average disney trip cost for 2

How Much Does it Cost to Go to Disney World? 2024 & 2025 Average Prices

With so many options for tickets, dining, hotels, and transportation, figuring out how much it will cost to go to Disney World can be a daunting task.  The average cost of your trip will depend on a variety of factors. Factors that contribute to total cost include when you buy tickets, how many nights you stay, room rates, and so on.

On average, a typical 2024 week-long Walt Disney World vacation for a family of 4 (2 adults and 2 children ages 3-9) will cost about $6,559. This estimate is based on:

• 7-night hotel stay: $185 per night plus 12.5% tax based on 2024 starting rates for a standard room at All Star Sports, a Disney Value Resort. $185 is the most common starting price of the year overall, and 200 nights of the year have starting rates between $150 and $200. Sales and tourist taxes of approximately 12.5% are added.
• 6 days of standard theme park tickets: $117 per person, per day based on 2024 theme park starting rates for a 6-day standard base ticket (one park per day, no park hopping). The most common price point found throughout the year for a 6-day ticket is $117 per day, and 278 days of the year fall between $107 and $127. Children receive a slight discount (usually around $5 per day or less) compared to adult pricing.
• Genie+ and Lightning Lane Access: $25 per person, per day based on a reasonable daily allowance to skip at least one line at the park each day through these paid services.
• 7-night Disney Quick Service Dining Plan: $57 (adult) or $24 (child) per person, per night based on 2024 published pricing. Covers two quick service meals per day plus one snack per day.
• Additional Food Costs: $20 per person, per day to purchase meals and snacks not covered by the dining plan.

The cost of a typical 2025 week-long trip will be slightly higher than 2024 , owing mainly to an increase in theme park ticket pricing as well as expected increases in dining costs.

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Our estimate does not include the cost of getting yourself to and from Orlando (plane tickets, rental car, or vehicle fuel).

You might want to plan for additional expenses such as transportation costs, hotel or ticket upgrades, a longer stay, a few nicer meals, and souvenirs. Prices will also be higher if you’re traveling during peak season, wait until the last minute to book your hotel, or have a larger travel party.

You might save some money on your trip by staying off-site, shortening your trip, bundling some elements together into a package, and spending a day or two away from the parks. Prices will also be lower if you visit during the off-season of the year or have a smaller travel party.

In this article, we’ll review all of the major expenses of a Disney World trip so you can decide where to splurge and where to skimp when budgeting for a Walt Disney World Resort vacation.  At the bottom of this page, we also offer a calculator to help you better narrow down the baseline cost of your trip.

All Walt Disney World prices shown are accurate as of February 27, 2024 and are subject to change.

Theme Park Tickets

Image © Disney

How much will Disney World Tickets cost?  Current Prices for 2024 and 2025

There are four Walt Disney World theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom , EPCOT, and Hollywood Studios. As much as people enjoy the hotels, pools, and shopping, most people come to Disney for the theme parks, so theme park admission is an important expense to consider.  Ticket prices are based on date and the park visited.

Single Day Tickets

The 2024 cost of a basic one-day ticket to a single Disney World theme park ranges from $109 to $189 for each Guest aged 10+. Most days of the year are priced at $134 or higher; only 32 days are priced between $109 and $133. Tickets are slightly discounted (typically by $5) for children ages 3-9. Kids younger than age 3 are free and don’t need a ticket.

Graph showing variations in the starting ticket price throughout 2024

The 2025 cost of a basic one-day ticket to a single Disney World theme park ranges from $119 to $189 for each Guest aged 10+ (with November and December pricing not yet released). Most days of the year are priced at $134 or higher; only 39 days are priced between $119 and $133.

Graph showing variations in the starting ticket price throughout 2025

As shown by the graphs above, prices are generally the most expensive during popular times (such school breaks, holidays, and weekends) and the least expensive during slower times.

Our graphs show 1-Day starting prices for theme park tickets. Admission to Animal Kingdom is typically the least expensive, while 1-day tickets to Magic Kingdom are usually the most expensive.

For example, here’s the price for December 25, 2024, broken down by theme park:

• Animal Kingdom: $164
• EPCOT: $179
• Hollywood Studios: $184
• Magic Kingdom: $189

The per-park price difference isn’t as much of a factor in pricing when you start to add in options like Park Hopper or Multi-Day tickets.

Multi-Day Tickets

Disney structures its ticket prices in a way that often rewards Guests for longer visits by charging less per day as the length of the visit increases . For example, a 1-day ticket starts at $109, but a 5-day ticket starts at $99 per day and a 10-day ticket starts at $60 per day.  So it pays to price out a multi-day visit different ways (a travel agent can help you with this) to find the best value.  There are also occasional special promotions that offer a set number of days at a discounted price.

Can You Upgrade Walt Disney World Tickets?

You might choose to make the most out of your Disney vacation time by visiting multiple theme parks in one day or by adding additional non-park activities.  There are several options to upgrade standard Disney World park tickets to add additional privileges, each at an additional cost.

Park Hopper Tickets

The Park Hopper ticket option allows Guests to visit multiple parks on the same day.  Guests who purchase this upgrade must still use the Disney Park Pass system to determine the first park they will visit each day.  After starting the day at that park, Guests may then go to a different theme park later in the day.  No reservation is needed for the second park, but there must still be space available for more Guests at the second park.  The price varies widely based on time of year and the number of days purchased.

Water Park and Sports option

The Water Park and Sports option allows Guests to visit one theme park per day, while also providing visits to other Disney properties.  Guests who purchase this upgrade will be able to visit water parks, mini golf and nine-hole golf courses, and the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex, when available.  The number of visits provided is equal to the number of days of theme park admission purchased.  As an example, a 4-day park ticket allows four visits to these facilities.  The price varies based on time of year and the number of days purchased.

Park Hopper Plus option

The Park Hopper Plus option combines the Park Hopper option and the Water Park and Sports option into a single upgrade.  Guests who purchase this upgrade will be able to visit multiple theme parks in the same day, and also enjoy a number of visits to water parks, select mini golf and nine-hole golf courses, and the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex, when available.  The price varies based on time of year and the number of days purchased.

Confused about Disney theme park tickets?

Confused about Disney tickets, prices, and upgrades? A Disney travel agent can help you find the best options and prices for your family vacation.

We recommend The Vacationeer , the best Disney travel planners in the business.  Their planning services are absolutely free of charge .

Skip the lines with Lightning Lane and Genie+

Among the most popular upgrades to Disney World theme park tickets are those allowing you to cut down the amount of time you have to wait in line for rides.  These upgrades are sold either for individual rides or as a package deal.  Both of these upgrades allow access with less wait through a special ride entrance called the Lightning Lane.  You might have previously heard these entrances called the FastPass entrance.  Lightning Lanes have now replaced the original FastPasses and FastPass+.

Genie+ Lightning Lane Entrance

Access to most of the Lightning Lane entrances in the park is sold bundled together as a package deal called Genie Plus.  This should not be confused with Disney Genie, which is a free service offered to all Guests.  What’s the difference between Genie and Genie+ ?  Genie offers suggestions for what to ride and do in the park, based on your interests and what’s crowded.  Genie+ allows you to avoid some of the wait times by purchasing expedited entry to some rides.

The best way to think of Genie+ is that it’s a way to be in two places at once.  Genie+ is virtually waiting in line for you at one ride while you’re busy riding something else, visiting a character, watching a parade, or eating lunch.

It’s important to understand that Genie+ doesn’t guarantee that you’ll be able to ride everything at the park.  Because you pick rides one-at-a-time (and then have to wait a while before you can pick the next one), it’s reasonable to expect that it will cut the wait time for you at about 2-3 rides on crowded days… maybe a few more on slower days. It’s also possible that the Lightning Lane for a particular ride will be “sold out” if you try to get a spot for it later in the day.  If that happens, you’ll have to wait in the regular line if you want to ride it.

Genie+ can only be added on the day of your visit and is subject to availability.  Adding Genie Plus to your theme park ticket usually costs about $15-$30 (varies by date/park/demand) per person, per day — but has historically cost as much as $39 on peak days.

Individual Lightning Lane entrance

Access to the Lightning Lane at the most popular rides in each park is sold individually rather than as part of the Genie+ package.  Prices vary by date and by ride popularity.  We’ve found that they are usually under $20 per person, and may even be less than $10 per person.   You can’t purchase this upgrade in advance. Guests staying at Disney hotels can purchase the same-day upgrade in the MyDisneyExperience app as early as 7AM.  Other Guests have to wait until the park opens.

Individual Lightning Lane entries have been known to sometimes sell out within just a few minutes.  Make sure you’re ready to book as soon as you’re allowed.  There are usually two rides at each park which offer this option, and you’re allowed to purchase it only once per day for each offered ride.

We maintain a comprehensive list of which rides and experiences are included under each of these two offerings along with the prices.

Memory Maker

If you don’t get a photo of you and the kids in front of the castle, did you really go to Disney World?  Photographs of your family having fun are an important part of your vacation memories.  Yes, we all have our smartphone cameras, but it’s hard to beat using Disney’s on-site photographers so everyone can be in the picture.  All of the photos taken by the official park photographers (and even a few surprising extras such as photos/videos taken while you’re on some rides) are collected into a single online gallery called PhotoPass.  There’s no charge to take photos and to look at them online, but they’ll be automatically deleted in 45 days.

If you want to keep your Photo Pass photos forever, you’ll need to purchase them before they’re deleted.  If you only want a handful of photos, you can pick your favorites and purchase them separately as digital downloads or physical prints (usually at a price point around $20).  Alternatively, a service called MemoryMaker gives you access to all of your photos for a single price.  Prices for Memory Maker in 2024 are $75 (for one day’s photos), $185 (for an entire trip’s photos with advance purchase), and $210 (for an entire trip’s photos when not purchased in advance).

Do You Need Reservations to Visit a Disney Park?

In addition to theme park tickets, Guests may also need a theme park reservation before entering the park.  Luckily, there’s no additional cost for theme park reservations once you’ve purchased your theme park tickets.  All reservations are made through a system called Disney Park Pass .  This program originally began as a way of maintaining social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic, but has remained in place as a method to reduce crowds and better forecast attendance and park staffing.  The number of available reservations for each day is limited, and requirements/availability may vary based on the type of ticket you have.

Generally speaking, you’ll need a reservation unless you fall into one of these categories:

• If you’ve purchased a single-day ticket that’s valid at just one park (no park hopping), your reservation is automatically made for you.
• Starting January 9, 2024, all date-based tickets will be exempt from needing a reservation.
• Annual passholders need reservations in some cases but not others.
• For Guests using a Park Hopper ticket which requires reservations, a Park Pass reservation is required only for the first park you’ll visit each day.
• Reservations are not needed for Disney Water Parks.

It is possible for all available reservations to be distributed, leaving you with fewer choices of which park to visit on a particular day of your trip.  This is much less likely to happen if you plan further in advance.

How much are Disney water park tickets?

While many Guests receive water park admission as part of an upgrade to their theme park tickets, you don’t need theme park tickets to buy water park tickets.  A 2024 one-day ticket to a Disney Water Park is $64-$74 before taxes for ages 10+, or $58-$68 for ages 3-9.  Tickets are not needed for Guests under age 3.   Park reservations are not currently required for Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach .

Note: Disney World Resort Hotel Guests receive free water park admission on their check-in day for stays during 2025.

Do you need tickets for Disney Springs?

There’s no need for a ticket to visit Disney Springs .  The shopping, dining, and entertainment district does not charge fees for admission or parking, and there’s no need to make a reservation ahead of time to visit Disney Springs.

Get Free Help Planning Your Trip: Contact The Vacationeer

Lodging at Disney World

Should I stay at Disney or off-site?

Unless you live nearby or get an Airbnb rental , you will need to stay at a hotel in or around Disney World.  The question then becomes, should you stay on-property at a Disney-owned hotel or should you save a few bucks and stay off-property?

It’s no surprise that non-Disney, off-site hotels usually offer cheaper nightly rates, but staying there doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll save money on your vacation.  When you factor in the extra money you’ll spend on transportation and car parking each day, the extra time traveling to and from the Disney parks every day, and missing out on other perks Disney hotel guests receive, is it really worth it? We would argue “no” and recommend staying at a Disney hotel.

How much will Disney World hotels cost?

Walt Disney World has three primary tiers of on-property hotels: Value, Moderate, and Deluxe.  As you may have guessed, Disney Value Resorts are the least expensive (starting around $115 per night in 2024 and $117 per night in 2025), Deluxe Resorts are the most expensive (starting around $417 per night in 2024 and $450 per night in 2025), and Disney World’s Moderate Resorts are somewhere in the middle .

Rates vary based on room type and time of year. Here’s an example of starting prices for a Standard Room at Disney’s All Star Sports, a Disney Value Resort:

Starting rates for at Disney’s All Star Sports Resort in 2024

Starting rates for at Disney’s All Star Sports Resort in 2025

These are merely starting prices; much like airline tickets, hotel prices can also change as your travel date approaches, so we suggest you book early to lock in your prices.

Disney Deluxe Resorts

Deluxe Resorts  tend to be closest hotels to the theme parks, usually just a monorail, boat ride, or short walk away.  Not only is it easier to get to the parks in the morning and back from the parks at night; it’s also easy to avoid the hottest and most crowded parts of the day by returning to your hotel and letting the kids cool down in the pool or take a midday nap.  Then, while everyone else is hot, tired, and cranky, you’ll be refreshed and ready for the nighttime fireworks.  Deluxe resorts also often feature larger rooms, the best pools and restaurants, and a generally upgraded experience.

Disney Value Resorts

The rooms at  Disney Value Resorts  are smaller and are situated among larger campuses, so you might find there’s a bit of a walk between your room and the bus stops, dining, and front desk.  Transportation to the parks is mostly via bus or Skyliner.  Dining is typically quick-service that’s more akin to a food court, but still usually features a surprising variety that goes well beyond burgers and pizza.  We feel that the Value Resorts are a great Disney World hotel option for families and budget-conscious travelers; they are among the most-affordable options that still situate you inside Disney World. If you’re considering staying off-site, you might be surprised at how much additional convenience (and magic!) you gain by spending just a bit more to stay on-site at Disney’s Value Resorts.

Disney Moderate Resorts

The Disney Moderate Resorts offer a nice middle ground between the Value and Deluxe resorts.  You’ll have a somewhat upgraded room, good transportation, and usually a few different dining options that may offer a broader menu.  A Moderate Resort is a great way to upgrade your stay at a Disney resort hotel without a major impact on your budget.

We also offer a  Disney World Resort Comparison page if you’d like to learn more about these vacation options.

Beyond the traditional Value, Moderate, and Deluxe hotel rooms and suites , there are other options.  If you have an RV, fifth wheel, travel trailer, or even just a tent, you might want to skip the hotel altogether and just set up camp for the week at Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground.  It’s right on Disney property and Magic Kingdom is only a boat ride away.  Or, if you’re looking for something more like a vacation home, read on to learn more about Disney Deluxe Villas.

Book Your Disney World Room for $200 Down and Make Payments Over Time

Are there Vacation Homes at Disney?

A vacation home is a fantastic option for larger groups or for those who just want something a bit nicer than a hotel room for their trip.  While Disney does not offer standalone vacation homes in the truest sense of the term, there are several on-site options that are almost identical to what you might expect from a traditional vacation rental home (but with all of the additional resort conveniences such as housekeeping and a front desk).  Disney calls these Disney Deluxe Villa accommodations.

• One-Bedroom and Two-Bedroom Villas are especially attractive for families who might want separate bedrooms for the parents and kids, a full kitchen (save money by cooking breakfast or dinner in the room), and a washer/dryer (imagine coming home from vacation and not having to do laundry!).  In addition to traditional bedding, there’s usually an additional sleeper sofa or pull-down bed in the living room.
• The spacious Three-Bedroom Grand Villas are the largest accommodations at Disney and are perfect for multi-generational trips and family reunions .  They have all of the comforts of home, such as a full kitchen and washer/dryer.  These units typically range in size from 2,000-2,800 square feet and often feature an upstairs and downstairs.  The most jaw-dropping Grand Villas can be found at Bay Lake Tower, with a floor-to-ceiling two-story window looking out towards either Magic Kingdom or Bay Lake.
• For those celebrating an extra-special once-in-a-lifetime occasion such as a graduation or honeymoon, consider an on-the-water bungalow or cabin , many of which offer views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks from your own personal hot tub or plunge pool.
• The Treehouse Villas are quirky elevated octagonal vacation villas located in a wooded retreat across the water from Disney Springs.

As you might imagine, these diverse offerings have a diverse range of prices to match; check with your Disney Travel Agent for details.

Ground Transportation and Parking at Disney World

Does Disney still offer free transportation to and from the airport?

Disney has permanently discontinued its complimentary Disney’s Magical Express, so there is no longer free transportation from Orlando International Airport.  Several paid options are available, including Uber, Lyft, taxi, and shuttle services.

How much does it cost to get from the airport to Walt Disney World?

As the airport closest to Disney World , Orlando International Airport has the most transportation options.

For most families who are staying on-site at Disney, taking an Uber or Lyft is the most cost-effective and efficient option.  Uber and Lyft both average around the $35 range in many cases, but surge pricing can increase the cost at times.  If you’d rather take a traditional taxi , expect to pay around $70.

There are also shuttle services which go to Disney Hotels.  The most popular is Mears Connect , which charges $17.60 one-way per adult, and $14.30 one-way per child (ages 3-9). A round-trip ticket is $33.60 per adult and $27.30 per child. Mears Connect is run by the same company which originally operated Disney’s Magical Express and recently merged with a former competitor, Sunshine Flyer.

There are also pricier options, such as Mears Connect Express ($250 flat fee for up to four people, plus $55 for each additional passenger) along with private town cars and, of course, rental cars .

We go in-depth into all of the pros and cons of each option in our Best Ways to Get from Orlando Airport to Disney World article so you can decide which transportation option best fits your budget.

If you are staying at a non-Disney hotel, you will most likely want to use a rideshare or taxi service, or rent a vehicle (and don’t forget to plan for toll money as well).

Is there a charge for Disney Transportation?

Once you’ve arrived on Disney property, you can use the on-site buses, boats, monorail, and Skyliner completely free of charge.  Here’s a helpful map of Disney World transportation .

We recommend using Disney Transportation whenever possible.  Not only is it free, but it drops off passengers much closer to theme park entrances than the main Guest parking lots for those who drive in.  This is especially true at Magic Kingdom, where Disney buses, boats, and monorails drop passengers off near the front entrance of the park; those arriving by a personal vehicle, rental car, ride share, or taxi still have to travel an additional mile or so via boat or monorail after reaching the parking lot!

How much is parking at Disney theme parks?

Guests who drive a personal vehicle or rental car to Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom must pay for theme park parking in most cases. S tandard parking is $30 for most vehicles and $35 for oversized vehicles such as RVs.  Preferred parking closer to the park entrance is also offered, typically for $45-$55. Parking fees are per vehicle per day, include in-and-out privileges, and cover parking at all theme parks visited during a single day. Parking prices last changed in October 2023 and tend to change every October. If you’re visiting on or after October 1, 2024, you might pay a bit more. Standard theme park parking is provided at no charge to those who are staying at a Disney hotel or who have certain types of theme park annual passes; these Guests can also opt to upgrade to preferred parking by paying the price difference. Disney Springs, Disney’s water parks, and most recreational activities such as golf do not charge a parking fee for self-parking.

How much is parking at Disney hotels?

As of January 10, 2023, Walt Disney World owned-and-operated resort hotels no longer charge a nightly parking fee for personal vehicles and rental cars.

Should you bring your own car, rent a car, or use Disney Transportation?

Those within driving distance might find extra convenience in having their own car with them, but this can be offset by parking fees, fuel costs, and the additional time needed to get from the parking lots to the theme park entrance.  For those who are flying to Orlando and planning to visit only Disney parks, the best option is to book a stay at an on-site Disney hotel, take an Uber/Lyft from the airport to the hotel, and then use Disney’s free transportation to get around.  For those who will be staying at Disney and spending most of their days at a Disney theme park – but still may want to spend one or two days at a non-Disney destination such as Universal or Sea World – taking a taxi, Uber, or Lyft to the off-site parks is likely a better option than a rental car.  For those who are staying off-site or who want to make multiple visits to off-site locations, a personal vehicle or rental car is likely the best option.

Dining During Your Disney World Vacation

Eating is a huge part of every vacation.  At Disney World, food isn’t exactly cheap but you can make it work to fit your budget.  The choice is really up to you and depends primarily on your appetite, your priorities, and how much you are willing to spend.

Disney Dining Plan

One of the biggest choices that will affect your food cost at Disney World is whether or not to add a Disney Dining Plan to your on-site hotel stay.  These plans offer a set number of meal and snack credits per person, at a daily cost of roughly $57 – $95 per adult or $23 – $30 per child.  Disney Dining plans were put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but return  for reservations checking in on or after January 9, 2024.

How much will food cost at Disney World?

In-park dining options range from the relatively frugal (around $15 for chicken tenders, fries, and a fountain drink at quick service restaurants) to the extravagant (upwards of $60 for a character dining experience), and everything in between.  Kids meals are typically a bit less than adult meals and even the most exotic restaurants usually offer a few tame options for finicky eaters who are mainly into burgers, nuggets, and pizza.  Beyond your three meals a day, be sure to set aside some extra cash for Mickey Pretzels, ice cream bars, and popcorn (all around $6-7 each) and even the occasional bottled water ($3.75).  You can also get free ice water from quick-service counters around the parks.

Outside of the parks, there are plenty of dining experiences available at Disney’s resort hotels.  These range from having a relatively-cheap quick service meal at the food court, enjoying a full service meal with wait staff at the moderately-priced table-service restaurants, or splurging on high-end signature dining that easily approaches $100 per person with appetizers, desserts, and drinks.  There’s also the beloved Hoop Dee Doo Musical Revue dinner show ($66-74 per adult, $39-44 per child) that is considered by many to be a must-do part of any Disney trip.

Assuming you’re going to eat mainly quick-service meals, skipping dessert most of the time, and are drinking primarily non-alcoholic beverages, a good base cost is $20 per meal for grown-ups and $12 per meal for kids.  To get a better idea of the vacation dining options and see more sample pricing, check out our How Much Does Food Cost at Disney World? page.

Let The Vacationeer Book Your Dining Reservations So You Don’t Have To

Extra Spending at Walt Disney World Resort

Disney guests should also budget for “extra” purchases. How much discretionary spending you do during each day of your Disney World vacation is your own call to make.

These extra costs can be anything from  Disney World souvenirs  (such as clothing and merchandise), in-park photo downloads or prints, special activities such as the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique (when available), Disney World stroller rental (whether renting directly from Disney or from an off-site company ), in-room babysitting, recreation, sundries, tips, and the like.

Planning ahead for these semi-hidden expenses can help make sure you don’t wind up putting yourself into debt just to get through your Disney World trip.

As you can see, there are plenty of ways to have fun – and spend money – inside and outside of the theme parks! However, nothing compares to the magic of Walt Disney World Resort so it’s worth the costs !

Calculating the Cost of Your Trip

We’ve given you a LOT to think about in this article.  To help you get some starting numbers, we suggest you use our calculator to get an estimated price range for your trip.  If you’d like to know more about the calculator, which expenses are included, and what’s not factored in, visit our Disney World Cost Calculator page.

Note: the calculator presumes everyone is staying in the same hotel room.  If your group is large enough to need multiple rooms, divide your group up and run the calculations once for each of the rooms.

Find Your Exact Cost

The calculator above will give you a rough idea of how much you can expect to spend for your trip. For a more exact estimate, contact the Disney travel experts at The Vacationeer !

As Earmarked Diamond level Authorized Disney Vacation Planners , they book thousands of Disney World vacations every year! And there are plenty of good reasons to use a Disney Travel Agent , not the least of which is: their services are completely free ! Your trip won’t cost any more than if you’d booked it yourself… and it  might even cost less !

They can even set up a no-interest payment plan allowing you to book your trip for just $200 down!

You’re never under any obligation to book, so there’s nothing to lose by getting a free quote today!

To learn more about seasonal variations in pricing and crowds, check out our monthly articles:

• Disney World in January
• Disney World in February
• Disney World in March
• Disney World in April
• Disney World in May
• Disney World in June
• Disney World in July
• Disney World in August
• Disney World in September
• Disney World in October
• Disney World in November
• Disney World in December

Enjoy your trip!

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Home » Walt Disney World » Planning and Tips

How Much Does It Cost to Go to Disney World in 2024?

By Author Ziggy Oskwarek

Posted on Last updated: November 25, 2023

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One of the most important questions to answer when planning a Disney Vacation is: “How much does it cost to go to Disney World?” Figuring out the average cost of park tickets, hotels, food, and transportation is important to know when setting up your budget.

You probably know the cost of a trip to Disney World is high, but just how expensive is it really?

In this post, we will explain the price ranges and break down all the expenses you will have on your trip. Since everyone has a different budget, we will give you options no matter if you are doing a Disney World Vacation on a value, moderate, or expensive budget.

If you have never been to Walt Disney World before, then you should know up front that it’s not a cheap vacation. The average price per person has been rising for years and it’s not slowing down anytime soon. That’s not to say it’s not worth it, but you should be prepared ahead of time that it isn’t going to be a cheap trip.

• For a family of 4,  the average Walt Disney World vacation in 2024 costs:  $5,895.26 ($294.76 per person per night) , $7,378.61 ($368.93 per person per night),   or  $10,757.96 ($537.89 per person per night).

These prices are based on a 6-Day/5-Night stay during the Summer season. They take into consideration all the major expenses you will have on your vacation and correspond to 3 vacation categories:  Value Budget ,  Moderate , and  Expensive .

Of course, pinning down an exact price is almost impossible since people have different circumstances and want to do different things at Disney. There are so many variables to take into consideration like the number of people, the ages of each traveler, and when you go. We’ll give you a broad range of costs and then let you customize the trip based on your needs.

If you are visiting Disney on a really tight budget , we’ll explain how to cut down our prices even more by eliminating some unnecessary things for your family. Airfare and hotel rooms can vary greatly depending on when you book them as well as your travel dates and you can get the costs down a lot that adjusting those.

If you aren’t traveling in a group of 4 that’s ok, at the end of this post we have some examples for groups of 2, 3, 4, or 5 people in the various budget classes, so check those out.

Before we get started, we suggest reading our 2024 Disney World Vacation Planning Guide where we cover every aspect of your trip and walk you through each step.

Also, don’t forget to sign up for our FREE Weekly E-Mail Newsletter. There we bring you the latest updates on Disney World prices as well as vacation planning tips. You can sign up here: Join our E-Mail Newsletter!

Table of Contents

Disney World Costs

So what are the costs when going to Disney World? There are a variety of factors that will determine how much your vacation costs and it will vary from family to family.

Here is a list of the biggest expenses you will have to pay for during your Disney World trip:

• Park Tickets – Depending on where you stay this could be the biggest expense of your trip.
• Hotel Room – Another huge expense that will be affected by the level of the resort you stay at (Value, Moderate, or Deluxe).
• Food – Another item that varies from family to family depending on how much you eat and how expensive the restaurants you choose.
• Transportation – Airfare tickets are the most convenient but also the most expensive way to get to Disney World. Parking if you have a car.
• Souvenirs/Merchandise – You can’t leave Disney World without bringing something home to remember the trip.
• Extra Events & Experiences – Hard-ticketed events, dessert parties, and tours.

Out of this list, the three factors that increase costs the most are park tickets, accommodations, and what you eat. If you can make adjustments to these three things you will save the most money.

Biggest Determining Factor for Cost

The biggest factor in determining how much your Disney World Vacation will cost is WHEN you go. Walt Disney World can be greatly more expensive or economical depending on the dates of your trip.

When is the Least Expensive Time to Visit? Disney’s prices for hotel rooms, vacation packages, and park tickets all follow the projected attendance levels in the theme parks. When the parks are expected to be full, prices are higher. When there are fewer people, prices are cheaper.

Most of this info we cover in greater depth in our post on the Cheapest Times to Go to Disney World.

Typically the crowds in Disney World follow the school calendar and holidays. Whenever there is a holiday, Spring Break or Summer vacation, your trip to Disney will be more expensive. If you are able to go when the kids are in school, that is when you will get the biggest discount.

• The cheapest times of the year to visit Disney World are August, September, and January after New Year’s is over into early February.
• The most expensive times of the year to Visit Disney World are in March and April during Spring Break and Easter, at Thanksgiving, and in late December between Christmas and New Year’s.

We also suggest looking at our Disney World Crowd Calendar so you know ahead the least busy times of the year. Once you figure that out you will have a better idea of when is the Best Times of the Year to Visit Disney World are.

Setting a Budget

Before you start picking out which resort hotel you want to stay at or which restaurants you want to eat in, it’s important to set a budget ahead of time. If your overall budget for your trip is $5,000, then it’s much easier to build your vacation around that number.

Your budget will determine not only when you go to Disney World, but also where you stay, and how many days you will spend in the theme parks.

The nice thing about a Disney vacation is it’s not a one-size-fits-all trip and one family can do it on a tight budget, while another can go all-out and enjoy all the extras that the resort has to offer.

Important Considerations

Some other factors to consider when planning your trip are:

• Start Saving Now – A trip to Disney World is expensive so the sooner you start saving, the higher you can make your budget and the quicker you will reach that total. Start a Disney savings fund and put that money aside.
• Go for the Special Events – There are plenty of seasonal events year-round at Walt Disney World that you might want to go to. You can attend one of the hard-ticket parties at Disney’s Magic Kingdom, or one of the 4 yearly festivals at EPCOT.
• Kids’ School Schedule – It’s a tough decision whether or not to take your kids out of school and bring them to Disney World or not. If you go when school is in session, it will cost less and there will be fewer crowds, but you have to be sure your kids will be able to catch up. My parents brought us every September and it wasn’t a problem, but each family is different.
• Prepare for the Weather – Disney World in the Summer is extremely hot, humid, and rainy, so if you go then because your kids are off from school, be prepared for some tough weather.
• Check Refurbishment Calendar – Disney shuts down some of its rides for weeks or more for maintenance. Consult the Disney World Refurbishment Calendar to make sure your favorite rides are up and running for the dates you are thinking of.

READ: How to Visit Disney World on a Budget

Let’s face it, you come to Disney World for the theme parks. It just so happens that Disney World park tickets are one of the most significant costs of a trip to Walt Disney World, especially if you are going with kids. How much do they cost?

• In 2024, a 1-Day standard Disney World Adult Theme Park ticket  costs between $109 per day  and $189 per day depending on the dates of your vacation.

Theme park tickets have drastically increased year over year. Back when Walt Disney World first opened in 1971, one adult general admission ticket was only $3.50, and a 7-ride attraction ticket book was only another $4.75. Now a one-day pass costs more than an annual pass did back in 1982 when they were introduced!

One important decision is how many days to spend at the theme parks . You need to decide this ahead of time so you don’t end up wasting money by buying tickets with too many days. If you are trying to save money, you can always knock off a day or two which will bring down the ticket price significantly.

Buying Tickets from Disney

The first way (but not the best) to buy park tickets is to get them directly from Disney . There is no difference in price between parks , and tickets to all 4 theme parks cost the same ( Magic Kingdom , EPCOT , Hollywood Studios , and Animal Kingdom ).

Disney’s price system is based on the dates you choose for your theme park admission. If you go during the off-season the tickets will cost less. If you go during the busy season(Holidays, Summer, and Weekends), they will cost more.

• Single-Day Adult park tickets in 2024 range from $109 to $189 each (ages 10+) .
• Single-Day Child park tickets in 2024 range from $104 to $184 each (ages 3-9).

That means on average you can expect to pay about $149 per adult and $144 per child for one-day tickets.

Multi-Day Disney World park passes on the other hand reward you the more days you go and the longer your pass, the less you pay per day. This is always the best value.

A One-Day Ticket starts at $109 per day , however, a 5-Day ticket starts at $100 per day , and a 10-Day ticket starts at only $61 per day. You can see the advantage of going for multiple days during your trip as it’s less expensive each day.

Here are the 2024 prices for Multi-Day Park Tickets:

• 2-Day Ticket Cost: $121 – $171 per day ($242 – $342 total)
• 3-Day Ticket Cost: $118 – $168 per day ($354 – $504 total)
• 4-Day Ticket Cost: $116 – $160 per day ($464 – $640 total)
• 5-Day Ticket Cost: $100 – $144 per day ($500 – $720 total)
• 6-Day Ticket Cost: $86 – $127 per day ($516 – $762 total)
• 7-Day Ticket Cost: $76 – $112 per day ($532 – $784 total)
• 8-Day Ticket Cost: $71 – $101 per day ($568 – $808 total)
• 9-Day Ticket Cost: $66 – $91 per day ($594 – $819 total)
• 10-Day Ticket Cost: $61 – $84 per day ($610 – $840 total)

If this is your first time going to Walt Disney World then I suggest you buy at least a 4-Day park ticket and spend one full day in each of the 4 theme parks.

Buying Discount Tickets

Buying tickets directly from Disney tends to be the most expensive option, but thankfully you can also buy your passes from discount sellers which will potentially save you a bunch of money.

To save money on your park tickets, always use one of the authorized resellers online. We highly recommend Orlando Vacation who will often save you the most money. With the price of tickets, that is always a good thing!

We also recommend authorized sellers Get Away Today and Undercover Tourist , both of which will also save you money. These are all legit resellers so you don’t have to worry about being ripped off like other places online.

Depending on what type of ticket you are buying, these options can  save you as much as $50-$70 per ticket!  That’s a huge savings, especially if you are traveling with a family of 4 or more.

Read our Guide to Discount Disney World Tickets for more ways to save!

Park Hopper Option

A standard Disney World park ticket allows you to visit one park per day. However, there is also a Park-Hopper option available which lets you visit multiple parks each day, “hopping” between them as you please.

The park hopper feature is an added cost and will increase the total price of your tickets.

• $65 per ticket for 1-day tickets (before tax)
• $75 per ticket for 2 to 3-day tickets (before tax)
• $85 per ticket for 4 to 10-day tickets (before tax)

The big question is if the park hopper option is worth it? This changes from family to family and depends on your park touring habits.

If you are the type of family that stays in the parks for a good majority of the day and evening, then it could be. On the other hand, if you have small kids, you won’t get your money’s worth if you need to return to your hotel for a nap every day and you are probably better off sticking to a one-park-per-day ticket.

We go into it in much more depth in our Disney World Park Hopping Guide .

Florida Residents

If you are a Florida resident you can get WDW park tickets at a special discount. Most of the time you can get a 40% discount on 4-Day Tickets and save 30% on 3-Day Tickets.

This ticket is good for one park per day and gives local families flexibility being able to go on consecutive or non-consecutive days. Florida residents can also save on 1-Day Tickets with the Park Hopper option which allows visits to multiple parks in the same day.

Find out if you are eligible and how much you can save in our Guide to Disney World Florida Resident Tickets .

Do Kid’s Get in for Free?

Depending on what age your kids are, they can get into Walt Disney World for free. Children from birth until they turn 3 get free park admission .

Children ages 3-9 must purchase a Children’s ticket which has a very small price difference from an Adult ticket.

When to Buy Park Tickets?

You should buy your WDW park tickets as soon as you can. Park tickets only go up in price over time, so we recommend buying them as soon as you decide on your vacation dates. Often Disney will make surprise price hikes once or twice a year, so there is no point in waiting as it will only cost you more.

Your hotel is another huge expense on your trip to Disney World. Even more so than park tickets, where you stay can greatly change the total price.

Accommodation costs are decided by:

• Staying on Disney property or off-site
• How many nights you stay
• What tier resort you stay in
• What dates you visit

On average, hotels at Walt Disney World cost between $250 – $700 per night. It could be a little more or a little less, but that is the range you need to budget for. That means for a 7-Day vacation you should plan on spending $1,750-$4,900 for your hotel depending on where and when you stay, which is a huge range.

Disney Resorts

Walt Disney World has 25 resort hotels split up into 3 hotel classes according to cost: Value, Moderate, and Deluxe. You can pay as little as $133 per night in a Value Resort, or as much as $700-$1,000 per night in a Deluxe Resort. Our Complete Disney World Resorts List has an overview of each hotel.

When comparing apples to apples, Disney Resort hotels are always going to be more expensive than their off-site equivalent hotels. This is because of the convenience of staying on property and the time you will save.

Here is what you can expect to pay per night for a standard room at each Disney Resort tier:

• Value Resorts: $133 to $413 per night
• Moderate Resorts: $260 to $505 per night
• Deluxe Resorts: $474 to $1350 per night

Our favorite WDW Resort Hotels in each tier and the cost per night:

• Value – Disney’s Pop Century Resort: $183 to $392 per night
• Moderate – Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort: $260 to $638 per night (stay at the Gran Destino Tower)
• Deluxe – Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort : $691 to $1256 per night

Remember, the prices of Walt Disney World Resort hotels are greatly affected by the dates you are staying. If you go during the off-season you will get the best discount, if you go during the holiday season, expect to pay 2 to 3 times more per night.

If you are on a budget and going to be spending most of your days in the theme parks, we recommend choosing one of the value or moderate resorts since it doesn’t make sense to spend the extra money for deluxe if you aren’t going to be using the amenities.

If you are trying to decide between the many resorts, read our post on the Best Disney World Resorts Ranked where we break down the pros and cons of each one.

Off-Site Resorts

Staying at a nearby off-site hotel is usually the cheaper option instead of staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel. However, it may not save you as much money as you think.

Extra costs required by staying in a non-Disney World hotel need to be factored into your decision. While the nightly rate will definitely be lower off-site when comparing 2 hotels of the same class, you’ll spend more on transportation, it will take more travel time each day and you will miss out on some perks for WDW Resort guests like Early Theme Park Entry and earlier Individual Lightning Lane bookings .

Each family should do research on the benefits and negatives of staying on-site or off-site and then weigh those against the extra cost or potential savings.

• Our recommendation is that if it is your first time to Walt Disney World, it’s a better experience staying on-site at a Disney Resort hotel. The location, convenience, and the extra magic inside the “Disney bubble” are worth the extra cost.

If you do stay off-site, there are plenty of options in the $150 per night range within 5-10 minutes of Disney World. Some popular locations to find hotels are Apopka Vineland Rd., Winter Garden Vineland Rd, and International Drive.

Renting DVC Points

One of the best ways to save money on Disney World Resort hotels is by renting DVC points . The Disney Vacation Club is like Disney’s version of a timeshare program and the nice thing is that members can rent their unused points to other travelers.

DVC points can only be used on resorts that are Deluxe Villas, but they will save you a significant amount of money per night instead of booking and paying for a standard hotel room at one of those resorts. The price can be 50% or less of what it would normally cost, and it’s the cheapest way to stay at a deluxe resort.

If you don’t know anyone to rent your points, try a trusted reseller like David’s DVC Rental . They are the most reliable DVC Points reseller, and you will find the best selection of rooms available at the best prices.

Another cheap option is to skip staying at a hotel and book an Airbnb nearby. There are a lot of Airbnbs available in the Orlando vicinity for $100 per night or less, great for staying on a budget.

Just remember, you will need a rental car as you won’t be able to use Disney World transportation to get to and from the parks. That extra cost makes it less attractive, but if you are planning on doing other things besides the Disney Parks, it may be a good choice.

Vacation Homes

If hotels are not your thing, another option is renting a vacation home. This is going to be the best option if you have a big family or are traveling with a group. All homes come with full kitchens which is great for saving money on meals.

Vacation homes in the nearby Celebration neighborhood are a popular choice, as well as Kissimmee. Both are conveniently located requiring only a 10-minute drive to Disney World.

Vacation homes can range greatly in price and size, so first determine how many bedrooms you will need and go from there.

You are no doubt wondering: “How much should I budget for food at Disney World?” This varies greatly from family to family and depends on your own eating habits. Depending on which restaurants you go to, food can cost even more than your hotel at Disney World.

First, you need to plan out your meals during your trip. The three places you will be spending money on food are:

• Table Service Restaurants: These are the most expensive places to eat and will cost $35 – $100+ per person, per meal.
• Quick Service/Counter Service Restaurants: This is Disney’s version of fast food and on average you will pay $13 – $30 per person, per meal.
• Snacks: There are dozens of places to get snacks in the parks and they cost approximately $4 – $10 per snack.

How many sit-down meals are you going to have every day? Are you going to eat at any character meals? Do you like fancier, up-scale meals or something more low-key? Will you be getting the Disney Dining Plan or paying out of pocket? Your answer to these questions will determine how much you spend.

• On average food at Walt Disney World costs between $50 – $125 per person, per day.

You can potentially get the cost lower than $50 per day, but that means no alcohol, no snacks, and only quick service meals. You could also spend more than that if you drink a lot and go to signature restaurants.

• A family of 2 should budget $100 – $250 per person, per day
• A family of 3 should budget $150 – $375 per person, per day
• A family of 4 should budget $200 – $500 per person, per day
• A family of 5 should budget $250 – $625 per person, per day

Check out all the restaurant menus online ahead of time so you have a good idea of how much you will be spending each day. Also, check out our list of the Best Disney World Restaurants so you know all the must-try places to eat.

Dining Plan

The Disney Dining Plan is NOW BACK in 2024 and available for purchase.

While we are not fans of the Disney Dining Plan , many guests prefer to use the program to pay for their food while visiting Disney World. The dining plan lets you pay ahead of time for your meals and snacks so you don’t have to pay for food out of pocket during your trip.

There are 2 levels of the Dining Plan at Disney World (Quick Service & Standard Dining Plan) and each of them has a different cost per day based on how much food your plan includes.

The Disney Dining Plan in 2024 costs between $57 – $94 per adult, per day, and $24 -$30 per child, per day. 

• Quick Service Disney Dining Plan –  $57.01 per adult, $23.83 per child ages 3-9 (per night)
• Standard Disney Dining Plan – $94.28 per adult, $29.69 per child (per night)

In most cases, the Disney Dining Plan is not worth the price. Most families will not be able to eat all the food that is included in the cost, and you only get value out of it by ordering the most expensive things on the menu each time.

If you have any light eaters in your group, or adults who don’t drink alcohol, the dining plan is definitely not worth it. Even though it is very convenient, you will save more money paying out of pocket for the food you actually want to eat.

If the Disney Free Dining promotion is running when you book your resort, that could make it worthwhile since it’s included free in your package.

Examples of Snack Prices

Here are the prices for some of the most popular snacks at Disney World:

• Mickey Pretzel – $7.79
• Popcorn – $6.50
• Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bar – $6.50
• Dole Whip – $5.79
• Nachos and Cheese – $9.99
• Hot Dog and Chips – $10.29
• Cotton Candy – $6.50
• Chips/Pretzels – $3.29
• Turkey Leg – $13.49
• Carrots and Ranch Dressing – $4.50
• Churro with dipping sauce – $6.79
• Fruit Cup (apple slices, pineapple, etc) – $4.00 to $5.00
• Coca-Cola/Soft Drinks – $4.99
• Bottle of Water – $3.75
• Coffee – $3.79
• Orange Juice – $5.29

If you are not on the Disney Dining Plan, budget at least $10-$20 per person, per day for snacks.

If you are on the Disney Dining Plan, make sure you use your snack credits on the most expensive eligible snacks to get the most value.

Save Money on Dining

One way to save money on dining at Disney World is to stay at a hotel with a kitchen and cook some of your meals there. Getting groceries delivered to your resort and doing one meal a day there will be a big savings.

Instead of paying exorbitant prices on snacks in the parks, bring your own snacks from home or have them delivered, and then bring them to the parks in a small backpack.

Of course, we love dining at Disney World too, and you’ll want to do a lot of that on your vacation. Disney dining locations are all more expensive than equivalent restaurants in the real world, but here are some of our favorite “cheap” restaurants:

• Beaches & Cream (Beach Club Resort) – Old-fashioned 50s-style soda shop with amazing burgers, onion rings, and ice cream sundaes.
• Flame Tree BBQ (Animal Kingdom) – Big portions of good-quality barbecue ribs, chicken, and pulled pork make this a must-stop for saving money.
• Pecos Bill Tall Tale Cafe (Magic Kingdom) – Reasonable prices and good portion sizes for this Mexican quick service. Tacos, fajitas, and bowls are all good.
• Sanaa (Animal Kingdom Lodge) – It might not be the cheapest on this list, but it is the highest quality for sure. The Indian and African dishes let you mix and match meats, veggies, and grains for some of the most flavorful meals you can have at WDW.
• Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater (Hollywood Studios) – Cheap sandwiches with an awesome ambiance. You’ve always wanted to eat dinner in your car right?
• Trail’s End (Fort Wilderness Resort) – This is by far the best value meal at WDW with an all-you-can-eat buffet for half the price of other buffets. You must try the fried chicken!
• Woody’s Lunch Box (Hollywood Studios) – One of the best quick service locations at Disney World . Great quality grilled cheese sandwiches, totchos, and we love the lunch box tarts! They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Transportation to Disney World

Depending on where you live, getting to Walt Disney World can be a big expense. The most popular options are flying by airplane or driving , although soon you will also be able to arrive by a high-speed train .

Orlando International Airport is one of the best-connected airports in the country and you can get a flight there from almost anywhere in the United States and many international locations.

Domestic flights to Orlando cost between $200 – $400 per person. Depending on what time of year you are traveling and where you are coming from you might even find a better deal. We’ve flown from Connecticut many times for under $150 when there is a special offer, but in 2024, $200-$250 is more realistic.

International flights to Disney World are more expensive and cost on average $500 – $1000 per person.

Transportation from the Orlando Airport

If you are arriving in Orlando by plane, you need to figure out a way to get from the airport to your hotel. Your options will depend on whether or not you are staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel or not.

Staying On-Site: If you are staying at a Disney World hotel, your options are limited compared to what they once were. Disney’s Magical Express has been discontinued which means Disney no longer offers a free shuttle service to the resorts.

As a replacement, you can take the Mears Connect Shuttle from the airport, but it isn’t free. For One-Way transportation, it costs $16 per adult and $13 per child. For Round Trip service it is $32 per adult and $27 per child.

If that doesn’t interest you, you can use one of the transportation suggestions for staying off-site listed below.

Staying Off-Site: This one is more complicated and it depends on what your plans are for your trip. You can rent a car, take a taxi, or use a ride-sharing program like Uber or Lyft. Obviously, these all cost money and are not ideal if you are on a strict budget.

• Taxis  are by far the more expensive choice and will cost around $50-$70 each way plus tip depending on where you are going.
• Uber  is a much cheaper option and will cost between $30-$50 each way.

Some off-site hotels offer free shuttle service to and from the Orlando International Airport, so make sure to ask when booking your room.

Read our guide How to Get from Orlando Airport to Disney World for a breakdown of all the options plus costs to consider.

If you live close to Orlando, driving will be the least expensive way to get to Disney World. You need to calculate gas, and any highway tolls you may encounter. If you need to rent a car it could get expensive.

While we prefer flying to Disney World, driving may be the cheapest option if you have a big group or if flights to Orlando are expensive from where you live.

Getting Around Disney World

Once you get to Walt Disney World, you need to know how to get around. Disney has their own complimentary transportation system guests can use and if you have your own car, you can park it at the hotel, or drive it to the parks.

Transportation costs are sneaky at Disney World, and all the fees and parking can really add up quickly. Here are your options…

WDW Transportation

Using the Walt Disney World transportation system is definitely the cheapest option and it will take you anywhere in Walt Disney World you want to go. Transportation methods include buses , monorails , watercraft , and the Disney Skyliner .

We recommend using WDW transportation if possible as there really is no need to rent a car unless you plan on spending a good amount of time outside of Walt Disney World. It will save you the most money and it is by far the easiest solution.

Renting a Car

If you must rent a car because you are going to visit some of the other Orlando vacation destinations during your trip, that option is available to you. You can rent a car at the Orlando International Airport and all the major rental car companies are located there.

• A compact car will cost you about $50 – $75 per day.
• A bigger car like a mid-size, SUV, etc will cost $70 – $100 per day.

Make sure you factor in trunk space for your luggage when choosing which size car to rent. Choose a car that gets good gas mileage for the most economic solution.

Our Guide to Renting a Car in Disney World will give you a good idea of whether it’s a good option for your family or not.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have become super popular in the Orlando area over the last few years and there are more than enough drivers to service the millions of tourists that arrive each year.

We try to use Walt Disney World transportation as much as possible, however, we suggest using Uber if you are in a hurry to get somewhere. We do this often when we have dinner reservations at another hotel instead of using Disney transportation which can be unreliable at times.

Just be aware those Uber fees can add up quickly as a one-way trip around property will cost you between $10 – $25 depending on where you are going.

Parking fees are one of the biggest reasons we don’t suggest renting a car at Disney World. Even if you get a good deal on a rental or save some money by taking your own car, you must factor in the parking cost during your trip.

However, there are fewer fees this year than just a little while ago as Disney World Resort and Theme Park Parking is free if you are staying at one of the Disney World Resort hotels. If you are, then you won’t need to worry about parking fees during your trip.

On the other hand, if you are staying off-site, things can add up quickly.

Here are the prices of the current parking fees at Walt Disney World:

• Disney World Theme Parks Standard Parking: $30 per day
• Disney World Theme Parks Preferred Parking: $45 – $55 per day
• Disney World Resort Hotel Overnight Parking: Now FREE

If you have your own car, and are staying off-site, we do not recommend taking it to the parks as it costs a minimum of $30. If your hotel provides free transportation, that is the better option.

If you are staying on-site, in general, we still prefer not taking our own car, and instead we like using the free Disney World transportation from our resort hotel.

Read our Guide to Disney World Parking for answers to all your related questions and tips on how to avoid parking fees altogether.

Souvenirs & Merchandise

Going to Walt Disney World is a once-in-a-lifetime trip for many, and you are definitely going to want to bring something home with you to remind you of your magical vacation. It’s impossible to resist all the stores filled with tempting merchandise, so set aside a budget for souvenirs before you go.

How much spending money for souvenirs will vary from family to family, but $50 – $100 per person for the trip is not an unreasonable amount. You can tell your kids exactly how much they can spend, and let them pick out whatever falls in that price range.

Here are prices for some of the more popular Disney World souvenirs:

• Autograph Book: $9.99 – $14.99
• Balloons: $12-$15
• Mickey and Minnie Mouse Ear Headbands: $29.99
• Mickey Mouse Ears Hat: $27.99 for adults, $19.99 for kids
• Mugs: $15.00 – $25.00
• Ornaments: $24.99 – $29.99
• Plush Dolls: $19.99 – $24.99 medium size
• Pins and Lanyards: $10.00 – $20.00 each
• Pressed Pennies: 50 cents each
• Spirit Jerseys: $74.99 adults
• T-Shirts: $24.99 – $34.99 adults, $19.99 – $24.99 children

One idea to save money is to do some shopping online for Disney merchandise BEFORE your trip. You can get some really creative Disney shirts online for half the price you will pay in the parks.

Also, check out the shopDisney website and look under the “Parks” section for some discounted merchandise from the theme parks.

Special Events and Experiences

Similar to souvenirs, you have total control over how much you spend in this category. You can go all-out in this category and enjoy some of the many special events and high-end experiences, or you can spend nothing.

Hard-Ticket Events

Multiple times per year Disney puts on special hard-ticket events (mostly at the Magic Kingdom) which are extremely popular with guests. Some of the most popular ones include:

• Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party : $109 – $199 per person
• Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party : $159 – $199 per person
• Disney After Hours Events : $149 – $175 per person
• Disney Villains After Hours : $145 per person
• Typhoon Lagoon H2O Glow Nights: $75 per adult, $70 per child
• Dessert Parties: $99 – $129 per adult, $59 – $75 per child

Extra Experiences

• Savi’s Workshop Lightsaber Building: $249 per lightsaber
• Droid Depot Build a Droid: $119 per droid
• Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique: $75 – $450 per child
• Tours: $25 – $299 per person
• VIP Tours: $450 – $900 per hour
• Golfing: $35 – $75 per person

If you or someone in your family is a Star Wars fan, you have to bring them to Savi’s Workshop to build their own lightsaber , or next door at the Droid Depot to build a customized droid . We’ve done both of these experiences and they are two of our all-time favorite Disney souvenirs.

You can also bring them to Dok Ondar’s Den of Antiquities to get a Star Wars Legacy Lightsaber which are modeled after ones belonging to their favorite characters from the films. Prices range from $159 to $249 plus tax

Your little princess (or prince) will love a stop by the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique for a complete makeover. There are multiple packages that include costumes, make-up, manicures, and hair styling. Packages range from $75-$450.

We love most of the tours at Walt Disney World, and let you go behind the scenes and see the parks in ways you never thought of before. Our favorites are the Wild Africa Trek at the Animal Kingdom ( $219-$229 per person plus tax ) or the Keys to the Kingdom tour at Disney’s Magic Kingdom ( $129-$149 per person plus tax )

Genie+ & Lightning Lanes

Another expense that has just been introduced to Walt Disney World is Genie Plus and Individual Lightning Lanes. This is Disney’s paid FastPass+ replacement and it allows you to skip the lines at most attractions in the parks.

• Genie Plus costs a flat fee of $15 to $35 per day, per person (not including tax) and gives you access to most of the top attractions in each park. You make reservations with return times much as FastPass+ did.
• Individual Lightning Lane selections are separate from Genie+ and let you skip the line one ride at a time. The attractions are the ones not included with Genie+. Prices for Individual Lightning Lanes range from $10-$25 per guest.

These are both totally optional and you are not required to purchase them, although they can save you a lot of time and let you get way more done in less time than you would otherwise be able to do.

Make sure to read our Guide to Genie+ and Lightning Lanes for a more comprehensive look at both these services and if they are right for you and your family.

Example Trips

So in the end, how much does a trip to Disney World really cost? We’ve come up with some example trips to give you an idea of the total cost of your vacation.

We’ve broken each trip down into one of three categories: Value, Moderate, or Luxury. Within each group, we’ve calculated the average prices for food, hotel, airfare, park tickets, airport transportation, Genie+, and extra shopping money.

We then have example trips with 2, 3, 4, and 5 people. The trip for 2 is for 2 adults, while 3, 4, and 5 are assuming the added guests are children. If you are going with all adults the prices will be slightly higher.

Now that the Disney Dining Plan is back again in 2024, for this exercise we are going to include it in our Budget and Moderate vacation examples since it gives a rough estimate of how much the average guest spends on dining each day. For our Expensive vacations we won’t include the DDP because we will assume guests will be dining at signature restaurants often.

We are also going to assume you are staying on-site at one of the Walt Disney World Resort hotels and have only included prices for those resorts. To save extra money you can stay off-site in a nearby hotel.

To make the comparison fair, we’ve made each trip 6 days and 5 nights since that is the average length of a Disney World trip. Obviously, you can add more nights which will increase the price. We wouldn’t recommend a shorter trip however for first-timers since this schedule gives you 4 full days to experience the parks (1 per day).

For all examples, we’ve only estimated prices for 4-Day theme park passes. With a 6-day trip, the first and last days are travel days and not great for visiting the parks and getting full value. Those days can be used to relax around your hotel, go swimming or do other activities.

We’ve also included transportation to and from the airport and either a bus shuttle service like Mears to save money, or a private transport for the luxury vacation. For the moderate and luxury vacations we’ve included Genie+, at least a couple of the days.

Keep in mind, these are only examples, and they can be adjusted to you and your family’s needs. With some cost-cutting in the dining and hotel categories, you will be able to save even more money than what we list, so feel free to modify the plans.

I chose Disney’s Pop Century Resort for our value hotel. In our opinion, it gives you the best value for the money due to its great location on the Disney Skyliner route and better quality accommodations when compared to the All-Star Resorts. You can save about $40 – $50 per night there, but that option is only for dire circumstances.

Unfortunately, if you have 5 guests in your party , you will have to upgrade to the family suite at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort since there are no other value resort rooms that hold 5 guests. This is a big price increase and more than doubles your hotel cost for the vacation.

Now that the Disney Dining Plan is back, we calculated food expenses according to prices for the Quick Service Dining Plan . This gives each guest 2 quick service meals and 1 snack per day. It’s not ideal not having a sit-down meal but we did it to save money. If you wanted a character meal or other table service restaurants, you could forget the dining plan and pay for meals out of pocket.

We limited extra spending money to $50 per person, which won’t get you much but you can buy a couple of souvenirs each.

These prices are far from the lowest you can go. With some date changes and some cost-cutting, you can drop these prices down a few hundred dollars each. Go in value season for maximum savings.

Trip for 2 | 6-Day/5-Night stay in Summer 2024:

• Park Tickets: 4 Days of theme park passes, one day each park = $1,178.00 ($589 per person including tax)
• Hotel: 5-night stay at Disney’s Pop Century Resort = $1,255.00 ($627.50 per person)
• Food: Quick Service Dining Plan = $570 ($285 per person)
• Airfare: 2 Tickets to Orlando Airport = $500 ($250 per person)
• Shopping/Extra Experiences: Very limited shopping money = $100 ($50 per person)
• Airport Transportation: Mears Connect Shuttle = $64 ($32 per person)

Total Cost = $3,667.10

Trip for 3 | 6-Day/5-Night stay in Summer 2024 :

• Park Tickets: 4 Days of theme park passes, one day each park = $1,748.94 ($582.98 per person including tax)
• Hotel: 5-night stay at Disney’s Pop Century Resort = $1,255.00 ($418.33 per person)
• Food: Equivalent to Quick Service Dining Plan = $689.25 ($229.75 per person)
• Airfare: 3 Tickets to Orlando Airport = $750 ($250 per person)
• Shopping/Extra Experiences: Very limited shopping money = $150 ($50 per person)
• Airport Transportation: Mears Connect Shuttle = $96 ($32 per person)

Total Cost = $4,689.19

Trip for 4 | 6-Day/5-Night stay in Summer 2024 :

• Park Tickets: 4 Days of theme park passes, one day each park = $2,337.96 ($584.49 per person including tax)
• Hotel: 5-night stay at Disney’s Pop Century Resort = $1,255.00 ($313.75 per person)
• Food: Equivalent to Quick Service Dining Plan = $974.30 ($243.57 per person)
• Airfare: 4 Tickets to Orlando Airport = $1,000 ($250 per person)
• Shopping/Extra Experiences: Very limited shopping money = $200 ($50 per person)
• Airport Transportation: Mears Connect Shuttle = $128 ($32 per person)

Total Cost = $5,895.26

Trip for 5 | 6-Day/5-Night stay in Summer 2024 :

• Park Tickets: 4 Days of theme park passes, one day each park = $2,908.90 ($581.78 per person including tax)
• Hotel: 5-night stay at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort in Family Suite = $3,100.00 ($620 per person)
• Food: Equivalent to Quick Service Dining Plan = $1,093.45 ($218.69 per person)
• Airfare: 5 Tickets to Orlando Airport = $1250 ($250 per person)
• Shopping/Extra Experiences: Very limited shopping money = $250 ($50 per person)
• Airport Transportation: Mears Connect Shuttle = $160 ($32 per person)

Total Cost = $8,862.35

For our moderate trips, we upgraded hotels and dining plans, which should make for a more enjoyable trip.

While Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort is not our favorite moderate resort at Disney World, the location can’t be beaten since it’s right in-between EPCOT and Hollywood Studios on the Skyliner. If you don’t mind taking the bus everywhere, the Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs is a little more expensive but by far the best quality for the price.

Since there are no 5-guest standard bedrooms at the moderate resorts, we chose the Art of Animation family suite for groups with 5 guests, but it does increase the price a lot.

The big upgrade here is the food being on the Standard Disney Dining Plan. You still get one quick service meal per day, but you also get 1 table service dining credit which can be used in many good restaurants around property. It isn’t great if you want to dine at signature dining restaurants and it will probably be cheaper out of pocket.

We also have a bit more spending money for merchandise with $100 per guest. Most first-timers will be perfectly fine going with something similar to these vacation plans.

Trip for 2 | 6-Day/5-Night stay in Summer 2024 :

• Hotel: 5-night stay at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort = $1,650.00 ($825 per person)
• Food: Equivalent to Standard Disney Dining Plan = $942.80 ($471.40 per person)
• Airfare: 2 Tickets to Orlando Airport = $550 ($275 per person)
• Shopping/Extra Experiences: Very limited shopping money = $200 ($100 per person)
• Genie+: 2 Days of Genie+ = $100 (approx $25 per person per day)

Total Cost = $4,684.80

• Hotel: 5-night stay at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort = $1,650.00 ($550 per person)
• Food: Equivalent to Standard Disney Dining Plan = $1,091.25 ($363.75 per person)
• Airfare: 3 Tickets to Orlando Airport = $825 ($275 per person)
• Shopping/Extra Experiences: Very limited shopping money = $300 ($100 per person)
• Genie+: 2 Days of Genie+ = $150 (approx $25 per person per day)

Total Cost = $5,861.19

• Hotel: 5-night stay at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort = $1,650.00 ($412.50 per person)
• Food: Equivalent to Standard Disney Dining Plan = $1,562.65 ($390.66 per person)
• Airfare: 4 Tickets to Orlando Airport = $1,100 ($275 per person)
• Shopping/Extra Experiences: Very limited shopping money = $400 ($100 per person)
• Genie+: 2 Days of Genie+ = $200 (approx $25 per person per day)

Total Cost = $7,378.61

• Food: Standard Disney Dining Plan = $1,711.10 ($342.22 per person)
• Airfare: Equivalent to 5 Tickets to Orlando Airport = $1,375 ($275 per person)
• Shopping/Extra Experiences: Very limited shopping money = $500 ($100 per person)
• Genie+: 2 Days of Genie+ = $250 (approx $25 per person per day)

Total Cost = $10,005.00

If you really want to live it up at Disney World, going with a luxury plan is the way to go with way better dining options and a major hotel upgrade.

Disney’s Contemporary Resort isn’t usually the cheapest deluxe resort, but it’s a good compromise between price, convenience and amenities. We love that it’s located right on the monorail for easy access, it has rooms for 5 guests, and it is only a 10-minute walk from the Magic Kingdom. You can upgrade to the Polynesian, Grand Floridian, or Beach Club if you are really going all-out!

Another option if you need a room for 5 guests is Disney’s Boardwalk Inn . It’s a nice choice and conveniently situated between EPCOT and Hollywood Studios, plus a bunch of amazing restaurants.

Since guests looking for a luxury experience at Walt Disney World will likely want to dine at the signature dining restaurants, we didn’t use the Dining Plan for the below estimates. Instead, we budgeted $150 per night toward food for each adult and $45 per child under 9 years hold.

It’s a huge upgrade and perfect if you like multiple sit-down meals per day, or if you want to try multiple signature dining restaurants. This might be too much though if you aren’t big eaters so feel free to add the Standard Disney Dining Plan instead.

The extra spending money should cover all but the most expensive merchandise at Disney World.

• Hotel: 5-night stay at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge = $3,145.00 ($1,572.50 per person)
• Food: Equivalent to Deluxe Disney Dining Plan = $1,500.00 ($750 per person)
• Airfare: 2 Tickets to Orlando Airport = $600 ($300 per person)
• Shopping/Extra Experiences: Very limited shopping money = $500 ($250 per person)
• Airport Transportation: Private Car/Limo Service = $200 (approx $100 each way)
• Genie+: 4 Days of Genie+ = $200 (approx $25 per person per day)

Total Cost = $7,323.00

• Hotel: 5-night stay at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge = $3,145.00 ($1,048.33 per person)
• Food: Equivalent to Deluxe Disney Dining Plan = $1,725.00 ($575 per person)
• Airfare: 3 Tickets to Orlando Airport = $900 ($300 per person)
• Shopping/Extra Experiences: Very limited shopping money = $750 ($250 per person)
• Genie+: 2 Days of Genie+ = $300 (approx $25 per person per day)

Total Cost = $8,768.94

• Hotel: 5-night stay at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge = $3,145.00 ($786.25 per person)
• Food: Equivalent to Deluxe Disney Dining Plan = $2,475.00 ($618.75 per person)
• Airfare: 4 Tickets to Orlando Airport = $1,200 ($300 per person)
• Shopping/Extra Experiences: Very limited shopping money = $1,000 ($250 per person)
• Airport Transportation: Private Car/Limo Service = $200 (approx. $100 each way)
• Genie+: 2 Days of Genie+ = $400 (approx. $25 per person per day)

Total Cost = $10,757.96

• Hotel: 5-night stay at Disney’s Boardwalk Inn = $3,145.00 ($629 per person)
• Food: Equivalent to Deluxe Disney Dining Plan = $2,700.00 ($540 per person)
• Airfare: 5 Tickets to Orlando Airport = $1,500 ($300 per person)
• Shopping/Extra Experiences: Very limited shopping money = $1,250 ($250 per person)
• Genie+: 2 Days of Genie+ = $500 (approx $25 per person per day)

Total Cost = $12,203.90

Cost for One Day at Disney World

If you don’t want to go to Walt Disney World for your whole vacation in Orlando, you can visit for just one day and the price will be significantly cheaper. How much does it cost for one day?

• Park Tickets ($149 per person) – A one-day park ticket costs between $109-$189 depending on what time of the year you go. Let’s split the difference down the middle.
• Food ($50 per person) – This is very subjective and depends on how much you eat and where. If you are going for one day you probably will be only eating at quick service restaurants ($15-$20 per meal) and snacks ($4-$10 each). Over a full day you have to figure $45-$55 per person, but this goes up if you eat at sit-down restaurants.
• Parking ($30 per vehicle) – If you are only going to Walt Disney World for one day, you likely are taking a car to get there. In that case, you need to account for the parking fees at the theme parks.

When you add up park tickets, food and parking, going to Walt Disney World for one day in 2024 costs between $200 – $250 per person.

How to Save Money

Here are some tips to save money on your Disney World vacation …

Choose the Right Dates

Disney World is much cheaper if you go during the off-season than during the busy times of the year. This is the most effective way to save money. If you go during January, February, Late August, or September, tickets are less expensive, hotel prices are cut dramatically and you will probably find a cheaper flight to Orlando.

If you go during Spring Break, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any holiday for that matter, you will pay more, period.

Cut Down on Food

I have never personally tried this, but of course, if you eat less or at less-expensive restaurants, you will see big savings. While sit-down meals are great, you will save a ton if you eat quick service for the majority of your trip.

You also will save a bunch of money on snacks if you bring your own to the parks. Chips, protein bars, bottles of soda, and water are all ways to save money.

Even though I told you to cut down on the food you eat, a buffet can actually be a good value when timed right. If you have an all-you-can-eat breakfast, for example, you can probably skip right over lunch and wait until dinner to eat again.

Use a Disney Travel Agent

Planning a trip to Disney World can be complicated and stressful when trying to compare the best prices for everything. That’s why we recommend using an authorized Disney Vacation Planner for your trip.

It doesn’t cost you any extra money, and they will actually end up SAVING you money in the long term because they know the best offers and promotions, and if a new one comes out after you book your trip, they will switch you to the most cost-effective package.

Contact René at  Show You the World Travel  for all your trip planning needs, including a FREE quote. We use them multiple times per year and they give you the best service and savings combination out there!

That wraps up our look at how much it costs to visit Walt Disney World. I hope that it gave you a good idea of how much money you need to save and what expenses you can expect to have.

If you are thinking about going to Walt Disney World in the coming future, here are some other popular articles where you will find all the info and tips you need to plan your trip.

• Disney World Vacation Planning Guide
• Disney World Crowd Calendar
• When are the Best Times to Visit Disney World?

Your Thoughts

I want to know what you think about the cost of a Disney World Vacation…

• How much do you budget for your Disney trip?
• What are your best money-saving tips?

Let us know in the comments section below!

If you enjoyed this article, as always I appreciate it if you’d share it with others via social media.  I work hard at making this website into a useful resource for you and your family to plan your visit to the Disney Parks and I hope it can help you! Thanks 🙂

My name is Ziggy and I love Disney, everything Disney! I grew up on Disney and it has and continues to be a huge part of my life. I started young when my parents took me to Disney World when I was 18 months old. Little did they know that would be the first of an uncountable number of trips we would take. I have so many amazing memories going to Disney with my family and friends and it has been interwoven into my DNA.

Stan Hughes

Wednesday 27th of September 2023

hi Ziggy can you advise what you think the crowds will be like starting on the 11th of April 2024 after the Easter holidays many thanks

Jerald Elmore

Saturday 5th of August 2023

I would go to Disney more if they went back to fast passes free. They should have senior discounts for tickets, as seniors do not ride some rides. We love going to Disney, but to expensive. We are Florida residents.

Brian Robert Wilkinson

Tuesday 31st of January 2023

This is great planning information for Disney World - Do you have similar information for Disneyland in Anaheim?

Michael Nelson

Saturday 12th of November 2022

Great info as always Ziggy but once again way too expensive for most families 6000 for 5 days no thanks The trips to WDW are over for my family and others I have spoken to

Thursday 15th of September 2022

Very informative article. Disney is no longer affordable period Sorry that more families will never be able to visit Airfare is also doubled what it was No matter what Disney charges the rich will still visit I can buy a new car for the price of a Disney Vacation Club membership

How Much Does it Cost to Go to Disney World for 2 Adults?

By: Author Courtney Derqu

Posted on Last updated: August 31, 2023

Are you thinking about taking a vacation in the next few months? If you’re a Disney Adult like me, you’re probably wondering “How much does it cost to go to Disney World for 2 adults?” A trip to Walt Disney World is full of magic…and expenses. On average, a trip to Disney World for two adults will cost anywhere between $4,680 and $9,961, including five nights and four-day theme park tickets at one park per day

This quote will vary depending on where you stay, as the higher-end accounts for overnight stays at Disney’s deluxe resorts, such as the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. The quote also includes the duration of your trip (the example I used includes a five-night stay at either a Value or Deluxe resort), meals, snacks, housekeeping tops, and travel costs.

Below, I’m answering some of the most common questions regarding planning a trip to Disney World (and how you can save a few bucks and stay on budget). If you want to get a quote specific to your needs, I highly recommend using a FREE Disney travel agent OR using our FREE 2023 printable trip planner .

Is it Cheaper to Stay on Disney Property or Off? 

Let’s start off with one of the most common questions vacationers have about saving some money at Disney: Is it cheaper to stay on Disney property or off? 

It would stand to reason that staying off Disney property will save you money, but that’s not always true. Granted, you will save a lot of money if you choose to stay at a Ramada Inn as opposed to the Grand Floridian (which is currently around $859 a night for a standard resort view). However, there are other factors you have to consider. Compared to the local Ramada by Wyndham Kissimmee Gateway in Kissimmee, FL which costs at minimum $401/night, you’re easily saving a few thousand bucks! 

While this is still a lot of money to be saving, the reality is that staying off property at a resort like this is actually going to cost you more than some of Disney’s Value Resorts. 

Disney ranks their resorts by tier: Value, Moderate, Deluxe, and Deluxe Villas. The cheapest resorts are the value resorts, which include the three All-Star Resorts: Sports, Music, and Movies, Pop Century, and Art of Animation. On average, these resorts cost $177-$246 per night depending on the time of year you’re visiting and the room type. Rates will be higher during the summer, special occasions like the 100th Anniversary Celebration, spring break, and the holiday season. 

Read more: The Best Disney Value Resorts Ranked

It’s important to note that the average cost of a night at one of Disney’s value resorts, Art of Animation can go into the $500-$600 range, but this is because these have family suites. You can learn more about these here . 

Average Costs for a Week in Disney

So, let’s say you and your spouse/significant other/friend, want to go to Disney World for 7 days, with admission to one park each day. A week at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, with 7-day tickets for two guests, would be approximately $2,705.30. This is an increase from standard prices about a year ago. 

In comparison, a hotel off Disney property can cost anywhere from an average of $338 – $931 a night. Like, The Liki Tiki Village , for example, when booked through Priceline, costs $133 a night, whereas the Seralago Hotel and Suites Main Gate East costs $46 per night for VIP members. 

If you’re staying at one of these resorts off Disney property, your total estimated costs once you factor in park tickets, and cost of transportation such as Lyfts to and from the airport/resort come out to a minimum of $1,912 and a potential maximum of $2,985. With tax, a 7-day ticket to each park per day for two people would cost $1,154 (which is about $100 more than it was last year). 

Add on Uber and Lyft fees, which usually vary between $15 – $35 each way. At a minimum, you’re adding $210 to your budget. The lowest you could probably be spending for a week spent off property, assuming you go to the parks each day is $1,912. Even if you’re comparing the rates at one of Disney’s Value Resorts, you’re still saving nearly $800 by staying off-property. That can almost offset the cost of your theme park tickets, or even one of your flights down. 

What About Food?

Regardless of whether or not you stay on Disney property if you are eating out for all your meals, you can expect to pay around $250 per person for food per day. If you only eat three quick service meals per day and avoid snacks, you can reduce these costs to around $75-$100 per person per day.

However, the costs will quickly add up the more snacks you try and if you opt for a table service location for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. If you want to save money we recommend splitting meals .

How to Save Money on Food at Disney World 

The costs associated with food at Disney continue to skyrocket. On my last trip, my husband and I ended up spending around $65 for breakfast each morning while staying at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside resort. 

On average, we ended up spending about $325 just for breakfast! We could have saved a ton of money by just opting to eat in our room instead, which is the first way you can save money on your Disney World food costs.

Buy Some Food and Eat Breakfast in Your Room

Each resort has a coffee maker in the room, which can save you some money from buying some fresh at the food court or restaurant at your resort. Plus, each resort has a store that sells non-perishables. Opting to buy (or bring with you) a box of cereal or granola bars you can enjoy in the room saves you hundreds of dollars on breakfast. 

Instead of spending so much money on food, opt for having one special breakfast on the first day of your vacation and then stick to the basics for the rest. It’s the perfect way to blend the best of both worlds! 

Buy a Refillable Mug at Your Resort

The refillable mugs at Disney cost $21.99 and they can be used an unlimited amount of times for the duration of your stay. If you or anyone in your party is a big coffee or soda drinker, then definitely buy this because you’ll get your money’s worth. 

Keep in mind that the average soda at your Disney World resort costs $4.99. Even if you’re only drinking two sodas per day, this can save you half of what you would have ordinarily been spending. 

Order Off the Kid’s Menu 

There are no age restrictions for ordering off the children’s menu at Disney World, and believe it or not, it’ll probably still provide enough food to fill you up. There’s a scientific reason for this, too! Hot weather like in Disney, actually helps curb your appetite. So if you’ve ever wondered why you tend to eat less while on vacation, this is why. 

Ordering off the kid’s menu (which still serves a lot of food) can save you a lot of money that could either go back into your pocket or help pay for that delicious dole whip you and I both know you need to have! 

How Much Does Airfare to Disney World Cost? 

Your airfare costs will be solely dependent on what time of year you fly out, the time of day, and which airline you choose. 

For example, if you’re flying out of Philadelphia via Spirit Airlines, you’ll likely be paying around $288, at minimum, per person roundtrip. This excludes luggage fees, which cost about $50 per person, and any other travel fees that tack on. 

For the same flight flying out of Philadelphia but via Southwest Airlines, your roundtrip fee skyrockets to about $831 per person, with your luggage and seat fees included. If we split the difference, you should expect to pay around $500 on average for your roundtrip to Disney World. 

This excludes any purchases you make at the airport, such as food or drinks. Passengers can expect to pay anywhere from $20 – $50 at the airport while waiting for their flight, or paying for in-flight WiFi once up on the air. 

How to Find Cheap Flights to Disney World 

If you want to save money on your flight to Disney World, be sure to check out websites such as Cheapflights.com and Priceline . Many airlines now, such as Spirit, are offering Buy Now, Pay Later options through Paypal Credit, which allows you to make payments for your flights over time. I’ve used this option many times and it helps offset the cost of airfare travel, which more often than not, tends to be one of the more pricer aspects of vacation planning I can’t always afford. 

Another way you can save money on your flight is if you choose to travel during the middle of the week. Most people tend to either already be enjoying their vacation or have already returned to work by Tuesday and Wednesday, making flights going out on these days the cheapest. 

Transportation Costs to and From Walt Disney World

If you’re not using the shuttle to get to and from the airport and Disney World, you will have additional costs to factor into your budget, regardless of whether you’re renting a vehicle or taking rideshares everywhere. Here’s an overview of what these costs may be:

Average Cost of Rideshares to and From Disney World

The average rideshare, whether it’s Lyft or Uber costs around $15 – $35 each way. This rate will depend on what time of day it is, as surge pricing comes into effect at night and on weekends, as well as how far you’re traveling. Many hotels off Disney property are about a 15-20 minute drive to the parks, which will likely put your costs on the higher end. Plus, you will have to factor in about a $5 tip for each Uber or Lyft driver. Tips alone could add another $70 to your total costs.

On average, guests staying off-property who are visiting a Disney theme park for seven days will be paying around $400 for their rideshare costs.

Average Cost of Rental Cars at Disney

Another option is to rent a vehicle for the duration of your trip. On average, your vehicle will cost about $100 a day at minimum, but this doesn’t factor in all of the sneaky charges rental companies pass along to you before checkout.

Such fees include but aren’t limited to insurance charges, processing fees, tolls, and of course, tax. You could easily be spending a minimum of $165 a day for your rental vehicle, on top of theme park parking, which is at least $25/per day for standard-sized vehicles. For a 5 or 7-day rental and theme park tickets, this adds an additional $950 – $1,329 to your base costs.

What About Gas Prices?

In Florida, the average cost of gas is $3.45 per gallon, though this could be a bit higher depending on where you’re traveling. Nationwide, the average cost of gas is currently $3.85. If you’re traveling to Orlando from Philadelphia, for example, you can expect to pay about $300 roundtrip for gas. This rate will be closer to $400 for those traveling to Disney World from the Chicago area.

Housekeeping Costs

Another cost you’ll have to factor in is the cost of housekeeping. Though housekeeping at Disney and other off-property resorts is technically free, you should still give them a tip for good service.

On average, this is about $5 per day, paid at the end of your trip. You’ll also want to factor in tips for your Mears Connect driver. I usually give them $5 each way.

When is the Cheapest Time to Go to Disney World? 

The costs can quickly add up, but you may be able to offset these by booking your trip during the off-season. While it seems like the parks rarely have any downtime anymore, the crowds are noticeably lower (and ticket prices are lower) during January and February. The same can also be said for late August and early September, as soon as the kids return to school.

It’s important to note that if you are interested in visiting Disney World in late August and September you’re also going to be competing with hurricanes. This is when hurricane season is most active in Florida. Disney World is very accommodating to guests who need to change their reservations, but knowing that you may have to cancel or postpone during this time of year is important to avoid being crushed.

Read more: Best Times to Visit Disney World

How to Stay on Budget at Disney World

There are a few ways you can help stay on budget at Disney World. First, you can opt to book your trip during one of the less crowded times of the year as mentioned above. Furthermore, you can bring your own snacks and water bottles into the parks (as long as they aren’t stored in glass containers). Food is permitted in the parks, but make sure you’re bringing in items that won’t spoil in the Florida heat. Gummy snacks, crackers, bananas, and granola bars are great options.

While you are allowed to bring in a water bottle, you won’t be allowed to bring in one that’s made of glass. As long as your bottle isn’t glass, you’re good. There are multiple water fountains spread out throughout the parks for free refills. You can also ask for a cup of water at your meal instead of bottled, as water for two people will add another $10 to your bill for every meal.

You can also stay on budget by purchasing Disney gift cards ahead of time for both ticket purchases and souvenirs. These gift cards can be sold at Target and other retailers, and you can use them to stay on track when it comes to shopping at places like the Emporium or World of Disney. We use gift cards when we go down, and it helps us make smarter purchases about what we want and will genuinely use when we return home.

Read More : Best Ways Keep Your Disney Vacation Under Budget

Final Thoughts

I’m not advocating for or against staying on Disney property or off, as I’ve done both. And truthfully, they each offer their own advantages. Personally, I feel like you get more bang for your buck staying on Disney property, especially considering how much money you spend on Lyfts and Ubers back and forth.

However, staying off-property can save you a lot of money, especially if you don’t want to spend all your time at Disney World.

On our last trip, my husband and I visited Epcot for the day and spent time visiting local beaches and collecting shark teeth, drinking Butterbeer at Universal Studios, and enjoying a casual night at Disney Springs, where admission is free.

A recent study found that the daily admission price could increase to a minimum of $164 per person in 2024. While this is only a $10 difference from the year prior, think of how quickly that could add up. For two people visiting the Disney World theme parks and resorts for a week, that extra $140 could cover your food for a day, housekeeping costs, and an Uber to and from the airport.

If you’re planning on taking a trip with you and your friend, relative, or significant other in 2024, budget accordingly so you can focus more on the magical aspects of a Disney World vacation instead of how expensive it’s getting.

As a self-proclaimed Mouseketeer, Courtney Dercqu is a fan of all things Disney. Between decorating her desk with souvenirs from the park, to making unique mouse ears and having a dedicated Disney Instagram, Courtney is a true believer in the magic of a Walt Disney World vacation. Having had more than 200 articles published on various content, Courtney’s excited to share her knowledge and experience with everyone! Be sure to follow her on Instagram for all the Disney magic.

Eduardo romero

Wednesday 24th of May 2023

how much would it be for food expenses and car expenses and flight expenses and gas prices and the price for the

Carolyn Rice

Monday 1st of August 2022

My son is planning a 10 day trip for him& myself.This is on my sons.bucket list.He recovered fm brain tumor in 2002.On going side effects.& this is a dream come true.My husband passed away in 2017.We honeymooned in Disneyland,Jan 20,1973.My oldest sons nursery was disney characters.And youngest in 40s also loves Disney..He's the one who wants to go.We are Disney nuts.I grew up with Disney.Im now 70.A recent heartattack avoided me fm taking any trip.This trip meants alot to son& I.

Disney World Cost Calculator 2024

Is a trip to Disney World on your family’s bucket list? Before you book, use our Disney World cost calculator to estimate how much your trip will cost. We’ll help you figure out the best way to budget for your vacation, including tips on where to save and ways to score discounts. So start planning today and make your dream vacation a reality!

Let’s get into what goes into your Disney World trip cost!

Table of Contents

Disney World Cost Calculator: Budget Example at a Disney Resort

Example Budget – Flying

Example Budget – Driving

Disney Cost Calculator Instructions

• Figure out how you’re getting to Orlando and price that out.  Here are a few tools you can use
• Kayak.com for flights and rental car prices
•  http://fuelgaugereport.aaa.com/fuelcostcalculator/ for estimated fuel cost
• Other transportation costs, such as oil changes, tolls, etc
• Is your dream to stay at a Disney resort?  Head on over to https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/ and plug in your dates to the price that resorts out.  Remember, you can sort by price as well.
• Use GetAwayToday to figure out park ticket prices
• Decide what your ideal food budget would be using the methods I covered
• Decide how much an ideal amount for groceries will be
• Spending Budget

At this point, it is up to you what you shave off your budget.  Maybe you should eliminate flights and drive instead. Perhaps staying off-site or spending fewer days in the park would be better.  With this budget, it is going to be super easy to get to that final budget.

The Actual Disney World Cost Calculator

I built this Disney World cost calculator or budget sheet to help people easily know what they need to consider when they’re looking into the cost of their Disney vacation but also put it together quickly.

Disney on a Budget Worksheet (excel format)

Disney on a Budget Worksheet (pdf)

(Google Sheet) Disney on a Budget Worksheet

Disney World Cost Calculator: Disney World Seasons and How They Affect Cost

When it comes to vacationing at Disney World, timing is everything. The cost of your trip will be affected by the time of year you travel, as well as the demand for tickets and hotel rooms. Generally speaking, the busiest times at Disney World are during the Christmas and New Year holidays, as well as during the summer months.

These are also the most expensive times to visit, so if you’re on a budget, you may want to consider traveling during the off-season. While you may have to deal with some crowds, you’ll find that prices are typically lower for hotels, tickets, and food. And who knows? You may even get to see a few of your favorite characters in person!

Disney’s Value Season

The least expensive time to visit Disney World is during the Value Season. These dates typically fall during the months of January and February, as well as September and October.

If you’re looking to save money on your trip, this is the best time to travel. However, you should keep in mind that some attractions and events may be closed during this time, so it’s always a good idea to check the calendar before you book your trip.

Disney’s Fall Season

The Fall Season is a great time to visit Disney World if you’re looking for moderate crowds and prices. These dates typically fall during the months of September and November.

During this time, you’ll find that many of the popular attractions and events are still open, but you won’t have to deal with the large crowds that typically flock to Disney World during the summer months.

Disney’s Regular Season

The Regular Season is the busiest time of year at Disney World, so if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, this is not the best time to visit. These dates typically fall during the months of December and April.

During the Regular Season, you’ll find that prices are higher for hotels, tickets, and food. However, you’ll also find that there are more events and attractions open, so if you’re looking for a truly magical experience, this is the time to visit.

Disney’s Summer Season

The Summer Season is the busiest time of year at Disney World , so if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, this is not the best time to visit. These dates typically fall during the months of June and August.

During the Summer Season, you’ll find that prices are higher for hotels, tickets, and food. However, you’ll also find that there are more events and attractions open, so if you’re looking for a truly magical experience, this is the time to visit.

Disney’s Peak Season

The Peak Season is the busiest time of year at Disney World, so if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, this is not the best time to visit. These dates typically fall during the months of December and April.

During the Peak Season, you’ll find that prices are higher for hotels, tickets, and food. However, you’ll also find that there are more events and attractions open, so if you’re looking for a truly magical experience, this is the time to visit.

Disney’s Holiday Season

The Holiday Season is the busiest time of year at Disney World, so if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, this is not the best time to visit. These dates typically fall during the months of December and April.

During the Holiday Season, you’ll find that prices are higher for hotels, tickets, and food. However, you’ll also find that there are more events and attractions open, so if you’re looking for a truly magical experience, this is the time to visit.

As you can see, timing is everything when it comes to vacationing at Disney World. The best time to visit really depends on your budget, the size of your party, and what you’re looking to get out of your trip. No matter when you choose to visit, you’re sure to have a magical time!

Disney World Cost Calculator: Getting To Florida

You’ve decided you want to go to Disney World in Orlando, Florida! But how do you get there? If you’re driving, you’ll need to factor in gas, tolls, and lodging. If you’re flying, you’ll need to consider airfare and transportation to and from the airport.

If you’re driving to Florida, you’ll need to factor in gas, tolls, and lodging. Gas will cost you an estimated $4 per gallon, and tolls will cost you an estimated $5 per day. Lodging will cost you an estimated $75 per night.

If you’re flying to Florida, you’ll need to consider airfare and transportation to and from the airport. Airfare will cost you an estimated $400 per person, and transportation to and from the airport will cost you an estimated $35 per person.

Check the average cost of your flight with Google. Use this link to type in your airport and figure out how much you will likely be paying.

Total Cost:

The total cost of getting to your Disney World vacation will depend on the method of transportation you choose. Driving will most likely cost less overall but take less time. The choice really is about what you can afford and what you’re comfortable with.

Disney World Cost Calculator: Hotel

When calculating how much your Disney World hotel will cost, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the location of the hotel. If it is close to the parks, it will likely be more expensive.

Second, think about the amenities that are important to you. If you need a pool or a shuttle to the parks, that will add to the cost.

Finally, consider the time of year that you are visiting. Peak season rates will be higher than off-season rates. By considering all of these factors, you can get a good estimate of how much your Disney World hotel will cost.

Disney World Resorts costs between $100 and $400 per night.

Off-site hotels near Disney cost between $60 and $200 per night.

The following are some popular off-site hotels near Disney World:

• Best Western Lake Buena Vista Resort: $100 per night
• Hampton Inn & Suites Orlando-John Young Parkway: $115 per night
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Orlando – Lake Buena Vista: $118 per night
• La Quinta Inn & Suites Orlando – Kissimmee Maingate: $119 per night
• Clarion Inn Lake Buena Vista: $122 per night
• Baymont by Wyndham Kissimmee/Orlando: $123 per night

Disney World Budget Hotels

Airbnbs in the area cost an average of $80 per night.

As you can see, there is a wide range of prices for hotels near Disney World. It is important to consider what amenities are important to you and how close you want to be to the parks before making a decision

Disney World Cost Calculator: Park Tickets

When it comes to planning a trip to Disney World, one of the most important factors to consider is the cost of tickets. There are a variety of ticket options available, and the price can vary depending on the time of year and the type of ticket you select. Fortunately, there is a simple way to calculate how much your tickets will cost.

First, decide how many days you want to visit the parks. Then, choose the type of ticket you want: a one-day ticket, a multi-day ticket, or an annual pass.

Once you have made your selection, enter the type of tickets, date, and number of tickets into the online calculator at disneyworld.com . The calculator will give you the total cost of your tickets, as well as any applicable discounts.

For discounted Disney tickets , you’ll have to buy 3-day or higher tickets as 1 and 2 days tickets are always cheaper directly from Disney World. Some of the best Disney ticket deals can be found at GetAwayToday .

Disney World Cost Calculator: Food

For many families, a trip to Disney World is a once-in-a-lifetime event. And while there’s no doubt that it can be a magical experience, it’s also important to be prepared for the costs. One of the biggest expenses you’ll face is food. Prices at Disney World restaurants can be steep, so it’s important to plan ahead and budget accordingly.

There are a few things you can do to save money on your food budget. First, take advantage of getting basic groceries delivered to your room.

Groceries at Disney are a must-have for a budget-conscious trip. In addition, set a budget for your meals and do your research so that you’re able to stick to it.

Quick service restaurants are the cheapest places to eat at Disney World. There are so many options and GREAT quick service to eat that can help you keep costs at around $15/person.

Table service restaurants are more expensive, with an average entree price of around $15-$65/person. If you’re looking to save money, consider sharing a meal or ordering from the kid’s menu.

Disney World Cost Calculator: Souvenirs

When visiting Disney World, it’s important to have a souvenir budget in mind. There are so many tempting trinkets and toys available, and it can be easy to overspend if you’re not careful. So how do you know how much to budget for souvenirs?

A good rule of thumb is to set aside 10-15% of your overall vacation budget for souvenirs. That way, you’ll have enough money to buy some keepsakes without blowing your entire budget.

Of course, this is just a guideline – you may want to spend more or less depending on your personal spending habits. But no matter what, it’s always helpful to have a firm plan in place before hitting the parks!

Whatever you decide your souvenir budget to be, put that in a Disney gift card to help you stay on budget!

What are you trying to accomplish with this Disney World trip?

Are you looking to create magical memories with your family? Check.

Are you looking for a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life? You’ve come to the right place.

Is this going to be a once-in-a-lifetime trip that you should go all out for, or do you expect to come back?

Asking yourself these questions will help you better understand what kind of experience you want and how much you’re willing to spend.

No matter what your answers are, we can help turn your Disney World dreams into reality without breaking the bank.

If this is a once-in-a-lifetime trip, it’s ok to wait one more year to do it so you can go big or go home. Sometimes, that is the right thing to do.

Use our cost calculator to get a better understanding of how much your trip will cost so you can start planning and saving.

When you start using the cost calculator, go all out. This means that money isn’t an issue. Then you can start shaving off costs from there.

Disney World Cost Calculator: Family of 5 Cost Example

A vacation to Disney World is a dream come true for many families. However, the cost of a Disney vacation can be daunting.

For a family of five, the average cost of airfare, hotels, and tickets is around $5,000. To save money, many families plan their trips during the off-season or take advantage of special offers. For example, Disney World often offers discounts for military families and Florida residents.

Families can also save money by staying in a Disney resort hotel or by using a vacation package that includes airfare and tickets. By doing some research and planning ahead, families can find ways to enjoy a magical Disney vacation without breaking the bank.

As you start thinking about how much your Disney vacation is going to cost, you want to think about what you want to accomplish. For this example, I am going to use a family of 5, with two children under 10 and 1 above 10.

I am also going to book a 4-day Disney base ticket so they can experience all four theme parks.

Disney Package Cost – Since this is a family of 5, the room options will be limited because a Murphy bed will be needed for the 5th person. However, Disney does accommodate this family size at Port Orleans Resort. The cost of the hotel + the 4-day Disney ticket is $5,092.06

Disney Meals Cost – We should split the cost of food into 5 categories: Groceries, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Snacks/Drinks. Using my expertise, I average the cost of these items and add them to the budget. $2,660

Disney Transporation Cost – You will see this in detail below, but your transportation costs depend on whether you fly to Orlando or drive. Driving is significantly cheaper, but you will have to account for Disney resort parking fees, tolls, gas, and oil changes depending on the mileage. You will spend about $500 driving to Disney from about 1500 miles away and $1,100 flying.

Nonetheless, for this example budget, let’s calculate it by flying to Disney World. All in all, we are looking at about $9,056.06 for your Disney package .

Are there ways to save a ton of money here? Yes 100%. Just by staying offsite, driving to Orlando, and going down to a 3-day Disney ticket, you could save close to $2,500.

Ideas for Sticking to your Disney Budget

If you do have a set budget you want to stay under, as long as it’s realistic, there will be a way to get there. Here are a few quick tips on that.

• Work with a Disney Travel Agent who is an expert and can build your vacation around your budget.
• Take advantage of Disney specials offers when they come out
• Stay off Disney property to save on overall resort costs with more amenities.
• Buy souvenirs ahead of time or after your trip.

Disney Money Saving Tips

When it comes to saving money at Disney World, there are a lot of different tips and tricks that can help. Here are a few of our favorites:

Try to stick to quick-service restaurants as much as possible. They’re the cheapest option, and there are plenty of great choices.

Get groceries delivered to your resort room so you can save money by eating breakfast in your room or packing snacks and drinks for the park.

Take advantage of Disney’s specials when they’re available. If you’re eligible, it can help you save a ton of money on your trip.

Avoid buying souvenirs at the parks. You can often find the same items for cheaper at a nearby store or online.

Use a Disney gift card to help you stay on budget. This is a great way to make sure you don’t overspend on souvenirs or food.

Take a break from the parks and enjoy one of Disney’s many free activities.

Bring your own snacks and drinks into the parks to save money on food.

Visit the parks during off-peak seasons to save on admission costs.

If you don’t have a travel credit card with great rewards, get one. You’re missing out on expensive freebies like free flights. When I had to pick my top travel card, I chose the Chase Sapphire Preferred , it allows you to collect points on a purchase you were going to make anyway, use those to get 2-3 free flights/year. Here’s why this is my card of choice

• 1%-3% rewards
• 80,000 point sign up bonus (like two free domestic flights just for signing up)
• No foreign transaction fee
• Travel insurance
• Car rental insurance
• 1:1 transfer to reward programs (like Southwest Rapid Rewards)
• No blackout dates, no travel restrictions.

Get your flights for free using your credit card sign-up bonus.  If you aren’t going that route, you should become comfortable flying budget airlines.  

If the flight isn’t that long, I don’t care if I am squashed in the back with a chair that doesn’t recline.  I just want to get to Orlando.  

A lot of people stay away from budget airlines because of the fees they charge.  Which they do in order to keep their fares extremely low.  They want you to break their outrageous rules so they can charge you. 

But I still use them, I just pay attention and follow the rules.

Disney Springs Resorts

Let’s talk about the seven Disney Springs resorts.  Disney Springs Hotels is a really good middle ground.  When going to book a Disney Springs Resort, get special deals from MouseSavers: https://www.mousesavers.com/disney-springs-area-hotels/  

While finding a Disney room at $100/night is possible, it is way easier to do so at one of these 7 resorts.

Bring souvenirs with you.   

Buying before your trip might seem odd but it’s cheaper and better for your pocket.  

Dollar Tree is a great store to find $1 Disney odds and ends.  Definitely worth a visit before you head to the World. 

You can get an autograph book from Walmart for less than $6.  Collect as many signatures as you can. Or make your own autograph book for less than $5. 

Buy souvenirs at sales before you go. Disney Stores has awesome sales sometimes, so make sure to shop the sales. 

Visit discount stores that carry Disney toys and clothes, such as Disney outlets.

Bring your favorite Disney storybook and make it even more purposeful by getting characters to sign it.  

Make a scrapbook after your trip.  Collect free things during your trip, like the celebration pins and theme park maps. 

Get your Mickey Ears from Amazon for less than $10 .

Value of the Disney World Vacation

When it comes to the value of a Disney World vacation, different factors can significantly impact the perceived worth of the trip. The time of year in which you visit can affect the cost of flights and accommodations, as well as the crowds you’ll encounter. 

For instance, visiting during peak season means higher prices and larger crowds, while visiting during the off-season can mean lower prices and fewer people. 

Additionally, the age of the travelers can impact the perceived value of the trip. Young children may find more value in meeting their favorite Disney characters, while older children and adults may find more value in the rides and attractions.

Overall, when calculating the cost of a Disney World trip, it’s essential to consider the value of the experience as a whole, rather than just the monetary cost. 

Disney Savings Chart

If you’re like most people, you love to save money. And what better reason to save money than for Disney World? With a little bit of planning, you can easily save hundreds of dollars for your next trip to the happiest place on earth. One great way to save money is to take advantage of Disney’s Savings Chart.

This is a way to take your calculated Disney World cost and make it a reality with a way to save money for your trip. Simply put, the Disney Savings Chart is a way to help you save money for your trip by setting aside a certain amount of money each week.

You can start saving as little as $5 a week, and over the course of a year, that can really add up! For example, if you save $5 a week for 52 weeks, you’ll have $260 saved up. And if you save $10 a week, you’ll have $520 saved up!

You can use this money for anything you want- to help pay for your park tickets, souvenirs, food, or anything else. So what are you waiting for? Start saving today with the Disney Savings Chart

So there you have it! You’ve just completed the first major step in planning your Disney vacation- calculating your cost. This is an important step, as it will help to keep you within budget and make sure that you are able to enjoy all the magic that Disney has to offer. Now that you know how much your trip is going to cost, it’s time for the next step- deciding where to stay! I’ve got a plethora of information on my website about different types of resorts and hotels at Walt Disney World, so be sure to check it out. And as always, if you have any questions feel free to reach out to me. I love helping people plan their perfect Disney vacation, and

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My Disney World Cost Calculator & Our Total (Bottom Line) Price

This post may contain affiliate links, view our disclosure policy .

There are so many variables to consider when it comes to the cost of a Disney World vacation.

In this article, we’ll answer the age-old question of, “How much does it cost to go to Disney World?”, as well as review potential expenses using our Disney World Cost Calculator 2022.

With the total cost of a Disney vacation depending on your length of stay and how much you choose to splurge on food, accommodations, and other extras, the total cost will vary significantly.

By using our Disney World cost calculator, however, we’ll show you a real-life example of our family of 5’s total Disney World vacation price (with a FREE printable too!)

* Updated for 2022 .

The links on this page are Amazon affiliate links. If you click on links and purchase them, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Disney World Cost Calculator: Getting There

Let’s get started in working through the steps of our Disney World cost calculator so that you can custom-fit your Disney vacation to meet the exact needs of your family and budget.

One of the easiest decisions to make regarding your Disney World cost calculator will be on how you will get to Orlando.

You’re either close enough to drive (or are up for a long haul road trip !) or you’ll have to arrive by air.

When considering your Disney vacation estimator, let’s take a look at both!

Orlando is serviced by two main airports, Orlando International (MCO) and Sanford International.

Most airlines fly into Orlando International which is a convenient 30-minute drive from Walt Disney World.

When considering flights, your Disney cost calculator will vary according to the time of year and where you fly from.

For the cheapest rates, it is recommended to search for flights that arrive and depart mid-week.

Also, know that the least expensive months to fly to Orlando typically tend to be from late August to mid-November. And again, from mid-January to mid-February.

Additional planning tip: Purchase airline tickets 4 months in advance in order to guarantee the best pricing.

Airlines such as Delta and Southwest have Disney World packages that include airfare.

These are worth checking out if you’re looking to bundle your expenses.

Getting To and From the Airport

Disney has announced that their complimentary Magical Express transportation service will be discontinued in January of 2022.

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is serviced by ride-hailing services including Lyft, Uber, and airport taxis.

Other transportation options include hotel shuttles and car rental services, with Alamo being our most recommended. (Use their Skip the Counter option to go straight to your rental car.)

And next, as a replacement for Disney’s Magical Express, Mears Connect will be offering shuttle service to the Disney Resort area (from the airport) beginning on January 1st of 2022.

Unlike Disney’s Magical Express, Mears Connect isn’t free, however.

Instead, there are two tiers of service: standard vs. express.

Standard service is a shared ride that makes a few stops en route to your hotel with waits of up to 20 minutes after checking in at the Mears reception area at the airport.

Express service provides a direct ride to your resort with no other stops and “limited to no wait time.”

You can find a list of current resorts that Mears Connect will pick up and drop off from, as well as pricing and the option to book your rides at Mears Connect’s site .

Additional planning tip: The resorts that Mears Connect services will appear in the drop-down menu when reserving. The list is expected to expand throughout 2022.

If a road trip to Orlando makes more sense, or if you are looking to travel to Disney on a budget , there are a few things to keep in mind.

Be sure to calculate the cost of gas by determining daily gas prices , as well as account for a hotel en route and meals along the way (if coming from far away).

In addition, most hotels, including Disney hotels, charge a daily parking fee that sh

Be sure to verify and account for that additional expense if you plan to drive and/or rent a car.

Disney World Cost Calculator: Buying Tickets

Park tickets will account for a large portion of your Disney World cost calculations.

Disney World considers ‘children’ to be between the ages of 3 – 9 years old. Any person age 10 and older needs to pay adult ticket prices, and those 2 and under are free.

Disney World ticket prices also vary based on the season, how many days you’ll visit the parks (Multi-park tickets), and if you plan to travel between parks on a given day ( Disney Park Hopper tickets ).

They can be purchased directly through Disney and can often be found bundled in Disney World packages that include resort accommodations.

Disney park tickets can also be purchased at discounted rates from authorized wholesalers, such as our favorite, Undercover Tourist .

Additional planning tip: Don’t forget to account for Blizzard Beach or Typhoon Lagoon water park tickets if you plan to venture to one or both of Disney’s two water parks.

Multi-Day Tickets

Disney tries to get you to play in their parks as long as possible.

This is why purchasing multi-day park tickets will always be the best value when it comes to overall ticket prices.

For instance, the average daily rate is discounted by almost 50% when you buy a 7-day park pass versus a 1-day pass.

Simply put, the longer you stay and the more parks you visit, the more you will save on admission and on your overall Disney World cost.

Historically speaking, the best time to visit Disney World is during the months of mid-January to mid-February, late April to mid-May, and again from mid-August through September.

You can expect to save up to 20% when visiting during these months .

The most expensive weeks, however, are around Christmas, President’s Day, and other U.S. holidays, as well as during Spring Breaks in the entire month of March.

You can almost guarantee that things will cost 50% more than during non-peak times.

Other factors like weather and other special events that may be taking place at Disney greatly affect the park crowds.

*If you’re heading to Disney for a special event, there are many additional costs and considerations to consider. Here’s an example of how much a runDisney race weekend will cost , for instance.

Parking and Transportation

Guests at select Disney Resorts can travel to and from all 4 theme parks by complimentary bus, boat, monorail, or Skyliner.

Complimentary resort transportation begins 60 minutes prior to Disney theme park opening time and up to 90 minutes after Disney theme park closing time.

Additionally, buses operate until 2:00 AM from the Disney Springs area.

Keep in mind that most of Disney’s deluxe resorts have well-lit, paved walking paths to at least one of the theme parks.

Likewise, many off-site hotels offer a free or fee-based shuttle to the various Disney parks and properties.

If you do end up driving to the parks, however, parking is $25 a day at Disney.

This parking fee applies to all of their parks and comes with in/out privileges.

Click the following image to get your FREE family vacation packing list and BONUS Disney Day Bag packing list that is both customizable and printable!

Disney World Cost Calculator: Lodging

Lodging is a big determinant of your Disney vacation cost calculator.

Quite honestly, this is where you can either spend or save a huge chunk of money.

There are literally a ton of options when it comes to Orlando accommodation options, and prices can range from $100 a night to $800 a night or more.

Your individual selection will come down to your budget, space requirements, location, and availability.

Hotel accommodations are available in the following four categories:

Disney Resort s

There are currently more than 25 on-property Disney-owned resorts to pick from when staying at Walt Disney World.

Disney World Resort hotels are categorized with price categories of Value, Moderate, Deluxe, and Deluxe Villas.

Off-Site Hotels with Disney-Like Benefits

There are some off-site hotels that provide nearly all of the benefits that you’ll find at an on-site Disney World resort.

Hotels with Disney benefits include: The hotels located in Disney Springs plus Shades of Green, The Four Seasons, Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek, Waldorf Astoria, and the Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resorts

Off-Site Hotels

For the most space and cheapest rates, Orlando is packed with off-site hotels in close proximity to Disney World.

Amazing deals can be found on websites like Mousesavers that frequently feature hotels with excellent quality and outstanding value.

We’ll never regret our choice to stay at Holiday Inn Resort Lake Buena Vista and would highly recommend it as an affordable, off-site option.

Vacation Rentals

Many people choose to stay in vacation homes in nearby Celebration or Kissimmee, Florida.

Vacation homes are great since they come with fully-equipped kitchens and come in all different sizes and price ranges.

With so many vacation homes to choose from, it helps to first consult on how to pick the best rentals .

Disney World Cost Calculator: Food

With a Disney World vacation costing anywhere from $1000 – $5000 USD per person, one of the biggest determinants of your overall cost is the amount of money spent on food and dining.

After all, Disney World has a variety of restaurants to choose from, as well as special dining opportunities such as (currently modified) Character Dining experiences.

Options include:

• Counter service (fast-food style): $10-$15 USD per person
• Sit-down: $20-$50 USD per person
• Character meals: $20-$60+ USD per person
• Prix Fixe meals: $29-$79 USD per person

Disney resort guests also have access to purchasing a Disney dining plan.

Essentially you prepay for a set number of meals and snacks to be used at different types of restaurants throughout your stay.

Your Disney dining plan cost calculator will be based on which Disney Dining Plan that you choose in terms of how many meals, snacks, and drinks that it includes.

If you want to reduce the amount you will spend on food, however, your best strategy will be to pack your own meals.

After all, you are allowed to bring food and drink into all Walt Disney World Parks.

We found a ton of value and convenience in stocking our Disney day bag with water bottles, sandwiches, fruit, and other healthy snacks to avoid the high cost of meals on-site.

Other Disney Costs to Consider

Your Disney World trip calculator should account for extras such as:

• Special ticketed events and Disney dinner shows
• Stroller/scooter rentals
• Disney Memory Maker photo packages
• Other Orlando activities and attractions

Adhering to your Disney Cost Calculator

Along with determining approximately how much your Disney Vacation will cost, I highly recommend you put time into planning your days at the parks.

Basic planning will aid you in saving time, avoiding long lines, and helping to stick to your budget.

For your convenience, be sure to consult our best Disney World tips and review our Disney packing list (that includes the top 9 most forgotten items to bring to Disney!).

In addition, our 1-day Disney touring plans can be found here:

• Magic Kingdom
• Animal Kingdom

Summary: Disney Cost Calculator 2022

• Drive or fly to Orlando based on your budget and proximity.
• Reduce transportation costs once there by using any complimentary services offered to you.
• Travel during the ‘slower’ months for the best overall prices.
• Check every park ticket offer that applies to you and choose the cheapest option and how many parks you plan to visit.
• Choose a lodging option while considering the perks of staying on-site, versus the cost savings of staying off-site.
• Go all-in with a Disney dining plan or save by picking up groceries and packing as many meals/snacks as you can.
• Don’t forget to account for extras like parking, souvenirs, and ticketed events and activities.
• Finally, go into your Disney World vacation with a solid touring plan in order to adhere to your Disney World cost calculator and budget.

One Week Disney World Budget for a Family of Five

Answering the question of, “How much does it cost to go to Disney World” is tricky, as you can now see.

Disney is definitely not a one-size-fits-all family vacation.

The following is a breakdown, using the components of our Disney World cost calculator 2022, of what our family of 5 spent during 1-week in Orlando .

As an overview, we rented a minivan from our home state of Minnesota and drove to Orlando.

We stayed off-site, visited 3 Disney theme parks, used complimentary hotel transportation, and did not purchase a Disney dining plan.

Other shortcuts for us involved eating breakfast (from our own groceries) in our hotel every morning and shopping for souvenirs off-site.

Your Disney trip cost calculator will be more expensive if you fly to Orlando, stay on-site, visit all 4 parks, and purchase a Disney dining plan.

Click here for a free pdf version of our Disney World cost calculator that outlines our bottom line price of $5,030 . (Photo image below.)

How much did you anticipate spending on your Disney World vacation? Was there anything that surprised you when using this Disney Vacation calculator? Jen

If you enjoyed our Disney World price calculator , click here continue planning your Disney World vacation!

Disney World Touring Plans:

• 1-Day Magic Kingdom Itinerary: A Perfect Day At Disney
• 1-Day At Animal Kingdom Itinerary: The Perfect Family Touring Plan
• One Day Itinerary for Epcot: Family Touring Plan

Disney World Ride Tips:

• Disney World Magic Kingdom Wait Times (Longest and Shortest Lines)
• Top 5 Rides for Toddlers at Magic Kingdom

Disney World Planning Tips:

• The 10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Our First Disney Vacation
• Disney Packing List: 9 Things You Can’t Forget
• 7 Things to do on a Disney World Non-Park Day
• Best Off-Site Hotel Near Disney World, Orlando
• Hoop Dee Doo Musical Revue: Our Complete Guide

Disney World Cost:

• Disney World Cost Calculator: How Much Will it Cost?
• How to Save Money At Disney World: 15 Ways We Saved Big

*Before leaving, be sure to check our  Travel Resources Page  to find exclusive travel discounts and to book hotels, rental cars, and guided tours.*

Jen Brommer is a family travel expert. She has been featured as an authority on several notable travel websites and is a member of the Family Travel Association (FTA), Midwest Travel Network, and TravMedia global media network.

A prominent content creator and influencer on Instagram, Jen has over 150K unique monthly blog readers from countries all over the world. She has spent the last 16 years planning fun, and hassle-free family vacations for her family of 5.

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I love how you spell it out. Disney can add up quickly, and this helps people think through everything.

Thanks Kirsten! It was fun to sit down and write this article….my husband actually helped me on this one 🙂

So helpful! A WDW vacation expenses can get out of hand if we’re not careful!

Right?!?! Without planning a big beforehand, the expenses can get totally out of hand 🙂 Thanks for your note!

This is very handy cost calculator for Disney, which is often more expensive then one thinks!

Thanks! I love seeing the cost of something laid out step-by-step 🙂

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Disney Park Nerds

What is the Average Disney World Vacation Cost? (Explained)

Welcome to your guide for planning a magical yet budget-friendly Disney World vacation.

What is the average Disney World vacation cost? – In 2023, the average cost for a baseline Disney World vacation for a family of four was $6,320, but with expected increases in hotel and ticket prices, the projected cost for the same experience could be around $6,926 in 2024.

• Park Tickets: 5-day base tickets – $2,183
• Accommodation: 5-night stay at Pop Century Hotel – $1,268
• Dining and Food Expenses: Combination of quick-service meals, snacks, and two table service meals – $1,527
• Flights from New York (round-trip, per person) – $260 x 4 = $1,040
• Transportation to and from Orlando International Airport (round-trip) – $130
• Genie+ for two days – $172

Adding these up:

$2,183 (tickets) + $1,268 (accommodation) + $1,527 (food) + $1,040 (flights) + $130 (MCO-Disney transportation) + $172 (Genie+) = $6,320

In this guide, we will explore the various components that contribute to the cost of a Disney World vacation.

Your Guide to Disney World Tickets at Costco

Introduction to the Average Disney World Vacation Cost

The average Disney World vacation cost can vary significantly based on several factors such as the time of your visit, choice of accommodations, dining preferences, and whether you opt for any additional services like the Genie+ and Lightning Lanes or special ticketed events.

Park Tickets

Park tickets are a substantial slice of the average Disney World vacation cost.

The final price depends on various factors like the number of days you plan to visit, the type of ticket (base or park hopper), and the age of the attendees.

In our baseline Disney World vacation cost for 2023, we’ve considered five-day base tickets for a family of four, coming to around $2,183 .

Accommodations

Accommodation costs can swing widely depending on your hotel choice, the season of your visit, and how long you’re planning to stay.

In our 2023 baseline scenario, we’ve accounted for a five-night stay at Pop Century, one of Disney’s value category resorts, costing around $1,268 for a family of four.

It’s vital to keep in mind that hotel prices fluctuate, and you might score a lower rate with available discounts or promotions.

Dining and Food Expenses

The average Disney World vacation cost isn’t just about park tickets and a place to crash; it’s also about delicious eats!

In our 2023 baseline, we’ve included quick service meals, snacks, and two table service meals, adding up to around $1,527 for a family of four . Note that at the time of writing, dining plans were not available, and we’ve estimated food costs independently.

Transportation

Transportation costs add another layer to your Disney World vacation budget.

This includes getting to and from Disney World, as well as any in-resort transport.

In our 2023 baseline, we’re considering flights from New York, costing roughly $260 per person for round trip flights. In addition, transportation from Orlando International Airport is around $130 round trip.

Keep in mind, if you plan on renting a car or using services like Uber, those costs will also factor into your budget.

Optional Extras: Genie+, Lightning Lanes, Special Events

Extras can often be the cherry on top of your Disney World adventure, enhancing the overall experience.

However, they also add to the average Disney World vacation cost.

For our baseline, we’ve included two days of Genie+ at an estimated cost of $172, while individual Lightning Lanes and special events are not considered.

These extras’ costs can vary depending on what you choose.

It’s crucial to remember that these costs are based on our 2023 baseline Disney World vacation for a family of four.

Actual costs can fluctuate based on your personal choices, travel dates, available discounts or promotions, and more.

This guide serves as a starting point to help you craft your magical vacation within your budget.

Estimating the Cost of a Baseline Disney World Vacation in 2023

An excellent place to start when planning your Disney World vacation is understanding the average Disney World vacation cost for a baseline trip.

This basic vacation package offers a fantastic Disney experience without breaking the bank.

Description of the Baseline Disney World Vacation

A baseline Disney World vacation offers a comprehensive experience that includes accommodations at a value resort, park tickets, some elements of the Genie+ service, dining, and transportation.

This vacation assumes a family of four, with two adults, one child aged 10+, and one child aged 3-9, staying for five nights and visiting the parks for five days.

Detailed Breakdown of Costs Involved in the Baseline Vacation

• Hotel : $1,268 for five nights at the Pop Century Resort, one of Disney’s value accommodations with fun theming and excellent amenities.
• Tickets : $2,183 for five-day base tickets. These tickets allow you to visit one park per day without the ability to hop between parks.
• Genie+ : $172 for two days of Genie+ usage. Genie+ allows you to save time waiting in lines at certain attractions.
• Transportation : $1,040 for round trip flights. This cost can vary depending on where you’re flying from and when you’re traveling. It does not include the cost of transportation from the airport to Disney World as Disney offers complimentary Magical Express service.
• Dining : $1,527 for dining. This includes an estimated cost for quick service meals, snacks, and two table service meals per day.

Total Estimated Cost

Adding up these components gives us the total estimated cost of the baseline Disney World vacation in 2023 for a family of four, which is $6,320.

This provides an excellent reference point for the average Disney World vacation cost.

Please remember that costs can vary depending on many factors, including travel dates, personal preferences, and any extras you choose to add.

Looking Ahead: Projected Costs for a Disney World Vacation in 2024

A trip to Disney World is an investment in unforgettable family memories.

However, it’s essential to budget accurately for this adventure.

As we look ahead, we’ll anticipate some increases in the average Disney World vacation cost for 2024.

Expected Increases in Various Cost Components

With each passing year, prices tend to rise due to factors such as inflation and operational costs.

For a Disney World vacation in 2024, we expect increases in various cost components:

• Hotel Pricing : Anticipate an increase of approximately 6%.
• Ticket Pricing : For the specific dates used in the example ( early June) , expect a significant increase of nearly 18%.
• Other Costs : It’s prudent to assume a reasonable 5% increase for dining, Lightning Lanes, transportation, and other miscellaneous expenses.

Calculated Projected Cost for the Baseline Vacation in 2024

Considering these anticipated cost increases, here’s the projected breakdown of the average Disney World vacation cost for a family of four in 2024:

• Hotel : $1,344. This figure represents the baseline hotel cost after a 6% increase.
• Tickets : $2,570. This is the anticipated baseline ticket cost after an 18% increase.
• Other Costs : $3,012. This estimate includes dining, Lightning Lanes, transportation, and other incidental expenses.

The total projected cost for the Baseline Disney World Vacation in 2024, therefore, is $6,926.

Comparisons Between 2023 and 2024 Costs

To appreciate these projections, let’s compare the projected costs for 2024 with the actual costs for 2023:

• Hotel : The baseline hotel cost increased from $1,268 in 2023 to $1,344 in 2024, a hike of 6%.
• Tickets : The baseline ticket cost jumped from $2,183 in 2023 to $2,570 in 2024, representing a significant 18% increase.
• Total Trip Cost : The total estimated cost for the Baseline Disney World Vacation rose from $6,320 in 2023 to $6,926 in 2024. That’s a notable increase of nearly 10%.

It’s important to note that these figures are projected costs and are subject to change.

The actual costs may vary based on various factors, including the timing of your visit, the choice of hotel, ticket options, and dining preferences.

Regardless, this projection provides a useful guide as you plan for your 2024 Disney World adventure.

Case Study: Cost Breakdowns for Different Budget Categories

Planning a Disney World vacation involves careful consideration of your budget.

To help you make an informed decision, let’s look at two case studies featuring different budget categories: an Expensive Trip that showcases various enhancements and upgrades, and a Budget Trip that incorporates cost-saving measures.

The Expensive Trip: Enhancements and Upgrades

Indulging in an expensive trip allows for more flexibility, convenience, and enjoyment. It may add to the average Disney World vacation cost, but the resulting experiences are often incomparable.

1. Description of the Expensive Trip and its Additional Features

An Expensive Trip to Disney World entails certain luxuries and conveniences, which include:

• An upgrade to the Contemporary Resort for a prime location and impressive amenities.
• Purchasing park hopper tickets, providing the freedom to visit multiple parks in a single day.
• More days of Genie+ and individual Lightning Lanes for faster access to attractions.
• Upgrading dining options for a diverse gastronomic experience.
• Participation in a ticketed event for an exclusive Disney experience.

2. Breakdown of the Costs Involved

Given the luxurious nature of the Expensive Trip, expect the following costs:

• Hotel Upgrade (Contemporary) : Cost varies based on availability and season.
• Ticket Upgrade (Park Hopper) : Cost varies based on the number of days.
• More Genie+ and Lightning Lanes : Cost depends on the number of days and attractions selected.
• Dining Upgrade : Cost will vary based on chosen dining options and restaurants.
• Ticketed Event : Costs depend on the specific event and ticket prices.

Considering these factors, the estimated costs for the Expensive Trip are as follows:

• Family of Three: $8,298
• Family of Four: $9,958
• Family of Five: $11,378

These costs mainly stem from the hotel upgrade to the Contemporary Resort, with other enhancements also contributing to the overall increase in the average Disney World vacation cost.

The Budget Trip: Cost-Saving Measures

If you’re seeking a magical Disney World vacation without breaking the bank, the Budget Trip is designed with various cost-saving measures to keep expenses manageable.

1. Description of the Budget Trip and its Cost-Saving Measures

The Budget Trip incorporates cost-saving measures that maintain the magic of Disney while keeping costs low. These measures include:

• Opting for a budget-friendly hotel like All-Star Movies.
• Purchasing base tickets without the park hopper option.
• Reducing the trip duration to four nights.
• Choosing quick-service meals over table-service meals to cut down on dining costs.
• Utilizing economical transportation options like Disney’s bus service or Uber.

For the Budget Trip, the estimated costs for a family of four are:

• Hotel : $100 per night (offsite hotels) or $1,268 (All-Star Movies)
• Tickets : $2,183 (five-day base tickets)
• Genie+ and Lightning Lanes : Costs are excluded to keep the budget down.
• Dining : $1,067 (three quick-service meals per day)
• Transportation : Costs vary depending on the chosen option (e.g., Disney bus service or Uber)

By carefully making selections within each cost component, the Budget Trip aims to keep expenses lower than the average Disney World vacation cost.

Tips for Planning a Cost-Efficient Disney World Vacation

When planning a trip to Disney World, the cost can often be a significant consideration.

While Disney is indeed a magical place, it’s also known for being quite expensive.

However, with the right strategies, you can manage your average Disney World vacation cost effectively.

Here are some tips to help you plan a memorable, yet cost-efficient Disney vacation.

Choosing the Right Time to Visit

When you choose to visit Disney World can greatly impact your vacation cost.

Prices can fluctuate based on demand, with higher prices typically occurring during peak season and holidays.

• Off-Peak Season : Visiting during the off-peak season can lead to lower prices for both park tickets and accommodations. Generally, the off-peak periods include the weeks after New Year until mid-February, late August through early October, and certain weeks in November and early December.
• Avoid Peak Times : If possible, try to avoid times when children are typically out of school, such as spring break, summer holidays, and winter holidays. During these periods, prices tend to increase significantly due to the high demand.

Selecting Accommodations that Fit Your Budget

Accommodation is one of the major expenses during a Disney World vacation.

However, Disney provides a range of options to cater to various budget levels.

• Value Resorts : If you’re on a budget, Disney’s Value Resorts like Pop Century and the All-Star Movies can offer a more affordable stay. These resorts provide Disney-themed accommodations and benefits like free transportation to and from the parks.
• Disney World Good Neighbor Hotels : Another option to consider is staying at an offsite hotel. Many of these hotels offer competitive prices, and some even provide complimentary shuttle services to the Disney parks.

Making the Most of Dining and Food Options

Food and dining can add a considerable amount to your Disney World vacation cost.

However, with a bit of planning, you can manage these costs effectively.

• Quick Service Over Table Service : Opt for quick-service restaurants instead of table-service restaurants to save money. Quick-service restaurants offer a wide variety of food at a lower cost.
• Bring Your Own Snacks : Disney allows guests to bring their own food and drinks into the parks. Packing snacks and refillable water bottles can save you from purchasing expensive snacks inside the park.

Taking Advantage of Discounts and Special Offers

Disney and various third-party vendors often offer discounts and special offers, which can significantly reduce your average Disney World vacation cost.

• Package Deals : Disney frequently offers vacation packages that bundle accommodations, tickets, and sometimes dining. These packages can offer substantial savings compared to purchasing these components separately.
• Discounts and Special Offers : Keep an eye out for discounts on park tickets, hotel rooms, and dining options. Check Disney’s official website and sign up for newsletters from trusted third-party vendors to stay updated on the latest deals and offers.

In conclusion, while Disney World can be expensive, with careful planning and budgeting, it is possible to manage your expenses and enjoy a magical Disney vacation that won’t break the bank.

How much does the average person spend on a Disney trip?

The average person might spend around $1,580 on a Disney trip, considering the cost of the baseline Disney World vacation in 2023 for a family of four (two adults, one child 10+, one child 3-9) is approximately $6,320. Please note that this estimate can vary significantly depending on various factors like accommodation, dining options, length of stay, and ticket type.

How much is the average stay at Disney World?

The cost of an average stay at Disney World can vary widely based on factors like the choice of accommodation, the duration of the visit, and the time of year. For the baseline Disney World vacation in 2023, a five-night stay at the Pop Century hotel for a family of four was priced at $1,268.

How much is Disney World for 7 days?

The cost for Disney World for seven days would depend on various factors. Extending the baseline Disney World vacation in 2023 for a family of four by two days would increase the cost. Additional costs would include extra hotel nights, park tickets, and dining expenses.

What is the average cost for a family of 5 to go to Disney World?

The average cost for a family of five to go to Disney World would be higher than the $6,320 estimated for a family of four in 2023. The exact amount would depend on various factors, including the age of the children and the family’s choice of accommodation, dining, tickets, and extras.

What is a good budget to spend at Disney?

A good budget to spend at Disney would depend on a family’s preferences and financial situation. However, based on the baseline Disney World vacation in 2023 for a family of four, one could consider $6,320 as a reference point. This cost could be adjusted upwards or downwards depending on the family’s choices about accommodation, dining, length of stay, and extras.

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We saved every receipt — here's how much it actually costs to go to Disney World

Ever go on vacation and save every single receipt to see what it really costs? Much like I don't get on a scale as soon as I return from a trip, I don't typically total every snack, tip and dollar I spend while away from home. A little ignorance is sometimes bliss.

However, keeping track of everything you spend at the parks — right down to an impromptu Mickey ice cream bar to beat the Florida heat — can help you figure out exactly how much it costs to go on a family vacation to Disney World so you can better prepare for future trips.

Having that intel is especially important to those with limited budgets, as everyone knows a trip to Disney World is not an inexpensive family vacation.

With so many expenses to factor in these days, is it still possible for hard-working, middle-class families to afford a Disney World vacation if they make some strategic choices to rein in their out-of-pocket costs? On my most recent trip to Disney World, I put on my adulting ears and saved every single receipt to find out just how much a trip to Disney World costs for a family of four in 2023.

How much it costs to go to Disney World

Before covering each expense from my trip, it's important to know a few key details.

For this trip, I considered costs for my family of four: two adults, a teenager and a child.

While our transportation to Orlando was not factored in since that expense can vary significantly depending on whether you drive or fly (and if the latter, where you fly from), I did include other aspects of our visit, including three nights in hotels, two days spent in the parks and one day spent by our resort pool.

We neither purposefully went a strict budget route nor had a blowout Disney trip. Rather than choose the cheapest option for everything involved, we treated ourselves to a few pricier options without spending well beyond our means. Doing so made it possible for us to still have a nice but budget-conscious family trip.

Related: Tips for visiting Disney World: 18 ways to save money and have more fun

Theme park tickets

The main reason why a trip to Disney World is never going to be inexpensive for a family is because theme park tickets are pricey all on their own. Even if you never ate out at Disney and used points for your hotel stay, you are still looking at spending hundreds of dollars a day for a family to get in the gates.

Currently, one-day theme park tickets to Disney World start at $109 before taxes are factored in ... and that price only applies to Disney's Animal Kingdom. If you want to go to Magic Kingdom, it'll cost you more. That's especially true if you wish to visit on a day when kids are out of school since the ticket price is tied to expected demand.

Knowing how expensive theme park tickets can get for multiple people, we opted for two-day tickets that granted us entry to Disney's Hollywood Studios on one day and Magic Kingdom on the other day. Excluding taxes, the total came out to $282.55 per person for everyone 10 and up and $273.10 for the 8-year-old. Once taxes were added in, we collectively spent $1,193.60 for our two days of Disney World tickets for four people.

Total for tickets: $1,193.60

Related: How to use points to buy Disney tickets

Hotel accommodations

Our first night was spent at the Walt Disney World Swan Resort . To pay for the night, we used a combination of a Marriott Bonvoy 35,000-point certificate from having a Marriott credit card and 7,000 Marriott Bonvoy points since the one-night stay was priced at 42,000 points.

Despite using points to cover the cost of our room, we still needed to pay a resort fee plus a parking fee. As a result, I knew I'd be on the hook for at least $100 for the night.

Since I was aware of some out-of-pocket expenses that would come with our stay, I decided to use an Amex Offer that awarded me $100 back on $300 in Marriott charges. We needed to eat and grab a few accessories like MagicBand chargers anyway, so by tacking on a nice dinner at the property's new Rosa Mexicano restaurant and visiting the on-site gift shop, we were able to cross that $300 threshold.

With our $100 statement credit from the Amex Offer applied, we ended up spending $210.85 on our first night of lodging.

For the second and third nights of our trip, we moved to a two-bedroom villa at Disney's Riviera Resort . Unable to justify the splurge on our own, we decided to share it with another family of four.

Noticing the out-of-pocket cost was higher for traditional bookings, we opted to rent Disney Vacation Club points to reserve our villa. By renting from a friend, which came with a slight discount, we collectively paid $19 per point for 118 points (or $2,242 for the two-night stay). My family's half worked out to $1,121 for two nights (or $560.50 per night), a reasonable weekend rate for a suite at a top-tier Deluxe Disney resort.

Total for hotels: $1,331.85 (plus a Marriott Bonvoy 35,000-point certificate and 7,000 Marriott Bonvoy points)

Related: Rent DVC points via TPG's partner, David's Vacation Club Rentals

Ground transportation

When it comes to getting a car and getting on the road quickly in Orlando, Hertz has never let me down, so I tend to use the company when I visit Disney World. This trip was no exception.

Our car rental (which was for one day longer than this three-day trip since I used it for work after our vacation) came to $202. The cheapest type of car available was a manager's choice electric vehicle, so despite preferring a standard vehicle due to the lack of chargers in Orlando, we received an electric model to save ourselves about $100.

There were two (slow) charging stations at Disney's Riviera Resort, and I luckily snagged one of those on our last day to charge the car back up for $5.41 via the ChargePoint app. Since Disney resort guests do not have to pay parking fees at Disney-owned hotels and theme parks, we did not incur any additional out-of-pocket expenses.

Total for ground transportation: $207.41

Related: From 'fart mode' to battery woes: 5 things I learned from my 1st Tesla rental

Meals and snacks

Like room rates, meal prices at Disney World can fluctuate significantly, making it possible to spend a lot, a little or somewhere in between. We ultimately landed somewhere in the middle, opting for a few pricier sit-down meals, several cheaper meals and some strategic packing of snacks and drinks we got at grocery store prices.

The majority of our restaurant expenses came from two meals: a $195 lunch at Roundup Rodeo BBQ in Toy Story Land at Disney's Hollywood Studios, which was super filling and a lot of fun, and a $151.52 character breakfast at Topolino's Terrace — Flavors of the Riviera at Disney's Riviera Resort.

While our entire family joined for lunch at Roundup Rodeo BBQ, character breakfasts can get quite expensive, so we split up when it came time to eat at Topolino's Terrace. Only myself and the younger kids in our larger party — aka those who would really value meeting various Disney characters — took part in this fantastic experience, as it costs $45 per adult and $29 per child 9 and under.

The rest of the meals we enjoyed were all quick-service options. Generally, these can be ordered in Disney's mobile app and average no more than $10 to $12 per person per meal.

We'd often share meals, lean heavily into the kids section of the menu and leave no chicken finger behind when paying theme park prices to eat. That resulted in us spending $506.69 for meals for four people on all three days of our visit, excluding dinner at the Walt Disney World Swan Resort on our first night since it's factored into our lodging expenses.

When our budget needed some relief, we supplemented with Uncrustables and grab-and-go snack and breakfast items we ordered via Vacation Grocery Delivery , a local grocery delivery service that caters to theme park visitors. The total for our groceries came out to $91.09.

Total for meals and snacks: $597.78

Related: The best restaurants at Disney World

Skip-the-line passes

Another area where you can see the price for your trip to Disney World jump is on extras like skip-the-line passes.

Long gone are Disney World's free FastPasses. Instead, visitors can now purchase Genie+ and Lightning Lanes to bypass long wait times for rides.

The prices for these passes vary by park and by date, so it's hard to know exactly how much it will cost for this service until your trip begins. However, it's not uncommon to see prices for Genie+ hover between $15 and $35 per person per day.

During our trip, Genie+ cost $23 per person (plus tax) for our Magic Kingdom day and $21 per person (plus tax) for our day at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Had we been visiting Epcot or Disney's Animal Kingdom instead of Magic Kingdom and Disney's Hollywood Studios, we would've spent a few dollars less since our chosen parks are the two most expensive options for Genie+.

On top of what you may choose to spend on Genie+, which comes with access to shorter lines for many rides in the park, you may also wish to buy individual Lightning Lanes for a few popular rides that aren't covered by Genie+. Know, though, that if you purchase all the individual rides plus Genie+ for every member of your family every day of your visit, it will add several hundred dollars to your trip. Doing so does mean you'll spend more of your time on rides than in lines, so ultimately, the decision depends on what you value more: time or money.

For our trip, we opted to skip some individual Lightning Lanes for rides we've experienced several times before, including Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, which would cost $20 per person. However, on our Magic Kingdom day, we purchased individual Lighting Lanes for Tron Lightcycle / Run for the three in the family who wanted to ride it ($63.90) and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train for the two kids ($21.30).

Like with character meals, being judicious with which family members truly want to experience the individual Lightning Lane rides can shave some costs off your trip. On the flip side, if one person is going to get Genie+, everyone in the group really needs to get it to enjoy the day together. We saved hours per day in line by purchasing Genie+ and Lightning Lanes, so to me, the added cost was money well spent.

Total for skip-the-line passes: $276.92

Related: Is Disney's paid FastPass, Genie+, worth it? Here's how it saved me nearly 3 hours in line

Miscellaneous expenses

While my family has gotten pretty disciplined about reining in ancillary Disney costs since we are there a few times a year, there will always be extra expenses that sneak onto a trip to Disney World.

Whether you spot a must-have souvenir, need a replacement MagicBand or, in our case, race to buy a fan after mistakenly leaving battery-operated ones in the room on an extremely hot evening, you'll want to have a little wiggle room in your budget to cover these unexpected extras. Ultimately, our trip total included an additional $37 for tips outside of meals and $18.38 for a hand-held fan .

Total for miscellaneous expenses: $55.38

Related: How much is too much — has theme park pricing gone too far?

What it really costs to go to Disney World

For four people (two adults, one teenager and one kid) spending three nights and three days at Disney World — with one of those being a non-park day — the total cost came to $3,662.94. That breaks down to $915.74 per person for the trip, which is the equivalent of spending $305.25 per person per day.

Based on our example, the majority of Disney World trip expenses are divvied up as follows:

• 36% lodging
• 33% tickets
• 7.5% skip-the-line passes
• 6% ground transportation
• 1.5% miscellaneous expenses

While we kept our daily expenses a bit over $1,000 for the family, it's easy to exceed this amount as a family of four visiting Disney World, even if you're keeping an eye on your spending, so be sure to use as many money-saving tips applicable to your trip as possible to bring your costs down.

With some careful planning, it is possible to have a budget-friendly trip to Disney .

For additional tips about how to trim Disney World expenses, read these stories:

• How to save money at Disney so you don't go 'bibbidi-bobbidi-broke'
• Can you really save hundreds of dollars at Disney World by renting DVC points? We tested it to find out
• Are the Disney Visa credit cards worth it?
• I go to Disney 15 times a year — here's why the Disney Visa is in my wallet

How Much Does It Cost to Go on a Disney World Vacation? (calculator and video)

Are you planning a Disney World vacation ? A Disney vacation is one of the most expensive family vacations you can take. It’s a lot more expensive than your typical road trip or even when compared to your Caribbean beach resort vacation. That’s because aside from the lodging, transportation, and food cost, you also have to add in the hefty Disney World ticket prices. Below, I’ve created a calculator for you to compute the total cost of your Disney World vacation.

Here is my video: How Much is a Disney World vacation? You can also read the article below for details and use the calculator to price out your Disney vacation.

I’ve priced out the cost for a summer vacation in mid-July. All the prices in the calculator include taxes and tips to give you a better idea of your total Disney World Vacation cost.

What are the Expenses of a Disney World Vacation?

There are 5 main expenses of a Disney World Vacation. I have listed below the 5 expenses to consider when planning your Disney Vacation. The actual cost of each expense will be based on the type of resort you are staying in and the type of restaurants you will be eating at. My Disney World calculator below will let you price out your vacation based on the type of traveler you are- budget, mid-price or luxury traveler.

• Disney World Theme Park Ticket Prices
• Lodging Expense
• Ground Transporation or Car Rental Expense
• Food Expense

How Much Does it Cost to Stay at Disney World Resorts?

Disney World Resort hotels can cost you between $200 to $800 per night. If you are going for 5 days, your lodging expense can cost you between $1000 to $4000 for 5 days.

Disney World Resort hotels are divided into 3 tiers- value resorts, moderate resorts and deluxe resorts. At the low end, you have the value resorts which include hotels like Disney’s All-Stars Music Resort, Disney’s All-Stars Movie Resort and Disney’s All-Stars Sports. These value resorts offer families basic, motel-like accommodations. Disney World value resorts cost $200 per night per room in July.

The next tier up is the Moderate Resorts which includes Caribbean Beach, Port Orleans and Coronado Springs. The moderate resorts cost around $300 per night per room.

The next tier up is the Deluxe Resorts which includes Animal Kingdom Lodge, Grand Floridian, The Polynesian, and The Contemporary. These deluxe resorts will cost you $500 per night per room.

I’ve added the villa tier to my Disney World Vacation calculator. The villa tier is not officially a Disney World resort hotel tier. These are condo-style accommodations with kitchens and a living room. They are timeshare lodging but are also available to be booked a la carte. The villas can cost you around $800 per night per unit.

How Much Does It Cost to Stay at Disney World Hotels Outside the Park?

You can stay at an official Disney Partner hotel off-site. These Disney World hotels will still get you some of the perks of staying at a Disney World Resort Hotel such as early theme park entry and shuttle buses to the park. At the low end, you can stay at a Fairfield Inn and Suites Lake Buena Vista that has a shuttle to Epcot with free breakfast for $153 per night (tax included). The mid-tier off-site hotels are comparable to the moderate Disney World resort hotels so I didn’t include it in my calculator. At the high end, you can stay at super luxurious Four Season Orlando for $1233 per night. They also have a shuttle to Disney World parks.

Another option for Disney World hotels outside the park is to stay at condo-style resorts. These are typically time-share units but you can book them even if you are not a time-share owner. Club Wyndham Cypress Palm is in Kissimmee and a 10-minute drive to Disney World theme parks. It costs $135 per night to stay in a 1 bedroom with a kitchen. A 3 bedroom at WorldMark Reunion costs $323 per night. The 3 bedroom unit sleeps 8 and is only a 13-minute drive to Disney World.

How Much are Tickets to Disney World?

Disney World tickets cost varies by date but on off-peak days you can get Disney World tickets at $109 per day for anyone ages 10 and up and $104 per day for children ages 3-9 years old. These ticket prices are for 1 park per day. Disney World Park Hopper tickets start at $174 per day for ages 10 and up and $164 per day for children ages 3-9 years old.

I priced out Disney World tickets for mid-July travel and that is more expensive than the $109 per day. In July, Disney World tickets are $134 per day for anyone ages 10 and up and $129 per day for children ages 3-9 years old. While Park Hopper tickets in July are $194 per day for ages 10 and up and $189 per day for children ages 3-9 years old.

The Disney World ticket prices above are for one-day admission which is the most expensive pricing. Disney World ticket prices come down in price when you go for more days. For example, in July, if you go to Disney World for 5 days, the cost for an adult 5 days ticket is $514 total or $102.80 per day. That means you are saving $31 a day by going for 5 days versus if you just go for a day. That is a $155 savings for the 5 days.

How Much is Food at Disney World?

Disney World food costs will depend on the type of restaurants you eat at. Most families will eat breakfast at their resort which will cost around $11.50 for counter service restaurants and $35.50 for luxury resort sit-down breakfast. Some families make their own breakfast in their room with granola bars and cereals which will further lower the cost of breakfast. Or if you are staying at an off-site hotel with free breakfast then your breakfast food cost is $0!

For lunch, most families will eat at a quick-service restaurant in the theme park. Lunch for adults at Disney World quick-service restaurants costs around $18 and lunch for kids is $8.50. Some families prefer a sit-down lunch in the theme park which will cost $39 for adults and $14 for kids. These prices include taxes and tips. Families on a budget can also pack a sandwich since Disney World allows you to bring outside food.

Dinner is where the food cost can fluctuate. Dinner for adults at Disney World quick-service restaurants costs the same as lunch. It’s around $18 for adults and $8.50 for kids. Families staying late at theme parks will generally opt for dinner at quick-service restaurants in the theme park.

Families who are back at their resort will probably prefer a sit-down dinner with alcoholic beverages for adults. The cost is $55 for an adult dinner with an appetizer, entree, and one alcoholic beverage. For kids, the dinner cost is $15 for a kids meal. These prices include taxes and tips. If you are staying at a luxury resort off-site, your sit-down dinner will be more expensive. I’ve included the higher price in my calculator, the cost is $83.50 for an adult dinner with an appetizer, entree, and one alcoholic beverage. For kids, the dinner cost is $20.25 for a kids meal with a drink.

Families on a budget can make dinner in their room with supermarket-bought salads and sandwiches. You can cook hot meals in your resort if you are staying at a condo-style resort with a full kitchen.

Use my Disney World calculator below to price out your family’s food costs. You will be able to mix and match dining costs- for example, you may plan to make your own breakfast in your room all morning, lunch at quick-service restaurants, and dinner at sit-down restaurants.

How Much is Character Dining at Disney World?

Character Dining at Disney World is $76 for adults and $38 for kids. These prices include taxes and tips. Most families may splurge on one Character Dining meal during their trip. My Disney World calculator will let you add on the Character Dining cost for your trip.

How Much is Car Rental at Disney World?

Car rental in Orlando costs $86.79 per day for a 4-passenger sedan while a mid-size SUV costs $115 per day and a mini-van will cost you $167.95 per day. If you are staying at a Disney World resort hotel then you don’t need to rent a car since you can take the complimentary shuttles and water taxis to the theme parks. You will need ground transportation to get you from the airport to your Disney World resort hotel though (Disney’s complimentary Magical Express bus service is no longer available).

How Much Does a Taxi Ride Cost from Orlando Airport to Disney World?

Taxi from Orlando airport to Disney World costs around $68. While a limo ride costs around $90 per hour. It takes 30 minutes to get from Orlando airport to Disney World.

How Much Is Parking at Disney World Theme Parks?

Parking at Disney World Theme Park is $25 for regular parking and $50 for preferred parking. Preferred parking is the parking spots closer to the main entrance while regular parking will be further from the main theme park entrance. If you are staying off-site, you will need to add the cost of parking to your Disney World Vacation expense since you will be driving into Disney World.

How Much Is Airfare to Disney World?

Airfare to Disney World will depend on where you live. If you are coming from New York, it’s $453 per person roundtrip to fly from JFK Airport to Orlando International Airport. I’ve left the field blank for you to fill out your own airfare cost. That way it will be included in your total Disney World Vacation cost in the calculator.

How Much Does It Cost for a Family of Four to Go to Disney World?

I’ve priced out 3 scenarios for a family of four going on their Disney World vacation.

Scenario 1: Thrifty Family of Four on a Disney World Vacation

The first scenario is a thrifty family of four from New York City going on their first Disney World vacation. They are going for 6 nights and will fly economy from New York City to Orlando airport. They are staying at a value hotel at the Disney World resort. They bought granola bars and cereal so they can eat in their room and save on breakfast. They plan to eat at counter service restaurants for lunch and dinner. They will splurge and do one Character Dinner. They will not rent a car and will take a taxi to and from the airport. They plan to go to the theme parks for 4 days (no park hopper) and will take the extra day hanging out at the pool or going to Disney Springs (free, no entrance fee). The two kids are under 10 years old so they will be getting the child ticket pricing. I also included 4 days of Genie+ to the total cost. The total cost of their Disney World Vacation is $6117.70. That is $254.90 per person per day. If you take out the cost of airfare, the total cost of their Disney World Vacation is $4309.70 or $179.57 per person per day. Below you will find the breakdown of their Disney World vacation cost.

Scenario 2: Moderate Budget Family of Four on a Disney World Vacation

The second scenario is a family of four from New York City going on their first Disney World vacation. They are not as thrifty and have a moderate budget. They are going for 6 nights and will fly economy from New York City to Orlando airport. They are staying at a moderate hotel at the Disney World resort. They plan to eat at counter service restaurants for breakfast and lunch. For dinner, they will eat at sit-down restaurants. They will splurge and do one Character Dinner. They will not rent a car and will take a taxi to and from the airport. They plan to go to the theme parks for 4 days (no park hopper) and will take the extra day hanging out at the pool or going to Disney Springs (free, no entrance fee). The two kids are under 10 years old so they will be getting the child ticket pricing. I also included 4 days of Genie+ to the total cost. The total cost of their Disney World Vacation is $7465.30. That is $311.05 per person per day. If you take out the cost of airfare, the total cost of their Disney World Vacation is $5657.30 or $235.72 per person per day. Below you will find the breakdown of their Disney World vacation cost.

Scenario 3: Upscale Family of Four on a Disney World Vacation

The third scenario is a family of four from New York City going on their first Disney World vacation. They are an affluent family who likes to splurge. They are going for 6 nights and will fly first class from New York City to Orlando airport. They are staying at Four Seasons Orlando which is a Disney World Partner hotel so there is a complimentary shuttle to theme parks. They plan to eat at table service restaurants for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They will do one Character Dinner. They will not rent a car and will take a limo to and from the airport. They plan to go to the theme parks for 4 days (with park hopper) and will take the extra day hanging out at the luxurious Four Seasons resort pool. The two kids are under 10 years old so they will be getting the child ticket pricing. I also included 4 days of Genie+ to the total cost. The total cost of their Disney World Vacation is $16,953.42. That is $706.39 per person per day. If you take out the cost of airfare, the total cost of their Disney World Vacation is $12,665.42 or $527.73 per person per day. Below you will find the breakdown of their Disney World vacation cost.

Disney World Vacation Cost: Comparing the 3 Families

I’ve compared the Disney World Vacation cost of the three families. The difference in cost between the thrifty family and the family with a moderate budget is $1347.60 for the entire trip or $224.60 more per day. The hotel is more expensive and food cost is higher for the family with a moderate budget since they are eating out every meal.

The upscale family’s total cost is approximately 3x more than the thrifty family’s cost. That means the thrift family can go to Disney World three times to spend what the upscale family spends in one Disney World vacation! While the upscale family’s total cost is almost double the cost of the family with a moderate budget.

How to Save on Your Disney World Vacation

As you can see from the Disney World Vacation cost scenarios above, you cut down on your total Disney World Vacation expense by saving on lodging and food costs. If you stay in a value Disney World resort hotel, you save compared to staying in the higher-priced resorts. If you stay off-site at a value resort with free breakfast and a free shuttle to the theme parks, that will also save you money. You can also save money on your Disney World Vacation by eating at counter service restaurants versus table service restaurants. If you have the option to drive to Orlando instead of flying, that is a big saving as well.

You May Also Be Interested in These Disney Vacation Articles:

20 Ways to Save on Your Next Disney Vacation

Should You Hire a Disney VIP Tour Guide? (Pros and Cons)

How Much is a Disney Vacation: Check out our Disney Vacation Calculator

Where to Buy Discount Disney Tickets

What to Splurge on at Disney World

Is Lighting Lane Worth It at Disney World?

How to Avoid Meltdowns at Disney World

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Plan Your Dream Trip To Disney!

What Does a Trip to Disney World Cost? Breakdown by Budget!

July 17, 2023 //  by  Brandi Lyons //   2 Comments

When planning a trip to Disney World, the most common question may be “how much does a trip to Disney World cost?” We know that things can get pretty pricey there, but a trip may be more affordable than you think!

We’ve been to Disney World countless times on all types of budgets. We have taken trips on a very, very tight budget and had a great time doing the cheaper experiences. We’ve spent a little bit more money, and done a few more experiences. And, we’ve visited Disney World with even more money to spend, and have taken advantage of some of the more exclusive experiences they offer.

So trust us, we understand! We’ve compiled all of our knowledge into this article so that you can pick the right budget for you and be able to plan the perfect trip to Disney World – regardless of your budget!

What Can I Expect to Spend on My Trip to Disney World?

There’s no exact math and answer to this question, but we can give you the best estimates for the types of trips you can take. A big factor in how much a trip will cost for you not only depends on where you live and are traveling from, but also what kind of person you are. Not everyone is able to – or wants to – spend a lot of money on a family vacation.

For the sake of this article, we will be looking at the average cost of Disney for a family. We know that may not apply to everyone, but if you look at the parts that do apply to you and your travel party, you should be able to find useful information for Disney vacation prices – no matter what your family size.

There are a ton of ways to do Disney, and this breakdown will help you decide how much to save for a Disney trip.

We are going to breakdown the Disney World costs by budget, mid-range, and expensive.

For examples sake, let’s plan a trip for the last week of September: 9/24/2023 – 9/30/2023. We will use this a guideline for the cost of resort and ticket packages, and because we count the first and last days as arrival and departure, we will be looking at a 5-day ticket, not 7-day. So here’s our breakdown of Disney World package prices:

The Budget cost of a Disney World trip :

• 2 adults (10 and up), 1 child (3-9): $2880.56
• 2 adults (10 and up), 2 children (3-9): $3446.60

The Mid-range trip to Disney cost:

• 2 adults (10 and up), 1 child (3-9): $3674.88
• 2 adults (10 and up), 2 children (3-9): $4240.92

The Expensive trip to Disney cost:

• 2 adults (10 and up), 1 child (3-9): $5122.76
• 2 adults (10 and up), 2 children (3-9): $5688.80

We chose the base tickets for these and standard rooms. If you add on some extras, or choose a preferred room, that will increase your costs (more on that later!).

Just a note, kids under 3 are free and do not need a ticket to enter the parks. If your kids are little, considering taking them! It will save you money, and you can still have fun at Disney World with toddlers !

Also, if your kids are older than 10, you will be paying adult prices. This will completely alter the price of your package – it won’t change your room cost but it will change the cost of your tickets.

How Much Does it Cost to Fly to Disney World?

In order to figure out how much it will cost a family to fly to Disney World, we have to take into account where the family is flying from, and what kind of flights are available to them.

The range we are going to put in here will be based off of North American travelers. If travelling internationally, like from Europe, the cost of the flights will be much more and will make the cost of the overall trip more expensive.

We are also assuming that you will be flying into Orlando International Airport (MCO), since that’s where the paid shuttle services and private car companies will pick you up from. You will have to take the price of each service into account while planning the best budget for you trip.

In order to save even more money on your flight, you can drive to a bigger airport if you don’t have one close to you – these normally have more flight options available. You can also choose a flight with more layovers versus a nonstop option since that will be cheaper as well.

Flights to Disney on a Budget

Depending on how early you book your trip, and the day of the week you flight on, you can score a pretty good deal on flights to Orlando. Try to fly out during the week on a weekday instead of arriving on a weekend.

Look for flights with layovers instead of nonstop, and try not to travel during holidays. You can also book with a “budget airline,” if those are offered at the airport near you.

The average range for budget flights to Orlando will be between $150-$250 per person. These are roundtrip tickets, and if you can find one of these from your local airport, these are great deals to snag!

Mid-Range Flights to Disney

If you don’t mind spending a little bit more for your flight, then a mid-range option may be for you. You can book on a better airline, or get a more premium seat/flight experience. You will also be more likely to book a nonstop flight if that’s a possibility from your location.

The average range for mid-range flights to Orlando will be between $250-$450 per person. Again, these are roundtrip tickets for your trip.

Expensive Flights to Disney

If you are looking for the most luxurious flight experience and don’t care how much money you spend on your flight to Disney World, you can book whatever flight you want. Get a first-class ticket, book a nonstop flight, and choose whatever airline and airport you want.

For an expensive flight to Disney World, the cost per person is from $650 per person and up. Sky’s the limit, literally.

Not Flying to Disney?

If you don’t live crazy far from Orlando, or don’t mind the drive, not flying could be the most cost effective. A couple tanks of gas in your vehicle could be a lot cheaper than a flight, and this could drastically lower the average cost of Disney for a family.

If you and your family are down for the drive and don’t mind a little sightseeing on the way there, maybe take a more cost effective drive.

How Much Does Disney Transportation Cost Around Disney World?

Just like transportation to get there, the cost of Disney World transportation varies. Again, based off your preferences and how much you want to spend, the Disney World cost of transportation ranges from free to expensive.

Transport in Disney World on a Budget

If you are looking to use the most cost effective transportation in Disney World, then you can use the free transportation that’s offered. Disney World buses, boats, Skyliner, and monorails are absolutely free and can be used by anyone staying on property.

These are great options to have because you don’t have to lift a finger and Disney takes care of all the transportation for you!

But, these are only available to people staying on Disney World property, as well as using these forms of transportation may increase wait times for traveling.

Mid-Range Transport in Disney World

Those on the mid-range budget may still choose Disney transport over other forms, but you can opt to use Uber/Lyft/Minnie Van services in order to save time on traveling – especially if you have reservations that you need to get to on time.

Those staying on Disney property can use the Minnie Van service, and whether you’re staying off-site or on property you can use Lyft and Uber.

Expensive Transport in Disney World

If you don’t want to use Disney transportation at all – or you aren’t staying on Disney property – you can rent a car once you arrive at the airport use that for your trip.

Maybe you don’t want to rent a car though and you want to be chauffeured around on your trip, which is way more relaxing anyways, then you can use Uber/Lyft/Minnie Van services for most of your transportation needs. Plus, you can still use Disney transportation when it’s most convenient for you.

You can choose a private car service to take you from the airport to your resort, or even a private service offered by the shuttle bus companies. These will be a lot more expensive than the shared services.

How Much Does Lodging Cost at Disney World?

Even though Disney World offers the most amazing resorts, sometimes staying at them doesn’t always fit into the budget. Staying off property can save a lot of money and provide more space for bigger families.

Both on-site and off-site hotels offer luxury experiences – but they vary in price. So we’ve compiled the best places to stay based off your budget, and there are on-site and off-site options for all budgets.

Budget Lodging

If you’re looking for a cheaper Disney stay, you can stay off of Disney property at both Airbnbs and off-site Disney hotels . Staying at an Airbnb can give bigger families more space and still end up being less than $100 a night!

There are some great ones near Disney World – many of them Disney themed. The off-site Disney hotels offer more luxury for a value price, and can be great choices for smaller families or couples.

Now, if you want to stay on Disney property for a budget, consider staying at one of the Value resorts. You will be able to get the Disney experience and perks, but the price of the hotels will lower the overall cost of your trip. Like we stated earlier, the Budget average cost for a family of 3 to go to Disney World is around $3000, so here we will break down what part of that is the room.

Let’s use our example week from earlier of 9/24/2023 – 9/30/2-2023 for these prices.

The Budget Disney prices for rooms :

• All-Stars (all three), Standard Room: $1005
• Pop Century, Standard Room: $1258.02
• Art of Animation, Standard Room: $1494

Mid-Range Lodging

If you want to spend a little more money on your stay, and receive more perks and more comfort, there are some great mid-range options around Disney World. The Disney Springs hotels are close enough to be considered on property, but your stay will feel more cozy and more luxurious – without the cost.

Booking a Moderate resort on property will also allow you to stay within the mid-range Disney World cost, and these hotels offer more restaurants than the Value resorts and often have better transportation options.

We also have a bona fide Disney Trippers hack for you as well! Did you know you can book DVC rentals for the cost of a Moderate resort? You can! Follow our guide on how to book these DVC rentals at a discounted price, and you may be able to score a resort much closer to your favorite park, or book a room that’s a better fit for a bigger group – without the Deluxe DVC cost!

The Mid-Range Disney prices for rooms:

• Cabins at Fort Wilderness: $2848.98
• Caribbean Beach, Standard Room: $2032.98
• Coronado Springs, Standard Room: $1720.02
• Port Orleans French Quarter: $1915.02
• Port Orleans Riverside: $1803

Expensive Lodging

If you’re travelling to Disney World without a budget, then you can stay wherever you want and spend what you want. Really.

Now, if you want our suggestions, then book a suite at one of the Disney Springs Hotels, or book yourself a room at one of the Deluxe resorts that are on Disney property. You can book a fancy cabin or a Polynesian bungalow on the water, among other fancy rooms offered. Even booking a Deluxe Villa at the Deluxe resorts will make that room rate skyrocket.

And if you’re going to go all out, you can stay Club level at the Deluxe resorts. Club level will add anywhere from $300-$500 more PER NIGHT to your stay.

Club Level gives you complimentary breakfast, alcoholic beverages for adults, assorted warm foods and desserts, as well as unlimited bottles of water and sodas. You also have access to a Resort Concierge who will help you book experiences and reservations, and basically act as a travel agent while you are there.

Like we stated earlier, the expensive average cost for a family of 4 to go to Disney is around $5800 – and that’s the low end.

The Expensive Disney prices for rooms:

• Animal Kingdom Lodge, Standard Room: $3258
• Beach Club Resort: $3795
• Boardwalk Inn: $3822
• Contemporary Resort: $3592.98
• Grand Floridian Resort: $4563
• Polynesian Resort: $4717.98
• Wilderness Lodge: $3007.02
• Yacht Club Resort: $3712.02

Bigger family?

If you’re traveling with a larger group or bigger family, then our “cost for a family of 4 to go to Disney” may not apply to you.

Realistically, you might be more interested in “cost for a family of 5 to go to Disney” or “cost of a Disney vacation for 6” – or more. If you are planning on a large group trip, you might want to consider an AirBNB or one of our favorite resorts for big groups .

Staying on-property with a large family will increase your Disney budget, and it’s definitely a numbers game to see what works best for you.

What Do Activities Cost at Disney World?

Just like the other categories here, you have tons of control in how much money you spend on activities while in Disney World. The only thing that is a given is that you, and everyone in your travel party, will need tickets to the park in order to enter them.

Disney World Ticket Prices

• $109-$189 for guests ages 10 and up
• $104 for guests ages 3-9
• FREE for guests under 3

Genie+ and Lightning Lanes

Another add-on that can greatly increase your budget for Disney World is the use of Genie+ and Lightning Lanes. Both Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lanes will cost you extra per person that wants to ride certain rides and not wait in lines.

• Genie+: $15-29 per person, depending on park and day of attendance
• Individual Lightning Lane: $7-$25 per ride, depending on ride and day of attendance

Activities on a Budget

There are TONS of free things to do while at Disney World. You can resort hop and explore some really awesome Disney hotels, and of course, enjoy the free activities and pool offered at your own hotel. You can also go to Disney Springs, which is a free outdoor shopping center that anyone can visit.

When it comes to your tickets for entry into the parks, we suggest that you buy the base level tickets for your group. These tickets will grant you access to one park per day of your trip. If possible, try to book your trip during “cheaper” times and that will decrease your ticket price as well.

And if you are really trying to save money, don’t use Genie+ or Individual Lightning Lanes! Utilize Virtual Queues for the in-demand new rides, and use rope drop to get on the most rides without paying!

Mid-Range Activities

While you still may want to do some of the free activities, being in the mid-range Disney World cost bracket gives you more options for both your tickets and paid park activities.

You can choose to add Park Hopper to your ticket, which will allow you to visit more than one park per day.

• Average cost of Park Hopper for 1-day: $85
• 5-day ticket for 2 adults, 1 child: extra $287.55
• 5-day ticket for 2 adults, 2 children: extra $383.40

You could choose to do some of the less expensive private experiences at Disney World, like the Behind the Seeds tour in EPCOT and the Keys to the Kingdom tour at Magic Kingdom.

You may also add on Genie+, but we want you to use it like a pro! Get the most out of your Genie+ experience , so that you don’t overspend.

Expensive Activities

For those looking to get the most for their money during their Disney World trip, you can spend a lot on special experiences.

Another great option for those who want to spend just a little more money on their trip is to attend a hard ticket event during their visit, like Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party or Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party . These hard tickets can range from $89 up to $199, depending on what night you attend the party.

You can of course book the hard ticket events mentioned above, as well as booking other private tours. You can book the Backstage Magic tour, the Private VIP tour, and even do After Hours events at all the parks.

Also, use Genie+ and buy those Individual Lightning Lanes! You’ll get to ride the hottest rides with minimal wait.

When it comes to tickets, you could pay for an Annual Pass. Disney pass prices start at $1399 per person and the Water Parks and Sports option can be added for an additional $99 per pass.

How Much Does Dining in Disney World Cost?

There are so many options when it comes to dining in Disney World. The parks and hotels offer everything from quick and affordable grab-and-go places to the fanciest of signature restaurants. Plus Airbnbs and Deluxe Villas offer kitchens you can use to make your own food, and Disney allows guests to bring their own food into the parks. And if you’re staying on Disney property, the dining plans are available to you (for trips after January 9, 2024).

Dining on a Budget

One of the best ways to control how much money you spend on food in Disney World is to either bring your own or order groceries for your stay. You’ll be able to take snacks you order into the park with you, so that way you don’t have to drop $5 or more every time someone says they’re hungry.

You can also pack a lunch to take with you, and then visit the quick service restaurants for your other two meals. The quick service restaurants are affordable options on Disney property, and often have a great selection of food. Some of them offer meals you can even share, and since Disney portions can be quite large, we can also recommend those who aren’t big eaters to share meals or eat off the kids’ menu in order to save some money.

If you do choose to eat at quick service restaurants, the quick service dining plan may save some money by allowing you to pre-plan and pre-pay for your food and snacks for the day. The refillable mug included with the plan will also save you a lot of money on beverages at your resort.

• $57.01 per night of stay for guests ages 10 and up
• $29.69 for guests ages 3-9

Mid-Range Dining

When looking to spend a little more money on food and dining experiences at Disney, the regular Disney dining plan may be right for you. It allows you to eat at some of the nicer restaurants, and you still won’t be spending tons of money on food.

• $94.28 per night of stay for guests ages 10 and up

Even if you don’t choose to use the dining plan, you can still choose some of the nicer sit-down restaurants to fit into the mid-range cost. Buffets are a great option because you can get a lot of food for your money, and you can typically have one big meal a day if you visit a buffet – think snack for breakfast, quick or snack for lunch, and save up your appetite for a big dinner.

A lot of the table service restaurants have great menus with many options, and you don’t have to order the most expensive thing. You can absolutely order appetizers or split entrees at many of these restaurants.

Expensive Dining Options

Disney World hotels and parks offer many fine dining experiences, and these are the perfect choices for those looking to fully enjoy their trip with no monetary limits. You could eat most of your meals at table service or signature restaurants. These will cost more, and offer some of the more unique foods and experiences. Victoria & Albert’s at The Grand Floridian is probably the most iconic of these restaurants, and meals there will set you back over $235 per person.

You can go all out during your trip, adding on the Disney Dining Plan that we mentioned above, but also by eating at most of the signature restaurants and adding on the “extra entitlements” on the menus – these are upgrades not covered by Dining Plan credits.

What Do Souvenirs Cost at Disney World?

Just like the other categories we have gone over, we are going to break down what souvenirs can cost you on your next trip to Disney World. You can, of course, spend nothing on souvenirs at Disney World if you don’t want to, but chances are that you will find something you fall in love with and want to take it home with you.

Budget Souvenirs

Some of the most affordable souvenirs at Disney World are pens, keychains, and the little trinkets you will find in any Disney gift shop. Disney character stuffed animals and the cute little Wishable stuffed toys are also fairly affordable, and it’s easy to find your or your kid’s favorite character in these!

Character autographs are completely free to get, and are great souvenirs for both adults and children. Kids will enjoy visiting the KidCot booths in EPCOT, and the passport they get signed at the booths is free!

Mid-Range Souvenirs

If you want to spend a little bit more on souvenirs to take home with you, venture into the world of Disney fashion. Loungefly backpacks, Alex & Ani jewelry, dresses from the Dress Shop, and basically any of the cute clothing at Disney Style in Disney Springs make for great souvenirs. We love getting some wearable souvenirs, and none of these items will break the bank.

Disney ears and hats are also great mid-range souvenirs, and you can find ears inspired by just about any character or park nowadays. These range from $29.99 to $34.99, and are a great option for souvenirs.

A lot of the Disney home décor is fairly affordable as well, and who wouldn’t want to take home tea towels or tableware from Disney World?

Expensive Souvenirs

It’s very easy to spend a lot of money on souvenirs to take home at Disney World, and if you don’t have a budget, then you will be able to buy some awesome things! There’s no shortage of designer jewelry, like Pandora, and designer handbags, like Dooney & Bourke, COACH, and Kate Spade.

There are also some fairly ridiculous things to spend your money on, like the life-size working R2-D2 in Galaxy’s Edge that costs $25,000 or the crystal replica of Cinderella’s Castle for a mere $295.

We hope that we’ve answered “how much does it cost to go to Disney World” for you. When it comes down to it, Disney World is as affordable or as expensive as you want it to be.

The price depends on the hotel you stay at, how far you have to travel to get there, and how much money you choose to spend on food and souvenirs once inside the parks. The average cost of a Disney trip really isn’t all that average – it depends on a lot of variables and choices you make once there.

Ultimately it’s up to you, but we hope that we’ve shown you that no matter where you stay or how much money you spend, you’re going to have an amazingly magical time! Any trip to Disney World is a good trip, and the amount you spend has nothing to do with the amount of fun you’ll have.

Reader Interactions

August 1, 2021 at 6:28 pm

Your information: “Disney World buses, boats, Skyliner, and monorails are absolutely free and can be used by anyone staying on property.” is somewhat misleading. While those staying off property would have a more challenging time getting to and using said transportation, it is free to ALL guests regardless of accommodations.

August 1, 2021 at 7:52 pm

This is true! ANYONE can use the transport, although it is harder than on-site guests! Thanks!

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How Much Does It Cost to Go On a Disney World Vacation in 2024?

One threshold question many people ask before planning is “how much does it cost to go to Walt Disney World?” This answers that with updated 2024 pricing for park tickets, hotels, dining, transportation & more. It also covers a discounts that are available and how much you can reasonably expect to spend when all is said and done.

The goal is to help you avoid overspending and plan a Walt Disney World vacation that’s within your budget. Fair warning up front: prices have increased by thousands of dollars in the last few years, so be prepared for sticker shock. Walt Disney World has long had a reputation as being pricey (e.g. ‘exit through the gift shop’ jokes or ‘Most Expensive Day Ever’ shirts), but it’s gotten worse lately. That’s the bad news, but there’s also good news–more on that in a minute!

Another warning is that there is no single, all-inclusive price that a Walt Disney World vacation costs. Some people are fine with budget accommodations and the cheapest options just to get in the gate, whereas the wealthy might want luxurious accommodations and pampered treatment. The latter trip could literally cost $50,000 or more, whereas the former might cost 10% of that. The good news, though, is that the wealthy are probably not reading a post like this. So we’ll stick with average vacations, not extravagant ones!

With that said, we also don’t want to simply price out a bottom-dollar, bargain trip to Walt Disney World. There’s a lot of ground in between budget motels and Presidential Suites plus VIP tours, and we’ll try to cover a few different ‘tiers’ of trips here. But even with hypotheticals it’s impossible to pin down the actual cost for every set of circumstances.

Beyond the basics covered in our breakdown, there are a lot of variables that are beyond the scope of this post: Lightning Lanes & Genie+ vs. standby only? Rental car & paid parking vs. Mears Connect airport shuttle? Travel insurance vs. discounted non-refundable reservations?

Instead of tackling every possible scenario and ending up with a War & Peace length treatise, we’ll look at price ranges for key aspects of visiting Walt Disney World, come up with totals based on those, and let you extrapolate for your own conclusions based upon that information. Given that the thing most readers report surprise over to us via comments and emails is cost, this is a topic worth addressing, even if we can’t give any hard numbers for every possible scenario…

The good news is that after two-plus years pent-up demand, Walt Disney World is finally seeing a slowdown. The company has reported lower attendance and hotel occupancy, and has started pulling “levers” (their term) in order to entice people to visit the parks and stay in the hotels. In plain language, this means discounts.

Special offers have accelerated and improved in the last several months, with general public discounts this Christmas season for the first time since 2019 and the best discount for that timeframe since 2018. Looking forward to next year, Walt Disney World has now released several discounts for the first quarter of 2024, all of which were earlier than their counterparts in 2018 or 2019. They also offer superior savings, albeit not as pronounced as going from nothing at all during the holidays to the best deals since 2018!

If weak discounting and late releases were a sign that pent-up demand had still been running strong, all of this is a sign that the opposite is no longer be true for 2024. Although there the parks are still busy, the dynamic has changed considerably as compared to 2021-2022. A corner has been turned and visitors are no longer going on spending sprees to make up for lost time. Not only that, but Walt Disney World does not have any major, marketable additions coming in the first half of 2024.

Add to that the possibility of a recession or broader economic slowdown, and that means even more discounts to lure people to the parks. Many readers have asked about the return of Free Dining, which is one of Walt Disney World’s most popular and best deals. There’s a pretty good chance of that happening, but even if not, great deals are to be expected. We will be closely monitoring what’s released and will notify subscribers of our free email newsletter when any Walt Disney World discounts are released or rumored!

With that said, there’s even more bad news. Even as attendance and hotel occupancy are decreasing, Walt Disney World is raising sticker prices. Since the start of the fiscal year in October, Walt Disney World has increased prices on Annual Passes, Memory Maker, parking, water parks tickets, miniature golf, and more.

In addition to this, Walt Disney World bumped up the price of hundreds  of menu items all around the parks & resorts at Walt Disney World and also on most character dining experiences in the parks and resorts. They also hiked prices on the “Enchanting Extras Collection,” meaning things like dessert parties and special tours.

Prior to this, hotel prices increased when 2024 vacation packages were released over the summer. If you look at 2024 Walt Disney World Resort Price Analysis , you’ll also notice that room rates are up around 3-7% depending upon the hotel and season.

Obviously, we don’t love paying higher prices, but none of these increases are  that  bad by historical standards. There are several silver linings here, with the first being that regular park tickets did not go up–the first time in several years that hasn’t happened. (There’s still time, so let’s not jinx it.)

Additionally, almost all of the other price increases are avoidable. Most of the “Enchanting Extras Collection” exists due to FOMO and is for people who want to splurge or go all out. It’s all completely nonessential (well, a Walt Disney World vacation isn’t “essential” in the first place…but this stuff is really unnecessary to enjoying the trip).

Of the price increases, there are only two that are unavoidable. The first is on menus, and the upside there is that the price increases are pretty minimal–and below the rate of inflation on food. (It’s to the point where we no longer have sticker shock looking at Walt Disney World menus, as real world prices and other entertainment venues have outpaced Disney.)

The second is on hotel rooms, and as noted above, there are more discounts for this year and 2024. Due to better deals, the  effective prices  most people pay for resorts or vacation packages have actually decreased year-over-year despite higher prices. This might lead you to wonder why Walt Disney World didn’t just lower sticker prices, which is a fair question.

We’ve half-joked for years that Walt Disney World uses the “Kohl’s Pricing Model,” where the sticker prices are almost meaningless due to discounts. Even during the Great Recession, Walt Disney World kept raising prices…while also ramping up the special offers. As Kohl’s learned ages ago, if the base price is higher, it makes the discounted rate look like even more of a bargain. It’s all about perception and the  illusion  of a killer deal.

It’s not really much of a joke, because it’s 100% true. Walt Disney World almost never lowers base prices, and almost always increases them in October or February without regard for attendance, bookings, or the U.S. economy. They dial up or down discounts as demand (or lack thereof) dictates. In the last few years during pent-up demand, discounts were dialed down. Now they are very much up!

Regardless of deals, visiting Walt Disney World costs a lot of money. We’re not trying to downplay the prices–it’s undeniably priced as a premium vacation destination and one of the more expensive family destinations in the United States.

Of course, travel costs are all relative. You could travel to one of the U.S. National Parks and pay a $30 entry fee for your entire vehicle for a week, camp on-site for $45/night, and cook food by campfire for $60/day for a party of 4.

As avid National Park enthusiasts, we’ve done exactly that many times and highly recommend it–one of the best vacations you can take that’s incredibly relaxing and allows you to disconnect, recharge, and see America’s Best Idea. It’s also very different–also incomparable–to Walt Disney World.

You could also travel to New York and spend more than the cost of theme park tickets seeing shows and visiting points of interest, pay $350/night for adequate accommodations, $75/night for parking, and an exorbitant amount eating at some of America’s best restaurants.

Although equally chaotic, that too would be very different from a Walt Disney World vacation. Not necessarily better or worse–different. The point is that great trips can be had at a variety of price points; even though it’s easy to compare them quantitatively, doing so on a qualitative basis is a different story entirely. Even trips to other theme parks aren’t apples to apples comparisons with Walt Disney World.

Anyway, let’s get down to brass tacks and actually start pricing out a trip…

This post assumes a 5-night Walt Disney World vacation for a family of 4 (2 adults and 2 kids) that is not within driving distance to Walt Disney World, with no rental car unless otherwise specified. Airfare is not included. Unfortunately, flight prices vary so widely based upon origin city that there’s really nothing meaningful to say–just know that it’s another cost that’ll probably add another $250-600 per person to your trip.

In the last year, airfare prices have been all over the place, but higher across the board. We travel a lot between the Orange Counties (Florida and California) and we’ve paid anywhere from $250 to almost $600 per round trip just this year. Thankfully, prices are starting to fall again. Hopefully that’s the start of a return to normal, rather than a short-lived thing for the off-season.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at the range of costs you should expect to incur for each element of your Walt Disney World vacation…

Park Tickets

After precipitous increases for several years that have seen the cost of a 1-day Walt Disney World ticket for the Magic Kingdom nearly triple in price since 2004, expectations v. reality for park ticket prices can differ dramatically. This is no surprise, especially among infrequent visitors who last went when tickets were more affordable. Note that all groups are following our Tips for Saving Money on Walt Disney World Tickets , so we aren’t going by gate prices.

Frugal: For this tier (we’ll call it ‘frugal’ since that has a more positive connotation than ‘budget’), we’re opting for 3-day base tickets without the Park Hopper option. The other 2 days of the vacation, the family will enjoy some of the free offerings around Walt Disney World , such as Disney Springs and visiting the Boardwalk, among other things. Total cost: $1,634.

Value: At this tier, we are getting base tickets for all 5 days, meaning the family can spend every day in the parks. Note that the difference here isn’t as large as you might have expected because the incremental cost of park tickets decrease for longer duration visits. Total cost: $2,197.

Moderate: This steps up to 5-day Park Hopper tickets, so the family can leverage park operating hours to their advantage (for example, heading to Magic Kingdom and staying until park closing on a day started out at Animal Kingdom when that park closes early). Total cost: $2,492.

Deluxe: This levels up to the Cadillac of park tickets: the 5-Day Park Hopper Plus. This is a good ticket option for a 7-10 day trip, but for a 5-day visit, there’s more than enough to do in the 4 theme parks and other areas of Walt Disney World without adding the “Plus” option. Nevertheless, for those who like to make it rain, Disney-style, this is an option for a 5-day trip. Total cost: $2,855.18.

Many of you were probably a bit taken aback when you saw the cost of the ‘frugal’ option, shocked that it was so high. Perhaps you were also surprised that the longer duration tickets were comparatively lower in price per day. That’s the thing about Walt Disney World tickets: the per day cost decreases the longer you stay. (Of course, accommodations, dining, transportation and overall costs increase with a longer trip, so they get you one way or another!)

For example, the total cost of a 10-day base ticket for this family would be $2,337.56, which is right on par with the moderate option and less than the deluxe option above. The cost of tickets will probably be the most surprising aspect of your vacation, especially if you’re going for only a few days. This makes the relative ‘value’ of a 7-10 day Walt Disney World vacation better than a 3 day trip.

The cost of your hotel is the single biggest variable in a Walt Disney World vacation, with prices ranging from $30/night for an off-site hotel on I-Drive to over $1,000 for luxury accommodations that are on-site and near the Walt Disney World theme parks. Let’s take a look at the different options…

Frugal: Staying off-site is the only true budget option, and fortunately, the Orlando area has a surplus of hotels, which drives down cost. In reviewing Hotwire’s Hot Rate option for a variety of dates, there are often 3.5 star and above hotels in the Lake Buena Vista or Disney Springs areas for around $75/night.

There are cheaper hotels elsewhere with lower ratings or farther from the parks, but I think this is a good compromise in quality and location. There are some shady hotels in the Orlando area–Florida Project is more reality than it is fiction–so unless you want experiencing the mean streets of O-Town as part of your vacation experience, splurge a bit. Total cost: $559.03 after taxes & fees.

Note that only some third party or off-site hotels offer free shuttles to the parks. This means staying in the frugal option will almost certainly incur additional transportation costs above and beyond the higher tiers, whether that be for a rental car and parking, or for twice-daily Uber or Lyft expenses. This is not insignificant, and could add $40 to $100 on top of accommodations costs, depending upon when you visit.

Value: For anyone looking to get the true “resort” experience at Walt Disney World, this is your lowest entry-point. Depending upon when you travel, rack rates for the Value Resorts at Walt Disney World range from $118 to $307 per night for most of the year (excluding peak season dates). The more popular your travel time, the more expensive the rates. Total cost: $1,184.50 after taxes and fees.

Moderate: Same idea as the Value Resorts above, except for the middle tier of on-site Disney hotels. Rack rates for these hotels will range from around $248 to $324 per night for most of the year (excluding peak season dates). Again, the more popular your travel time, the more expensive the rates. Total cost: $1,537.75 after taxes and fees.

Deluxe: The on-site Walt Disney World Deluxe Resorts are the hotel tier where there’s the most variance, with it costing $425/night just to get you in the door, and prices quickly going upward from there. At Wilderness Lodge, regular season rack rates start at $555/night. By contrast, regular season rates at the Grand Floridian start at $857/night. Prices can go up from there. Total cost: $3,433.25 after taxes and fees .

On top of all this, Walt Disney World discontinued its Magical Express airport shuttle. Visitors now need to find their own ground transportation from the airport to their hotel, and we cover the range of options in our Guide to Airport Transportation for Walt Disney World . There is no one-size-fits-all perfect solution–it depends on your party size, budget, and other factors. No matter which option you choose, it’ll cost you.

When doing a cost-benefit analysis, one thing to keep in mind depending upon your circumstances is the  restoration of free parking at Walt Disney World resorts . For those who are driving or renting a car, not only are these savings more significant than discounts during the same timeframe last year, but there’s also the added bonus of not having to pay for parking. This coupled with better discounts should amount to a fairly hefty year-over-year decrease in total prices, which is exceedingly rare for Walt Disney World!

Speaking of things being restored, the Disney Dining Plan is also back for 2024! This is great news for a lot of fans who love the DDP for its ease of use, preplanning, budgeting, and other reasons beyond the scope of this post.

Without question, purchasing the Disney Dining Plan will cost you more than it would cost you to eat at Walt Disney World on a tight or even reasonable budget. What the Disney Dining Plan offers is peace of mind in paying for your food in advance and knowing that you don’t have to worry about it when you arrive. If you can budget money, you are usually better off skipping the Dining Plan and paying out of pocket.

Some people can save money using the Disney Dining Plan, but those are people who like to eat “aggressively,” not those who are trying to be frugal. With that said, those who take advantage of the Free Dining discount are much more likely to come out ahead, especially at our example party size of 2 adults and 2 kids in one room. As noted above, Free Dining is likely to be offered at some point in 2024.

With that little cautionary note out of the way, let’s take a look at a few options in terms of eating on a Walt Disney World vacation…

Frugal: Purchase groceries and bring your food to the parks. Many people don’t realize that, unlike sporting events and your local library, you can bring outside food into Walt Disney World. Not only that, but they’re pretty liberal with the rules: you can bring a soft-sided cooler (now don’t get too carried away, you can’t bring in a pony keg to make ‘it’s a small world’ more enjoyable). Figure that the cost here can be as low as what you’d eat at home, plus allowances for occasional snacks. Ballpark cost: $400.

Value: Eat a huge breakfast in your hotel before you leave for the parks each day, then have a counter service meal in the parks in the early afternoon costing around $20/person, bring snacks to get through late afternoon, and have dinner in your hotel each night. Alternatively, the Quick Service Disney Dining Plan would cost just over $800 and allow for lunch and dinner inside the park. Ballpark cost: $700. 

Moderate: For the sake of simplicity, we’re going to assume the average family would be inclined to purchase the regular Disney Dining Plan, and that its price would be roughly analogous to what they’d spend on doing a counter service meal, table service meal, and snacks each day. Of course, paying out of pocket is usually cheaper than doing the DDP. Ballpark cost: $1,250.

Deluxe: In the past, we’ve used the Deluxe Disney Dining Plan (DxDDP) as the baseline for this cost. This is basically the “all-inclusive” version of the Disney Dining Plan that allows you to do multiple table service meals, character dining, and even Signature Restaurants if you so desire–and budget the time for it. Unfortunately, the DxDDP is not returning for 2024…but we’ll still use it as a baseline for these costs, which should be accurate within $100 or so. Ballpark cost: $1,800.

Total Costs

Even within the different tiers of vacations we’ve priced out for the hypothetical family of 4, there’s a pretty substantial range to the price of their Walt Disney World vacation. Still, we thought it worthwhile to give a rough approximation of totals…

Frugal: $2,593.03

Value: $4,081.50

Moderate: $5,279.75

Deluxe: $8,088.43

On-site hotel pricing is based on regular season, when prices are at their average rates. If you’re visiting in September, you’ll find lower rack rates and you might benefit from more aggressive discounts. Conversely, if you’re visiting during the weeks of Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s, you will almost certainly be paying considerably more.

Regardless of what your actual costs appear to be when you crunch the numbers, it’s always a good idea to build a 15-20% cushion into the budget for unforeseen expenses–that’s a savvy move with travel in general, regardless of the destination.

As high as these totals might seem at first blush, we’ll reiterate that ‘total’ isn’t an actual total since it does NOT take all costs into account . Airfare, rental cars, parking, shuttles, or other ground transportation will likely add another $1,500 to $3,000 onto each bottom line. That’s not to mention other add-ons you might elect to purchase upon arrival!

The cost of Genie+ and Lightning Lanes is also not included, and this is something we’d recommend adding for at least Magic Kingdom–and possibly Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Again, this service now uses date-based pricing, and has almost  doubled  in price for the most popular dates of the year as a result.

Hard ticket events like the After Hours, Halloween, or Christmas parties are also not part of the budgets. Prices for those are all over the place, but you could easily spend $125 to $175 per person on those event tickets. Dessert parties and other upcharge offerings–such as building a lightsaber in Star Wars land –also add up fast. If you start adding on these things, your costs can easily ballon by thousands of dollars more.

Some of these things are totally optional, but some form of transportation–both to Florida and around Walt Disney World–is not. When all is said and done, you could easily spend double the above amounts for your trip total. It really depends upon your circumstances and travel dates.

For our 2024 Walt Disney World vacation budget update, the base prices have seen the smallest year-over-year increase in the last 3. In fact, some of these rates are exactly the same as last year. Once you factor in discounts, 2024 Walt Disney World vacations have effectively  decreased for the first time since 2019!

Don’t get too excited about that, though. This decrease comes after 2 years of massive price increases. As compared to March 2020, the value and moderate tiers have each increased by over $2,000 and the deluxe tier has gone up over $3,000. It wasn’t long ago when a value vacation total was ~$2,000 and a moderate cost $3,500 with a deluxe costing around $5,000. As noted above, base prices have increased every year for the last decade.

Again, this is exacerbated by the end of Disney’s Magical Express and free MagicBands, plus paid Genie+ and Lightning Lanes replacing free FastPass+ and other on-site perks that have been eliminated. That’s right–not only is a Walt Disney World vacation thousands of dollars more expensive, but you’re paying more and getting less. Double whammy!

With so many caveats, it might seem like these numbers are rendered meaningless, and this post is just an exercise in futility ( like most things I do! ). However, the info and numbers here should at least provide a good baseline so that those of you who have never planned a Walt Disney World vacation have a ballpark idea what kind of costs you’ll encounter.

There are numerous (clickbait) blog posts with headlines like “How to do a Walt Disney World Vacation for Less than $1,000.” Those make big promises that are incredibly misleading, disingenuous, and ultimately lead to disappointment or unrealistic expectations. For 95% of guests, $3k is the bare minimum needed just to get in the door, and even that’s really pushing it. You’d have to visit during the off-season, stay off-site, and be exceedingly frugal with your food and other purchases.

Obviously, this isn’t one-size fits advice or vacation budgeting. Frugal traveler-hackers may scoff at the “high” prices here, and luxury travelers may find that they spend significantly more than the amounts set forth here. There are obviously going to be outliers on both ends of the spectrum.

We’ve heard of high rollers easily dropping $25,000 to $50,000 for a luxurious Walt Disney World vacation, and that could pretty easily turn into $75,000 for a longer trip, with additional people, or more upcharge add-ons. More than a few readers have reported dropping $40k (!!!) on their Walt Disney World vacations after all was said and done.

In our case–and likely in the case of many readers of this blog–we can be outliers on the low end of things, as the sunk costs of Annual Passes make our tickets $0* and we can get our on-site hotel costs down to as low as $100/night with via Disney Vacation Club Point Rentals if we move our dates around a bit and work around deals.

However, this is impractical to a lot of people, especially those without flexible schedules or planning their first trips. (*Of course, the AP itself has a very high upfront cost, but the per visit basis drops dramatically given how often we are in the parks. Obviously, your circumstances are going to differ considerably from ours as bloggers who write about Walt Disney World!)

Ultimately, this is simply a jumping off point with specific numbers that are only meant to give you a rough idea of 2024 Walt Disney World vacation costs. Hopefully this topic can be an open dialogue about Walt Disney World trip expenses and budgets, as the way we vacation certainly differs for others.

There are tons of hacks that can bring the cost down–see our Best 13 Tips for Saving Money at Walt Disney World for ideas on that front. Additionally, if your travel dates are flexible and you want to choose the least expensive times to visit (which also tend to be the least crowded dates), see  When Is It Cheapest to Visit Walt Disney World in 2024?

To that end, Walt Disney World veterans who are willing to present some information about your own budget, such as how many people, duration of trip, hotel, dining, etc., when you visit would be much appreciated. Like I said, this post is only meant to be a rough baseline, and the more actual data points and examples newbies have before starting to plan for their own trips, the better. So thanks in advance if you choose to help.

Planning a Walt Disney World trip? Learn about hotels on our Walt Disney World Hotels Reviews page. For where to eat, read our Walt Disney World Restaurant Reviews . To save money on tickets or determine which type to buy, read our Tips for Saving Money on Walt Disney World Tickets post. Our What to Pack for Disney Trips post takes a unique look at clever items to take. For what to do and when to do it, our Walt Disney World Ride Guides will help. For comprehensive advice, the best place to start is our Walt Disney World Trip Planning Guide for everything you need to know!

Your Thoughts…

How much do your average vacations to Walt Disney World cost? Have you noticed an effective price decrease when pricing out 2024 Walt Disney World vacation packages as compared to the previous few years? Think Disney is still worth the money, or has it become unreasonably overpriced? Where do you splurge and where do you “trim the fat” from your trip budget? Do you veterans have any data points of your own to help newbies out? If you’re a Walt Disney World first-timer, do you have any questions after reading this? We love to hear from readers, so if you have any thoughts or questions, post them in the comments!

Written by Tom Bricker

We did a 9-night split stay between BWV and BCV for 2 ADULTS and 2 KIDS.

We are DVC members.

Seeing the cost increase due to Genie+ and LL purchases, I cancelled 3 table service meals and a character breakfast we had scheduled. What we got on this trip feels so much less than our last trip, just 18 months prior.

The biggest price shock was Genie+ and LL purchases totaling $750 for just 4 days Genie+ and 4 LL rides, out of a 9-day pass. Spending this amount definitely made me spend less in other areas.

Also, I have to mention the Boardwalk Pizza Window’s insane price increase. Our last visit < 2 years ago a large pizza was about $20. This visit it was $45! For a very mediocre pizza. We decided to order delivery offsite after the first order's sticker shock LOL.

Itemized costs for our recent trip, Nov 8-17:

$1,900 Air from/to Detroit $120 Uber (from/to MCO) $3,600 Park passes (9-day, 2 adult, 2 child with Park Hopper Plus) $120 Magic bands $1,300 DVC annual dues (since we are DVC members and visit 1x/year, I include dues as our lodging cost) $125 Bibbity Bobbity Boutique $150 Pool cabana at BC $240 Hoop Dee Doo Review $230 Space 200 lunch (this was our 2nd visit and quality has taken a huge dive. Will not be back – definitely not worth the cost) $180 Lunch at Disney Springs $350 Grocery delivery $1,200 Drinks/snacks/QS meals in parks $70 Offsite pizza delivery (2 nights) $450 Genie + (4 days purchased) $300 Lightning Lanes (4 total rides purchased) $250 Merch

$10,585 TOTAL

We’ve switched to Universal. $3K for 7 nights in a Deluxe onsite hotel that includes free unlimited express pass for a family of 4, $1600 for buy 3 days, get 2 free tickets with park-to-park access (and not just after 2pm). I don’t have to make park reservations, be on my phone all day fighting Genie+, or stress about dining reservations because most restaurants at Universal have tables even a few weeks out. We’ll have to pay for airport transportation but that’s not free at Disney anymore anyway. Everything that once made WDW vacations feel seamless is now gone. Previously, we were a family that always stayed deluxe at WDW. The last time we paid anywhere near 4K was 2015, when we were still only a family of 3, and that was for 6 nights at Animal Kingdom Lodge, 4 day park tickets and the free dining offer, and free Magical Express. Prices have only gone up since then. It’s not worth the frustration and hassle at any price.

Hotel rates within the Disney bubble are out of control. Just priced out a couple of nights in early December. Art of Animation ( by Disney definition a “value” resort) has a Standard Rack rate of over $600 per night. Even with generous AP discount cost would still be over $400 per night. Even All-Star Resorts was $190. Discounts don’t mean much when Disney has continued to raise the Rack Rate exorbitantly on its resort rooms with little regard for its own designated resort categories. Something is wrong when the standard rate at a Value Resort is more than most Moderates and some of the Deluxe Resorts. There are plenty of well appointed hotels within a reasonable drive to Disney and many include breakfast. As for my trip next month, Universal offered Dockside Inn and Suites for less than $90 per night. Well worth the short drive in my opinion.

I gave up long ago trying to “justify” the expense of WDW. There is no justification for what it costs to go there, you just accept that you pay it because you love it. We are a family of six, so a little larger than the “average” size I guess. We are DVC owners, so that would typically eliminate most of the hotel costs for us. We may have 1-2 nights at a value resort as part of a split stay to stay a bit longer than our points allow, but most of the nights will be on DVC. All that being said, we still typically spend 5-6k per trip. Would be quite a bit worse if I had to pay for airfare and hotel costs…

Never understood the concept of trying to “save money” on vacation. “Save money” by not going. Nothing sucks the fun out of a vacation more than stressing about finances. I don’t go on vacation until I know I have plenty saved up to go all out and not worry about the cost.

For data purposes: We are a family for four (2 adults, 7 year old, and 2 year old) and we are at about $8,000 so far. We are going the week of Spring Break. We have 6 day park hoppers, 6 nights at Yacht Club (with cast member friends and family discount), memory maker, planning on meals at RoundUp rodeo, Beaches and Cream, Topolino’s Terrace, Ale and Compass, and somewhere else. We also budget about $200 per day for quick service meals, snacks, souvenirs, etc. We haven’t included airfare (which will mainly be cash back/point from our credit cards) or transportation to the airport. We normally do a private vehicle – so probably around another $250 for that. We normally end up spending less than we budget for meals, but I don’t think we will be that far off this time.

If it’s helpful to anyone reading the comments, I’ll post a summary of our costs for a family of 5- 2 adults, 2 kids 3-9, and 1 toddler. This is for the end of February, starting with the runDisney race. We are at $10,200 all-in for 10 nights, including airfare. Airfare is only $700 though, booked largely with miles. So $9,500 includes, 2 nights in a value resort, 2 nights deluxe DVC rental, 6 nights moderate (30% off w/bounceback). $2,834 for 7 day base tickets (Get Away Today had a buy 5 get 2 free sale, and this number was about equal to 5 days on the WDW website). We booked Away We Go private transportation for $225 with a discount code. Budgeting $500 for Genie+. We are planning on BBB basic package for 1 child and droid building for 2 children. We do not have the DDP, but we are planning on CRT, Toppolino’s, Roundup Rodeo, and probably Boatwright’s or a Disney Springs restaurant during our POR stay. The rest will be QS meals and groceries (mainly groceries for my 2 and 5 year olds). There’s a modest budget for souvenirs. Oh and refillable mugs for 4 of us. So that’s where we are at. The number good move a little bit in either direction based on Genie+ prices, what food we actually order, and souvenirs. I found that buying discounted gift cards for food and extras helps with the “all inclusive” feel without losing money on the dining plan. If my youngest were 3, then the DDP scale would tip more in our favor.

Breakdowns of actual trip costs are always helpful. It gives a range of ideas about what’s possible–so thanks!

Just to add to the data points, our POP preferred room for 4 nights in December of 2014 was $498. The same room, same nights in 2023 is $1,183! More than double in 9 years. Yikes!!! But we showed DISNEY, instead of paying all that money for the room, we bought 2 DVC contracts, still stay at POP when we are out of points and are contemplating buying a 3rd DVC contract. Yeah, we really stuck it to the mouse.

The short answer to your question is…a lot! We visit at least once a year and are going for spring break 2024. Two people, staying at POP on a VISA rate of about $200/nt, using Lyft, 2 day PH (we also have universal AP). We are using miles for flights, but that adds $800 in value. Food cost and randomness will be about 100/day. We snack a lot and eat one QS per day. Looking at about 300/pp, per day-total around $3700. For comparison, in 2015, we did a 7 night Free dining (1 QS, 2 snacks/nt) stay at POP, with 5 day park passes for $1700. (We also received free magic bands, luggage tags, and a round trip ride on the Magical Express.) Even adding $800 airfare and LYFT, we have less value for a total price of $2600. So a 42% increase for less value over the course of 9 years. Even if inflation is roughly 3% a year, that’s a significant additional increase over time for less value.

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How much does it cost to go to Disney World? (including example trips)

By: Author Heather Thomas

Published: December 2, 2021 Updated: October 17, 2023

In our experience, the average cost for a family of 4 to go to Disney World is around $4,500-$5,500.

For that amount of money you could get 5 nights during the summer at a Value-level resort in a Preferred Room, 5-day park tickets (no Park Hopping), a combination of Genie+ and Lightning Lane pay-to-ride attractions, about 1 Table Service meal and 1 Quick Service meal per day, plus some snacks and souvenirs.

And just for reference, that assumes 2 adults and 2 kids under the age of 10, and it doesn’t take into account discounts, or transportation to Walt Disney World.

But, while that is the average , the truth is that there is a wide range of factors that go into answering the question: “ How much does it cost to go to Disney World ?”

We are going to show you the cheapest (and most expensive) times to travel to Walt Disney World and then break down all the expenses you’ll need to consider.

And then, we will provide you with some real-world examples (from WDW Prep School readers!) to show you exactly what you can get for your money.

Let’s go!

In this article

When is the cheapest time to visit Walt Disney World?

If you are looking to save money, the least expensive times will primarily be when schools are in session.

In 2022, the cheapest times to visit Walt Disney World are:

• *January 2-5
• *January 9-13
• *January 17-February 9
• April 24-May 26
• August 7-September 1 (most weekdays, weekends will be slightly more)
• September 5-10
• October 23-November 2
• November 6-18
• November 26-December 1

*These are the dates where you’ll find the absolute least-expensive room rates at the Value resorts.

When is the most expensive time to visit Walt Disney World?

If you are looking to save as much as possible, try to avoid major holidays and Spring Break.

In 2022, the most expensive times to visit Walt Disney World are:

• January 1 (New Years)
• February 18-19 (Presidents’ Day weekend)
• April 8-21 (Easter and Spring Break)
• October 7-9 (Columbus Day weekend)
• November 19-25 (Thanksgiving)
• December 16-31 (Christmas)

What should you budget for when going to Walt Disney World?

Ok, ready to put some numbers together?

Every situation is different, but in general, when planning a trip to Walt Disney World, you will need to consider several categories of expenses, including:

• Transportation
• Park tickets
• Genie+ and Lightning Lane pay-to-ride selections
• Food & dining
• Souvenirs & everything else

How much does transportation to Disney World cost?

Will you be flying in to Orlando International Airport or driving from home? Staying offsite or at a Disney Resort?

Although some prices are fixed, transportation expenses can vary greatly depending upon where you are coming from, how you are getting there, and how many people you’ll be traveling with.

When putting together your Disney transportation expenses, make sure you take these things into account:

Possible Disney World transportation costs to include: road trip expenses, plane tickets, and/or train tickets

• If driving down to Walt Disney World, check out GasBuddy.com to help compute road trip costs. Don’t forget things like overnight lodging for on the road (if needed), gas, and food & snacks.
• If flying, check Google Flights  to help you budget.
• If flying and staying offsite, be sure to factor in rental car or car service costs plus the cost for parking at the theme parks.
• If flying and staying onsite, check out your options for getting from the airport to your resort . And, keep in mind that the Disney World resorts now charge for overnight parking, so you’ll want to make sure to include that in your budget if you plan to rent a car.

How much does a Walt Disney World hotel cost?

Although some people choose to stay with family or friends, most people visiting Walt Disney World will need a place to stay.

The good news is you’ll have a ton of options – both onsite (at a Disney-owned resort hotel) and offsite.

Want to save some cash? You can save some money on your hotel by staying offsite.

The downside is that when you stay offsite, you’ll need to consider the other expenses you’ll incur to do so (like parking, transportation to and from the airport, etc.). And oftentimes, those “other” expenses can add up, so definitely make sure you are comparing apples to apples.

If you are considering staying onsite, Disney has 4 different levels of hotels to choose from: Value , Moderate , Deluxe , and Deluxe Villas .

The Value resorts are the least expensive and, aside from the family-suites, have the smallest rooms.

The Deluxe and Deluxe Villas will cost you the most. But, in return, you’ll generally have larger rooms and be closer to the parks if you stay in one.

Make sure you take a look at our Pros and Cons of all Onsite Resorts for more info on each of your options.

Keep these things in mind when putting together your budget for your Disney World hotel:

Disney World Lodging expenses to consider: the total price to stay onsite, offsite, or in a condo/villa rentals

• Discounts can save you a lot of money , and, they can even be added after you’ve already booked, so make sure you check for them often.
• The decision to stay onsite vs. offsite should include more than just costs. Be sure to consider all the benefits of staying onsite before booking your trip.
• If staying offsite, be sure to add in any resort or parking fees (for parking at the resort and at Disney World) when budgeting.
• If you have a larger group or need more space, offsite villa rentals through companies like VRBO or AirBnB can be a good option.
• For larger spaces onsite (at a *huge* discount), consider renting Disney Vacation Club points .

How much are Disney World tickets?

Disney World park tickets are one area where the cost doesn’t vary that much.

Yes, you can save some money by using an Authorized Ticket Seller (and please, if you are thinking about purchasing your tickets from somebody other than Disney, – make sure they are an Authorized Seller), but unless you are buying a lot of tickets, you just aren’t going to save hundreds (or thousands) of dollars.

Here’s what you need to keep in mind when trying to figure out how much you’ll spend on Disney World park tickets:

The price for park tickets for Disney World include the number of days & any add-ons (like Park Hoppers)

• Keep in mind that kids under 3 won’t need park tickets.
• Only buy what you need. You can always upgrade your tickets after you arrive, but you can’t get money back if you don’t use a feature (like Park Hopping).
• Ticket prices are determined by the total number of days you plan to enter the parks, your travel dates (busier times of the year have more expensive tickets) and extras you add on (like Park Hoppers, Water Parks & More, etc.) Note: Genie+ is also technically a ticket add-on, but due to its complexities, we’ve broken it out into its own section below.

How much does Genie+ cost?

After years and years of the free FastPass and more recently free FastPass+ service, if you want to avoid long lines at Walt Disney World, you’ll now have to shell out some extra cash.

First things first, though, you’ll definitely want to spend a bit of time learning about this new system so that you can understand if these extra costs will be worth it for you:

• How to Use Disney Genie at Walt Disney World
• How to Use Disney Genie+ at Walt Disney World
• How to Book Lightning Lane Selections at Walt Disney World
• The Most Frequently Asked Disney Genie+ Questions — Answered
• First Thoughts on Disney Genie & Genie+
• How Genie, Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane Selections Differ

Now for the nuts and bolts:

Genie+ costs $15.98 (with tax) per ticket, per day. So for a family of 4, you’re looking at spending $63.92 per day for that service.

Individual Lightning Lanes will run you around $7-$15, per person, per attraction (max 2 attractions per day).

As you can see, if you plan to use both Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lanes, the cost will quickly add up – especially for a family.

But, while you can add Genie+ to an entire ticket, you don’t have to. And, in fact, we don’t recommend that you do (unless you are getting a discount for purchasing it that way, which some international guests are eligible to receive).

Instead, what we have found and what has been reported to us is that most people find it most useful to use a combination of the 2, with some days Genie+ and Lightning Lanes and some days Lightning Lanes only.

In fact, we polled a group of WDW Prep School readers and this is what we found out:

74% of the 426 people who responded said that they planned to purchase a combination of Genie+ and Lightning Lanes during their trip, while less than 3% said that they were not planning on purchasing either.

So, it is safe to say that although you don’t *have* to purchase either Genie+ or Individual Light Lanes (or both), if you are like the majority of people visiting, you’ll probably find yourself spending the extra cash.

How much to budget for Genie+ and Lightning Lane

Now the tricky party. How much should you budget?

For most people, you’ll probably find that using a combination of both Genie+ and paying for the pay-to-ride Lightning Lane selections will work best.

With that in mind, you should plan to budget $20-$30 per day, per person for the Genie+ and Lightning Lane services.

Genie+ and Lightning Lanes costs to consider:

• You can purchase Genie+ for the length of your trip OR à la carte on the morning you wish you use it. We recommend doing it that way to avoid paying for days you may not need it.
• In some parks (like Animal Kingdom and Epcot), it may make more sense to just purchase Individual Lightning Lane passes vs. paying for Genie+
• There are no refunds. Make sure you will use these services before you spend the money.

How much does the food at Disney World cost?

When planning a Disney World trip, there are 2 budget items where it is relatively easy to spend big or save a lot: food & lodging.

Want to save some money? Disney makes it easy to keep your expenses low by allowing you to bring food into the parks .

But, if cost isn’t a factor, they also offer lots of restaurants where you can easily spend upwards of $150 (or more!) for a family of 4.

Important note: The Disney Dining Plan is currently unavailable, however, Disney has announced that it will return at a later date.

And, let us not forget about the Disney Dining Plan . This is an add-on that is only available to guests staying onsite at a Walt Disney World owned hotel.

It includes 4 different options, and depending on which one you select you’ll receive a certain number of “credits” to use throughout your trip:

• Quick Service Dining Plan ($55 per night, for ages 10+; $26 per night, for ages 3-9)
• Regular Dining Plan ($78 per night, for ages 10+; $30.50 per night, for ages 3-9)
• Plus Dining Plan ($95 per night, for ages 10+; $34 per night, for ages 3-9)
• Deluxe Dining Plan ($119 per night, for ages 10+; $47.50 per night, for ages 3-9)

When putting together your cost for dining at Disney World , make sure you consider:

Food costs include Table Service & Quick Service meals, snacks, and any groceries you buy for your stay

• Food is an easy area to spend big or save a lot.
• Breakfasts in your room is an easy way to save time – and a lot of money.
• Kids under 3 can eat free.
• You can pick up items (like snacks and water) to take to your resort or have grocery items delivered to your resort .
• Ice water is free at most Quick Service locations and makes a great alternative to buying bottles of water.
• There are lots of different ways to budget for food, so check out our food budget guide to see which method will work best for your trip.

How much are souvenirs at Disney World?

Let’s talk souvenirs and extras.

Do you need to buy a t-shirt or mouse ears or a purse while on your vacation? Probably not.

But will you want to? Definitely.

So, even if you don’t think you’ll be tempted, it is still a good idea to budget some money for souvenirs.

Plus, there are all other sorts of fun extras that you might want to do – like tours or dessert parties. Celebrating a birthday or an anniversary ? Maybe you’ll want to do something special for that.

And finally, don’t forget things like stroller or ECV rentals. Those little extras can add up, too.

Important note: Not all “extras” are available to book at this time. However, we do expect Disney to bring them back sometime in the future. Please check back often for updates.

Don’t forget to budget for everything else, including souvenirs, special events, tip money, & extras like strollers

• If you have a strict souvenir budget, we recommend you focus on unique things you can only get at Walt Disney World .
• While it can be very fun to go all out, you truly don’t have to spend a lot of “extra” money to have a great time.
• Don’t forget to include tip money in your Disney World budget. Not all positions can accept tips, but it is nice to have it handy for the ones that do.
• If you need to rent them, don’t forget to include the cost of a stroller &/or an ECV.

Below you’ll find what each budget will get you. Keep in mind that in some instances these are full prices that don’t include promotions. Most people get discounts. You can take a look at historical discounts to get an idea on what to expect

Disney World Example Budgets

Scroll down or jump right to your budget. $3,000 or less | $3,000-$4,000 | $4,000-$5,000 | $10,000 or more

The average for a Disney world trip may be around $4500, but the truth is that there is a wide range of factors that go into determining the cost of a Disney World trip.

To get a better answer to the question “ How much does it cost to go to Disney World? ” we surveyed the readers on our WDW Prep School Patron Facebook page .

We asked them a bunch of stuff related to budgeting, including questions on how much they spend on everything from resorts to souvenirs, and we even asked them how much (if any) they planned their budgets.

Important note: Since transportation costs to Disney World varies greatly, we asked people to not include those amounts when estimating trip costs, so keep that in mind when coming up with your budget.

Here’s what your money can get you.

Important Note: The budgets below do not include line items for the new Genie+ and Lightning Lane pay-to-ride selections. For planning purposes, we recommend budgeting $20-$30 per person, per day if you intend to use those services.

Less than $3,000 budget

Lots of people plan amazing trips on budgets of $3,000 or less.

Here are some examples of you can do with that amount of money:

Example 1: Less than $3,000 2 adults (ages 10+) and 2 kids (ages 0-9)

Example 2: Less than $3,000 2 adults (ages 10+) and 0 kids

$3,000-$4,000 budget

At this budget, we can start to have a little more room to eat at Table Service restaurants, stay longer, or stay in a bit nicer hotel.

Example 1: $3,000-$4,000 2 adults (ages 10+) and 2 kids (ages 0-9)

Example 2: $3,000-$4,000 2 adults (ages 10+) and 0 kids

$4,000-$5,000 budget

At this budget, you can travel during a more expensive time of the year, or start to get into more of a Deluxe-level trip with better hotels and special touches.

Example 1: $4,000-$5,000 2 adults (ages 10+) and 2 kids (ages 0-9)

Example 2: $4,000-$5,000 2 adults (ages 10+) and 0 kids

$10,000 (or more!) budget

Ready to see what you can do with a budget of $10,000?

Example 1: $10,000 (or more) 2 adults (ages 10+) and 3 kids (ages 0-9)

Example 2: $10,000 (or more) 2 adults (ages 10+) and 0 kids

Who took our survey

First, for the most part, the people taking our survey were Disney World vets.

In fact, out of a little over 300 respondents, only 1 person reported that they were in the process of planning their first trip.

But, while nearly all were Disney regulars, it was interesting to see that out of those that answered this question, roughly 38% of people only visit every other year (or less) .

That paired with the fact that another 37% of people visit once per year means that out of our sample, only roughly 25% of WDW Prep to Go Patrons that answered our survey regularly visit Disney World more than once per year.

Want to see more? Here’s how it shakes out:

For some things, having such a homogenous group of nearly all repeat visitors might be bad. But, when it comes to budgeting, we felt like it was a positive since nearly every person who responded has had multiple trips to plan for and learn from.

They’ve been there, done that, and likely – quite literally – have the t-shirt to prove it.

On average, how much do you spend on a Disney World vacation?

Curious about how much other people spend on their trips?

When we asked people how much they spend on their Disney World trips, we found out that almost 44% of people that responded spend between $3,000 to $5,000.

That is right in line with that $4,500 average considering our original dollar amount we mentioned at the top of this article did not include any discounts, and most savvy readers of this site would probably book their trip around available promotions.

Remember: these dollar amounts only include things like resort, tickets, and lodging – and not transportation (including airfare).

How do you budget for Disney World?

Budget first or plan first?

According to our survey, just over 58% of people that responded said they start with an idea for the trip they want, and then they create their Disney World budget from that idea.

And about 27% don’t do any budgeting at all – they just go!

And then there are 14.43% of people that prefer to start their Disney planning with a total amount that they want to spend in mind, and then use that dollar amount to build a vacation plan.

Basically, it all comes down to personal preference. There really is no “right” answer, we just think it is interesting to see how people do it.

Do more people drive or fly to Disney World?

When it comes to transportation, here’s what we learned from our survey:

The vast majority of people that responded to the survey – about 82% – fly .

Around 15% of people drive and the remainder – around 3% – alternate flying and driving, renting a car to drive down, or they take the train.

Want to share a trip budget you’ve come up with? Copy the format below into the comment form and fill in the fields so we can see even more ways to put together a trip.

• Transportation:
• Park tickets:
• Genie+ & Lightning Lanes:
• Souvenirs/spending money:

Sunday 27th of October 2019

Transportation: Flight tickets for 2 adults and one 2 year old = $1000 with baggage and seat selection. Lodging: During peak (Christmas) season at the Animal kingdom resort $1656 Park tickets: $918 for two Adults all day single park tickets for four days. 2 year old free. We also paid $234 for two tickets to mickeys very merry Christmas party. Food: Regular dinning plan with four character dining experiences came out to $576 to feed all three of us for five days. Souvenirs/spending money: Idk. We don’t have a budget. We spent a total of $4600 on this trip before dining tips, and souvenirs. For a family of 2 and a half because the 2 year old only cost us in the plane department. Lol

I would say this is the most “luxurious” trip we will have gone on. Booking all through Disney was quite pricey but the convenience is worth it.

Stephanie Williams

Thursday 26th of September 2019

Hello, looking to get quotes for Disney vacation. 1. when do discounts come out? looking to book a trip in the end of April 2020 Option 1. for 4 adults 2 children 7 days, park hopper, memory maker & deluxe dining Option 2. 7 adults 4 children 7 days, park hopper, memory maker & deluxe dining. Trying to price on the my Disney site (prices are insane) right now (got much better deals in the past.

Monday 14th of January 2019

Two 6 day/5 nite trips within one calendar year = $10k: ~2 RT flights = $2000 ~On site room average $150/nt = $1500 (depending when and which purchase method including but not limited to rent DVC points, priceline, WDW sale, etc) ~4 Annual Passes $4000 ~Food and spending money $2000 ~$500 on whatever

2 great trips costing $5000 each $10k/12 days = $833 or roughly $200 per person per day :P

Most enthusiast families admit to spending around $1000/day to appease their WDW appetite, but a family of 4 could take a $3000 trip for 5days/4nites and have a koolaid drinking awesome experience for under $150 per person/day if they seek good values on lodging & food choices.

Amy Trafficante

Saturday 14th of July 2018

About how much would a week cost at an on-site hotel for 4 adults during the week between Christmas and New years

You are looking at $200-$300 a nite for a value resort or good price at a moderate. A decent expectation would be $400 each for 6nites/7days reservation.

Renee Eshnaur

Sunday 16th of July 2017

Hello wdwprepschool!! I have a few quest hoping you can answer.. I'm flying Into Orlando Sunday morning July 23 @ 4:45 am with two adults and two kids ten and two years old. I've booked a room for 5 nights at Wyndham garden lake Buena vista Disney springs resort for $356 is this a smart move compared to staying onsite and spending twice as much? What do we do at 5 am to get to our hotel with a 4pm check in time? Rent a car and wander, eat breakfast lol? Other ride alternatives with suitcases and car seat? So sorry it's so long hope someone has suggestions one week to date I'm so excited!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I change or modify my reservation?

The Average Cost of a Disney Vacation 2024

This article is your complete guide to the average cost to go to Disney World in 2024!   The average 4-day Disney World vacation will cost between $2,950 – $3,250 for tickets and an on-site Disney World hotel. It’s important to note that these prices do not include food while in the parks or merchandise and it can be difficult to give an exact cost for a Disney World vacation without all of the details such as the time of year you plan to visit the parks, the length of your vacation, and of course the exact hotel accommodations you select.

So if you’re ready to learn how much it costs to go to Disney World read on!

SPECIAL NOTE:  If you are still in the process of planning your Disney vacation and need help picking the best time to visit Disney World be sure to check out our Disney crowd calendar below!

 Disney World Crowd Calendar

What is the Cost of Going to Disney World 2024?

The average cost of a Disney vacation is around $225.00-$240.00 per person per day for guests staying at the value resorts or moderate resorts and $245.00 – $285.00 for guests staying at a Disney World on-site deluxe resort. These average prices include daily base admission into one of the four main Disney World theme parks, hotel accommodations, and a budget for daily meals. and adding new products like the Disney Genie+,

However, it’s important to note that prices at Disney World are subject to change, and there have been several increases in recent times. These changes may impact pricing throughout 2024. To obtain the most accurate cost estimate for your Disney World vacation, it’s advisable to consider shopping based on your exact travel dates.

How much does Disney World cost per person?

In 2024, the average cost of a Disney World vacation per person, per day is estimated to be around $250. This cost primarily covers essential elements such as park admission, hotel accommodations, transportation within the resort, and some meals. It’s important to note that this average cost does not include additional expenses like merchandise purchases or table-service meals, including character dining experiences .

As you’ll see, a Disney World vacation budget can include a variety of things, such as theme park tickets, hotel accommodations, transportation, and meals throughout the day. The average cost of a Disney World vacation also depends on the exact time of year, how many days and any vacation package deals Disney might be running as you book your trip.

Components for pricing out the average price for a Disney World trip:

• Disney World Tickets
• Transportation
• Merchandise
• Extras (Park Hopper, Add ons, Genie +, Special ticketed events)

Related Page: The Best Disney World Hotels 

What is the Average Cost of Disney Vacation Tickets?

The cost of Disney World tickets ranges from $109 – $189 depending on when you decide to visit the parks. The cost of Walt Disney World tickets has changed in recent years and now fluctuates throughout the year. This is called date-based pricing and is typically more expensive during peak times of the year, which you can check on the Park Prodigy Crowd Calendar .

We also have an entire article on The Cheapest Time To Go To Disney World . This article lays out all of the cheapest dates on which guests can purchase tickets for a Disney World vacation. For the sake of this article, we are going to pick an average time of year to go for Disney ticket pricing.

*Please note that ticket prices may vary from the dates of your trip.

Cost of Disney World Trip Tickets 2024 – Family of 4

Through The Park Prodigy Disney World tickets for a family of 4 would cost:

• 1 Park Per Day Base ticket for 4 days – Adults $485 per person
• 1 Park Per Day Base ticket for 4 days – Children (3-9) $468 per child

Total cost : $1908 plus tax for a family of 4 with two adults and two children – 4 days, 1 park per day ticket.

Related Page: The Cheapest Walt Disney World Tickets 

Disney Value Resorts – Baseline Trip to Disney World Cost 2024

Most families who visit Walt Disney World are looking for a way to maximize their fun without breaking the bank. Taking any vacation can be a financial stress, and that’s why we’re going to break down the average cost of a Disney World trip for a budget baseline trip. You can still have a very enjoyable Disney experience filled with magical fun in Disney’s value resorts.

For our trip, we are going to budget out the average cost for a Disney vacation for a family of 4.

Disney World Value Resort Hotels

There are 5 different value resorts at Walt Disney World:

• All Stars Movies – Starting at $133
• All Stars Sports – Starting at $133
• All Stars Music – Starting at $133
• Pop Century Resort – Starting at $183
• Art of Animation Resort – Starting $209

Average Cost for a Family of 4 – Value Resort Stay

If you’re able to stay at one of the All-Star Resorts at the slowest time of the year, you can book for under $600 for 4 nights in a value hotel. Just keep in mind that with dynamic pricing, each day could be a different rate. It isn’t common for all 4 nights to be the lowest rate available, hence why we budgeted about $600 for all 4 nights.

4 Nights All Star Hotel = $600

Related post:  The Best Disney Value Resorts

Cost of Disney Vacation in Disney Moderate Resort

So, how much to go to Disney World for families visiting a moderate resort ? Moderate resorts are great for families looking for a step up in value, but still not excessively expensive. They are still intricately themed with delicious dining options for guests staying.

Disney World Moderate Hotels

• Caribbean Beach – Starting at $268
• Coronado Springs – Starting at $260
• Port Orleans – French Quarter – $289
• Port Orleans – Riverside – $289
• Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness – $225

Average cost trip cost to Disney World – Moderate Resort Stay

We are going to use the Coronado Springs Hotel for the moderate resort cost of a Walt Disney World vacation .

The average price for a standard view room at Coronado Springs is around $300 per night. For our trip, we are going to price out a 4-night stay for two adults and two children

Average moderate hotel price : $1200 for 4 nights

Related post:  Complete Guide to the Best Disney Moderate Resorts

Cost of Disney Vacation in Disney Deluxe Resort

Lastly, how much is a Disney World vacation for guests who choose to stay at luxury resorts? Deluxe resorts are top tier at Walt Disney World and offer the best restaurants, theming, and overall amenities. Guests also have access to Concierge Level amenities and Villas which come at much higher prices.

Disney World Deluxe Hotels

• Animal Kingdom Lodge – Starting at $487
• Beach Club – Starting at $569
• Yacht Club – Starting at $569
• Boardwalk Inn – Starting at $620
• The Contemporary – Starting at $572
• The Grand Floridian – Starting at $824
• The Polynesian – Starting at $691
• Wilderness Lodge – Starting at $524
• Disney’s Riviera Resort – $476

Average Cost of Disney World Deluxe Hotel – Family of 4

We are going to use Animal Kingdom Lodge to figure out the cost of visiting Disney World, Florida at a deluxe resort. The average price to stay at the Animal Kingdom Lodge for a standard view room is $550 per night.

For a family of 4, it would cost : $2200 for a four-night stay

Related post:  Guide to the Best Disney World Resorts For Families – Best Disney World Resort Suites

How Much Does Food Cost at Disney World?

For this trip, we are going to use a family of 4 with two adults and two children for the average price to go to Disney World . For dining expenses, the Disney Dining Plan is no longer being offered we unfortunately cannot price out dining to an exact amount. Guests have Quick Service and Table Service restaurants to choose from when dining inside the Disney parks and resorts. This Walt Disney World trip example is going to be a 4 day, one park-per-day experience.

We are going to price out the average cost of one quick service and one table service meal per day.

Quick Service – Average $15 per person

Table Service – Average $39 for adults, $23 for children

Total average dining cost per day : $184 for one quick service and one table service meal for a family of four per day

Total dining cost for 4 days : $736

* These prices can change dramatically if you choose to only eat one meal at the park or resort a day and opt for grocery delivery or Orlando area restaurants. 

Related post:  Top 10 Best Disney World Restaurants

How Much Does Parking Cost at Disney World?

The Disney World parking cost per day is $25 for standard parking, which is good for all four theme parks. Guests can also purchase preferred parking for $45 – $50 a day if they don’t want a far walk. If you’re an Annual Passholder, like us, you can park for free at any of the Walt Disney World theme parks with your pass and ID. Parking at Disney resort hotels is once again free as of 2024 for overnight self-parking and complimentary day guest parking.

There is also free transportation from every single Disney World Resort, as well as free parking for guests staying at Disney resorts at theme parks. If you want to learn more about the costs of Disney World parking, check out our complete guide here!

Related post:  The Complete Guide to Disney World Parking

Average Cost for a Disney Vacation Transportation 2024

Now that Walt Disney World has discontinued its Magical Express service as of 2024, guests visiting the resort will have to factor in transportation costs. To figure out the average price of a trip to Disney World , we are going to price out the service that replaced Magical Express. The Mears Connect is the recommended paid shuttle service that busses guests from Orlando International Airport to Walt Disney World Resorts.

Mears Connect pricing for a family of 4

• Round trip Standard Service per adult – $32
• Round trip Standard Service per child – $27

Total cost : $118 for a family of 4 – 2 children, 2 adults.

Related post:  The Complete Guide to the Disney Skyliner Route

How Much Should You Budget For Disney World Extras?

If you’re looking for more than just the average Disney World vacation, there are plenty of options you can add on to enhance your experience. Certain services like Disney PhotoPass will capture all of your magical moments and allow you to download high-quality images from Disney photographers. If you want to skip the lines, then Disney Genie+ may be you! Disney World now offers a paid service that allows you to skip the lines.

Each of these experiences requires guests to have their valid admission into the Disney theme parks. If you are looking to participate in any of these, you will have to factor it into the total cost of going to Disney World . Which is smart to budget for beforehand.

Prices for Disney World Vacation extras

• Disney’s Magic Maker Photo Pass – Starting at $69
• Water Park Tickets ( Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach ) – Starting at $69 for adults, $63 for kids
• Park Hopper – Starting at $65 per ticket

How much does Genie Plus cost at Disney World?

• Disney Genie + – $15 – 30 per person, per day

We do have an entire guide on the costs of the brand-new skip-the-line service Disney Genie+. So, make sure to check that out if you want to plan the costs of the Genie Plus service.

How much does Lightning Lane cost at Disney World?

• Lightning Lane – Various pricing between $5-$20 per ride

Special ticketed events

• After Hours Events – Varied pricing between $135 – $300
• Disney Dessert Parties – Varied pricing starting at $99

Related post:   Disney After Hours: Everything You Need to Know

Average Cost for Family of Four to Disney World

For a budget-friendly option, the total average cost of a Disney vacation at a Value Resort is approximately $3406. This includes 4 Day – 1 Park Per Day Tickets from The Park Prodigy priced at $1908 plus tax, Mears Connect Transportation for $118, a Value Resort Hotel for $644, and dining expenses estimated at $736. If you prefer a moderate resort experience, the total average price for a family of four is around $3962, including similar ticket and transportation costs, along with a Moderate Resort Hotel priced at $1200. Indulge in luxury with a Deluxe Resort Hotel priced at $2200, resulting in a total average cost of approximately $4962 for two adults and two children.

Total cost of Walt Disney World Vacation Value Resort 2024 – Family of 4

4 Day – 1 Park Per Day Tickets from The Park Prodigy : $1908 plus tax

Mears Connect Transportation: $118

• Value Resort Hotel: $644

Dining Cost: $736

Total average cost for value resort Disney World vacation : $3406

How much is a Disney trip for 4? – Moderate Resort

Moderate Resort Hotel: $1200

The total average price to go to Disney World – Moderate resort : $3962 for a family of 4

Family of 4 Disney World Cost – Deluxe Resort

Deluxe Resort Hotel: $2200

Total average cost for a deluxe stay at Disney World : $4962 for two adults, two children

Related Page: Discount Disney World Vacation Packages 

Average Cost of 5 Days at Disney World

If you’re planning on staying longer than 4 days, you might be wondering how much the average Disney trip costs if I add on an extra day. If you’re looking to stay full Monday – Friday at Disney World, we can simply use one of our prior examples and just add on another day of expenses. Let’s use a moderate resort example for a family of 4, but the average cost of 5 days at Disney instead of 4.

How much is a Disney trip for a family of 4? – 5 Days Moderate Resort

Tickets from The Park Prodigy: $2052 plus tax

Moderate Resort Hotel: $1500

Dining Cost: $920

Total average cost for 5 days at Disney World : $4590 for a family of 4

How much is a weekend trip to Disney World?

So, how much will your Disney trip cost if you choose to make a quick weekend trip? For this example, let’s use the value resort pricing to determine how much it would cost to make a quick, cheap stop at Disney World for two nights.

2 Day Disney Tickets – One Park Per Day: $1122 plus tax

Value Resort Hotel: $322

Dining Cost: $368

Total average cost for 2 night trip to Walt Disney World : $1930 for a family of 4

Related Page: Hotels Near Disney World EPCOT 

How Much Does Disney World Cost for 2 Adults?

The cost of a Disney World vacation for two adults can vary depending on various factors such as the duration of the trip, type of accommodation, ticket options, dining choices, and additional activities. On average, you can expect to spend anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000 or more for a Disney World vacation for two adults. Here’s a breakdown of potential expenses to consider:

• Accommodation: The cost of lodging will depend on the type of resort chosen, ranging from value resorts to moderate resorts and deluxe resorts. Prices can start around $150 per night and go up to several hundred dollars per night or more for higher-end accommodations.
• Park Tickets: The price of park tickets will depend on the number of days and the type of ticket you select. A 3- or 4-day ticket for one park per day can cost around $300 to $500 per adult.
• Dining: Dining expenses can vary depending on whether you choose quick-service meals or table-service restaurants. Budgeting around $60 to $100 per day per adult for meals is a good starting point.
• Transportation: Consider the cost of transportation to and from Disney World, including flights or gas expenses if driving. If flying, factor in airfare to Orlando, and if driving, account for gas and potential parking fees.
• Additional Expenses: Remember to budget for extras such as souvenirs, snacks, special events, and any additional activities you plan to enjoy during your visit.

Related post:  Complete Guide to Disney World Payment Plans

Disney Prices FAQ

Q: How much does a week at Disney World cost?

A week-long Disney World vacation can vary in cost depending on various factors. On average, a family of four can expect to spend anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000 or more for a week at Disney World. However, keep in mind that these are general estimates, and the actual cost depends on several factors, including the time of year, type of accommodation, ticket options, dining choices, and additional activities.

Q: How much do Mickey ears cost at Disney World?

A: Depending on the pair you choose, the price of Mickey’s ears can be anywhere between $30 – $60. Most Mickey Ears cost $34.99 in the parks, with some of the special designs, like Loungefly, costing upwards of  $60.

When is The Best Time to Visit Disney World?

Our   Disney  World Crowd Calendar  is the best tool to help you get the most out of your time in the parks. We break down park crowds, park hours of operation, ticket prices, and average temperature. We also break down   the best time to visit Disney World   based on specific times of the year and special events.

Are You Ready to Plan Your Next Disney World Trip?

Are you planning a trip to Walt Disney World? Be sure to speak with a  Disney World Travel Agent   for the most recent deals and promotions. The Park Prodigy will provide a  Free Quote  for all  Disney World Vacation Packages .  The Park Prodigy can also help you save up to $20 per ticket when purchasing your  Walt Disney World Tickets ,   and we offer promotional discounts for special events such as  Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Tickets  and  Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Tickets .   If you’re brand new to Disney vacation planning we recommend our  Walt Disney World Planning Page!   Learn more about Disney hotels by reading our  Walt Disney World Hotels Review page .

Don’t forget to check out our wonderful friends over at Theme Park Today , as well!

Who We Recommend

Ticket Subtotal: $325.45

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* Your magic rewards program points are automatically calculated into all theme park ticket prices!

Nik Chapman

Nik Chapman is the executive editor and one of the main content creators for The Park Prodigy blog and social media pages. With a lifelong love for Disney and Universal, Nik immersed themselves in the Orlando area for three years to fully indulge in the magic of the theme parks. In between going to the parks and creating content for The Park Prodigy, Nik also hosted a Disney themed podcast with her two best friends and helps run multiple Disney-themed social media accounts which help over one million people per year. Drawing from their experience as a local Florida resident, Nik brings a unique perspective to the world of theme parks.

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Create a Disney Budget With A Disney World Cost Calculator

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One of the biggest Disney planning questions is how much does a Disney vacation cost? Unfortunately, there are so many variables this question is hard to answer.

That’s part of the reason I put together this Disney World cost calculator for you.

I think we all know by now that a Disney World vacation is EXPENSIVE. Just how expensive depends on a lot of different factors. And these factors are different for absolutely everyone.

If you want an accurate idea of how much YOUR Disney vacation will cost, you need a Disney trip calculator. But more on that later.

First, let’s look at the factors to determine how much a Disney vacation costs. I highly recommend that you read through this Disney vacation planning guide. It gives you a comprehensive breakdown of exactly what goes into planning a Disney trip.

This in turn, helps you to begin to choose the details that allow you to estimate Disney trip costs.

Table of Contents

Disney World Cost Calculator Factors

We’re going to look in much more detail at these factors, but here’s the short version. The choices you make in each of these categories determines the overall cost of your trip.

The good news: there are many ways you can play around with these answers to change the cost of your trip. If planning a trip to Disney World on a budget is your goal, than this post holds your answers.

Here are your Disney World cost calculator factors:

• Time of year
• Getting to Florida/Transportation costs
• Type of hotel
• Type of Disney park ticket
• Dining and snacks
• Souvenirs and incidentals

Now, let’s get into the nitty gritty of exactly how these factors come into play.

Disney World Cost Calculator: Time of Year

Really, when you think about it, this factor right here will determine the price of pretty much everything else that follows.

The time of year you choose to go to Disney impacts the cost of hotels and park tickets, two of the largest expenses.

Disney breaks the year up according to price. During times of the year that attendance is a little bit lower the prices tend to follow suit. Common lower cost months tend to be January, February, end of August, and September.

If there’s a school break, expect higher crowds and higher prices.

I have a guide that goes into more detail about deciding the best time of year to go to Disney . Take a look at that and make your decision from there.

Another Factor: Length of Trip

Clearly, the number of days you plan to be in Disney directly impacts just how expensive the trip will be. Once you decide on your budget, playing around with the length of the trip is one of the easiest ways to manipulate the total cost.

Do you want to stay longer with a lower resort category or have a shorter trip with deluxe accommodations? There’s no wrong answer to that question. Just the right answer for your family.

Disney World Cost Calculator: Getting to Florida

Here’s the tricky one. We all live different distances from Disney World. This expense will clearly vary dramatically depending on many factors.

I highly recommend utilizing as many tricks as you can to reduce the overall cost of travel to Orlando.

Flying is clearly the most frequent way to get to Orlando, and can cost a small fortune. Again, there are so many factors that go into this cost, like airline, family size, geographic location, etc.

Do your research regarding what the best options are from your local airports. Many people gravitate towards Spirit and Allegiant for their rock bottom prices. However, there are trade offs for flying on a budget airline.

I’ve had two different family members have significant problems flying Allegiant recently. And my best friend flies Spirit all the time and loves it. So think about what you can and can’t tolerate.

We prefer to fly Southwest anytime we go to Orlando. It helps that I’ve used my credit card rewards to fly for free for the past 3+ years. This is one of the ways that I’ve significantly cut down on the cost of our trips to Disney.

Southwest also seems to have some of the best prices around to boot. Plus no additional charges for luggage.

If you want to try this, use my Southwest referral link . Then we’ll both get a bonus!

Getting from the Airport to Your Hotel

Unfortunately for all of us, Disney discontinued the Magical Express service, which provided free airport transportation from Orlando Airport.

Consequently, this is now an additional cost to factor in for anyone flying into Orlando.

Some new airport transportation options have popped up as replacements for Magical Express. Two of these options still involve a charter bus and are probably the most economical.

To find out more about your choices, read all about Disney airport transportation .

Taking a nice long drive is probably the most cost effective way to get to Disney World. Of course, the overall cost depends on gas prices at the time and whether you need to stay overnight at a hotel.

Frankly, with the way gas prices have been over the past several months, this option is no longer so cheap.

Now, I know this isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but long drives aren’t all that bad. We drove from PA to Florida for years. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not exactly fun, but it’s tolerable. Especially if the trade off is a Disney vacation.

To get an estimate of how much money you should expect to spend on gas, use the following equation:

(Miles to Orlando/Miles per gallon of vehicle) x gas price per gallon = Total gas cost estimate

Here how that looks for the drive from our house right now, one way.

(1181/19) x 3.35 = $208.23

Clearly, that’s much cheaper than plane tickets for a family of four.

If you are planning to make a road trip out of it, don’t forget to factor in the cost of food and any necessary hotels along the way.

Parking Fees

If you decide to either rent a car or drive your own, be aware of the parking fees at the resorts and the parks. Disney resort guests get complimentary parking at all 4 Disney parks.

However, offsite park guests are charged $25 a day. Clearly, that can add up depending on how many park days you have.

But don’t worry, Disney found a way to ding the resort guests too! Disney began charging a parking fee at each of the Disney resorts. The fee varies based on the resort category:

• Value Resort: $15/night
• Moderate Resorts: $20/night
• Deluxe Resorts: $25/night

Disney Vacation Club members have an exception to the parking fee in some situations (staying at a DVC deluxe villa with points, using points at other Disney World resorts).

To calculate your parking fees, at either the parks or the resorts, use the following equation:

Daily/Nightly parking fee x Number of days/nights = Total Parking Fees

The parking fee itself depends on whether you’re a Disney resort guest or not. Let’s do an example for a Disney moderate resort guest on a 6 night trip.

$20 x 6 = $120

If you are staying at an offsite hotel, check to see if it has any parking fees, just to be safe.

And for those who are staying offsite and need to pay for parking at the parks, don’t forget to multiply your number of park days by $25.

Disney World Cost Calculator: Type of Hotel

The type of hotel, and the location, has a significant impact on your overall Disney vacation cost. There are a few different decisions you’ll need to make.

First, you need to decide whether you want to stay at a Disney resort or at a hotel in Orlando. I put together a guide looking at the pros and cons of staying on or off Disney property .

Needless to say, it’s significantly cheaper to stay at a hotel that’s off Disney property. However, there are some tradeoffs that you should consider, so take a look at the post I linked to above.

If you decide you definitely want to stay at a Disney resort, make sure you understand the differences between the Disney resort categories .

The resort categories are Value, Moderate, and Deluxe. As you can see just by the names, the prices range dramatically between all of the categories.

The formula to figure out your hotel costs are pretty self explanatory, but let’s do a formula anyway!

Average Nightly Cost of Hotel x Number of Nights + Resort Fee = Total Hotel Cost

Notice that resort fee I added into the equation. At this point in time, Disney does not charge any sort of resort fee at any of their resorts.

However, this is not the case for many of the Orlando hotels. Always look at the fine print when it comes to resort fees. Sometimes, the resort fee closes the price gap compared to a Disney resort more than you would think.

Disney World Cost Calculator: Park Tickets

And here we come to the crux of the cost of a Disney vacation. Disney park tickets are EXPENSIVE. Notice I put that in all capital letters. Park tickets take up a sizable portion of your Disney vacation budget.

I highly recommend you understand the different Disney park ticket options . The type of ticket you choose can change the cost of your trip by several hundred dollars.

The bottom line is, if you want to save as much money as possible, get the standard one park per day ticket. If you want maximum flexibility, the Park Hopper ticket is your friend, but you’ll pay extra for that privilege.

You can also play around with the number of park days you plan to have. This allows you to adjust the cost to fit your Disney vacation budget.

However, it generally works out that the more park days you have, the less you’ll pay per day. 

For example, I decided to get 7 day park hopper tickets for a trip instead of 5 day tickets. The price difference was only $20 per person.

For that $20 a person I decided to give us the ultimate flexibility of being able to pop into a park on any day of our trip.

If you want to buy discount Disney park tickets, then Undercover Tourist is your answer . They are an authorized Disney ticket seller and I’ve used them many times myself.

They are 100% legit and will save you a nice chunk of change.

Disney World Cost Calculator: Dining Choices

The amount one family spends on dining at Disney World will vary widely compared to another family. Really, your food expenses at Disney can be as cheap or as expensive as you want them to be.

There is that much wiggle room.

In general, if you want to spend less on dining, stick with all quick service restaurants, bring your own snacks, and eat breakfast in your hotel room.

If you want to explore the many delicious sit down restaurants at Disney, plan to spend quite a bit more.

In case you’re interested, I have a whole guide full of tips for how to eat at Disney World on a budget . Yes, I really did take a trip where I spent $35 a day on food!

Tip: If you want to save money on food, DO NOT buy the Disney Dining Plan (when it’s actually available again). As much as people like to think it saves money, it rarely does.

But how do you estimate your food budget? Here is a breakdown of price ranges for the different types of meals:

• Quick Service meals: $10-$25 per person
• Table Service meals: $20-$60 per person
• Signature dining: $30-70+
• Snacks: $5-$9 per snack

Clearly, this is a bit of a rough estimate, but it will give you a jumping off point.

The other option is to determine approximately how much you feel comfortable spending per person, per day and go from there (i.e. $50 per day for adults, $30 per day for kids).

Once you have that number you can choose dining options that help keep you at that goal.

Disney World Cost Calculator: Souvenirs and Incidentals

This one is really a big old question mark. Mainly because you just don’t know what will come up during your trip. Trust me, I didn’t plan on buying that tiny package of exorbitantly expensive bandaids on our last trip…

Disney World is a souvenir paradise, or purgatory, depending on your view. There are so many different stores filled with very cool souvenirs.

It is extremely easy to go massively over budget once you get there. Temptation is everywhere.

I highly recommend identifying the amount of money you are willing to spend on souvenirs per person before you even leave your house. It just makes it easier once you’re there.

Then add a little cushion to that number to cover the things you don’t ever think about needing. Like bandaids.

Maybe consider giving each member of the family a Disney gift card preloaded with the amount they are allotted for the trip. This allows each person to know just how much they have left, and allows them to make decisions on what to buy.

Disney World Cost Calculator: Real Life Example for Family of 4

Now that we’ve talked about some vague examples, I wanted to give you the calculations for a recent trip we took. This will give you an idea of both how to create your Disney vacation budget as well as get an idea of how much a Disney vacation costs.

Here’s a summary:

• 6 night stay for a family of four
• This is a road trip example (amount includes gas, overnight hotels, Disney resort parking fee)
• Dining involved mainly quick service, 2 table service meals, and a whole lot of Food and Wine Festival snacks
• Full disclosure: we actually used our Disney Vacation Club points for the resort, but this example resort price is the actual cost for another trip I have coming up
• Park ticket is a 7 day standard park ticket

So what’s the difference between my estimated cost and what I actually paid? Some Disney (and travel) saving hacks.

This breakdown shows that while still expensive, it is possible to eke out some savings on your Disney vacation.

I paid for some of the dining with a combination of discounted Disney gift cards and Disney Visa rewards points (that link includes a sign on bonus). I could have saved more than the $118 that I did, but I went conservative when buying the gift cards. Foolish!

For the resort stay, I activated a Disney discount that was released after I originally booked my stay. It’s important to keep an eye on the Disney World discounts for this exact reason!

In my road trip expenses, I used my Capital One travel rewards to cover the cost of the overnight hotels on each leg of the trip. The Capital One Venture card is my FAVORITE travel rewards card. I’ve saved so much on travel over the years I’ve had it.

If you want one, sign up with my Capital One referral link and you’ll get a sign on bonus too (between 50,000 and 100,000 miles)!

Because we typically fly free on points with Southwest, we actually would have saved money had we flown, but we were going to Florida for an extended stay on this particular trip so we drove.

Now that we’ve taken a look at my real life example of how much a Disney trip costs, let’s talk about this handy dandy Disney World budget worksheet I have to make this easier for you.

What is this Disney World Cost Calculator?

Basically, it’s the name I came up with for this handy dandy Disney budget calculator I made for you!

I know that printables are all the rage, and they are great! I have quite a few of my own on this site. However, there’s just something nice about allowing a computer do the math for you.

At least I think so. And frankly, I have this complete and utter love of a good spreadsheet.

I know, I’m a dork!

Why not translate my dorkiness into a tool that makes your life easier?

What does the Disney Cost Calculator Do?

The goal of the Disney cost calculator is not only to let you automatically get an idea of your potential Disney trip cost, but to give you options to play around with different category combinations.

With so many different resorts, ways to approach dining, park tickets options, travel options, and more, making a change to any one area can make a huge difference in your overall Disney trip cost.

Disney Trip Cost Calculator Categories

The Disney vacation calculator in it’s original form has a spot for each of the following trip planning categories:

• Park tickets
• Airfare/road trip expenses
• Miscellaneous

Those categories should cover most everything you need. However, if you do need more categories, you can easily add them, or change the name of a heading that you don’t need, like rental car.

Seriously, with the framework in place, you can tailor this however you need it!

Create MULTIPLE Potential Disney Budgets

As I created the Disney cost calculator, I realized, why create just one budget when you can create multiple?

With that in mind, this Disney vacation calculator gives you 5 different areas to test out various combinations of the categories above.

Want to see how much the overall cost changes if you change the resort? Done. Playing around with getting a dining plan versus paying out of pocket? Throw those estimates in there.

By having all of these Disney World cost calculators going, you can see which options in each are the most cost effective. This allows you to easily piece together all those different categories into one final Disney vacation budget spreadsheet.

It’s always a good idea to use a Disney cost estimator in your planning. The more you can minimize any surprise expenses for your trip, the better.

What if I Have a Set Budget to Stay Under?

If you know how much money you are willing to spend on your Disney vacation, a spot for that number is already built in for you!

At the top of the spreadsheet, simply put in the budget you’ve decided you feel comfortable with. For example, let’s say you’ve determined that $4000 is the max amount you want to spend on the trip.

Simply input $4000 into the spot labeled “My Budget”. This amount is now factored into every single Disney World trip cost calculator you see on the page.

At this point, go about adding in the amounts you are researching for resort, tickets and so on. As you plug those numbers in, IT DOES THE MATH FOR YOU! You can see in real time the total cost of the trip so far and the amount of your budget you have left.

This is so useful to help make sure you don’t accidentally go over budget on your spending.

Ideas to Stay Under Budget

If you do have a set budget you want to stay under, here are some quick ideas on how to play around with cost to get it lower.

Some of these I’ve mentioned interspersed throughout this article, but I figured it couldn’t hurt to put them all in one place.

• Look at Disney value resorts only
• Book a hotel outside of Disney World
• Know how to make your dining costs at Disney as low as possible
• Shorten the number of nights of the trip
• Do not get park hopper tickets
• Plan to use discounted Disney gift cards to pay for as much as you can
• Buy Disney themed souvenirs on Amazon ahead of time
• Use credit card rewards points to pay for as much as you can

How Do I Get My Disney Cost Calculator?

The great news is, it’s a piece of cake. Simply sign up with any of the forms on this page and it’s yours. As a bonus, you’ll be added to The Disney Journey newsletter.

The newsletter provides you with helpful Disney planning tips and keeps you informed about news that can impact your upcoming Disney trip.

Once you sign up and confirm your email, you’ll receive the link to access the Disney cost calculator. It will prompt you to open a copy of the Disney World Cost Calculator in Google Sheets.

Whether you do or don’t have Google Sheets, it won’t matter! You’ll still be able to open it. If you prefer to use the speadsheet in Excel, simply click on File – Download – Microsoft Excel.

You can also download it as a PDF if you prefer it in printable form!

How to Know EXACTLY How Much You’ll Spend

Now that I’ve rambled on forever about how to use this Disney cost estimator, what if you simply want to know exactly how much the trip will cost you?

My best advice to make all of this easier on you is to enlist the help of an authorized Disney Vacation Planner. Siera at Destinations in Florida is my go-to Disney travel agent.

She would be more than happy to give you a free estimate of your Disney trip cost. Yes that’s right, you get the estimate for free. In fact, you never have to pay for an authorized Disney travel agent to book your trip for you.

Using an authorized Disney Vacation Planner is completely FREE for you.

So, if you’re interested, fill out this inquiry form for Siera to find out just how much your Disney trip would cost.

Trust me, she’s amazing at what she does. If you have more questions about using a travel agent to plan your Disney trip, make sure you read my post all about how to use a Disney travel agent to plan your trip .

That post goes into painstaking detail and also looks at the pros and cons of using a travel agent.

Does Disney World Offer a Payment Plan?

Let’s face it, we all know that this trip is going to be quite pricey. Wanting to pay it down a little at a time over the span of months certainly has an appeal.

But does Disney World offer a payment plan option? The answer is both yes and no.

Disney itself doesn’t have a formal payment plan, however there is a way you can set one up for yourself very simply.

I’m breaking this down into two categories because the details are slightly different, but the process is the same.

Resort Only Guests

This category applies to people who book a Disney World resort with no park tickets or bundle. You simply booked your hotel room through Disney.

For these guests, you’ll have to pay a deposit that’s equal to the cost of one night of your trip immediately upon booking.

The rest of the balance isn’t due until check-in. Yes, you read that right: you don’t have to pay the balance until the day you check in.

However, if you want to set up a payment plan for yourself, you can simply pay the remaining balance down on your own while you wait for your trip to start.

Let’s say you have 6 months to go before your trip. Take the total remaining balance of your trip and divide by 6. Now you know how much you want to pay each month for your payment plan.

Unless they change the website, you’ll likely have to call in to a Disney cast member to make these payments, but it’s doable.

Disney Vacation Package Guests

As I mentioned, things are slightly different here, but the concept is the same. A Disney vacation package is when people bundle their resort and park tickets into one package.

This is the only way to be able to do a payment plan on the cost of park tickets .

When it is offered, the Disney dining plan can also be added in to a Disney vacation package.

When you book a Disney vacation package, the deposit that you’re required to put down immediately is $200. The remaining balance of the trip is due 30 days prior to check-in. Please take note of this, because it’s a different time frame than for resort only guests.

That means you have one less month to factor in to your “payment plan”.

So this time, for your trip that’s in 6 months, you need to divide the remaining balance by 5 to find out how much to pay each month.

Clearly, you can pay as much or as little as you want in the lead up to the trip, it doesn’t have to be exactly even for each of your advance payments. Do whatever works for you.

Final Thoughts on the Disney World Cost Calculator

I really hope you find this Disney trip calculator helpful. I really do have a (probably) unhealthy fascination with spreadsheets.

But it was important to me to design a tool more useful than a standard printable. And really, the less math I have to do on my own, the better!

But seriously, download this Disney World trip calculator and make your life a little easier.

Your Thoughts

What do you think? Is Disney trip calculator a useful tool to help work within your Disney budget? Put your thoughts in the comments below. I would love to know of any improvements you suggest.

Don’t forget to follow The Disney Journey on Pinterest and Facebook to stay up to date with all the latest news and updates.

2 thoughts on “Create a Disney Budget With A Disney World Cost Calculator”

Hi! I am interested in giving your calculator a try… but I don’t see any of the forms to fill out in order to get one. Please help! Thanks!

That’s weird that the forms don’t show up. Have you tried opening it up in a different browser? I can see the forms when I go on the page. You should see a section where it asks for your name and your email. Can you see that anywhere? If all else fails, try to this URL: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/e1o9e3

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Westgate Resorts

How much does a disney vacation really cost [2024 edition].

Jan 03, 2024

By Westgate Resorts

How much does the average disney vacation cost in 2024.

“A theme park is an amusement park where you pay one blanket admission fee, which is quite steep, but once you’re inside, everything is totally free, except all the other stuff you end up buying …” – Dave Barry

With all the things to do in Orlando , it's no wonder that families from all over the world usually ask this question at least once in their lives - how much does a Disney vacation REALLY cost? Planning a trip to Central Florida for the whole family and wondering how much a Disney vacation really costs? First, it’s necessary to take a step back in time and see how Disney prices have evolved over the years. Believe it or not, when Disney’s Magic Kingdom first opened its doors at Walt Disney World Resort in 1971, the price of a general admission adult ticket was just $3.50 and a seven-ride attraction ticket book cost only $4.75.

In addition, Disney World annual passes (which will now set you back a cool $999) cost a rather paltry $100 when they were first introduced in 1982 – less than the current cost of a one-day Disney ticket, which starts at $109! In fact, the skyrocketing change in one-day Magic Kingdom ticket prices over the years represents a whopping 3,014 percent increase, according to a recent study published in The Miami Herald. Note that one-day ticket prices fluctuate on a daily basis and cost even more during peak attendance times. Add to the mix costs for airfare, accommodations, dining, transportation and parking fees, as well as souvenirs and other miscellaneous expenses, and you are looking at spending a hefty amount of change on your Disney family vacation – unless you truly take the time to plan out your entire trip carefully and take advantage of affordable alternatives along the way.

Indeed, the rapid rise in Disney World ticket prices has not served to deter families from all over the world from making the splurge and taking the much-anticipated pilgrimage to “The Most Magical Place on Earth.” In fact, over the past several years, Disney World has experienced record-breaking attendance numbers with an average annual attendance of nearly 58 million visitors! Disney’s Magic Kingdom Park is by far the most popular theme park at Disney World with over 21 million visitors (making it the most-visited theme park in the world), followed by Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios – each of which average between 11 and 13 million visitors annually . By the way, international tourists comprise between 18 and 22 percent of total attendance at Disney World, with Brazilian visitors driving much of the new growth, according to a recent article in The Orlando Sentinel. The least expensive (and least crowded) times to visit Walt Disney World Resort fall upon dates when kids are traditionally back in school: early January through early February, late April, late August to late September and mid-October. The costliest (and busiest) times to visit Disney World include Spring Break/Easter in late March and early April, Memorial Day weekend, Thanksgiving week and the Christmas holidays through New Year’s Day.

Breaking Down The Cost Your Disney Vacation Itinerary

One reason that Walt Disney World Resort can justify its regular price hikes is the constant addition of new theme parks and attractions over the past nearly 50 years. For example, Disney World opened in 1971 with one theme park, two onsite resorts, a campground and an 18-hole golf course. Today, Disney encompasses nearly 40 square miles and boasts four theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom), two water parks (Disney’s Blizzard Beach and Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon), the massive Disney Springs entertainment-shopping-dining complex, ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, four championship golf courses and 41 on-property resorts.

In addition, Disney has recently added a slew of new attractions and experiences at its theme parks to attract new and returning guests such as Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and the Space 220 Restaurant at Epcot. Attractions that opened at Disney World in past years include Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge (home to Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance) and Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, as well as Pandora – The World of Avatar (featuring the immensely popular Avatar Flight of Passage ride) at Animal Kingdom, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Drawn to Life Presented by Cirque du Soleil & Disney at Disney Springs, and Harmonious, a brand-new nighttime show at Epcot, which also has debuted three new films: “Awesome Planet” in The Land Pavilion, “Canada Far and Wide in Circle-Vision 360” in the Canada Pavilion and “Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along” in the France Pavilion.

With so much to see and do, it’s imperative that you plan to budget enough days for your Disney vacation and decide exactly which theme parks you simply must visit, so you and your family can enjoy the full flavor of the experience. In fact, the average length of stay at Walt Disney World Resort is six days. According to various experts, a six- to seven-day visit will give you ample time to visit at least three Disney theme parks, as well as Universal Orlando and/or SeaWorld Orlando if you so choose. You should also have enough time to experience the best nature trails in Central Florida or enjoy these attractions on International Drive . For adults without kids, adequate time should also be available for a visit to the most romantic places in Orlando , or a drink at the best breweries in Orlando . You may even have time to head out further for a road trip to Cocoa Beach to soak up the world-famous Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier , home to Keith’s Oyster Bar, The Boardwalk Bar, Pelican’s Bar & Grill, Sea Dogs and Rikki Tiki Tavern. Whatever you choose, you will have plenty of time for a full Orlando vacation experience and other amazing options in our Travel Blog !

After you figure out how many days you wish to spend on your Disney vacation, you need to determine the optimum Orlando accommodations for your family. At first glance, you might be tempted to seek out the convenience of an on-property Disney hotel. Disney features three categories of on-property hotels: “value,” “moderate” and “deluxe” – but these labels can be somewhat deceiving. Interestingly, Walt Disney World Resort opened in 1971 with two onsite resorts – Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Disney’s Contemporary Resort – with room rates starting at just $29 per night . However, today you can expect to pay over $200 per night during peak season at one of Disney’s “value” hotels, while moderate hotels can easily top $300 per night and deluxe resorts start in the $500 per night range and go up well into the thousands. Even a simple tent campsite at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort can cost close to $200 per night during peak season.

It’s important to emphasize that you can stay near Disney World from the parks without having to spend a small fortune. For example, Westgate Vacation Villas & Town Center Resort lies just one mile from the main entrance to Disney and is minutes away from all three of the major Central Florida theme parks – without making a huge dent in your wallet! Onsite amenities at Westgate Vacation Villas & Town Center Resort include spacious accommodations ranging from cozy studios to oversized four-bedroom villas that feature 2,403 square feet of space and room for up to 16 guests, as well as a multitude of onsite amenities, including the state-of-the-art Ship Wreck Island Water Park , Los Amigos Mexican Bar & Grill, Villa Italiano Chophouse, Drafts Sports Bar & Grill , 14 heated outdoor pools and hot tubs, lakeside marina with paddleboat rentals, Disney Movie Theater and more.

Westgate Vacation Villas & Town Center Resort also gives you and your family the much needed space to spread out – as opposed to squeezing into a cramped “value-type” hotel room. In addition, Resort guests enjoy the convenience of either kitchenettes or fully equipped kitchens, so you and your family can save money by preparing some of your meals within the privacy of your spacious villa (as opposed to purchasing overpriced and somewhat inflexible dining plans). Therefore, you can save money, while still splurging on Disney treats sporadically during your weeklong vacation such as the Fruit and Nutella Waffle Sandwich, Mickey’s Premium Ice Cream Bar and Dole Whip at Magic Kingdom; Frozen Jim Beam Red Stag Lemonade, Chocolate Crepe and German Pretzel at Epcot; Carrot Cake Cookie, Peanut Butter & Jelly Milk Shake and Key Lime Pie on a Stick at Hollywood Studios; and Pongu Lumpia (pineapple cream cheese spring roll), Buffalo Chicken Chips and Baked Macaroni & Cheese at Animal Kingdom.

RELATED ARTICLES:

Top 10 Romantic Places in Orlando!

10 Disney Springs Bars To Crawl After A Day At The Parks!

10 Fun Things to do in Kissimmee at Night

Important Considerations When Planning a Disney Vacation

Walt Disney once remarked, “A person should set his goals as early as he can and devote all his energy and talent to getting there.” This philosophy is especially true when it comes to planning your next Disney vacation. Here are some important factors to consider when coordinating your Disney trip:

Make sure you block out the vacation dates on your work calendar months in advance and notify your coworkers of your upcoming absence as soon as possible.

Choose a time during the school year when disruptions to their academic calendar will be minimal, or simply plan on traveling to Disney on Spring Break, during the summer or on a long holiday weekend.

If you choose to visit Orlando between June and early August, expect crowds and extremely hot weather with heavy humidity. Therefore, plan on visiting the theme parks first thing in the morning, take a break in the afternoon and return to the parks in the early evening when the temperature is milder and the crowds have dissipated somewhat.

Consider coinciding your visit during one of Disney’s popular and highly acclaimed seasonal events such as Epcot International Festival of the Arts, Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, Epcot International Food & Wine Festival and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.

Start a Disney savings fund well in advance and start squirreling away cash for your trip.

Go online and reserve your FastPass+ (ride skipping queue system) up to 30 days prior to your visit.

Don’t forget to arrange for pet care while you're gone and book early to ensure an available spot for your pooch or kitty.

Check Disney’s 2024 online calendar of Non-Operable Theme Park Attractions to make sure that none of your must-see attractions won’t be closed for renovations during your Disney visit.

The Average Cost of a Disney Vacation vs. Affordable Alternatives

Now that you’ve determined when you want to go to Disney World and what you want to see once you get there, along with other considerations to make sure your trip runs smoothly, it’s time to analyze your expenses and determine how you will maximize your budget for the ultimate Disney vacation at the best possible price. So, how much does an average Disney vacation cost for 2024? Consult the following Disney vacation expenses chart to find out how much you would expect to pay for a traditional Disney vacation versus the incredible savings you can enjoy when you seek out much more affordable options such as vacation packages and vacation ownership:

* One week stay rates based on rate shop performed at the time of writing for both Westgate Town Center Resort and Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, both listed as moderate resort type on wdwinfo.com , for one week, dates 7/29 – 8/4 at Best Available Rate and/or Discount Rates currently offered for comparable room types . Westgate Vacation Package rate of $519.00 available at the time of writing, and subject to eligibility, Terms and Conditions, and presentation/touring requirements . Westgate Vacation Ownership cost of ‘FREE’ stay does not include maintenance fees or other individual agreements at time of purchase for vacation ownership. Terms and Conditions apply .

** One week’s worth of Dining calculated for a family of 4 at 3 meals per person, per day, utilizing U.S. Government recommended food allowances versus food allowance provided under Low Cost Plan guidance via USDA Food Plan guidelines , versus current Disney Dining Plan Deluxe Tier Option at current 2024 rates.

*** 3 Day Disney Ticket purchase calculated at time of writing via Disney.go.com online ticket purchasing for base, one day / one park tickets (no Flex / No Park Hopper option) for two (2) children and two (2) adults. Vacation Package guests will enjoy $200 towards the purchase of any park ticket.

Disney Vacation Packages to the Rescue!

As you can see from the above chart, there are several affordable alternatives to get around the ever-increasing prices at Walt Disney World Resort, allowing you and your family to experience all of the Disney magic and enjoy amazing savings in the process! In fact, with the right planning, you can save over 70 percent on your next Disney getaway! Fortunately, our Westgate Resorts Vacation Package provides the perfect antidote to skyrocketing Disney vacation prices. Enjoy magical savings with this heavily discounted vacation package, which features a 7-day, 6-night stay in a Luxurious Studio that sleeps up to four guests, contains a fully equipped kitchen and lies within one mile of the main entrance to Walt Disney World Resort – plus two (1-day/1-park) theme park tickets – all for just $519!* Experience onsite resort amenities that include Ship Wreck Island Water Park , 14 heated outdoor pools and hot tubs , 18-hole dinosaur-themed miniature golf course , lakeside marina and paddleboats , Disney Movie Theater and a variety of dining options such as Los Amigos Mexican Grill & Tequila Bar, Villa Italiano Chophouse, Drafts Sports Bar & Grill, Sid’s Bistro, Hershey’s Ice Cream Shop, Joe’s Marketplace & Deli and Cordovano Joe’s Pizza. Book your special Disney vacation package today at www.westgatereservations.com .

Discover the Everlasting Value of Vacation Ownership

Of course, once you crunch all the numbers and consider all of your options, vacation ownership through Westgate Resorts is truly your best bet when it comes to enjoying a lifetime of free Disney World vacations! Not only will you and your family enjoy proximity to Disney theme parks, along with other theme parks and attractions in “The Vacation Capital of the World,” but also spacious accommodations, world-class amenities, discounts on dining and attraction tickets, flexible vacation exchanges and unparalleled customer service. Westgate Owners also enjoy savings up to 30 percent off nightly rental rates at Westgate resort properties in premier travel destinations throughout the United States. For more information about Westgate vacation ownership, visit The Benefits of Timeshare Ownership .

RELATED ARTICLE:

At Westgate Resorts , when you Check-In, there’s a LOT to Check-Out! Your Kissimmee vacation rentals await! Explore our Orlando resorts today or talk with a vacation planner at 888-852-2959 or 407-355-2690 .

* Westgate Resorts is in no way affiliated with the third-party attractions, products, services, or offerings featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.

Other tagged pages of interest: orlando hotels near disney , resorts near universal studios orlando , lake buena vista resort , kissimmee resorts , kissimmee hotel , hotels orlando , orlando resorts , resort hotels , staycations

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Disney World Costs for a Family of 4 Might Surprise You

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Table of Contents

Average Disney World vacation cost per person, per day

Average disney world vacation cost for a family of 4, how families can do disney world on a budget, methodology.

A Disney family vacation certainly isn’t cheap. The average cost for a family of four to Disney World can easily top $6,000 for a seven-night trip, and that’s if you’re a frugal traveler.

But a weeklong family trip to Disney World exceeding $15,000 is not unheard of, especially for families splurging on memorable character meals and hotels closer to the theme park.

A recent NerdWallet analysis sought to understand the average cost for a family of four to go to Disney World, accounting for line items across these four categories:

Park tickets (and add-ons, like Genie+ ).

On-property hotel room rates.

Food at park restaurants.

Add-on activities, like spa treatments and tours.

Because Disney offers options for all sorts of budgets, NerdWallet categorized trips into three price tiers: Value, Moderate and Deluxe (the same classifications that Disney World uses for its hotels). Frugal families might fit everyone into a single room and dine only at counter service restaurants or food carts. Meanwhile, families willing to spend more might purchase line-skipping privileges, larger rooms and fancier meals. Those variations are accounted for in NerdWallet’s price breakdowns. (Read our methodology at the end of this piece.)

Here’s what you can expect to spend per person, per day for a theme park ticket, hotel room and meal, based on travel style:

Here’s the average Disney World vacation cost for a family of four, broken down by travel style and length of trip. These prices include the cost of three meals per day on Disney property, daily theme park tickets and overnight stays at a Disney-owned hotel.

Disney World ticket prices

Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom. (Photo courtesy of Disney)

Disney World ticket prices vary by park and date, but one-day Magic Kingdom tickets average $160 apiece. (Magic Kingdom is typically viewed as the most family-friendly of the theme parks, but it’s also typically the most expensive park.)

Per-day prices drop the longer you stay. For example, five-day, one-park-per-day tickets average $643 (that’s $129 per day).

Some travelers might opt for upgrades like Park Hopper tickets , which let you visit multiple parks each day, or Lightning Lanes , which are priority queues for certain attractions.

Not accounting for upgrades, here’s how much a family of four can expect to spend on tickets, based on the number of theme park days:

There’s no such thing as family tickets to Disney World; tickets are sold per person. Disney automatically discounts ticket prices for kids under age 9 (those under age 3 don’t need a ticket at all), so families with young children might see slightly lower overall ticket costs.

Disney World hotels

The "Alice in Wonderland"-themed water play area at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. (Photo courtesy of Disney)

Rooms at All-Star properties (which are considered Value hotels) start at $128 per night, according to Disney trip planning website Touring Plans. Meanwhile, nightly rates for one of Disney World’s most expensive Deluxe hotels, Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, start at $780.

Exact prices vary based on check-in date and property, but here are average prices broken down by type and trip length, according to NerdWallet’s analysis:

Average Disney World hotel room costs

The $286 average rate for Disney’s cheapest rooms still exceeds the average hotel room rate off-property. According to Visit Orlando’s 2022 Travel Industry Indicators, Orlando’s average daily room rate is just $186.49, about 35% less than the cheapest room at a Disney resort.

Disney World food

NerdWallet also calculated the average meal prices depending on restaurant type. Meals consisted of an entree and drink and, at waiter service restaurants, an appetizer or dessert.

Average Disney World food costs

However, these Disney food prices did not account for kids meals, which are usually cheaper.

Consider one of the best family restaurants at Disney World, the African-inspired buffet at Tusker House Restaurant, located in the Animal Kingdom theme park. Dinner, which features walkaround Disney characters in safari garb, costs $59 (before tax and tip) for ages 10 and up. But kids under 9 can eat for $38 (a 35% discount), and children under 3 eat for free.

Tusker House Restaurant at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. (Photo courtesy of Disney)

Satu'li Canteen, located in the “Avatar” section of the theme park, is another family-favorite restaurant in Animal Kingdom. It's famous for its cheeseburger pod, which is a bao bun stuffed with classic cheeseburger ingredients. The adult serving costs $13.29 while the smaller kids version is just $8.59 — also a 35% discount.

Other activities and expenses

Food, tickets and hotels are hardly the only Disney family trip costs. NerdWallet’s calculations did not account for sundries and souvenirs, which might add to the average cost for a trip to Disney.

NerdWallet’s seven-day trip estimations did account for other entertainment and activities. Disney officially refers to these activities as its Enchanting Extras Collection, which includes animal encounters, educational classes and recreational activities.

Prices for Disney Enchanting Extras vary, though there’s something for every budget. The 60-minute Caring for Giants tour at Animal Kingdom costs just $35 per person and gets you closer to the elephants than other park guests are allowed.

Families looking to splurge might book the three-hour private Wild Africa Trek tour, which costs $199 per person and involves hiking, off-roading in a safari vehicle and traversing a rope bridge.

At the Magic Kingdom, families with very young children might book the My First Haircut package at Harmony Barber Shop. For $28, you get a haircut plus commemorative Mickey Ears, a certificate and a keepsake lock of hair. Kids from ages 3 to 12 might prefer the stylings at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. For $100, they get a fresh hairdo plus makeup, nail polish and a princess sash, while the $200 package includes a full princess gown.

If you’re doing Disney World on a budget, a more affordable Enchanting Extra might include a round of miniature golf at either of Disney’s two courses, which cost just $12 per child or $14 per adult.

For seven-night trips, here’s how much additional money NerdWallet estimates you should budget, per person, for Disney World extras:

Value: $142.

Moderate: $221.

Deluxe: $455.

Not all families will opt for add-on activities, but for longer trips, it would be wise to keep some room in the Disney budget, just in case.

A family of four should expect to spend a minimum of $6,000 once on-property for seven nights at Walt Disney World, including food, hotel, theme park tickets and add-ons. But a trip to Disney World can also be done for far less. Here’s how:

Cut back on theme park days with free or cheap activities .

Book Disney Good Neighbor Hotels, which are family resorts near Disney World that are generally more budget-friendly. Many can be booked on points and miles , ideal if you’ve been stockpiling credit card rewards .

Seek Disney World family vacation packages, many of which are offered through Good Neighbor hotels.

To better understand the average cost of a vacation to Disney World for a family of four, NerdWallet analyzed more than 200 ticket prices, 550 Disney-owned hotel room rates and more than 100 additional activities and restaurant prices between April 2023 and April 2024. From there, NerdWallet used average costs to build sample trip budgets.

NerdWallet’s trip costs start once you’re on-property, thus don’t account for parking, airfare or driving costs. Here’s what’s included in each price tier:

Additional notes:

Because Walt Disney World ticket prices vary by park, one-day ticket prices were based on Magic Kingdom admission. Two-day ticket prices were based on Magic Kingdom and Epcot. 

NerdWallet’s analysis did not account for Park Hopper tickets, which allow access to multiple theme parks per day.

Meals are based on standard menus. Families ordering from the kids menu will likely save on Disney World food costs.

These budgets should be used to estimate rather than determine your own Disney trip costs. For instance, you might spend less if you pack your own snacks, or you might spend more if you spring for miscellaneous add-ons (e.g. taxis, Mickey-shaped balloons or PhotoPass).

Sam Kemmis and Carissa Rawson contributed to this report.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

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1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

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50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

How my family of 6 spent nearly $9,000 on a Disney vacation — and what we'll do differently next time

• My wife and I took our four children to Disneyland for five days, which cost us $8,767.
• We saved money by driving instead of flying, sharing meals, and not staying on Disney property . 
• Next time, we'll consider bringing some of our own food and visiting the park for fewer days. 

Over spring break, my wife and I took our four children from Utah to Southern California for a week at Disneyland and Universal Studios.

For the five-day Disneyland portion of our visit, we spent:

• Lodging: $2,664 for six nights at a Courtyard by Marriott hotel
• Gas: $251 for our drive to the parks from our home in Utah
• Parking: $210 in parking fees at our hotel
• Tickets: $4,170 on Disneyland park tickets, including $2,820 for the base tickets, $900 for Genie+, and $450 for the option to park hop from Disneyland to California Adventure during our stay
• Souvenirs: $187
• Meals and snacks purchased in the parks : $1,285

Altogether, five days at Disneyland cost my family $8,767 . Given families of four spend thousands on a typical Disney trip, we didn't do so badly for our group of six.

We would've spent more if we hadn't taken three important cost-saving steps, and we could've saved extra money by making four additional adjustments that we'll consider the next time we visit the theme park.

First off, driving instead of flying saved us a lot of money

We saved money by driving to Disney instead of flying .

Based on the $336 round-trip ticket cost to fly Delta that week from Salt Lake City to Los Angeles, our decision to spend a total of $251 on gas instead of $2,016 worth of airfare for our family saved us about $1,765.

That's not even counting the $100 or more we would've had to spend on rideshares from the airport to Disneyland and back if we'd flown.

Because we drove we were also able to add a mini vacation to Las Vegas to our itinerary, which our kids loved.

We also cut costs by not staying at one of Disney's on-site hotels

We saved even more by choosing a Disneyland good-neighbor hotel instead of one of Disney's three on-site resorts .

We picked the Courtyard by Marriott Anaheim Theme Park Entrance and loved it. Our room overlooked Space Mountain and Matterhorn Mountain, and we had a fantastic view of Disneyland's nightly fireworks display from our balcony.

The hotel also had a 20,000-square-foot water park, far larger than any we'd experienced at Disneyland-based properties.

Our room had bunk beds and two queen beds, so all six of our family members slept comfortably. Our favorite part, though, was that the Marriott hotel was only about a six-minute walk to the main entrance of Disneyland, which is as close to or closer to the park than any of the on-property Disneyland resorts we've stayed at before.

Plus, staying the same six nights at the Disneyland Resort hotel would have cost us $4,428 at the nightly rate that week of $630.90 plus 17% tax in a standard (non-view) room if the resort had even allowed it. Five people is the bed limit for Disneyland's standard rooms, so I'm unsure we would've been able to stay in one of these hotels anyway.

It's more likely we'd have had to spend $1,000 or more a night on a special suite or villa designed to sleep six or more people.

In other words, we had a great experience staying at the Marriott resort, and we saved at least $1,700 by doing so.

Lastly, we saved money by cutting back on character-dining experiences and sharing most of our meals

Yes, we saved even though we still spent a whopping $1,285 on meals and snacks in just five days.

It's worth noting that we've spent more than double this amount on food on previous Disneyland trips by doing three or four character-dining experiences and by allowing each family member to order their own meal. (Consider that many Disney character dining experiences start at $59 for anyone 10 and up and dining near a few Disney princesses inside the Grand Californian resort runs a whopping $135 per person of any age!)

To save money on this trip, my wife and I chose to share meals at almost every place we ate. We also ordered two meals for our four kids to share at almost every stop.

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By splitting three meals between six people, we saved a bundle and gave ourselves a bit of wiggle room in the budget to afford $6.79 churros and our favorite Dole Whip snack .

But we could've saved even more money by bringing pins to trade instead of buying them at the park

Pin trading is a popular activity at Disney parks and our kids loved the trading stations scattered around Disneyland and California Adventure.

But we could've saved money if we'd brought our own pins to trade instead of having to buy the ones sold at the park. Nearly all our souvenir money went to buying a couple of pins for each child. Unfortunately, most of the pins we found started at $15.

I wish we'd bought pins online before we left because I've since found many Disney-themed pins for only a few dollars from third-party sellers. Plus, my kids would've had more options and variety.

We could've also saved hundreds of dollars on food by bringing more of our own snacks and meals into the park

Disney mercifully allows cost-conscious families to save money by allowing outside food and drinks ( with some understandable conditions and limitations ).

My wife and I could've taken advantage of this by packing in sandwiches for at least a couple of our lunches or dinners.

We also could've saved $256.45 if we had skipped the Minnie & Friends—Breakfast in the Park character-dining experience we splurged on one morning.

I also think we could've gone to the park for 3 days instead of 5

Despite Disneyland being especially crowded during spring break, we hit every ride and show our kids cared about within the first three days of our trip.

In hindsight, this means we could've saved some serious money on tickets and food costs by cutting out our last two days at Disney.

We would've saved a lot of money by skipping the park-hopper upgrade and Genie+

We could've cut our costs a lot if we hadn't dropped an extra $1,350 to be able to park hop and use Disney's "line-skipping" service , Genie+.

The service costs a small fortune — which we were still willing to pay — but I was frustrated with the inconsistency of its value.

On our first day at Disney, I felt it was worth the cost because we were able to easily get on most of the rides we wanted to.

But a few days later, we got to the park an hour before it opened and were still only able to use the service to skip the line of just one popular attraction the whole morning.

After that, no other popular ride attractions were available to reserve skip-the-line return times until 5 p.m. Even then, the next two attractions we selected for that night ended up breaking down, and we thought the alternative rides offered as replacement options for each one were far inferior.

In other words, we felt we wasted $180 that day using a service that ended up serving us very little.

Although the service was convenient and made our kids happy at times, its inconsistency and unreliability caused us stress and made my wife and I hesitant to want to use it again.

Overall, we had a good trip — but we're rethinking future ones now that half of our kids are aged into adult prices

Despite the spring-break crowds, Disney's steep price tag , and some of my frustrations using its Genie+ service, my family enjoyed this trip.

But we'll have to rethink future ones because Disneyland's "adult" ticket and food pricing starts at age 10, a threshold two of our four children have now crossed.

As our kids get older, we'll have to continue finding ways to cut costs. Otherwise, my wife and I will be dreading the next Disney vacation nearly as much as our kids will be eagerly anticipating it.

Watch: Marriott International's Tina Edmundson tells Insider that the travel mindset has changed since the pandemic

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Why parents take young kids to Disney World, even if they won’t remember it

Nadia Ramos’ toddler had no idea Walt Disney World existed, but she got excited every time she saw the Disney+ logo or Disney castle on screen before a movie.

“We kept thinking, ‘Oh my gosh, what if we actually took her to go see the actual castle and took her to Disney?’” recalled the 28-year-old from Texas. ”At first, we thought it was kind of a crazy idea because we didn't know what to expect. But we figured, why not? I mean, she's just going to be little one time. We might as well take her and make a trip out of it.”

Disney World is free to visit for children under the age of 3, making the already popular destination especially appealing to young families.

“Families looking to create a boundless collection of memories with their little ones can experience it all at Walt Disney World Resort – everything from legendary entertainment and world-class service to hidden gems around every corner that make acting like a kid just as special as being a kid,” the Florida resort shared in a statement with USA TODAY. 

Is it worth it ? 

Making memories

“It's definitely worth it,” said Nykeisha Stainback of North Carolina, whose three kids range from ages 2 to 8.

She first took her eldest and middle children to Disney World when they were each 2 ½ years old and her youngest at 8 weeks.

“When (people) say they won't remember, it doesn't matter. I will remember it,” said the 28-year-old mom. “It's something that will always be a core memory for yourself as an adult, to be able to bring that magic to your kids’ eyes.”

Stainback recalled her youngest swooning over Disney princesses and not wanting to let go of Anna when he was 1.

“For the moment they believe that Tinkerbell is real, for the moment that they believe Princess Tiana, she's real, just soak in it, adore it,” she said. “Soak in that moment when they are little because that magic isn't going to be there forever.”

Ashley Douglas of Georgia started taking her kids to Disney World when they were each 5 months old. They’re now 5 and 7 years old and visit annually.

“As soon as they could walk, we have videos of both just running to Mickey and just being so excited and hugging him,” said Douglas, 33. “They've always loved the parades and the characters and just seeing things and not necessarily even riding things.”

Ramos’ 18-month-old took it all in.

“She loved all the rides that we got on. She didn’t get scared for one bit.” Ramos said. And she loved the fireworks. “That was her first time seeing fireworks, and she just kept looking at everything, and then she’d turned back, making sure we were watching, and she’d just go back and turn back to the fireworks, and she’d start clapping.”

Is Disney character dining worth it? What families should know before booking

Making the most of it

That doesn’t mean everything will be breezy. Even though the parks offer numerous resources for parents and guardians of young children, like baby care centers and rider switch services at attractions, there will inevitably be hiccups with young kids.

On one trip, Stainback’s daughter caught a stomach bug and kept getting sick as they headed home to North Carolina.

“Never go to Disney by yourself with a toddler and a baby,” Stainback said with a laugh. “I gotta be honest. I was crying at the end of that trip.”

Ramos, from Texas, recalled her daughter not wanting to be in line for Dumbo the Flying Elephant. Ride queues can be tough on little ones who don’t know why they’re in a line or what’s coming up ahead. 

“‘It’s going to be worth it, I promise,’ we kept telling her,” Ramos said, noting that once they got on the ride, her daughter had a great time. 

The toddler also got a little fussy in the summer heat, but Ramos said portable fans helped a lot. They also took midday breaks back at their hotel, where her daughter napped in the air conditioning and got freshened up for a second round in the parks.

“We tried to make the best of it during her tantrums and during any bad moment,” Ramos said.

Douglas, from Georgia, said her family never goes back to the hotel for breaks, only because they probably wouldn’t return to the parks. Instead, her kids rest in a stroller.

“That's just a place for them if you're walking around and they want to take a little nap or they just want to sit down because it's so much walking, even for us as adults,” she said. “Stroller 100%.”

Splurge or save? Moms share how they do both at Disney World

Going with the flow

Douglas lets her kids take the lead on their Disney trips.

“If they want to wait in a long line for something, then we'll wait, and if they don't feel like it, then we won’t,” she said. “Then, at the end of the day, we didn't miss out on anything. We just got to do exactly what they wanted to do.”

They do schedule a few things, but they’ve never purchased Genie+ . Instead, Douglas checks attraction wait times and show times on Disney World’s free My Disney Experience app.

Other guests prefer to plan everything out, booking dining reservations as soon as they open 60 days out and making checklists of everything they’d like to see, eat and do. 

“If planning makes you feel better and that's something that you need, then obviously do that, but I would just be realistic and know that this is a lot for them, it’s a lot for you, being around crowds and all these new things,” Douglas said.

“You're not going to get everything done,” Stainback affirmed. “It is OK. Definitely just go with the flow. You’ll stress yourself out more trying to make it magical.” 

Ramos’ plans fell apart at times, but she said that’s to be expected with kids so young. 

“I mean, it was hard at some points, but just those good moments were just so good that it made the entire trip worth it,” she said.

Visiting Disney World with toddlers, babies

Several resources are available across Disney World for guests with young children:

◾ Each theme park has a baby care center with private nursing rooms and changing stations. Essentials like diapers and formula are available for purchase.

◾ Rider switch is available at select attractions so parents and guardians can take turns staying with kids who may not meet the height requirement or want to ride the ride, while the rest of the party enjoys it.

◾ Children under the age of 3 can eat for free at buffet and family-style venues. 

◾ Mobile ordering is available at many quick-service dining locations, so parents and guardians don’t have to wait in long lines with little ones.

◾ Outside food and nonalcoholic drinks are allowed in the park.

◾ Laundry service is available across Disney World resort hotels if guests want to pack less or wash anything.

◾ Cribs and pack-n-plays are complimentary at all Disney World resort hotels.

◾ Strollers are available to rent at all four theme parks and Disney Springs.

◾ Splash pads and other outdoor play areas are available across the parks and resort hotels.

Eve Chen is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Atlanta. You can reach her at [email protected] .

How Much Does a Disney Cruise Line Vacation Cost?

Wondering how much a Disney Cruise Line vacation cost? We break down the specifics to help guide you through what you need to know.

Planning a Disney Cruise Line vacation can be a bit overwhelming. Whether it’s choosing your ship or the time of year you want to sail, you’ll find no lack of choices with Disney cruises. 

In this guide, we will break down how much an average Disney Cruise Line vacation can cost. Additionally, we’ll look at how the price can differentiate depending on which ship and time you sail, and other amenities and add-ons. 

How Much Does a Disney Cruise Line Sailing Cost?

While this is a simple question, it is not so simple to answer.  When considering a Disney Cruise Line vacation you can book on one of five different ships: Disney Dream , Disney Fantasy , Disney Magic , Disney Wonder , and Disney Wish . (A sixth ship, Disney Treasure , will be joining the fleet in 2024 .)

Within each Disney Cruise Line ship, you will have the option of various types of rooms. These include an inside stateroom, a stateroom with a porthole, a stateroom with a verandah, and a concierge room. Or, on the ships where they are available, a specialty suite stateroom. 

Below is an outline of what each stateroom offers:

• Inside Stateroom : This type of stateroom is perfect for two to four Guests and includes all the necessities, such as a closet, drawers for your clothes, a bed, etc. There are no windows or ocean views with an inside stateroom.
• Oceanview Stateroom : This stateroom is the next level up from an inside stateroom and is also perfect for parties with two to four Guests. While you won’t be able to step out and feel the fresh breeze on your face, you will still be able to see the stunning ocean view through the in-room porthole.
• Oceanview with Verandah : Now, for those who want to get a bit more boujee, I recommend the Oceanview with a Verandah. Not only are these staterooms spacious, but they are perfect for parties between two and five people and offer a private verandah (also known as a balcony) so that you and your party can enjoy the fresh breeze and ocean smells all in your own private space.
• Concierge : Now we are getting into the royalty of Disney Cruise Line staterooms. A Concierge Suite is the biggest onboard accommodation and is perfect for parties of five to seven Guests. There are a number of different suite options, but all of them include a verandah. All Concierge-level staterooms offer personal attention from Concierge Services, making you feel like a King or Queen. 

But one of the most important factors in a Disney Cruise Line vacation is where the cruise ship leaves from, what the itinerary consists of, and the duration of the entire cruise. 

What we mean by that is – each of the Disney Cruise Line ships offers a different duration of sailing and a different itinerary. For example, the Disney Wish typically sails out of Port Canaveral, Florida on three- to five-night cruises to the Bahamas while the Disney Wonder offers longer cruises to places such as Alaska, Hawaii, and the Pacific Coast, and has departure ports in Canada, Australia, and other locations. 

Photo by Bill Ryan

With all of this being said, the baseline of a Disney Cruise Line vacation can range anywhere from $1,300 (for a three-night sailing with an inside stateroom) to nearly $30,000 (for a 10-night sailing with a concierge-level room.) 

Cost of Booking a Disney Cruise

While that range is huge , what’s nice about the baseline pricing is that your room, and dining options are included in the base price. That includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the quick-service locations and main dining rooms, select snacks, entertainment, and activities on board.

For example, each night you will be assigned dinner in one of the three main dining rooms on your Disney Cruise Line ship . Anything you order (besides alcohol or specialty drinks) is included in the price of your cruise. This is in addition to any room service or quick-service locations on board that you may utilize for breakfast, lunch, or a late-night snack. 

Arendelle on the Disney Wish. Photo by Danny Shuster

In addition to food, Disney Cruise Line offers state-of-the-art entertainment options every night during your sailing. This includes Broadway-style shows and live music in select lounges and bars. Movies will also be playing periodically throughout the day on both the Tunnel Vision (the outside screen by the pools) and in the Walt Disney movie theater. All of these entertainment options are included with the price of your cruise (plus, what’s a movie without popcorn? And yes, the popcorn is free, too!)

When you have decided on which ship and which itinerary you want to set sail on, you will be required to put down a deposit, and then you can make payments on your vacation until the full amount is due (typically a few months before your sailing.). After your cruise is paid in full, you can then begin booking extras aboard Disney Cruise Line, such as massages at the Senses Spa, wine and beer tastings, adult dining options, and more – which brings us to our next question. 

What is NOT Included in the Cost of Booking

While, for the most part, everything is included with the price of your cruise, some offerings come at an extra cost. Let’s break down some of what that entails.

Transportation and Parking at the Port

Parking fees at the departure ports can vary, depending on what state or country you are sailing out of. But, to give you an idea, parking at Port Canaveral, which is driving distance from Walt Disney World, is $17 per day plus tax.

If you are not looking to park your car at a cruise terminal, and are looking for a transfer, Disney Cruise Line does offer transfers to and from most airports and departure ports. For example, from Vancouver airport to the Vancouver cruise port, Disney offers transfers for $25 per person each way. Meanwhile, transfers from Disney World to Port Canaveral cost $39 per person each way. 

Specialty Dining, Non-Included Food and Drinks

While most food and soft drinks are included with the price of your Disney Cruise Line vacation, some options are not included, such as alcoholic beverages. On average, alcoholic drinks can range in price from $6 to over $20, depending on what you order.

While Disney does not offer an alcoholic drink package for the duration of your cruise, they do offer a Beer Mug special, Happy Hour specials, and a Sommelier Bin. Be sure to ask a Crew Member for the most updated information regarding these special offers once you are on board as they may vary from ship to ship or cruise to cruise. 

Disney Cruise Line also offers specialty dining, which is not part of the three main dining rooms that we mentioned before. These specialty dining options are for adults only, and while they cost extra money, it may be worth the price for an intimate night alone with your other half. Palo and Remy are the two adults-only restaurants on Disney Cruise Line. 

Palo on the Disney Wonder. Photo by Bill Wood.

Palo dining prices are set at $50 per person for either an all-you-can-eat brunch or a prix fixe dinner, while Remy dining prices are as follows:

• Dinner is $125 per person. 
• Brunch is $75 per person. 
• The Remy Dessert Experience is $60 per person.

When on a Disney Cruise Line, you can opt to pre-pay for gratuities for a carefree, all-inclusive experience. Pre-paid gratuities are for the following Crew Members who take care of you for the duration of your cruise:

• Dining room server
• Dining room assistant server
• Dining room head server
• Stateroom host

To pre-pay for gratuities, visit the My Reservations section in your Disney account and follow the prompts for Pre-Paid Gratuities. If you do not want to Pre-Pay Gratuities, Disney will automatically charge your onboard account the suggested gratuity amount of $14.50 per night, per stateroom Guest.

In addition to your dining staff and stateroom hosts, an 18% gratuity is automatically added to any bar, beverage, wine, deck service tabs, and spa services. If you order room service, add extras to your rotational dining, or visit one of the adults-only restaurants, gratuities are not automatically included.

Cost of Excursions

When sailing on Disney Cruise Line, you can book extras on board such as beer and wine seminars, spa services, and more. Additionally, off-board excursions such as kayaking, sightseeing, beach days, and more are offered. Each of these “extras” will cost you extra money, but the prices will vary depending on the type of offering or excursion. Be sure to check the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app when looking at these offerings. 

Cost of Spa Services

Each Disney Cruise Line ship features a Senses Spa. Guests can choose from a multitude of spa and beauty treatments, including manicures, pedicures, massages, facials, and more. Each of these services is not included in the price of your Disney Cruise Line vacation. For the most updated pricing, be sure to check on your Disney Cruise Line Navigator app. 

More From Forbes

Disney reveals ‘doctor strange 2’ cost more to make than ‘avengers 2’.

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Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness was a costly spectacle for Disney ©Marvel Studios 2022. ... [+] All Rights Reserved.

Disney has revealed that the cost of 2022 superhero movie Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness surged to a staggering $414.9 million (£331.9 million) making it one of the most expensive instalments in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), even surpassing team-up flick Avengers: Age of Ultron .

The total budget was buried in filings released earlier this week which show that Avengers: Age of Ultron cost 6.4% less to make than Multiverse of Madness but generated three times more profit based on the box office reported for the movies.

The sequel to 2016's Doctor Strange , Multiverse of Madness stars Benedict Cumberbatch as the eponymous sorcerer on a quest to stop Elizabeth Olsen’s Scarlet Witch from catching a young girl who can travel into different dimensions. The movie was the flagship of the so-called phase four of the MCU and launched the multiverse format which sees Marvel characters from different studios teaming up.

Multiverse of Madness marked Disney's debut of the Mister Fantastic character, played by John Krasinski, and Patrick Stewart's Professor X who appeared in 20th Century Fox's Fantastic Four and X-Men movies respectively. It took more than the wave of a magic wand to pull it off.

Movie budgets are usually a closely guarded secret as studios tend to absorb the cost of individual films in their overall expenses and don't itemize the cost of each one. However, films shot in the United Kingdom are exceptions to this and Multiverse of Madness was one of them. It was made by a Disney subsidiary named Supreme Works Productions II in a nod to Strange's role as the sorcerer supreme.

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Shooting took place at Longcross Studios outside London, which has been home to many other Disney movies including the first Doctor Strange , 2019's Aladdin and Guardians of the Galaxy five years before that. Multiverse of Madness was also filmed on location with the historic British Museum doubling for the headquarters of Stewart's cross-studio super team, The Illuminati. A blossom-filled park in south-west England was also the setting for a showdown between Strange and the Scarlet Witch though the UK wasn't just chosen for its spectacular scenery.

Although Multiverse of Madness appeared to take place in New York City, it was mostly filmed in the ... [+] UK ©Marvel Studios 2022. All Rights Reserved.

Studios filming in the UK benefit from the government's Audio-Visual Expenditure Credit which gives them a cash reimbursement of up to 25.5% of the money they spend in the country. To qualify for the reimbursement, films must pass a points test based on factors such as how much of the production took place in the UK, whether the film showcases the UK, whether the score was recorded in the UK and how many of the lead actors and production team are from the UK.

It perhaps explains the incongruous appearance in Multiverse of Madness of a classic red British phone box and also why Stewart's super group includes fellow Brits Hayley Atwell and Lashana Lynch.

Crucially, in order to receive the reimbursement, at least 10% of a film's core production costs need to relate to activities in the UK. In order to demonstrate this to the government, studios set up a separate Film Production Company in the UK for each picture they make there and it is responsible for everything from pre-production and principal photography to post-production, delivery of the finished film and payment of goods and services in relation to it.

These companies have to file publicly-available financial statements and this lifts the curtain on precisely how much it costs to make the movies. The filings show everything from the headcount and salaries to the total costs and the level of cash reimbursement.

As with all UK companies, the financial statements are released in stages long after the period they relate to which explains why Supreme Works Productions II filed its financial statements for the year to May 8, 2023 earlier this week. As the companies have to pay for services relating to the finished film they continue to book costs in their financial statements long after the premiere. So even though the latest financial statements for Multiverse of Madness cover the year immediately following the movie's release, they show that Disney still spent a total of $66 million (£52.8 million) on it during that time.

As the chart below shows, this yielded total costs of $414.9 million but then came a $64.3 million (£51.4 million) reimbursement from the UK government reducing Disney's net spending on Multiverse of Madness down to $350.6 million.

The costs of the UK-based Marvel movies

The studios' biggest returns come from the box office receipts and they typically get around 50% of the total. Multiverse of Madness is Disney's highest-grossing Marvel movie since the start of the pandemic but it still failed to pull in more than $1 billion as many of its predecessors have done.

According to industry analyst Box Office Mojo, Multiverse of Madness made a total of $955.8 million putting Disney's share at $477.9 million. Deducting the $350.6 million costs from this left Disney with a $127.3 million profit at the box office which is more than any other UK-based MCU movie has made since the start of the pandemic. Likewise, it is also more than three times higher than the amount Disney made from 2011's Captain America , one of the earliest MCU releases.

However, not only was the profit of Multiverse of Madness 12.3% lower than that of its predecessor but it was even eclipsed by 2013's Thor: The Dark World which is considered to be one of the MCU's biggest flops. In its defence, Multiverse of Madness was released in May 2022 when the pandemic was still a concern for many theater-goers though that didn't stop Sony's superhero flick Spider-Man: No Way Home from hauling in more than double its takings five months earlier.

Multiverse of Madness could not match the box office of Spider-Man: No Way Home

When it comes to profit, none of the other MCU movies have as much muscle as Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame . Together they generated $1.2 billion of profit at the box office but because they were made by the same Disney production company it isn't possible to tell how much is allocated to each movie or how much each one cost.

In contrast, 2015's Avengers: Age of Ultron was the only movie made by Assembled Productions II and cost $388.4 million (£310.7 million) but generated $383 million of profit. Likewise, both the first Doctor Strange movie and Thor: The Dark World cost almost half as much as Multiverse of Madness making it not just one of the most-expensive MCU movies but one of the costliest films of all time.

Bearing this in mind, it's perhaps no surprise that just four months after Disney's chief executive Bob Iger returned to the helm of the company in November 2022, he told a Morgan Stanley Morgan Stanley conference that he had begun "reducing the expense per content, whether it’s a TV series or a film, where costs have just skyrocketed in a huge way and not a supportable way in my opinion." Since then, Iger has cut $7.5 billion of costs but that's just the start.

Earlier this week Disney announced that in the three months to March 30, its total revenues rose 1.2% to $22.1 billion with its media and content division generating more of it than any other segment of the company. However, media and content only produced 20.3% of the $3.8 billion operating income with 59.5% coming from theme parks and cruises.

The colossal cost of producing movies and streaming TV shows isn't the only reason for the lower operating income from Disney's media and content division. The sheer volume of productions is also an obstacle because the more there are, the greater the chances of a flop and the more saturated the market becomes.

Accordingly, Iger told analysts that he has "been working hard with the studio to reduce output and focus more on quality". He added that when it comes to the MCU "we're slowly going to decrease volume and go to probably about two TV series a year instead of what had become four, and reduce our film output from maybe four a year to two, at the maximum three."

A third instalment in the Doctor Strange series has yet to get the green light and given how much it cost to make the second one it may end up being the final act for the sorcerer supreme.

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