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How much does Washington DC cost?
Daily budget breakdown across three tiers — so you can realistically plan your Washington DC trip before you book anything.
Washington DC, United States travel budget
Realistic daily cost per person across three spending tiers. All figures in USD.
Budget
Hostels, street food, public transit
Hostel dorm bed or a very basic shared Airbnb room.
Street food, fast-casual eateries, and groceries for some meals.
Primarily using the Metro (subway) and walking.
Free Smithsonian museums, walking tours, and affordable monuments.
Souvenirs, occasional coffee, and incidentals.
Mid-range
3-star hotels, mix of restaurants, some taxis
Comfortable 3-star hotel or a private Airbnb in a good neighborhood.
A mix of casual sit-down restaurants and one nicer dinner.
Metro, occasional ride-sharing (Uber/Lyft), or short taxi rides.
Paid museum entries, guided tours, or a performance.
Shopping, drinks, and other personal expenses.
Luxury
4-5 star hotels, premium dining, private transfers
Luxury 4-5 star hotel with premium amenities and services.
Fine dining, tasting menus, and premium beverages.
Private car service, executive taxis, or premium ride-sharing.
Exclusive tours, private guides, or high-end cultural experiences.
High-end shopping, spa treatments, or other indulgences.
Destination-specific money tips
- •The Smithsonian museums are free, making them a fantastic budget activity.
- •Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are generally cheaper than traditional taxis for most trips.
- •Consider purchasing a SmarTrip card for the Metro; it offers slightly cheaper fares than single tickets and is reloadable.
- •While many places accept cards, carrying a small amount of cash can be useful for street vendors or smaller establishments.
- •Restaurant prices can be high, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Penn Quarter; look for happy hour deals or explore neighborhoods like Adams Morgan or U Street for more diverse options.
Plan the rest of your Washington DC trip
Trip budgets elsewhere