint Thomas is in Caribbean Islands and Portland, Maine is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Saint Thomas Expensive? and Is Portland, Maine Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Saint Thomas or Portland, Maine?
Portland, Maine has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Saint Thomas. When comparing the sizes of Saint Thomas and Portland, Maine, 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 Saint Thomas or Portland, Maine?
Portland, Maine has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Saint Thomas experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.
Should I visit Saint Thomas or Portland, Maine in the Summer?
The summer brings many poeple to Saint Thomas as well as Portland, Maine. Saint Thomas attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Portland, Maine this time of year.
In July, Saint Thomas is generally a little warmer than Portland, Maine. Daily temperatures in Saint Thomas average around 29°C (83°F), and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).
The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland, Maine. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Thomas this time of the year. In the summer, Saint Thomas often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Portland, Maine. Saint Thomas gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 282 hours of full sun.
Saint Thomas usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Portland, Maine. Saint Thomas gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain this time of the year.
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Summer Average Temperatures JulySaint Thomas 29°C (83°F)Portland, Maine 69°F (20°C)
Should I visit Saint Thomas or Portland, Maine in the Autumn?
Both Portland, Maine and Saint Thomas are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Saint Thomas throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Portland, Maine for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.
Saint Thomas is much warmer than Portland, Maine in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint Thomas averages around 28°C (82°F) in October, and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).
The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Thomas. Saint Thomas usually receives more sunshine than Portland, Maine during autumn. Saint Thomas gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 196 hours of full sun in the autumn.
It's quite rainy in Saint Thomas. In October, Saint Thomas usually receives more rain than Portland, Maine. Saint Thomas gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.
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Autumn Average Temperatures OctoberSaint Thomas 28°C (82°F)Portland, Maine 49°F (9°C)
Should I visit Saint Thomas or Portland, Maine in the Winter?
Both Portland, Maine and Saint Thomas during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Saint Thomas because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Portland, Maine in the winter for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.
Portland, Maine can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Saint Thomas is much warmer than Portland, Maine. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint Thomas in January average around 26°C (78°F), and Portland, Maine averages at about 21°F (-6°C).
It's quite sunny in Saint Thomas. In the winter, Saint Thomas often gets more sunshine than Portland, Maine. Saint Thomas gets 240 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 163 hours of full sun.
Saint Thomas usually gets less rain in January than Portland, Maine. Saint Thomas gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.
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Winter Average Temperatures JanuarySaint Thomas 26°C (78°F)Portland, Maine 21°F (-6°C)
Should I visit Saint Thomas or Portland, Maine in the Spring?
The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Thomas and Portland, Maine. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Saint Thomas year-round. Also, most visitors come to Portland, Maine for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.
In April, Saint Thomas is generally much warmer than Portland, Maine. Daily temperatures in Saint Thomas average around 27°C (80°F), and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).
People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland, Maine this time of the year. In Saint Thomas, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Thomas usually receives more sunshine than Portland, Maine during spring. Saint Thomas gets 272 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.
In April, Saint Thomas usually receives less rain than Portland, Maine. Saint Thomas gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the spring.
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Spring Average Temperatures AprilSaint Thomas 27°C (80°F)Portland, Maine 43°F (6°C)
Typical Weather for Portland, Maine and Saint Thomas
| Saint Thomas | Portland, Maine | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
| Jan | 26°C (78°F) | 43 mm (1.7 in) | 21°F (-6°C) | 3.4 inches (86 mm) |
| Feb | 26°C (78°F) | 39 mm (1.5 in) | 24°F (-5°C) | 3.5 inches (89 mm) |
| Mar | 26°C (79°F) | 49 mm (1.9 in) | 33°F (1°C) | 3.6 inches (91 mm) |
| Apr | 27°C (80°F) | 72 mm (2.8 in) | 43°F (6°C) | 3.3 inches (85 mm) |
| May | 28°C (82°F) | 94 mm (3.7 in) | 53°F (12°C) | 3.3 inches (85 mm) |
| Jun | 28°C (83°F) | 64 mm (2.5 in) | 63°F (17°C) | 3.1 inches (79 mm) |
| Jul | 29°C (83°F) | 66 mm (2.6 in) | 69°F (20°C) | 2.6 inches (66 mm) |
| Aug | 29°C (84°F) | 101 mm (4 in) | 67°F (20°C) | 2.6 inches (66 mm) |
| Sep | 28°C (83°F) | 127 mm (5 in) | 59°F (15°C) | 3.1 inches (78 mm) |
| Oct | 28°C (82°F) | 146 mm (5.7 in) | 49°F (9°C) | 3.3 inches (84 mm) |
| Nov | 27°C (81°F) | 126 mm (4.9 in) | 39°F (4°C) | 4.8 inches (123 mm) |
| Dec | 26°C (80°F) | 71 mm (2.8 in) | 27°F (-3°C) | 4.1 inches (103 mm) |
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.