How much does it cost to travel to Key West

Evan Kingsley wrote on 9/24/2023. Last updated: 6/20/2024

Is Key West Expensive?

Travel budget planning
A person calculates travel expenses with money, a smartphone, and a map on the desk, symbolizing budget management for a trip.

Ah, Key West, the place where the sun always shines a little brighter! But does all that sunlit enjoyment come with a high price tag? Well, my budget-savvy explorers, like any travel destination, it greatly depends on your personal preferences and pockets. A holiday here can fall into any budget: the modest backpacker, the economic family tripper, the comfortable average traveler, and of course, the hey-whats-a-budget-anyway luxury holidaymaker.

Average Costs in Key West

As we delve deeper into our sunny strolls through Key West, let's have a look at a general overview of costs, shall we?

Here's a little taster:

Coins in jar
A transparent jar labeled 'TRAVEL' packed with coins and topped with a small globe, representing saving for a travel budget.
  • Minimal Budget: You're ready for bunk beds, setting up a picnic instead of eating out, and connecting with nature more than partying. Well, your wallet is going to thank you, my friend, an estimated $50-$75 per day will do.

  • Economy Budget: Comfortable accommodations, public transportation, maybe a nice dinner or two wouldn't hurt. Does this resonate with you? Well, set aside $100-$150 per day.

  • Standard Budget: If you are all about the nice but not flashy, modest dining and relaxation, you're probably looking at spending around $175-$250 per day.

  • Luxury Budget: Ah! The ones who fancy high-end dining, luxury stays, and VIP experiences! You, my dear friend, are looking at an easy $300 and onwards per day.

Cost of Flights to Key West

Moving to the critical aspect of reaching this beautiful island!

  • Minimal Budget: Grab those super saver deals on budget airlines or off-peak flights. You might strike gold with fares as low as $100-$150.

  • Economy Budget: Ever heard of a fine balance between comfort and savings? That's your economy flight fare around $200-$250.

  • Standard Budget: Expect heightened comfort and more convenient flight times in the range of $300-$400.

  • Luxury Budget: Oh, you want to rule the skies, eh? Premium seating, cocktails, and plenty of pampering awaits you for $500 and upwards.

Cost of Transport in Key West

Once you arrive, you'll need to shuffle between beaches and bars, won't you?

  • Minimal Budget: Feet were made for walking, and rentals were made for cycling! Keep that precious cash safe and spend $0 -minimal rental.

  • Economy Budget: Public transportation, a hop-on hop-off tour, or shared rides; at around $10-$20.

  • Standard Budget: Fancy the comfort of an air-conditioned cab? It can be yours within $30- $50.

  • Luxury Budget: Limousines, private cars, or boats. Transport in style can set you back by $75 or more.

Cost of Accommodation in Key West

Whether it's a tucked-in hostel or a luxury suite, you need somewhere to hang your hat.

  • Minimal Budget: Basic lodgings or hostels are typically between $30-$50.

  • Economy Budget: Mid-level hotels with some amenities will be around $100-$150.

  • Standard Budget: More upscale hotels boasting pools, views, and service may hover around $200-$350.

  • Luxury Budget: Top-tier splendor in world-class resorts will start upwards of $500.

Cost of Activities in Key West

Now we're at the best part: activities! Be it admiring arts, a snorkeling adventure, or merely basking on the beach, it's priced for everyone.

  • Minimal Budget: Free galleries, public beaches, and nature walks, spend meagre or none!

  • Economy Budget: Museum entries, group tours, or a rental for snorkeling gear - think $20-$50.

  • Standard Budget: Adventure parks, spa days, or boat tours - all can be enjoyed for $60 - $150.

  • Luxury Budget: Private tours, dive instruction, charter boats - for you, options start above $200.

Cost of Restaurants, Food and Wine in Key West

Last but not least, what's a vacation without indulging in some local cuisine and sipping on luscious wine?

  • Minimal Budget: Street food, delis, or self-catering from markets could run you $10-$20.

  • Economy Budget: Casual restaurants and happy hours, treat your taste buds within $30-$50.

  • Standard Budget: Fine dining, wineries, and a seafood feast, reserve a spot for $60-$150.

  • Luxury Budget: Gourmet experiences, wine tastings, and private chefs; the culinary delight starts at $200 and upwards.

In conclusion, is Key West expensive? It can be, but it really doesn't have to be! It all depends on how well you plan your holiday, which part of the year you choose to travel, and ultimately, what kind of Key West experience you are searching for. Safe travels!


Evan Kingsley

Evan Kingsley

Hey, I’m Evan! Even though I’ve been bitten by a piranha, left stranded in the Sahara when my camel ditched me, and even spent a night in a Bhutanese jail over a supposedly stolen fruit (I swear I didn’t take it!), I still love traveling so much I don’t think I’ll ever stop. With over 130 countries under my belt, I’m always on the lookout for the next wild adventure… hopefully with fewer bites, camel betrayals, and misunderstandings over fruit!

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