Houston is a southern city known for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA. 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. Whether you're exploring the museums, eating the delicious cuisine, or enjoying the nightlife, we'll help you plan the ideal trip to Houston that stays within your budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Houston?
You should plan to spend around $287 per day on your vacation in Houston. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $60 on meals
- $72 on local transportation
- $283 on hotels
A one week trip to Houston for two people costs, on average, $4,018. 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
$2,009
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2 Weeks
Per person
$4,018
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One Month
Per person
$8,610
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One Week
For a couple
$4,018
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2 Weeks
For a couple
$8,036
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One Month
For a couple
$17,220
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Houston cost?
A one week trip to Houston usually costs around $2,009 for one person and $4,018 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Houston on average costs around $4,018 for one person and $8,036 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 Houston will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Houston on average costs around $8,610 for one person and $17,220 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Houston expensive to visit?
Houston is a vibrant city that's big enough to keep you busy for days. Here, you'll meet a diverse crowd of travelers, from those on a shoestring budget to those looking for a little luxury. You'll find a wide array of accommodation options, such as luxury hotels, mid-range places, or budget-friendly hostels.
You may find Houston to be expensive in some places, but there are ways to keep your budget in check, like eating at less expensive restaurants and finding free activities.
On average, budget travelers spend $122 per day, mid-range travelers spend $287 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $731 per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Houston.
Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Houston is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Hilton Head Island or Jacksonville.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Houston Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Houston?
The average Houston trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Houston travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Houston cost?
Houston on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$52
|
$142
|
$414
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$26
|
$72
|
$213
|
|
Food 2
|
$26
|
$60
|
$121
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$6.03
|
$14
|
$26
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$3-9
|
$7-20
|
$13-38
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. Many people think they can visit Houston on a tight budget, but most travelers aren't comfortable with a low "shoestring" budget. Think about what you enjoy during your vacations and how you typically travel. Do you prefer resorts, vacation rentals, or hostels? Do you want to visit museums, sights, and participate in activities? Is dining out a priority? These factors will shape both your budget and your itinerary.
The Truth on Budget Travel
You might think that you're a budget traveler. But unless you're willing to eliminate a lot of comforts from your trip, prepare to spend a lot more than the daily average of $122 that backpackers often get by on.
Young backpackers often get away with this shoestring budget, but it usually involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest restaurants or fast food places, taking public transit or walking, and only visiting free attractions.
Houston is packed with plenty of hostels, including Wanderstay Houston and MyCrib Houston Hostel. At hostels like these, you can enjoy affordable dorm accommodation and a lively social scene, but amenities might be quite minimal. While food is a highlight for many in Houston, budget travelers often resort to street food or self-catering in hostels, which can lead to missed opportunities for savoring the local cuisine.
Do You Identify as an Average Traveler?
Couples and families on a fun trip will likely choose a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at popular dining spots, and visit significant museums and attractions that have entry fees. Most tourists in Houston are inclined to explore its main attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. After all, most activities are not free. So, it's realistic to expect your actual daily budget to be about $287 per person, per day.
There's a wide selection of hotels and vacation rentals in Houston. If you're traveling with others, sharing a hotel room with a partner, friend, or kids will help split costs and save money. When traveling as a family, look for hotels and restaurants that welcome children. The Lancaster Hotel Houston is a great choice for kids, and SpringHill Suites Houston Intercontinental Airport is another wonderful option. For more family and couple-friendly places to stay, check out our Houston hotel costs guide.
Dreaming of a Stylish Getaway?
If you're looking for an all encompassing trip with every amenity and a higher level of service, then prepare yourself for a price tag closer to $731 per day. To stay in a nicer hotel, eat at award winning restaurants, splurge on extravagant excursions, and take taxis or private drivers to get around the city, you'll need to be prepared for a more "luxury" set of prices. Also, higher-end tours are common with luxury travelers, such as Private Houston Brewery Tour by Cart - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Houston
The cost of hotels in Houston can be quite surprising. Luxury accommodations come with higher prices and more amenities, especially during peak season. Off-season rates average $86, but peak season (summer) average prices jump to $160. Overall, prices range from $62 to $256. 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 Houston for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $283. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $142 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Houston? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Houston include:
- The Lancaster Hotel Houston starting at $213
- InterContinental Houston Medical Center starting at $158
- Hilton Americas - Houston starting at $192
- The Westin Houston Downtown starting at $232
- Hotel ZaZa Houston Memorial City starting at $189
Houston is a great destination for families, and if you're traveling with kids, an apartment with extra space might be ideal. It's a large city, so the rooms might be on the smaller side and feel a bit cramped.
Traveling during the shoulder or low season (instead of summer) means you'll get lower prices on accommodations and have fewer crowds to deal with.
Transportation Budget in Houston
In Houston, the public transit system is not very good. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.
Unfortunately, you'll find that the bulk of the city is not very walkable. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.
Public Transit: 
(moderate)
Walkability: (moderate)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $72 per person, per day, on local transportation in Houston. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Houston is significantly more than public transportation.
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Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$72
If you're driving, check for convenient parking at your hotel.
A few of the typical hotel transfers and transportation services include:
- Sedan Airport Transfer in Houston for $165 details
- Private Departure Transfer to Houston George Bush Airport IAH for $51 details
- Private Arrival Transfer from Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) for $51 details
How much does it cost to go to Houston? 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 Houston 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 Houston
The culinary delights in Houston are remarkable, so be sure to set aside time to taste all the local specialties. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Houston can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Houston is $60 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$60
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Houston is around $60 ($60) per person, with previous travelers spending from $26 to $121. 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 Houston are as follows:
- Breakfast: $6 to $18
- Lunch: $9 to $24
- Dinner: $18 to $42
- Coffee: $5
- Fast Food or Street Food: $9
Houston's ethnic diversity is reflected in its wide range of dining options. For Chinese food, visit Chinatown, or Old Chinatown near downtown; for Indian or Pakistani food, visit Houston's Little India (also known as the Mahatma Gandhi District); for Korean, Houston's Koreatown is located in Northwestern Houston. There is even an abundance of Kosher food in the Jewish community of Meyerland, and a selection of Ethiopian and Nigerian food on Bissonnet street in Southwestern Houston. The city is probably best-known, however, for its excellent Mexican food, Tex-Mex cuisine, classic Texas steakhouses, and Gulf Coast seafood. Stop by any local taqueria for some of the best culinary surprises, or indulge at a restaurant serving some fresh catches and oyster buffets with selections straight from the Gulf.
To cut costs, consider dining at nicer restaurants during lunch instead of dinner. Many restaurants in tourist spots or business centers offer lunch specials or a 'menu of the day.' These meals are often smaller and less expensive versions of their dinner options. If you look in the right places, you could treat yourself to a full multi-course gourmet meal without spending too much. Then, just opt for something light for dinner.
When you have kids in tow, look for eateries that feature a kids' menu. This can save you a lot, as those meals are usually priced lower. Keep in mind that some restaurants may not list kids' options, so it's a good idea to ask your server before placing your order.
Some hotels include breakfast in the overall cost, while others add it as an extra charge. The quality and price of breakfast can vary greatly depending on the hotel. Being informed beforehand can help you determine if you need to set aside additional funds. The hotel's buffet may be worth it, or you might consider visiting a local bakery or cafe for a more budget-friendly option.
Opt for a reusable water bottle to avoid buying drinks everywhere. It's beneficial for the earth as well.
If you're going to take a tour, make sure you understand which meals are included. You could end up paying for some food yourself, which might affect your budget.
If you want to experience the culture in Houston, a food tour or cooking class is a great way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Howdy H-Town EADO Food Tour for $90 details
- Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access for $70 details
- Houston Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours for $85 details
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Houston
It's no surprise that Houston sees many visitors since it offers museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and family-friendly activities.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Houston typically cost an average of $14 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.
$14
Though Houston covers a large area, the Downtown districts, at the heart of the city, feature some of the city's most sought after attractions. It is home to the Theater district, for example, which showcases the world-class Houston Grand Opera, as well as the Historic district, known for its 19th-century architecture and upscale restaurants. Other well-known sights include the Discovery Green Park, Market Square Park, the Downtown Aquarium, and Diverse Works art center.
The rest of Houston has plenty to offer as well. Visit the Museum district for a vast array of venues that explore everything from natural science programs with a planetarium, dinosaur hall, and butterfly house to fine art exhibits featuring Egyptian antiquities, Impressionist art, and modern sculptures. The Houston Zoo is also a popular destination, as is the historic Hermann Park which is within walking distance from most of the museums.
On the outskirts of the city, visit NASA's Space Center Houston for a tour and educational exhibits highlighting U.S. space travel. Also popular are day trips to nature centers like the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center or the Armand Bayou Nature Center for nature trails, exhibits, workshops, and events in various habitats.
As a sprawling metropolis, Houston has just about any kind of activity one could ask for. Dining, shopping, and sightseeing or visiting museums, parks, the zoo or aquarium-there is always plenty to do. Additional activities include things like sporting events, festivals, and performing arts including dance, opera, Broadway musical, chamber, and symphonic music groups.
Museums and Attractions:
The museums and landmarks in Houston are some of the most famous in the world. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's Museum.
A nice way to explore destinations in Houston 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:
- Astroville Houston Tunnel Tour (in Spanish) for $30 details
- Glowing Kayak Tour Port O'Connor - Bar Room Bay for $60 details
- All-Inclusive Hip-Hop Brunch Party Bike Tour for $60 details
Nightlife Budget in Houston
The nightlife experience in Houston is both fun and vibrant, with visitors enjoying nights out at local bars, clubs, and parties. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $13 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Houston per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$13
The nightlife is always tempting, but cutting down on drinks is an effective way to manage your travel spending.
Drinking at night can be fun, but make sure you're aware of your surroundings. You could attract pickpockets, so it's best to stick with people you trust and stay in a group.
Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Houston. A few favorites from other travelers include:
- Private Houston Brewery Tour by Cart for $57 details
- Private 3-in-1 Sightseeing, Brewery, and Mural Tour of Houston by Cart for $115 details
- 2-Hour Downtown Brewery Tour by Electric Cart for $70 details
Traveling in Houston
Houston, Texas
The largest city in Texas and the fourth largest in the United States, Houston is a sprawling urban center that has grown from its wealth in the oil industry. Visitors today are drawn to its cultural diversity which has additionally made Houston a foodie destination. Other attractions to Houston include its proximity to NASA's Space Center Houston on the Gulf coast, and its Downtown which features a vibrant museum and arts scene, shopping, and dining.
Neighborhoods & Around
The city is divided into six wards, each one of which encompasses a number of districts within them. Downtown makes up the central ward. It is a big business and finance hub, further divided into the Skyline District, Theater District, Historic District, and Warehouse District. Neartown (divided into Montrose, Midtown, and EaDo-East End) is home to much of the LGBT population and has many fashion shops, eclectic boutiques, and antique stores. North Loop, which consists of The Heights and Washington Corridor, features many Victorian and early 20th century bungalows, many of which are the homes of artists, musicians, and other wealthy professionals . South Loop (made up of South Main, Museum District, and Med Center) features attractions like Hermann Park and Reliant Stadium, some of the world's best hospitals, and an area called the Rice Village which has plenty of restaurants, bars, and shopping. West Loop (divided into Uptown, River Oaks, Upper Kirby & Greenway, and West U) features high-end shopping, affluent neighborhoods and businesses, and plenty of great restaurants and nightlife. The final ward, Outside 610 (made up of West Houston, East Houston, and North Houston), encompass the district's on Houston's outskirts. Visitors often take daytrips to these areas, which include places like nature centers and the NASA Space Center Houston.
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.
We were skeptical about visiting Houston at first, but we went to see a friend, and were pleasant surprised by the amazing restaurant scene and great museums.