San Diego is an outdoorsy coastal city known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. 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 San Diego that stays within your budget.
How much does it cost to travel to San Diego?
You should plan to spend around $235 per day on your vacation in San Diego. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $78 on meals
- $24 on local transportation
- $229 on hotels
A one week trip to San Diego for two people costs, on average, $3,290. 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.
-
One Week
Per person
$1,645
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$3,290
-
One Month
Per person
$7,050
-
One Week
For a couple
$3,290
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$6,580
-
One Month
For a couple
$14,100
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to San Diego cost?
A one week trip to San Diego usually costs around $1,645 for one person and $3,290 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to San Diego on average costs around $3,290 for one person and $6,580 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 San Diego will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to San Diego on average costs around $7,050 for one person and $14,100 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is San Diego expensive to visit?
San Diego is a popular coastal city that attracts many visitors who have various travel styles and spending habits. You'll find a wide array of accommodation options, such as luxury hotels, mid-range places, or budget-friendly hostels.
If you're not cautious, San Diego can become costly, but you can save with strategies like eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying the free hiking trails.
On average, budget travelers spend $97 per day, mid-range travelers spend $235 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $525 per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to San Diego.
Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, San Diego is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Montreal or Minneapolis.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is San Diego Expensive?
San Diego, California
How much money do I need for a trip to San Diego?
The average San Diego trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these San Diego travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to San Diego cost?
San Diego on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$48
|
$115
|
$254
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$9.93
|
$24
|
$52
|
|
Food 2
|
$32
|
$78
|
$176
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$18
|
$48
|
$131
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$5-14
|
$10-31
|
$20-61
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. Many people think they can visit San Diego 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.
San Diego on a Shoestring Budget?
While you might think you're a budget traveler, without giving up many of your usual comforts, you'll likely need to spend more than the $97 per day that backpackers often spend.
Backpackers often work within this tight budget by staying in hostel dorms, eating fast food or street food, using public transit, and mainly visiting free attractions.
Luckily, San Diego has plenty of hostels, including HI San Diego - Downtown, Lucky D's, and International Travelers House Adventure Hostel. Here, you can enjoy budget dorm accommodation along with a friendly, social vibe, but amenities are quite limited. For many travelers to San Diego, food is a key attraction, yet budget-conscious visitors often stick to street food or hostel cooking, missing out on the delicious local dining experiences.
Do You Fit the Profile of an Average Traveler?
Couples and families enjoying a vacation will probably want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at popular dining spots, and explore the key museums and attractions that have entry fees. A trip to San Diego wouldn't be complete without visiting its major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Keep in mind that most activities cost money. Thus, it's reasonable to expect your daily budget to be around $235 per person, per day.
San Diego offers a diverse selection of hotels and vacation rentals. If you're traveling with companions, you can share a hotel room with a partner, friend, or your kids, making it easier on your wallet. Families should look for hotels and restaurants that are family-friendly. Tower 23 Hotel is an excellent option for kids, and Staypineapple at Hotel Z is another fantastic choice. For more family and couple-friendly accommodations, check out our hotel guide for San Diego here.
Want to Escape the Daily Grind in Style?
If you're looking for a luxurious getaway that offers top-notch amenities and exceptional service, you should budget around $525 per day. To enjoy a nicer hotel, dine at renowned restaurants, indulge in extravagant activities, and use taxis or private drivers to explore the coastal city, prepare for a luxury price tag. Also, higher-end tours are common with luxury travelers, such as Private Wine Tasting Tour in Valle de Guadalupe - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in San Diego
In San Diego, the price of hotels can really surprise you. Some are much more expensive, offering higher luxury and amenities. Peak season rates soar, with off-season averages around $217 and peak summer season rising to an average of $405. Prices typically range from $112 to $940, but hostels remain cheaper, especially in dorms. To save money, book during the low season or take advantage of special promotions and advance deals.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in San Diego for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $229. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $115 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in San Diego? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in San Diego include:
- Tower 23 Hotel starting at $277
- Legacy Resort Hotel & Spa starting at $168
- InterContinental San Diego starting at $288
- Omni San Diego Hotel starting at $284
- Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego starting at $236
San Diego is a great destination for families, and if you're traveling with kids, an apartment with extra space might be ideal.
Spending a week in San Diego? You may want to consider a vacation rental with a kitchen, especially for longer stays, so you can cook some of your own meals.
If you travel during the low or shoulder season (and skip summer), you'll enjoy lower accommodation prices and fewer tourists.
Transportation Budget in San Diego
San Diego lacks an efficient public transit system. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.
San Diego offers a fairly walkable experience in some areas, simplifying your sightseeing adventures. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.
Public Transit: 
(moderate)
Walkability: (good)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $24 per person, per day, on local transportation in San Diego. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in San Diego is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$24
If you're driving, check that your hotel has parking available.
Some of the standard transportation options and hotel transfers include:
- Private Transfer Airport Tijuana/Valle de Guadalupe (Ensenada) or back. For $149 details
- Arrival Private Transfer: San Diego Airport SAN to San Diego in Luxury SUV for $113 details
- Departure Private Transfer: San Diego to San Diego Airport SAN in Luxury SUV for $113 details
How much does it cost to go to San Diego? 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 San Diego 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 San Diego
Make sure to enjoy the fantastic food in San Diego by taking the time to savor all the local flavors. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in San Diego can vary significantly, the average cost of food in San Diego is $78 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$78
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in San Diego is around $78 ($78) per person, with previous travelers spending from $32 to $176. 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 San Diego are as follows:
- Breakfast: $8 to $23
- Lunch: $12 to $31
- Dinner: $23 to $55
- Coffee: $6
- Fast Food or Street Food: $12
As a large city, San Diego offers endless culinary options. There are a wide variety of ethnic restaurants throughout town. In addition to local flavors, there are major chain restaurants in many different neighborhoods. Local food often includes fresh seafood, which is an excellent option. Mexican food is also delicious, affordable, and authentic. You'll find many Mexican restaurants in the city's Old Town, but they are also common in most other neighborhoods around town as well. If you happen to be in town on a weekend, allow plenty of time for your meal as restaurants can become quite crowded. San Diego is also known for its craft-brewing scene. Local brewers in the area include AleSmith Brewing Company, Stone Brewing Company, Green Flash Brewing Company, Coronado Brewing Company, Ballast Point Brewing Company, and Port Brewing Company.
When you're out with kids, seek restaurants that provide a kids' menu. This can help you save a good chunk of change, as these meals are usually priced lower. Remember, some places may not display their kids' options, so be sure to ask the server before ordering.
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.
Carry a reusable water bottle instead of buying drinks everywhere you go. It's good for the earth, too.
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 San Diego. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Premium Valle de Guadalupe Wine and Food Tour for $259 details
- Pizza and Gelato Tour in San Diego for $80 details
- Private Cooking Demonstration of Indian Fusion Cuisine in San Diego for $228 details
Listed below are typical food prices in San Diego, 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.
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Mexican Lunch for Two
$27
-
Breakfast at Starbucks
$20
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in San Diego
It's clear why San Diego attracts visitors, considering its beaches, family-friendly activities, romance, and museums and attractions.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in San Diego typically cost an average of $48 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.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$48
San Diego is a great city to explore with many interesting sights and a wonderful atmosphere. Top sights in the city include Balboa Park, Sea World, La Jolla, the San Diego Zoo, Point Loma Lighthouse, and Mission San Diego de Alcala, among others. In La Jolla you can visit the Birch Aquarium or see the Harbor seals at Children's Cove. Popular museums around town include the San Diego Maritime Museum and the USS Midway Museum. Many visitors also like to make the trip to Coronado to see the Hotel Del Coronado. This hotel was built in the 1800s and sits right on the beach. There are many shops and beautiful beaches that you can enjoy.
San Diego is a great place for outdoor activities, cultural events, and excellent shopping. While you're in town you can relax on the beach, go whale watching, try your hand at surfing, or enjoy some boating or sailing. The weather is almost guaranteed to be pleasant and nice for any of the best things to do in San Diego. If you're an adventurous spirit, you can try scuba diving, hang gliding, or rock climbing. Hiking or biking opportunities are also plentiful. If you've had enough of the outdoors, then beer tasting in San Diego is also a popular past time.
Of course, this is Southern California, and the beach is always a popular place to spend your days. Check out this guide to beach resorts in San Diego for some ideas.
Or head out of town to visit nearby destinations that are all within easy reach. La Jolla, Coronado, or Carlsbad are just a few places on the list of day trips from San Diego that are plenty of fun.
Museums and Attractions:
San Diego stands out for its impressive museums and notable landmarks. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.
Music:
The music scene in San Diego is exciting and appeals to a wide audience. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.
Beaches:
Numerous beach lovers choose San Diego as their destination for unwinding. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.
Hiking:
Discovering the hiking trails around San Diego is a delight. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.
A nice way to explore destinations in San Diego 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:
- The Escape Game 60-Minute Adventure in Gaslamp Quarter for $45 details
- Magic on The Move Tour for $45 details
- San Diego Bay Sailing Tour for $95 details
Outlined below are some typical prices for entry fees and activities in San Diego. They have been reported from the expenses of previous travelers. These costs provide an idea of what you might need to spend, though your individual expenses will depend on the activities you participate in, the places you visit, and how often you choose budget-friendly or free activities.
-
San Diego Zoo
$15
-
Sea World Parking
$12
Nightlife Budget in San Diego
The nightlife in San Diego offers a lively atmosphere, making it a favorite for visitors who enjoy local bars, clubs, and parties. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $21 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in San Diego per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$21
While nightlife is a key part of many trips, scaling back on drinks can help free up some extra cash in your budget.
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 San Diego. A few favorites from other travelers include:
- Baja Tour Guide wine tour for $169 details
- Valle de Guadalupe Wine Tour for $249 details
- Los Angeles —>Wine tour guadalupe valley/fauna restaurant for $199 details
Traveling in San Diego
Balboa Park, San Diego
For many visitors and locals alike, San Diego is a paradise. Located in southern California, not far from Los Angeles, it has the perfect climate, wonderful beaches, and a culturally rich environment. It's surrounded by beautiful landscape and has a strong focus on wildlife conservation and eco-friendly living. Home to about 1.3 million residents, it is California's second largest city. It also has many universities, a large tech industry, and a thriving economy. Despite its size, many people perceive San Diego as a slower, more relaxed city with a pleasant vibe away from the chaos of a large city.
San Diego's climate is ideal almost any time of the year. Coastal temperatures hover around 75 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year and humidity stays low. As you head inland away from the coast, temperatures can change dramatically. During the summer the temperatures can rise noticeably and during the winter the inland areas are much cooler, particularly at night. May and June experience the most clouds and overcast weather. September is the hottest month and September and October have the highest risk for wildfires.
Neighborhoods & Around
San Diego has many different neighborhoods, each with its own vibe and atmosphere. San Diego's downtown area has a vibrant nightlife and business district. Balboa Park is where you'll find the San Diego Zoo and many museums. It also has some interesting residential areas. The Old Town area was the site of the first Spanish settlement in California and Point Loma is a great area to explore the coastline and look for sea life. Also consider making a trip to the upscale area of La Jolla, which is quite beautiful and has a nice aquarium worth visiting.
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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.
It's one of my favorite cities in California, but it's definitely not cheap.