Flagstaff is a picturesque city known for its nearby craters and volcanic caves as well as its location along the historic Route 66. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. This will help you plan the best trip to Flagstaff and stay within your ideal travel budget, whether you're eating the delicious cuisine or hiking in nature.
How much does it cost to travel to Flagstaff?
You should plan to spend around $207 per day on your vacation in Flagstaff. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $95 on meals
- $37 on local transportation
- $172 on hotels
A one week trip to Flagstaff for two people costs, on average, $2,898. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
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One Week
Per person
$1,449
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2 Weeks
Per person
$2,898
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One Month
Per person
$6,210
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One Week
For a couple
$2,898
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2 Weeks
For a couple
$5,796
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One Month
For a couple
$12,420
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Flagstaff cost?
A one week trip to Flagstaff usually costs around $1,449 for one person and $2,898 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Flagstaff on average costs around $2,898 for one person and $5,796 for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Flagstaff will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Flagstaff on average costs around $6,210 for one person and $12,420 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Flagstaff expensive to visit?
Flagstaff is a well-known city that captivates a variety of travelers with diverse travel preferences and spending patterns. Budget-conscious travelers will find suitable hotel options, but there are also high-end hotels for those seeking luxury, plus mid-range accommodations for families or couples.
While Flagstaff can be quite expensive if you let it be, there are ways to lower your spending, such as eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying the free hiking trails.
On average, budget travelers spend $90 per day, mid-range travelers spend $207 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $405 per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Flagstaff.
Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Flagstaff is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Acadia National Park or Monterey.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Flagstaff Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Flagstaff?
The average Flagstaff trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Flagstaff travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Flagstaff cost?
Flagstaff on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$37
|
$86
|
$179
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$16
|
$37
|
$69
|
|
Food 2
|
$42
|
$95
|
$178
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$12
|
$28
|
$53
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$6-19
|
$15-44
|
$29-87
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to set realistic expectations for your travel budget. Many assume they can get by cheaply in Flagstaff, but most people don't enjoy traveling on a very tight budget. Think about how you like to travel, and whether you prefer resorts, hostels, or vacation rentals. Do activities like sightseeing and dining out matter to you? These factors will help shape your travel budget.
Who are Budget Travelers?
You may believe you're traveling on a budget, but unless you're ready to give up some conveniences, you'll likely spend much more than the $90 daily average that backpackers get away with.
Younger budget travelers often stick to this low budget by staying in dorms, eating inexpensive meals, taking public transportation, and focusing on free activities and sights.
For visitors to Flagstaff, food is often a highlight, but budget travelers frequently choose street food or cook in their hostels, which may limit their experience of the local culinary delights.
Could You Be an Average Traveler?
For couples or families traveling for enjoyment, opting for a mid-range hotel, dining at popular restaurants, and exploring major museums and attractions with entry fees is likely. Most tourists in Flagstaff are inclined to explore its main attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Remember, many activities do come with costs. So, you should realistically expect your daily budget to be around $207 per person, per day.
Seeking a Stylish Getaway from the Daily Routine?
For those wanting a high-end experience complete with every luxury and high-quality service, expect to spend about $405 each day. To enjoy nicer accommodations, award-winning dining, extravagant adventures, and convenient transport like taxis or private chauffeurs in the city, prepare for a pricier experience. Many luxury travelers also enjoy unique experiences such as Grand Canyon South Rim Day Trip from Flagstaff - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Flagstaff
The cost of hotels in Flagstaff can be quite surprising. Luxury accommodations come with higher prices and more amenities, especially during peak season. Off-season rates average $125, but peak season (summer) average prices jump to $233. Overall, prices range from $77 to $521. Hostels are often the cheaper option, especially in dorms. You can save by booking early, traveling in the off-season, or taking advantage of promotions.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Flagstaff for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $172. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $86 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Flagstaff? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Flagstaff include:
- Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort starting at $132
- Elden Trails Bed and Breakfast starting at $164
- Little America Hotel Flagstaff starting at $162
- Residence Inn by Marriott Flagstaff starting at $238
- Drury Inn & Suites Flagstaff starting at $150
Flagstaff is a great destination for families, and you'll want to find an apartment or larger accommodation when traveling with kids.
By traveling in the low or shoulder season (and avoiding summer), you can benefit from cheaper accommodations and fewer crowds.
Transportation Budget in Flagstaff
Unfortunately, Flagstaff does not have a reliable public transit network. The Mountain Line offers eight routes through town.
In certain neighborhoods, Flagstaff is walkable, making it simple to explore the attractions. The downtown is compact and walkable, but you'll really want to have a car to explore the nearby hiking trails and natural areas.
Public Transit: 
(moderate)
Walkability: (good)
Calculated from travelers like you
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On average, past travelers have spent $37 per person, per day, on local transportation in Flagstaff. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Flagstaff is significantly more than public transportation.
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Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$37
If you're driving, check for convenient parking at your hotel.
How much does it cost to go to Flagstaff? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Flagstaff will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Flagstaff
The cuisine in Flagstaff is amazing, and you definitely want to take the time to sample all the local flavors. The food scene is diverse and growing. There's a focus on local recipes and ingredients. You'll also find many casual and family-friendly restaurants. American cuisine is common, but you'll also find burritos, Indian curries, and frittatas.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Flagstaff can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Flagstaff is $95 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
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Food2
Meals for one day
$95
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Flagstaff is around $95 ($95) per person, with previous travelers spending from $42 to $178. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Flagstaff are as follows:
- Breakfast: $10 to $29
- Lunch: $14 to $38
- Dinner: $29 to $67
- Coffee: $8
- Fast Food or Street Food: $14
Flagstaff has a wide and diverse range of restaurants to choose from. There are a number of different ethnic restaurants around town including Mexican, Chinese, Thai, Indian, and more. There are also a wide range of styles, including cafes, breweries, bars, bistros, and fine dining options. Local restaurants are common, but so are the typical chain restaurants that you find in most major cities.
If you're traveling with little ones, try to find restaurants that feature a children's menu. This can really cut costs since these meals are often cheaper. Remember, some places don't display kids' options, so it's a good idea to ask the waiter first.
Numerous hotels offer breakfast as part of the room rate, but some might charge extra for it. The cost and quality can differ from one hotel to another. Being aware of this beforehand can help you determine if you need to allocate additional funds. It could be worth it for a fantastic buffet at the hotel, or you might want to opt for a nearby bakery or cafe that's more budget-friendly.
Choose to carry a water bottle instead of buying drinks all day. It's a good choice for the environment.
If you're thinking about taking a tour, it's wise to check in advance which meals are covered. You may need to cover some of your own food costs, which could increase your overall budget.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Flagstaff
The appeal of Flagstaff is evident, thanks to its hiking, food, family-friendly activities, and budget-friendly accommodations.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Flagstaff typically cost an average of $28 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
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Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$28
Many people use Flagstaff as a base or hopping off point to explore Arizona's other nearby attractions, but there are a number of interesting sights within the city as well.
The Arboretum of Flagstaff is a 200 acre botanical garden that includes a nature center and an environmental research station. It's abundant wildflowers are impressive and beautiful and there are a number of educational programs as well.
Lowell Observatory is an astronomical research center that is notable as the place that originally discovered the dwarf planet of Pluto. There are tours and frequent evening programs.
Riordan Mansion State Historic Park has a 1904 house that was once home to a prestigious local family.
Arizona Historical Society-Pioneer Museum has several interesting exhibits and artifacts on local history.
The Museum of Northern Arizona has exhibits on Native American life in the area as well as folk art and the region's natural history.
Flagstaff has a number of nearby activities that visitors can enjoy. The nearby Arizona Snowbowl is one of only three places in Arizona where you can enjoy skiing. Also nearby are countless places to hike, mountain bike, or go rock climbing. Head to Mount Elden for a wide variety of outdoor activities including the popular Elden Lookout Trail, which climbs from the base to the summit, ending with a spectacular view of the city. Another popular hike is Mt Humphrey's Peak, which begins at Snowbowl Ski Lodge. While the hike starts relatively easy, be prepared for the final stretch to get intense.
Hiking:
Adventurers will find the hiking around Flagstaff to be excellent. Nearby you'll find world class hikes through surreal landscapes and diverse environments. The area is filled with desert landscapes and varied rock formations that are best explored on foot. Trails range in length and skill level, but whatever your ability, the hiking in the area is among the best.
A nice way to explore destinations in Flagstaff is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Grand Canyon Experience Tour from Flagstaff for $191 details
- Grand Canyon Sunset Tour from Flagstaff for $252 details
- Flagstaff Route 66 Electric Bike Guided Tour 2 HR for $85 details
Nightlife Budget in Flagstaff
For those seeking nightlife, Flagstaff provides some options, but it's not quite as vibrant as in other well-known spots. You'll find a range of bars and cocktail lounges around town that come to life in the evening hours.
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $29 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Flagstaff per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
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Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$29
Nights out are fun, but limiting your alcohol consumption can help keep your travel costs in check.
Always be mindful of your surroundings, especially if you're drinking at night. You could become a target for pickpockets or other crimes, so stick with trusted friends and avoid wandering alone.
Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Flagstaff. A few favorites from other travelers include:
- Spirits With The Spirits, Haunted Pub Crawl Of Downtown Flagstaff for $50 details
- Spirits With The Spirits, Haunted Pub Crawl for $50 details
Traveling in Flagstaff
Flagstaff, AZ
Located in northern Arizona near the San Francisco Peaks mountain range, Flagstaff is a small city surrounded by natural beauty. The city's proximity to a number of popular tourist sights, including Grand Canyon National Park, Oak Creek Canyon, the Arizona Snowbowl, Meteor Crater, and Historic Route 66, make it a common destination for tourists. It lies at an elevation of almost 7,000 feet with nearby areas climbing higher. In large part because of its altitude, the city has a cooler climate than the southern part of Arizona, which is famous for its low lying desert.
Neighborhoods & Around
Downtown Flagstaff is narrow and squeezed between the NAU campus to the south and the Museum of Northern Arizona to the north. Northwest Flagstaff, just north of Downtown, is where the Snowbowl and the Museum of Northern Arizona are located. West Flagstaff is to the south and west of Downtown. This is where the airport, Pepsi Amphitheater, and NAU are located. East Flagstaff has a large residential area with a more rural feel. It is also where you'll find the Harkins movie theater, the city's main mall, and a country club and golf course.
Buffalo Park is located on top of McMillan Mesa and is Flagstaff's "urban forest park".
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
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.