A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Savannah vs. Dayton for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Savannah or Dayton?

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

Should I visit Savannah or Dayton? 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: Savannah or Dayton?

Savannah

Savanah is a reasonably priced city by U.S. standards. With a wide range of accommodation and food options, it's possible to experience this historical city on a cheaper budget, or, if you like, to live it up in luxury without spending an inordinate amount of money.

The oldest city in the state of Georgia, Savannah sits right on the Savannah River, a historic commercial port dating back to the Thirteen Colonies. The old port of the city still lies along this river, paved in traditional cobblestone roads and radiating with old southern charm. Savannah is also known for its many small parks, tunnels of oak trees and magnolias draped in southern moss, romantic horse-drawn carriages, as well as some of the most ornate antebellum architecture to be found in the south.

Whether you are interested in the past of a historically prosperous seaport or wish to enjoy the enchanting atmosphere that it still holds, Savannah is a quaint destination full of beauty with an arsenal of historic appeal to match.

Dayton

Located in southwest Ohio, Dayton is known as the "Gem City." It's the original home of Orville and Wilbur Wright, the brothers who designed the first airplane. You'll also find the Dayton Aviation Heritage Park here, which is one of the only multi-site National Parks in the United States. The cities climate has four different seasons, winter, spring, summer and fall. The winter months are quite cold and you can expect a decent amount of snow in the area. Spring remains cool and there are infrequent showers. This is also the peak time for tornadoes in the area. Summer is hot and humid and can be unpleasant at times, but fall is crisp and refreshing with occasional storms and infrequent tornadoes.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Dayton or Savannah?

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

  • Savannah Prices
    USA Prices
    Dayton Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Savannah $202
    Dayton $368

The average daily cost (per person) in Savannah is $202, while the average daily cost in Dayton is $368. 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 Savannah and Dayton in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Savannah $84
    Dayton $250
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Savannah $168
    Dayton $500
Compare Hotels in Savannah and Dayton

Looking for a hotel in Savannah or Dayton? 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 Savannah


Hotels in Dayton


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: Savannah Hotel Prices and Dayton Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Savannah $27
    Dayton $25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Savannah

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Savannah:

  • Savannah to Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) - Departure Private Transfer: $35
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Savannah (SAV) Airport: $36
  • One Way Private Transfer to/from Savannah Int'l: $68
  • Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Savannah - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $69
  • Private Savannah Airport to Tybee Island Transfer : $100
  • Private Transfer from Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Hilton Head Island, SC: $243
  • Private Transfer from SAV to Hilton Head Island, SC : $243

Is it cheaper to fly into Savannah or Dayton?

Prices for flights to both Dayton and Savannah 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
    Savannah $99
    Dayton $105

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Savannah

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

  • Monday Gospel Dinner Cruise: $77
  • Savannah Riverboat Gospel Music Dinner Cruise: $77
  • Southern & Secret Walking Food Tour: $92
  • Southern and Secret Food Tour: $92
  • 2 HR Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise with Onboard Entertainment: $93
  • Buffet Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment: $93
  • Savannah First Squares Culinary & Cultural Walking Food Tour: $97
  • Southern Traditions Dinner Tour: $106
  • Private Ayurvedic Vegetarian Cooking with Ninoska in Savannah: $109
  • Southern Traditions Dinner Tour: $125
  • True South Lunch Food Tour: $125
  • Savannah’s Palate – Private Historic Food Tour: $1,429

Typical Food Prices in Dayton

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


  • Noodle Company Lunch (for 2)
    $17
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $34

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Savannah $17
    Dayton -
Typical Entertainment Prices in Savannah

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Savannah are as follows:


  • Pub Crawl
    $10

Tours and Activities in Savannah

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

  • Self Guided Audio Ghost Tour in Savannah in 6 Languages: $5.00
  • Savannah Waterfront: Pirate Adventure Walking Game: $5.98
  • Savannah Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $7.69
  • Self-Guided 'Old Squares of Savannah' Solo Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Ghosts of Savannah Self-Guided Haunted Audio Tour App/EMF Reader: $9.75
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Savannah by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Self-Guided Audio Ghost Tour Through Savannah Shadows: $10
  • Skip the Line: General Admission Webb Military Museum Ticket: $10
  • Savannah’s Historical District: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Haunted Savannah Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $13
  • Historic Savannah Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $13
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Savannah GA: $15

Tours and Activities in Dayton

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

  • Daytona Beach: Paddle Pub Experience: $45
  • Daytona Beach: Guided Kayaking or Standup Paddling Tour: $65

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Savannah $34
    Dayton -

Sample the Local Flavors in Savannah

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Savannah:

  • Haunted Hops Savannah Pub Tour Spirits and Brews: $25
  • Bloody Murder Savannah Pub Crawl: $30
  • Bad Kitty Pub Crawl, Spooky Naughty Ghosts: $30
  • Savannah Terrors: Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Savannah Bar Crawl by the Bridge: $32
  • Moonlight Happy Hour Haunted Pub Crawl With Captain Stoner: $33
  • Captain Stoner's Haunted Dive Bar Crawl in Historic Savannah: $33
  • Moonlight Happy Hour Pub Crawl with Captain Stoner: $33
  • Captain Stoner's Haunted Dive Bar Crawl: $33
  • 10 to Midnight Happy Hour and Haunted Pub Crawl w/ the Captain: $33
  • Late Night Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl: $33
  • Spooky Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl: $33

Sample the Local Flavors in Dayton

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

  • Dive Bar Bus Crawl: $50


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

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


Which is Bigger, Savannah or Dayton?

Dayton has a larger population, and is about 21% larger than the population of Savannah. When comparing the sizes of Savannah and Dayton, 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 Savannah or Dayton?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Savannah or Dayton in the Summer?

Both Dayton and Savannah are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Savannah for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Savannah is generally around the same temperature as Dayton. Daily temperatures in Savannah average around 82°F (28°C), and Dayton fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Dayton. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Savannah. Savannah usually receives less sunshine than Dayton during summer. Savannah gets 267 hours of sunny skies, while Dayton receives 298 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Savannah. In July, Savannah usually receives more rain than Dayton. Savannah gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Dayton receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Savannah 82°F (28°C) 
    Dayton 78°F (26°C)

Should I visit Savannah or Dayton in the Autumn?

Both Dayton and Savannah during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Savannah in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Savannah is a little warmer than Dayton in the autumn. The daily temperature in Savannah averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Dayton fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Savannah. In the autumn, Savannah often gets more sunshine than Dayton. Savannah gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dayton receives 188 hours of full sun.

Savannah usually gets more rain in October than Dayton. Savannah gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Dayton receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Savannah 68°F (20°C) 
    Dayton 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Savannah or Dayton in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Savannah and Dayton. Most visitors come to Savannah for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

The weather in Dayton can be very cold. In the winter, Savannah is much warmer than Dayton. Typically, the winter temperatures in Savannah in January average around 49°F (9°C), and Dayton averages at about 30°F (-1°C).

Savannah usually receives more sunshine than Dayton during winter. Savannah gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Dayton receives 129 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Savannah usually receives more rain than Dayton. Savannah gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Dayton receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Savannah 49°F (9°C) 
    Dayton 30°F (-1°C)

Should I visit Savannah or Dayton in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Savannah as well as Dayton. The spring months attract visitors to Savannah because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Savannah is generally a little warmer than Dayton. Daily temperatures in Savannah average around 66°F (19°C), and Dayton fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Dayton. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Savannah this time of the year. In the spring, Savannah often gets more sunshine than Dayton. Savannah gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dayton receives 215 hours of full sun.

Savannah usually gets less rain in April than Dayton. Savannah gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Dayton receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Savannah 66°F (19°C) 
    Dayton 55°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Dayton and Savannah

Savannah Dayton
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 49°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
Mar 59°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Apr 66°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 65°F (18°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Jun 79°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 74°F (23°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 78°F (26°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 76°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 69°F (21°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 35°F (2°C) 3 inches (75 mm)