5 Spring Vacation Destinations That Middle Class Families Can’t Afford Anymore
Written by
Dawn Allcot
Edited by
Cory Dudak
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Gone are the days when young families would pile into minivans and make the trek south on I-95 to visit the most magical place on Earth. A Disney World vacation has become cost-prohibitive for many middle-class families in 2025.
A “baseline” Disney World vacation at a value resort cost $6,865 for a family of four in 2024, as previously reported by GOBankingRates. However, it’s not just the famed Mouse House that costs too much for an average middle-class family. Here are other destinations you might want to re-consider for a spring break getaway if you have a limited budget.
Hawaii
Hawaii has always been considered a pricier excursion than mainland U.S. tourist destinations. But tourist fees proposed in 2024, along with an already-high 18% hotel tax, could make this tropical paradise cost-prohibitive in 2025.
Tim Choate, founder and CEO of RedAwning.com, Inc. said that Oahu and Maui are most likely to increase in price. “Demand has traditionally come from beautiful beaches, energetic local culture, and the idea of a perfect paradise. But rising luxury resorts, a levy on rental cars, and more flights from most major American cities help to guarantee that rates stay high.”
Aspen, Colorado
Aspen, Colorado, is another pricey U.S. destination that’s more suited for luxury travelers than families seeking an affordable getaway.
“Rich visitors and celebrities today have turned Aspen and adjacent places into a playground for the well-to-do,” Choate said. “Smaller middle-class families find themselves paying premium rates for lodging that is either too big for their requirements or just too expensive.”
St. Barts, Caribbean
If you hope to escape the U.S. looking to find regions less affected by the inflation of recent years, you’ll still need to comparison shop. Alonso Marly, travel expert at SkyLux Travel pointed out that islands like St. Bart have become spring break destinations “for the rich and famous only.”
Pointing out that accommodations can cost an average of $1,770 per night, the gourmet restaurants, world-class spas and exclusive nightclubs also drive up entertainment costs. “It truly comes to life at night with its beach parties and exclusive nightclubs welcoming A-list celebrities and some of the world’s wealthiest people,” he said.
That makes it hard to find an affordable resort in the region for a budget-friendly spring break.
Marbella, Spain
Marbella, Spain, is a coastal city that used to attract families and students on spring break who were interested in its gorgeous beaches, sports activities and vibrant culture. Yet, Marly said, a typical vacation in the city could start at $5,000 per person, while luxury waterfront villas start at $2,500 for a week.
“While the Southern coast of Spain is still a popular choice for American spring breakers,” he said, “most middle-class travelers now opt for more affordable coastal cities such as Malaga or Cadiz.”
Tulum, Mexico
For decades, Mexico has been recognized as a relatively low-cost spring break destination. However, today, spring break prices in certain cities have skyrocketed, said Choate.
“Tulum in Mexico was originally a peaceful beach town where you could rent basic cabanas for $40 a night, but with the flood of boutique hotels, Instagram-famous yoga retreats, and high-end cuisine, Tulum’s total cost might feel more in line with luxury U.S. resorts,” he said.
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