Raleigh is a student-friendly city known for its many museums and being the home to North Carolina State University. 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.
How much does it cost to travel to Raleigh?
You should plan to spend around $231 per day on your vacation in Raleigh. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $99 on meals
- $37 on local transportation
- $207 on hotels
A one week trip to Raleigh for two people costs, on average, $3,234. 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
$1,617
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2 Weeks
Per person
$3,234
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One Month
Per person
$6,930
-
One Week
For a couple
$3,234
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2 Weeks
For a couple
$6,468
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One Month
For a couple
$13,860
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Raleigh cost?
A one week trip to Raleigh usually costs around $1,617 for one person and $3,234 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Raleigh on average costs around $3,234 for one person and $6,468 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 Raleigh will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Raleigh on average costs around $6,930 for one person and $13,860 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Raleigh expensive to visit?
Raleigh is a quaint locale that appeals to a variety of visitors, each with different travel styles, spending patterns, and budget needs. You'll find a wide array of accommodation options, such as luxury hotels, mid-range places, or budget-friendly hostels.
Raleigh can definitely get expensive if you let it, but you have options to reduce costs, including eating at less expensive restaurants and looking for discounts and coupons.
On average, budget travelers spend $100 per day, mid-range travelers spend $231 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $450 per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Raleigh.
Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Raleigh is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Destin or Boulder.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Raleigh Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Raleigh?
The average Raleigh trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Raleigh travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Raleigh cost?
Raleigh on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$45
|
$104
|
$199
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$16
|
$37
|
$79
|
|
Food 2
|
$43
|
$99
|
$194
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$16
|
$37
|
$70
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$6-18
|
$14-41
|
$26-78
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Having realistic expectations for your travel expenses is important. While many assume they can visit Raleigh on a tight budget, the truth is that most people don't enjoy traveling that way. Think about what you prioritize on vacation. Do you prefer staying in resorts or hostels? Do you love exploring sights and attractions, or dining out? Your preferences will directly impact your budget and travel plans.
Who Exactly is a Budget Traveler?
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 $100 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.
Is Your Travel Style Average?
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. When visiting Raleigh, most people will want to check out the major attractions, museums, and iconic landmarks. Remember, many activities do come with costs. So, you should realistically expect your daily budget to be around $231 per person, per day.
In Raleigh, you can find a variety of hotels and vacation rentals. If you're traveling with others, you can share the costs of your hotel with a partner, friend, or children, which can help you save money. Families will want to seek out hotels and restaurants that are kid-friendly. Embassy Suites Raleigh - Durham Airport/ Brier Creek is a great choice for families, and DoubleTree by Hilton Raleigh-Cary is another great option. To discover more family- and couple-oriented hotels, visit our hotel guide for Raleigh.
Seeking a Stylish Getaway from the Daily Routine?
If you're used to premier amenities and elevated service, prepare to spend about $450 per day. Choosing comfortable hotels, dining at award-winning establishments, indulging in extravagant excursions, and relying on taxis or private drivers to explore the city will demand a higher price range. Many luxury travelers also enjoy unique experiences such as Private Pedicab Tour of Downtown Raleigh - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Raleigh
The cost of hotels in Raleigh can be surprisingly wide-ranging. Some hotels charge a lot more because they offer extra luxury and amenities. Prices are also much higher during peak season. Off-season rooms average $128, but the demand in peak summer season pushes that average to around $239. Budget hotels range from $85 to $349, and hostels provide a cheaper option, especially in dorms. Booking early, traveling off-season, or finding special deals can help save money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Raleigh for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $207. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $104 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Raleigh? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Raleigh include:
- The StateView Hotel Autograph Collection starting at $178
- Courtyard by Marriott Raleigh Cary/Parkside Town Commons starting at $203
- Homewood Suites by Hilton Raleigh Cary I-40 starting at $144
- Sonesta ES Suites Raleigh Durham Airport starting at $139
- Hampton Inn & Suites Raleigh-Durham Airport-Brier Creek starting at $115
By traveling in the low or shoulder season (and avoiding summer), you can benefit from cheaper accommodations and fewer crowds.
Transportation Budget in Raleigh
Unfortunately, Raleigh does not have a reliable public transit network. The city's public transportation options are limited to a few bus lines that are mostly used by students.
Sadly, much of the city is not particularly pedestrian-friendly. The city is somewhat walkable in the downtown area, but everywhere else you'll need a car.
Public Transit: 
(poor)
Walkability: (moderate)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $37 per person, per day, on local transportation in Raleigh. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Raleigh is significantly more than public transportation.
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Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$37
Make sure your hotel provides easy parking options if you're driving.
A few of the typical hotel transfers and transportation services include:
- Durham to Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) - Departure Private Transfer for $62 details
- Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Raleigh Arrival Private Transfer for $68 details
- Raleigh to Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) - Departure Private Transfer for $68 details
How much does it cost to go to Raleigh? 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh
The food in Raleigh is decent, though people don't specifically come here for the food. However, there are a few hidden gems in the city worth checking out. 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.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Raleigh can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Raleigh is $99 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
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Food2
Meals for one day
$99
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Raleigh is around $99 ($99) per person, with previous travelers spending from $43 to $194. 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 Raleigh are as follows:
- Breakfast: $10 to $30
- Lunch: $15 to $40
- Dinner: $30 to $69
- Coffee: $8
- Fast Food or Street Food: $15
Raleigh has a diverse selection of restaurants. In the downtown area there are several restaurants that double as clubs on weekend nights. Asian, Indian, Mexican, Laotian and Irish restaurants are all available. Prices are reasonable and the food is usually very good. There are plenty of local restaurants in the area that use local items to make unique dishes. If you're looking for cheap food, then Hillsborough Street near NC State University has a variety of options. The quality is variable but there is the standard college faire including pizza, take-out Asian, and Chipotle. Another interesting restaurant is the Farmer's Market Restaurant next to the state Farmer's Market. It offers traditional southern food for very cheap prices.
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.
Instead of constantly buying drinks, bring along a water bottle. It's also great for the planet.
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.
If you want to experience the culture in Raleigh, 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:
- Private Cooking Class in Durham with an Expert Home Cook for $104 details
Below are some standard food costs in Raleigh, gathered from real travelers. These prices should give you a general idea of what you can expect to spend on dining and meals. Keep in mind, though, that your own costs may differ depending on your taste in restaurants, travel habits, and menu choices.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Raleigh
It's no surprise that Raleigh 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 Raleigh typically cost an average of $37 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.
$37
As the state capital, Raleigh has several free museums that are fun to explore. In the downtown area you'll find the North Carolina Museum of History and the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences. There's also Marbles Kids Museum that requires an entry fee but is a fun for children. The North Carolina Museum of Art is on Blue Ridge Road. It is an impressive museum with ancient art, Renaissance religious works, and contemporary art. There's also a separate building with rotating exhibits and an outdoor space that shows movies on summer evenings. There are also great trails in the area.
Raleigh is a city of sports. There is a faithful local following for the North Carolina State Wolfpack. There are also several professional teams in the area including the Carolina Hurricanes (hockey) and the Carolina Mudcats (minor-league baseball).
There are several entertainment venues in town as well. Progress Energy Center for the Performing Arts has three primary venues that host a diverse range of events including the Carolina Ballet and various traveling theater productions.
There are several outdoor parks in the area as well. William B. Umstead State Park has picnic areas, hiking, fishing, and canoeing. Lake Johnson Nature Park is also a great place for a run or walk. If you're in town during the right week in October, you can visit the North Carolina State Fair, which is one of the largest fairs in America and an experience in and of itself.
A nice way to explore destinations in Raleigh 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:
- Raleigh Guided E-Bike Tour: Burgers, Brews, and History too for $119 details
- Raleigh Guided E-Bike Tour: Tacos, Taps, and Local Facts for $119 details
- Durham African-American Historic Walking Tour for $18 details
Nightlife Budget in Raleigh
For those seeking nightlife, Raleigh provides some options, but it's not quite as vibrant as in other well-known spots. 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.
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $27 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Raleigh per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$27
Exploring the nightlife is often a fun part of any trip, but skipping a few drinks can make a big impact on your overall travel cost.
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.
Traveling in Raleigh
Raleigh, North Carolina
Raleigh is the capital city of the state of North Carolina. The city has a population of about 450,000 and is home to many colleges and university including North Carolina State University, Shaw University, Saint Augustine's College, Meredith College and Peace University. The city has a wide range of museums, restaurants, theaters, and parks. There's also an extensive greenway system that is great for biking or running.
Raleigh is part of the Research Triangle area which also includes the cities of Durham and Chapel Hill. The area has a thriving economy that is focused on science and technology.
Raleigh's climate is comparable to other cities in the region. There are four distinct seasons with winters being mild and cool. Snow does fall occasionally. Summers are quite hot and humid while both spring and fall are pleasant with occasional rainstorms.
Neighborhoods & Around
Raleigh has a relatively small but fun downtown. The area has some historic buildings and has been the focus of revitalization efforts in recent years. Fayetteville Street has many restaurants and bars. City Market has an interesting character with some unique shops. There are also several colleges and universities that aren't far from downtown including Shaw University and St. Augustine's College. Historic neighborhoods in the city include Cameron Park, Boylan Heights, Country Club Hills, Coley Forest, Five Points, Budleigh, Glenwood-Brooklyn, Hayes Barton Historic District, Moore Square, Mordecai, Rosengarten Park, Belvidere Park, Woodcrest and Historic Oakwood.
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.