Flights to Chicago at a glance

Traveling to Chicago is easy; you can choose between full-service and budget airlines. Compare flight durations and select the option that best fits your budget and itinerary, allowing you to enjoy the city's iconic attractions and vibrant neighborhoods.

• Major airports in Chicago: O'Hare International Airport (ORD), Midway International Airport (MDW)
• Closest airport to Chicago: O'Hare International Airport, ORD (within Chicago)
• Flights per week: 9,800+ flights arriving across Chicago airports
• Number of airlines that fly to Chicago: around 75+ carriers

Popular airports in Chicago

Chicago is a vibrant metropolis ideal for family getaways, outdoor adventures, and urban exploration. Travelers flock to this city for various reasons, including family trips, city life, outdoor activities, business engagements, and sports events. The region is conveniently served by two major airports, making travel to Chicago accessible and straightforward.

• O'Hare International Airport (ORD): Situated in Cook County, Illinois, this major hub offers both domestic and international flights, linking approximately 285+ domestic cities and over 315 international destinations. Travelers have the option to enhance their journey by upgrading to first class, premium economy, or business class seating for optimal comfort, depending on their chosen routes and airlines. Key carriers at this airport include American Airlines, United, and Frontier Airlines.
• Midway International Airport (MDW): Also located in Cook County, Illinois, this airport facilitates both domestic and international travel, connecting to around 130+ domestic cities and 30 international destinations. Passengers can opt for premium economy or first class seating for a more comfortable experience, based on their specific routes and airlines. Notable airlines operating here include Southwest Airlines, Frontier Airlines, and Delta.

Top routes to Chicago

• New York (JFK/LGA) to Chicago (ORD/MDW), with one-way fares starting at around $45
• Los Angeles (LAX) to Chicago (ORD/MDW), with one-way flight options from around $80
• Boston (BOS) to Chicago (ORD/MDW), with one-way flights starting at around $50
• Orlando (MCO) to Chicago (ORD/MDW), with one-way airfare from around $45
• Atlanta (ATL) to Chicago (ORD/MDW), with one-way flights starting at around $40

Cheapest routes to Chicago

• Newark (EWR) to Chicago (ORD/MDW), with affordable one-way prices from around $30
• Dallas (DFW/DAL) to Chicago (ORD/MDW), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $35
• Atlanta (ATL) to Chicago (ORD/MDW), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $40
• Minneapolis (MSP) to Chicago (ORD/MDW), with affordable one-way prices from around $40
• Nashville (BNA) to Chicago (ORD/MDW), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $40

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Chicago

• American Airlines: Connecting to O'Hare International Airport (ORD), this carrier represents about 31% of Chicago's arrivals. The typical one-way fare is around $390, with options for premium economy, business, and first-class service based on the route.
• United: Also flying into O'Hare International Airport (ORD), United accounts for roughly 31% of arrivals to Chicago. The average one-way ticket costs about $380, offering premium economy, business, and first-class cabins depending on the specific route.
• Southwest Airlines: Serving both O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW), Southwest is responsible for approximately 12% of arrivals to Chicago. Passengers can expect an average fare of around $220 for one-way flights.
• Delta: Operating flights to both O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW), Delta makes up about 8% of arrivals in Chicago. The typical one-way fare hovers around $290, with premium economy, business, and first-class options available depending on the route.
• Frontier Airlines: Flying into O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW), Frontier represents around 4% of Chicago's arrivals. The average one-way fare is roughly $160, making it a budget-friendly choice for travelers.

Best time to fly to Chicago

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Chicago are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Chicago can reach up to 46°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 67.1°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $200), roughly 10% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? October, November, and May offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $201 to $214, making them good options for flexible travelers.

Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Average one-way Fare
January	25.7°F (-3.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	$275
February	27.0°F (-2.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	$217
March	37.0°F (2.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	$242
April	46.0°F (7.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	$232
May	57.0°F (13.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	$214
June	67.3°F (19.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	$226
July	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	$223
August	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	$215
September	67.1°F (19.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	$200
October	54.9°F (12.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	$201
November	42.3°F (5.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	$212
December	33.1°F (0.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	$218

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Chicago

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Chicago is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Chicago hotel and flight deals.
4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Chicago flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Chicago

Chicago welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Chicago efficiently:

• Public transportation: From O'Hare International Airport, O'Hare Station, a metro station, is just a short 0.1-mile walk away, while Rosemont Station, a train station, is located about 2.2 miles from the airport and is typically accessed by car.
• Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Chicago, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance.
• Car rental: Renting a car in Chicago is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Chicago on Expedia.
• Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay in Chicago

• Des Plaines: Des Plaines is located in the area of Chicago, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a blend of family-friendly activities, business opportunities, and urban experiences. Visitors can enjoy a variety of venues, from theaters to shopping malls. Key highlights include the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, perfect for business travelers, and Northwestern University, which offers a modern academic atmosphere. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate Lake Park, a lovely water feature ideal for relaxation or leisurely strolls.
• Rosemont: Rosemont is located in the area of Chicago and is a vibrant destination for families, business travelers, and city explorers. This city boasts a variety of entertainment options, including theaters and shopping centers. Notable attractions include the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, catering to business needs, and the Parkway Bank Park Entertainment District, which is perfect for family outings. Additionally, Northwestern University provides a modern environment for those interested in education and culture.
• Arlington Heights: Arlington Heights is located in the area of Chicago, offering a charming blend of family activities, business facilities, and urban experiences. The city is home to various shopping centers and theaters, making it a great spot for leisure. Important points of interest include the Schaumburg Convention Center, suitable for business events, and Northwestern University, which adds an educational flair. For outdoor enjoyment, North School Park offers a peaceful urban setting for families and city visitors alike.

Tips for short-haul flights to Chicago

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

• Pack light and skip checked bags—with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often more economical. Optimize space by using travel-sized toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothing, and coordinating outfits in advance. This approach also helps you bypass the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
• Bring your own entertainment—short-haul flights frequently lack in-flight entertainment options. Download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and don’t forget to pack a book to keep yourself engaged. Also, ensure your devices are fully charged before you board.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—for short or domestic flights, it’s advisable to reach the airport at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to your departure, taking into account potential traffic and security lines.
• Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Chicago

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

• Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines often provide free seat selection once online check-in opens, typically 24–48 hours prior to your flight. Some airlines allow you to select your seat even earlier.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—aim to reach the airport at least 3 hours before departure for international flights, allowing ample time for check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
• Relax at the airport—if you have some extra time, take the opportunity to browse the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and readily available.
• Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by setting your watch and modifying your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time of your arrival to help minimize jet lag.