A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Tallahassee vs. Raleigh for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Tallahassee or Raleigh?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tallahassee and Raleigh 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.

Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a lively, vibrant, and youthful city. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and shopping. See Tallahassee travel costs.

Raleigh

Raleigh is a student-friendly, suburban-style, and friendly city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Raleigh travel costs.

Tallahassee and Raleigh: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Tallahassee or Raleigh?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Raleigh than Tallahassee. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Raleigh is very popular for its food and big city activities, while Tallahassee attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and shopping. Tallahassee is famous for its capital building and many universities. Raleigh is famous for its many museums and being the home to North Carolina State University. It is also well known for North Carolina State University.

How is Tallahassee different from Raleigh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tallahassee or Raleigh?

Tallahassee
Raleigh

Tallahassee is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Tallahassee offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. As the capital city of Florida, you'll find a number of museums around town. Tallahassee Museum has outdoor and indoor space to explore. You can also visit the Tallahassee Automobile Museum, the Museum of Florida History, or the Florida Historic Capital Museum.

Raleigh is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. As the state capital, there are a number of free museums in the area. There are also some kid-friendly options and other activities that are affiliated with the colleges and universities. Popular options include the NC Museum of Natural Sciences (free), the NC Museum of History (free), the NC Museum of Art (free), and Marbles Kids Museum.


Is the Food Better in Tallahassee or Raleigh? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tallahassee
Raleigh

Raleigh is a city with good options for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Raleigh is becoming an appealing option for foodies. In addition to the standard chain restaurants, you'll find a number of local eateries with great southern dishes. Try some southern classics like barbecue, pimento cheese, and fried chicken and waffles. There are also good international options including Nepalese, Laotian, and Ethiopian flavors.

Tallahassee offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find plenty of chain restaurants and cheap eateries that cater to the students. The main options are classic American restaurants with a few international restaurants mixed in as well.

Is Tallahassee or Raleigh Better for Nightlife?

Tallahassee
Raleigh

The vibe at night is nice in both Tallahassee and Raleigh.

If you're looking for night time activities Tallahassee has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the student population. There are many bars and pubs that fill up with students on weekends.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Raleigh. Head to downtown Raleigh or the areas around NC State University for some of the best nightlife. Trivia nights and happy hours are popular and you'll find breweries popping up in many places.

Is the Shopping Better in Tallahassee or Raleigh?

Tallahassee
Raleigh

Tallahassee is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Tallahassee to go shopping. There is no shortage of strip malls and shopping centers in the area. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at Railroad Square and Market Square.

Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Tallahassee or Raleigh Better for Families?

Tallahassee
Raleigh

Both Tallahassee and Raleigh are nice to visit with kids.

Tallahassee offers lots of family activities. There are plenty of outdoor parks and adventure activities for kids. You could also see the wild manatees at Wakulla Springs.

Raleigh is a family-friendly place to visit. For such a small city, Raleigh has a number of unique kid-friendly activities like the popular Pullen Park and Marbles Kids' Museum. Pullen Park has small rides and a playground that are perfect for young kids. There's also the NC Museum of Natural History which is free and fun to explore with kids.

Is Tallahassee or Raleigh Better for Couples?

Tallahassee
Raleigh

Neither Tallahassee or Raleigh is generally regarded as a top spot for a couple to visit.

Tallahassee is not always the best place to visit for a couple. Head to a restaurant or bar. You could also check out a concert or explore a garden or park in town.

Raleigh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. While it's often overlooked by couples who want a weekend away, there are a number of museums and some nice restaurants to explore.

Is Tallahassee or Raleigh Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tallahassee
Raleigh

Tallahassee is a popular place for backpackers. However, Raleigh is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Tallahassee. The student population creates an environment that is welcoming to backpackers. There's also a hostel in town with affordable rooms.

Raleigh is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


Is Tallahassee or Raleigh Better for Students?

Tallahassee
Raleigh

For students, both Tallahassee and Raleigh are excellent places to visit.

Students come from all over to stay in Tallahassee. Both Florida State University and Florida A&M University are located here. There's a large student population with many activities and cheap restaurants that appeal to the student crowd.

Many students visit Raleigh. The city has a diverse student population with many nearby universities and colleges.

Is Tallahassee or Raleigh Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Tallahassee
Raleigh

Tallahassee is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Tallahassee. There is a bus system operated by StarMetro.

Public transit is quite limited in Raleigh. The city's public transportation options are limited to a few bus lines that are mostly used by students.

Is Tallahassee or Raleigh a more walkable city?

Tallahassee
Raleigh

Tallahassee and Raleigh are reasonable when it comes to walkability.

Tallahassee is generally not a very walkable city. There are a couple of walkable areas around Railroad Square, Downtown, and Midtown, but for the most part the city is not pedestrian-friendly.

Raleigh is generally not very walkable. The city is somewhat walkable in the downtown area, but everywhere else you'll need a car.


For even more information, also check out Is Tallahassee Worth Visiting? and Is Raleigh Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Raleigh or Tallahassee?

How long in Tallahassee or Raleigh?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tallahassee than Raleigh 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 Tallahassee.


  • How many days in Tallahassee or Raleigh? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tallahassee 1-2 
    Raleigh 2-3

One day in Tallahassee or Raleigh?

In Tallahassee, 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the suburban-style city of Raleigh. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Tallahassee or Raleigh?

In Tallahassee, 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 Tallahassee has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the friendly destination of Raleigh. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Tallahassee or Raleigh?

Tallahassee 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 suburban-style city of Raleigh offers museums and nightlife. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A week in Tallahassee or Raleigh?

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

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Raleigh. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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


Which place is cheaper, Raleigh or Tallahassee?

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

  • Tallahassee Prices
    USA Prices
    Raleigh Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Tallahassee $190
    Raleigh $231

The average daily cost (per person) in Tallahassee is $190, while the average daily cost in Raleigh is $231. 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 Tallahassee and Raleigh in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tallahassee $89
    Raleigh $104
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tallahassee $178
    Raleigh $208
Compare Hotels in Tallahassee and Raleigh

Looking for a hotel in Tallahassee or Raleigh? 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 Tallahassee


Hotels in Raleigh


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: Tallahassee Hotel Prices and Raleigh Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tallahassee $33
    Raleigh $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Raleigh

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Raleigh:

  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Raleigh - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $277
  • Raleigh to Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) - Departure Private Transfer: $139
  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Raleigh Arrival Private Transfer: $139
  • Durham to Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) - Departure Private Transfer: $134

Is it cheaper to fly into Tallahassee or Raleigh?

Prices for flights to both Raleigh and Tallahassee 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
    Tallahassee $82
    Raleigh $99

Typical Food Prices in Raleigh

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Raleigh:


  • The Pit Authentic BBQ (for 3)
    $84

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Raleigh

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

  • Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Craft Beer Bar in Raleigh: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tallahassee $12
    Raleigh $37

Tours and Activities in Tallahassee

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

  • Treacherous Tallahassee Ghost Tours: $24
  • Luxury Picnic Experience at Pedrick Pond Park: $108
  • Experience Tranquility with a Picnic at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $215

Tours and Activities in Raleigh

Here are a few actual costs in Raleigh for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Carolina Hurricanes Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Lenovo Center: $50
  • Chapel Hill Historic Churches History and Architecture Tour: $18
  • Chapel Hill LGBT History Tour: $19
  • Chapel Hill True Crime Walking Tour: $19
  • Create Your Own Lipstick or Lip Gloss Class Experience in Raleigh: $65
  • Downtown Cary Historian-Guided Tour: $19
  • Durham African-American Historic Walking Tour: $18
  • Durham True Crime Tour: $19
  • Guided Walking Historian Tour in Downtown Durham: $19
  • Historic Oakwood: History & Architecture Tour: $19
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Chapel Hill NC: $15
  • Private Pedicab Tour of Downtown Raleigh: $65

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tallahassee $53
    Raleigh $27

Sample the Local Flavors in Tallahassee

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

  • Tallahassee Bar Crawl: $15


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

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


Which is Bigger, Tallahassee or Raleigh?

Raleigh has a larger population, and is about 80% larger than the population of Tallahassee. When comparing the sizes of Tallahassee and Raleigh, 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 Tallahassee or Raleigh?

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 Tallahassee or Raleigh in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Tallahassee as well as Raleigh. Many travelers come to Tallahassee for the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Raleigh in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Tallahassee is around the same temperature as Raleigh in the summer. The daily temperature in Tallahassee averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Raleigh fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Raleigh. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tallahassee this time of the year. In the summer, Tallahassee often gets more sunshine than Raleigh. Tallahassee gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Raleigh receives 259 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Raleigh. Tallahassee receives a lot of rain in the summer. Tallahassee usually gets more rain in July than Raleigh. Tallahassee gets 8.9 inches (227 mm) of rain, while Raleigh receives 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tallahassee 82°F (28°C) 
    Raleigh 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Tallahassee or Raleigh in the Autumn?

Both Raleigh and Tallahassee are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Tallahassee in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Raleigh for the city's sights and attractions during these months.

In the autumn, Tallahassee is a little warmer than Raleigh. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tallahassee in October average around 69°F (20°C), and Raleigh averages at about 61°F (16°C).

It's quite sunny in Raleigh. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tallahassee. Tallahassee usually receives more sunshine than Raleigh during autumn. Tallahassee gets 256 hours of sunny skies, while Raleigh receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Tallahassee usually receives around the same amount of rain as Raleigh. Tallahassee gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Raleigh receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Tallahassee is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tallahassee 69°F (20°C) 
    Raleigh 61°F (16°C)

Should I visit Tallahassee or Raleigh in the Winter?

Both Raleigh and Tallahassee during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Tallahassee for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Raleigh because of the museums and the cuisine.

The weather in Raleigh can be very cold. In January, Tallahassee is generally much warmer than Raleigh. Daily temperatures in Tallahassee average around 51°F (11°C), and Raleigh fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

In the winter, Tallahassee often gets more sunshine than Raleigh. Tallahassee gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Raleigh receives 162 hours of full sun.

Tallahassee usually gets more rain in January than Raleigh. Tallahassee gets 3.7 inches (95 mm) of rain, while Raleigh receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tallahassee 51°F (11°C) 
    Raleigh 40°F (5°C)

Should I visit Tallahassee or Raleigh in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Tallahassee and Raleigh. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Raleigh this time of year.

Tallahassee is a little warmer than Raleigh in the spring. The daily temperature in Tallahassee averages around 67°F (19°C) in April, and Raleigh fluctuates around 60°F (16°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Raleigh this time of the year. In Tallahassee, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tallahassee usually receives more sunshine than Raleigh during spring. Tallahassee gets 295 hours of sunny skies, while Raleigh receives 251 hours of full sun in the spring.

Tallahassee gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Tallahassee usually receives more rain than Raleigh. Tallahassee gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Raleigh receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Tallahassee is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tallahassee 67°F (19°C) 
    Raleigh 60°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for Raleigh and Tallahassee

Tallahassee Raleigh
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 51°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (121 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Mar 60°F (16°C) 5.9 inches (151 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 60°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
May 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 6.6 inches (168 mm) 76°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.9 inches (227 mm) 79°F (26°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (175 mm) 78°F (26°C) 4.9 inches (125 mm)
Sep 78°F (26°C) 6.7 inches (169 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Oct 69°F (20°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 61°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Nov 60°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 53°F (11°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)