Fort Lauderdale is a scenic coastal city known for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. 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. So, whether you're eating the delicious cuisine, enjoying the nightlife, or relaxing on the beaches, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip to Fort Lauderdale, all while staying within budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Fort Lauderdale?
You should plan to spend around $218 per day on your vacation in Fort Lauderdale. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $85 on meals
- $51 on local transportation
- $192 on hotels
A one week trip to Fort Lauderdale for two people costs, on average, $3,052. 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
$1,526
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2 Weeks
Per person
$3,052
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One Month
Per person
$6,540
-
One Week
For a couple
$3,052
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$6,104
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One Month
For a couple
$13,080
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Fort Lauderdale cost?
A one week trip to Fort Lauderdale usually costs around $1,526 for one person and $3,052 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Fort Lauderdale on average costs around $3,052 for one person and $6,104 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 Fort Lauderdale will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Fort Lauderdale on average costs around $6,540 for one person and $13,080 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Fort Lauderdale expensive to visit?
Fort Lauderdale is a terrific coastal city that brings in many travelers, showcasing a range of travel styles and spending choices. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.
Fort Lauderdale can become quite costly if you let it, but there are ways to save money, such as eating at less expensive restaurants and exploring on foot.
On average, budget travelers spend $91 per day, mid-range travelers spend $218 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $484 per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Fort Lauderdale.
Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Fort Lauderdale is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Baltimore or Tampa.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Fort Lauderdale Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Fort Lauderdale?
The average Fort Lauderdale trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Fort Lauderdale travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Fort Lauderdale cost?
Fort Lauderdale on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$41
|
$96
|
$204
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$20
|
$51
|
$128
|
|
Food 2
|
$35
|
$85
|
$192
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$6.77
|
$15
|
$29
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$7-20
|
$17-50
|
$43-128
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. While some think they can visit Fort Lauderdale with minimal expenses, most people don't enjoy traveling that frugally. Consider what you prioritize on vacation. Do you prefer luxury hotels or budget stays? Hostels or hotels or vacation rentals? Are fun activities and dining out important to you? Your overall budget will depend on all of these questions.
Who are Budget Travelers?
Although you may consider yourself a budget traveler, unless you're ready to cut out many creature comforts, you'll likely spend much more than the $91 per day that young budget travelers often get by on.
For backpackers, this tight budget typically involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest eateries or fast food joints, using public transportation, and sticking to free attractions.
For visitors to Fort Lauderdale, 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?
If you're traveling for leisure as a couple or family, you'll likely opt for a mid-range hotel, dine at trendy restaurants, and visit the main museums and attractions that require entry fees. Most guests in Fort Lauderdale will want to take in the essential attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Remember, most activities come at a cost. Hence, it's realistic to anticipate your daily budget will be about $218 per person, per day.
There are a wide range of hotels and vacation rentals in Fort Lauderdale. If you're traveling with others, you'll share your hotel with a partner, friend, or your children, so costs will be split accordingly, saving money. When traveling as a family, you'll want to find hotels and restaurants that cater to kids. The Pillars Hotel is a good kid-friendly option, and Premiere Hotel Fort Lauderdale is also terrific. You'll find more hotels that cater to families and couples in our hotel guide for Fort Lauderdale here.
What Luxury Travel Looks Like
For those wanting a high-end experience complete with every luxury and high-quality service, expect to spend about $484 each day. To enjoy nicer accommodations, award-winning dining, extravagant adventures, and convenient transport like taxis or private chauffeurs in the coastal city, prepare for a pricier experience. Many high-end visitors also prefer unique experiences such as Fort Lauderdale Airport Private Transfer - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Fort Lauderdale
The hotel prices in Fort Lauderdale might surprise you. Some places charge much more for added luxury and amenities, especially during peak season. In the off-season, a room averages $143, but during peak winter season, expect to pay around $267. Prices vary from $97 to $522, but hostels are often cheaper. Booking in advance and traveling during the low season can help save you money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Fort Lauderdale for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $192. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $96 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Fort Lauderdale? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Fort Lauderdale include:
- The Lago Mar Beach Resort and Club starting at $299
- Pelican Grand Beach Resort a Noble House Resort starting at $289
- Le Meridien Dania Beach at Fort Lauderdale Airport starting at $196
- Residence Inn Fort Lauderdale Intracoastal/Il Lugano starting at $214
- Sun Tower Hotel & Suites on the Beach starting at $152
In a family-friendly place like Fort Lauderdale, finding accommodation with more space is key when traveling with children.
In this coastal city, you'll find a range of resorts to consider. You could find a place that provides meals, or at least breakfast, and many resorts feature onsite eateries.
With many visitors spending a week in Fort Lauderdale, it could be useful to book a vacation rental with a kitchen if you're staying longer, so you can cook your meals.
If you travel during the low or shoulder season (and avoid winter), you'll find lower accommodation prices and less tourist crowds.
Walking is a popular way to explore Fort Lauderdale, so staying in a prime area is recommended. Just be prepared for potentially higher prices.
Transportation Budget in Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale does not has a good public transit system. Transportation options include a water taxi and the Sun Trolley Hop-on Bus.
Those who relish exploring on foot will find plenty to enjoy during their visit. It is one of the most walkable Florida communities with a boardwalk and several pedestrian areas that are fun to wander around.
Public Transit: 
(moderate)
Walkability: (great)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $51 per person, per day, on local transportation in Fort Lauderdale. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Fort Lauderdale is significantly more than public transportation.
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Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$51
If you're taking a car, verify that your hotel offers convenient parking.
A few of the typical hotel transfers and transportation services include:
- Fort Lauderdale Airport Private Transfer (Round-Trip) for $285 details
- Boca Raton Luxury SUV Transfer to/from Fort Lauderdale Airport for $55 details
- Transfer From Fort Lauderdale Airport with Meet & Greet Service for $40 details
How much does it cost to go to Fort Lauderdale? 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale
Make sure to enjoy the fantastic food in Fort Lauderdale by taking the time to savor all the local flavors. Seafood is the obvious option with popular dishes being fish tacos, sea bass, and scallop risotto. There are many waterfront restaurants or you could head to Las Olas Boulevard, which has many bistros, cafes, and restaurants.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Fort Lauderdale can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Fort Lauderdale is $85 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
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Food2
Meals for one day
$85
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Fort Lauderdale is around $85 ($85) per person, with previous travelers spending from $35 to $192. 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 Fort Lauderdale are as follows:
- Breakfast: $8 to $25
- Lunch: $13 to $34
- Dinner: $25 to $59
- Coffee: $7
- Fast Food or Street Food: $13
There is an endless supply of good restaurants in Fort Lauderdale. The most popular areas to eat are Las Olas Blvd, Olde Town Fort Lauderdale and the Beach. You'll find a mix of local eateries and American chain restaurants. Budget options around town include delis, cafes, sub shops, and ethnic cuisine. Thai food, hamburgers, Chinese and seafood are all common. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating so that you can take advantage of the pleasant temperatures.
If you want to grab a drink, there are plenty of places with character and style. Popular options include Tarpon Bend, Voodoo Lounge, Elbo Room, Shooters, Grady's Bar and Boom.
When dining out with children, prioritize restaurants with a kids' menu. This can help you save a fair amount of money, as those options are typically less expensive. Some eateries might not showcase kids' meals on their menus, so it's a good idea to check with the waiter.
Many accommodations feature breakfast in their rates, while some may charge additional fees for it. The cost and quality can vary significantly from one hotel to another. Knowing this information ahead of time helps you decide if you need to spend extra money. A tasty hotel buffet could be worth the expense, or a nearby bakery or cafe might offer a more affordable choice.
Enjoy the scenery and save some money by preparing a picnic. Head to a local grocery store or market, select some fresh goodies, and find a picturesque park or spot to enjoy your meal.
Keep a water bottle handy instead of buying drinks everywhere. It's also a great way to reduce waste.
When planning a tour, don't forget to look into which meals are covered. You may be responsible for some of your own food, which could impact your budget significantly.
Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in Fort Lauderdale. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner and Drinks Tour for $114 details
- Fort Lauderdale Beach Food Tour for $114 details
- All You Can Eat BBQ Dinner and Show at Tropical Isle with Sightseeing Cruise for $80 details
Listed below are typical food prices in Fort Lauderdale, based on the actual spending of previous travelers. These figures provide an estimate of what you might expect to pay for meals. However, your personal expenses will depend on your dining preferences, the restaurants you choose, and what you decide to order.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Fort Lauderdale
People come to Fort Lauderdale in droves for resorts, beaches, romance, and food.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Fort Lauderdale typically cost an average of $15 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.
$15
Fort Lauderdale is really about the beach. The most popular beach area is referred to as "The Strip" and is located where A1A runs along the beach between Las Olas Blvd north to Sunrise Blvd. This area has many bars and clubs that attract an upscale crowd.
Aside from the beach, there are a handful of museums around the city. These include the Museum of Art, the Musesum of Discovery and Science, Old Fort Lauderdale Village and Museum, and the Antique Car Museum.
Activities in Fort Lauderdale include shopping, sports, biking, hanging out on the beach, clubbing, golfing, scuba diving, snorkeling and deep sea fishing. You can also take overnight excursions to the Florida Keys or the Bahamas, and the Everglades are not far away.
Beaches:
Beach relaxation draws many visitors to Fort Lauderdale. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches, a fun boardwalk, and impressive views, the beaches here are among the best in the area. They are surprisingly walkable and, while there can be crowds, there's still a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere.
A nice way to explore destinations in Fort Lauderdale 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:
- Party Bike Happy Hour Tour for $64 details
- Family Friendly Boat Cruise and Swim for $55 details
- Venice of America at Night Tour for $60 details
Nightlife Budget in Fort Lauderdale
In Fort Lauderdale, nightlife is a lively affair, and visitors often spend their nights out at the various local bars, clubs, and parties. Trendy and upscale partying is the name of the game in this Florida city. Most people head to the beach, Las Olas Blvd, River Front and The New Hard Rock Seminole Hotel Complex for the best bars and clubs. You'll find the most activity around the weekends, but there really is something going on any night of the week.
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $33 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Fort Lauderdale per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$33
Enjoying the nightlife is always a highlight, but cutting back on drinks can really help you save money on your travels.
Be vigilant if you're out at night, especially if alcohol is involved. Thieves often target distracted individuals, so it's smart to stay with trusted friends and avoid going off by yourself.
Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Fort Lauderdale. A few favorites from other travelers include:
- Ft Lauderdale Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl for $37 details
- Ft. Lauderdale: Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl for $28 details
- Party Bike Bar Crawl for $74 details
Below are some common prices for alcohol and nightlife in Fort Lauderdale, based on actual traveler experiences. While these numbers offer an idea of what you might spend, your costs will vary depending on how often you drink and the amount you order. If you're aiming to save money, cutting back on alcohol is a great way to lower your travel expenses.
Traveling in Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Fort Lauderdale is located on the Atlantic coast of Florida, not far from Miami, and is famous for its beaches and boating culture. An elaborate system of canals runs through the city, adding to the charm and coastal lifestyle. Plenty of restaurants, shops, watersports, and other things to do can be found here in addition to the beautiful beaches. The city is family-friendly and also caters to older travelers as well as younger generations. While it's not an inexpensive place to visit, the prices are on par with other cities in southeastern Florida. The beach is lined with high-rise condos and hotels that tend to be expensive, while a few blocks back from the shore you'll find plenty of nice houses along with shops, restaurants, and fun activities for all ages. And since Fort Lauderdale is part of the Miami metro area, you can easily get to all of the other beach areas, cities, and activities in the nearby metropolitan areas as well.
Neighborhoods & Around
Areas of interest for tourists in Fort Lauderdale include The Strip, Downtown, Las Olas Blvd, and Wilton Manors. The Strip is the most popular section of beach that is located where the A1A runs along the beach between Las Olas Blvd north to Sunrise Blvd. The downtown area has grown dramatically in the past decade and now has many hotels and condos. There are many boutiques, art galleries and restaurants in the area. Las Olas Boulevard is in the entertainment district and has many upscale shops and restaurants. Wilton Manors is a popular area for gays and lesbians. It has many hotels, restaurants and nightclubs and is just two miles north of the downtown area.
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.