A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Wilmington vs. Moncton for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Wilmington or Moncton?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Wilmington or Moncton, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Wilmington

Wilmington is a welcoming, charming, and historic city. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping. See Wilmington travel costs.

Moncton

Moncton is a quaint, compact, and cultural city. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Moncton travel costs.

Wilmington and Moncton: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Wilmington or Moncton?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Wilmington. Although Wilmington and Moncton are about the same size, Wilmington has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Wilmington is more touristy than Moncton and is known for its laid back beaches, historical waterfront area, and university setting. Also, Wilmington is famous for the Battleship North Carolina. Moncton is well known for its unique sense of place and its cultural activities.

How is Wilmington different from Moncton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Wilmington or Moncton?

Spend time exploring the notable sights and museums in either Wilmington or Moncton.

Wilmington is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are art, history, and science museums around town. The Battleship North Carolina is a popular destination. Science enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science or the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. For art, head to the Cameron Art Museum or Art in Bloom Gallery.

Moncton offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Wilmington or Moncton? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Wilmington and Moncton offer a number of notable restaurants to choose from.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Wilmington. Head to the waterfront for local seafood restaurants that offer outdoor seating and fresh caught fish. There are also farm-to-table restaurants and local diners with casual food.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Moncton. 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 Wilmington or Moncton Better for Nightlife?

Wilmington is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Moncton is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Wilmington has a few options to choose from. Live music is popular around town. There are also bars, lounges and dance clubs. When the weather is warm, many places make use of the outdoor setting, which makes for a relaxed and fun evening.

Most people don't head to Moncton specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Many of the local bars and clubs are geared toward a slightly younger crowd.

Is Wilmington or Moncton Better for Beaches?

Wilmington is great for the beach. However, Moncton is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Wilmington for it's beautiful beaches. Nearby you'll find Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They have long stretches of sand and great waves. The water is usually warm enough for swimming between the months of April and October. During these peak months parking can be challenging, but during the quieter times, you shouldn't have trouble.

Moncton is not a beach destination.

Is Wilmington or Moncton Better for its Old Town?

Wilmington is a good destination for its historic old town charm. However, Moncton does not have a historic old town.

Wilmington has an old town worth visiting. The Historic District is along the waterfront and has 18th and 19th century architecture. There are also great restaurants and interesting shops.

Moncton does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Wilmington or Moncton?

If you're looking to go shopping, Wilmington and Moncton both offer plenty of notable spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Wilmington. Head downtown for the most interesting local shops. You'll find boutiques and souvenir shops where you can pick up art, accessories, or antiques.

Moncton offers some nice shopping areas. 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 Wilmington or Moncton Better for Families?

Wilmington 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 Wilmington. Near town you'll find several beaches - Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They're all family-friendly and perfect for a day's activity. The city also has the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, the Children's Museum of Wilmington, and the Wilmington Railroad Museum. For a rainy day there are also indoor play areas and entertainment centers.

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 Wilmington or Moncton Better for Couples?

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

Wilmington is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The beaches are great for a relaxing day of swimming and sunbathing. In the evening head into town and enjoy one of the local seafood restaurants on the waterfront. You'll also find great shopping and historical sights in the area.

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 Wilmington or Moncton Better for Students?

Wilmington is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Moncton is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Wilmington. The University of North Carolina at Wilmington is a popular school that brings many students to town.

Moncton is not popular with students.

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

Wilmington and Moncton both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Wilmington. There are public buses around town, but for practical reasons, you'll want to have your own vehicle.

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

Is Wilmington or Moncton a more walkable city?

Wilmington and Moncton are notable when it comes to walkability.

Wilmington is somewhat walkable. The Historic District is best explored on foot. You can also get around Wrightsville Beach on foot, but traveling between these places requires a car.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Moncton or Wilmington?

How long in Wilmington or Moncton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Wilmington or Moncton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Wilmington than Moncton because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Wilmington, and 1-2 days is enough time in Moncton.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Wilmington 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 Wilmington.

One day in Wilmington or Moncton?

In Wilmington, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With museums and food around the cultural city of Moncton, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Moncton, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Wilmington or Moncton?

In Wilmington, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Wilmington has to offer.

With food and shopping around the destination of Moncton, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Wilmington or Moncton?

Wilmington is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Wilmington has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Moncton, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Wilmington or Moncton?

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

Moncton is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Wilmington or Moncton?

Wilmington has a larger population, and is about 6% larger than the population of Moncton. When comparing the sizes of Wilmington 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 Wilmington or Moncton?

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 Wilmington or Moncton in the Summer?

Both Moncton and Wilmington are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Wilmington for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Moncton in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Wilmington is generally a little warmer than Moncton. Daily temperatures in Wilmington average around 81°F (27°C), and Moncton fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Moncton. It's quite rainy in Wilmington. In July, Wilmington usually receives more rain than Moncton. Wilmington gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Wilmington or Moncton in the Autumn?

Both Moncton and Wilmington during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Wilmington in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Moncton for the shopping scene during these months.

Wilmington is much warmer than Moncton in the autumn. The daily temperature in Wilmington averages around 65°F (18°C) in October, and Moncton fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Moncton gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Wilmington usually gets less rain in October than Moncton. Wilmington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wilmington or Moncton in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Wilmington and Moncton. Most visitors come to Wilmington for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Moncton because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Moncton can be very cold. In the winter, Wilmington is much warmer than Moncton. Typically, the winter temperatures in Wilmington in January average around 45°F (7°C), and Moncton averages at about -8°C (17°F).

Moncton receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Wilmington usually receives less rain than Moncton. Wilmington gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Wilmington or Moncton in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Wilmington as well as Moncton. The spring months attract visitors to Wilmington because of the beaches.

It's quite cold in Moncton in the spring. In April, Wilmington is generally much warmer than Moncton. Daily temperatures in Wilmington average around 63°F (17°C), and Moncton fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

It's quite rainy in Moncton. Wilmington usually gets less rain in April than Moncton. Wilmington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Moncton and Wilmington