A city skyline with a river, green parks, and a baseball field.

Cheap Flights to Illinois from $49

Popular airlines to Illinois

  • Delta

  • Frontier Airlines

  • American Airlines

  • United

  • Alaska Airlines

  • JetBlue Airways

  • Southwest Airlines

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How much is the cheapest flight to Illinois?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $49 for one-way flights and $98 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

American Airlines
United
United
American Airlines
American Airlines
United
American Airlines
Frontier Airlines
Delta
Southwest Airlines

What you need to know for your flight to Illinois

Flights to Illinois at a glance

Traveling to Illinois is a breeze, with options for cheap flights to Illinois or full-service airlines, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your budget and schedule. Whether you're planning to visit urban parks, modern colleges, or national state parks, Illinois offers a variety of attractions for culture enthusiasts and families alike. Notable sites include the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, 875 North Michigan Avenue, and Michigan Avenue, all ideal for enjoying the vibrant city experience.

  • Major airports in Illinois: O'Hare International Airport (ORD) serving Chicago; Midway International Airport (MDW) serving Chicago; Greater Peoria Regional Airport (PIA) serving Peoria
  • Flights per week: 10,500+ flights arriving across Illinois airports
  • Number of airlines that fly to Illinois: around 75+ carriers

Popular airports in Illinois

Illinois is a fantastic destination for those seeking outdoor adventures and picturesque scenery. Travelers flock to this state for family outings, romantic escapes, and thrilling experiences. Illinois is conveniently served by three major airports, making it easy to plan your visit.

  • O'Hare International Airport (ORD): Situated in Cook County, Illinois, O'Hare offers a wide range of domestic and international flights, connecting to over 285 domestic locations and more than 315 international destinations. Travelers have the option to upgrade to first class, premium economy, or business class seating for enhanced comfort, depending on their chosen airline and route. Major carriers include American Airlines, United, and Frontier Airlines.
  • Midway International Airport (MDW): Found in Cook County, Illinois, Midway caters to both domestic and international travelers, linking to roughly 130 domestic cities and around 30 international locations. For added comfort, passengers may opt for upgrades to premium economy or first class, depending on the airline and route. Notable airlines operating from this airport include Southwest Airlines, Frontier Airlines, and Delta.
  • Greater Peoria Regional Airport (PIA): Located in Peoria County, Illinois, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, offering connections to approximately 85 domestic cities and 4 international destinations. Travelers can choose to upgrade to first class for additional comfort, subject to the airline and route. American Airlines and United are prominent carriers at this airport.

Top routes to Illinois

  • New York (JFK/LGA) to Chicago (ORD/MDW), with one-way flights starting at around $45
  • Los Angeles (LAX) to Chicago (ORD/MDW), with one-way flights starting at around $80
  • Boston (BOS) to Chicago (ORD/MDW), with one-way flight options from 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 Illinois

  • Newark (EWR) to Chicago (ORD/MDW), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $30
  • Dallas (DFW/DAL) to Chicago (ORD/MDW), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $35
  • St. Louis (STL) to Chicago (ORD/MDW), with affordable one-way prices from around $40
  • Grand Rapids (GRR) to Chicago (ORD/MDW), with affordable one-way prices from around $40
  • Atlanta (ATL) to Chicago (ORD/MDW), with low one-way fares from around $40

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

Best time to fly to Illinois

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Illinois are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Illinois can reach up to 50.7°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.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January24.3°F (-4.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately High$275
February28.8°F (-1.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverage$218
March39.7°F (4.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$242
April50.7°F (10.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$232
May57.2°F (14.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$214
June69.1°F (20.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$226
July78.8°F (26.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$223
August76.8°F (24.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$216
September67.1°F (19.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$200
October54.1°F (12.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$201
November41.7°F (5.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$213
December30.0°F (-1.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately Low$219

*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 Illinois

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Illinois 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—stay up to date on fare changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
  3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Illinois hotel and flight deals.
  4. Travel during shoulder season-peak travel periods tend to push the flight fares a little higher than usual. Traveling outside of these busy periods can help you find more competitive prices while still being able to enjoy good weather and lesser crowds.
  5. Be flexible with your travel dates-if your schedule allows it, try and search for a few different departure and return dates as this may help you find lower fares.
  6. Consider economy fares-if you're traveling light and don't need extras like seat selection or additional baggage, opting for a basic economy fare can be a simple way to keep costs down. Just make sure to check what's included in the flight ticket before confirming your booking.
  7. Think about luggage—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.
  8. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book with Expedia. Make sure to select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking to get more value from your trip.

*For members. Select hotels.

Where to stay in Illinois

  • Chicago: Chicago is a metropolis. Located in the area of Illinois, this vibrant city is a hub of culture and activity. Families will enjoy the renowned Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, while shoppers can explore the bustling 875 North Michigan Avenue. For a taste of city life, stroll along Michigan Avenue, with its myriad of shops and eateries. With lush urban parks and iconic sports stadiums, Chicago offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures and entertainment, making it an ideal destination year-round.
  • Moline: Moline is a city. Located in the area of Illinois, Moline is perfect for travelers seeking a blend of outdoor fun and cultural experiences. The Vibrant Arena at The MARK hosts a variety of events, making it an excellent choice for business travelers. Families can enjoy the recreational facilities and the serene Greenvalley Park, which is ideal for picnics and outdoor activities. With educational institutions like Augustana College nearby, Moline provides a unique mix of leisure and learning opportunities for visitors.
  • Marion: Marion is a city. Located in the area of Illinois, Marion is a charming destination for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and romance. The picturesque Lake of Egypt offers a stunning backdrop for beach activities and scenic views, perfect for couples. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby national state park, while the Marion Cultural and Civic Center provides a venue for various events. With its tranquil parks and cozy library, Marion is a lovely spot for family outings and cultural exploration.

Tips for short-haul flights to Illinois

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. Save space by using mini toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothing, and planning your outfits effectively. This also means you can avoid the hassle of waiting at baggage claim upon arrival.
  • Early check in—nearly all airlines allow you to check in online at least 24 to 48 hours before your flight. This will save you time at the airport and may even secure you a preferred seat at no additional cost.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights do not provide in-flight entertainment. Download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself entertained. Remember to fully charge your devices before you board.
  • Arrive early—for even short flights, it's advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before departure, taking into account traffic and security lines.
  • Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Illinois

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 allow free seat selection once online check-in begins, typically 24 to 48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may offer earlier seat selection, but this could incur an additional fee.
  • Arrive early—make sure to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration processes.
  • Relax at the airport—if you have some extra time, take a stroll through the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival location to help minimize jet lag.
  • Dress comfortably—since the journey will be long, opt for loose, comfortable clothing and consider layering, as cabin temperatures can fluctuate.
  • Stay hydrated—bring a refillable water bottle and drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated, ensuring you feel your best upon arrival.

Trending flights to Illinois

These prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices quoted are per person, round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

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Travel information

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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