$120 Cheap Flights from Chicago (MDW) to Phoenix (PHX)
Popular airlines from Chicago Midway Airport (MDW) to Phoenix Sky Harbor Intl. Airport (PHX)
Southwest AirlinesSouthwest Airlines
DeltaDelta
Frontier AirlinesFrontier Airlines
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Cheap Flights from Chicago to Phoenix (MDW-PHX)
Alternative airports near Phoenix
Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.
Find the cheapest month to fly from Chicago (MDW) to Phoenix (PHX)
October is typically the cheapest month to flyOctober is typically the cheapest month to fly
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Chicago (MDW) to Phoenix (PHX) at a glance
Experience a range of options for flights from Chicago (MDW) to Phoenix (PHX) on this domestic short-haul route. Whether you prefer full-service or budget-friendly airlines, you can easily compare choices to discover the itinerary that aligns with your budget and travel plans while exploring the iconic attractions and vibrant neighborhoods of Phoenix. Check out the essential details for your journey from Midway International Airport (MDW) to Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX).
- Fastest flight duration: around 4 hours non-stop
- Route distance: roughly 1,400 miles (2,250 km)
- Flights per week: around 30+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
- Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $55–$380, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book
Flights from Midway International Airport (MDW) to Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
According to recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Chicago to Phoenix, featuring both non-stop and one-stop options. Popular layover spots include Denver International Airport (DEN) with a typical layover of about 1 hour and 15 minutes, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) at approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, and Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) also around 1 hour and 15 minutes. This variety allows you to mix and match price, travel time, and cabin class to secure the best itinerary.
- Southwest Airlines: This budget-friendly airline provides both non-stop and one-stop flights, with one-way fares typically falling between $90 and $445. It represents about 82% of departures on this route, and the average non-stop travel time is around 4 hours.
- Frontier Airlines: Another low-cost option, Frontier Airlines offers both non-stop and one-stop services, with one-way tickets generally costing between $55 and $260. This carrier covers approximately 16% of departures on the route, with a standard non-stop flight duration of 4 hours.
- Delta: As a full-service airline, Delta provides one-stop flights, with one-way fares typically ranging from $110 to $315. It accounts for about 2% of the route's departures, featuring an in-flight duration of 5 hours and 15 minutes, leading to a total travel time of roughly 6 hours and 45 minutes, including layovers.
Best time to fly from Chicago (MDW) to Phoenix (PHX)
The most popular months for travelers flying from Chicago to Phoenix are February, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Phoenix reach up to 74.5°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 89.8°F. For better deals, February usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $154. Flight availability peaks in October, with approximately 43 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January has the fewest flights, with approximately 21 flights per week.
- Cheapest time to fly: February usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $154, roughly 12% cheaper than the yearly average.
- More budget-friendly months to fly: September, August, and November typically offer average one-way fares of around $162.
- Most flight options: October has the highest number of flights from Chicago to Phoenix, with approximately 43 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
| Month | Temperature | Demand | Weekly Flights | Average one-way Fare |
| January | 55.4°F (13.0°C) | Average | 21 | $176 |
| February | 58.6°F (14.8°C) | High | 24 | $154 |
| March | 66.0°F (18.9°C) | High | 39 | $207 |
| April | 74.5°F (23.6°C) | High | 34 | $168 |
| May | 82.0°F (27.8°C) | Low | 31 | $177 |
| June | 92.3°F (33.5°C) | Low | 30 | $186 |
| July | 95.7°F (35.4°C) | Average | 33 | $199 |
| August | 94.8°F (34.9°C) | Average | 31 | $165 |
| September | 89.8°F (32.1°C) | Low | 27 | $157 |
| October | 77.7°F (25.4°C) | Average | 43 | $169 |
| November | 65.5°F (18.6°C) | Average | 35 | $167 |
| December | 55.4°F (13.0°C) | Average | 37 | $196 |
*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.
Alternative route from Chicago (MDW) to Phoenix (PHX)
- Chicago to Phoenix (ORD-PHX): O'Hare International Airport (ORD) lies approximately 16 miles from Midway International Airport (MDW). For this route, one-way economy tickets generally fall within the range of $65 to $375, influenced by the season and timing of the booking. Travelers can choose from both non-stop and one-stop flights. Major airlines serving this route include American Airlines and United. Additionally, there are options for business and first class on this journey.
How to find the best prices for flights from Chicago (MDW) to Phoenix (PHX)
Getting some of the best deals on flights from Chicago to Phoenix is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:
- Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are usually found when booking 2-8 weeks in advance, which coincides with when most travelers make their reservations. Afternoon departures (12pm-6pm) often offer lower prices, although morning flights (5am-12pm) are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Monday tends to be cheaper, while Thursday remains the busiest travel day.
- Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
- Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
- 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.
- Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
- 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 allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
*Members only. Savings vary and are not available on all bundles. Select hotels.
Arriving at Sky Harbor International Airport from Midway International Airport
Phoenix welcomes travelers from Chicago with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Phoenix efficiently:
- Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Phoenix, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
- Car rental: Renting a car from Sky Harbor International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Sky Harbor International Airport on Expedia.
- Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.
- Public transportation: From Sky Harbor International Airport, Terminal 3 Station, a metro station, is conveniently located just 0.1 miles away on foot, while the Phoenix Airport Bus Stop, a bus station, is slightly further at about 0.2 miles away on foot, providing easy access to various transport options.
Chicago to Phoenix Flights
The cheapest times to fly from Chicago to Phoenix
On average, Thursday can be the cheapest time to fly, according to data from the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC), one of the world's biggest databases for global airline sales. The data reveals that you could save up to 16% by flying on a Thursday—the cheapest day to travel on average—instead of a Sunday—the most expensive. Some of the most affordable flights from Chicago to Phoenix are during the month of November. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Chicago to Phoenix with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.
The best time to book a flight from Chicago to Phoenix
Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Chicago to Phoenix: Tickets reserved on a Sunday cost between 6% and 13% less than those reserved on a Friday, according to ARC data. The data also suggests booking early can also lead to cheaper airfares. You could save 24% by buying your tickets for domestic flights at least a month in advance and 10% by booking international flights 2 months in advance.
How to find cheap round-trip tickets from Chicago to Phoenix
Being flexible with your dates and using Expedia's Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking features are some of the best ways of finding a cheap ticket from Chicago to Phoenix in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $120 one-way. Expedia also offers Price Drop Protection, so if the cost of your airfare goes down after booking, you'll receive a credit for the difference*. This is available for a small fee, and is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.
Expedia's Price Tracking feature means you can stay on top of airfares without manually checking every day. It sends you automated price alerts for cheap Chicago to Phoenix flights and uses historical data to indicate when the best time to book is. Download Expedia's free app to activate this handy tool in a few easy taps.
You could also save big by booking one of Expedia's vacation packages. Bundling together your Chicago to Phoenix airfare with your accommodations and car rental is often cheaper than booking everything separately. There’s also One Key, Expedia's generous rewards program. Join for free and you could earn One Key cash on most bookings to save on future adventures.
*Terms apply.
Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a flight from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $120 and cheap return flights $227 Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $149 to $541, and return flights typically cost between $296 and $763. Flight prices vary based on the month and day of the week you want to travel, as well as the airline and how far in advance you book your ticket. Filter your search on Expedia by "Price (lowest to highest)" to see the cheapest fares first, and use the Price Tracking tool to receive alerts when Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) ticket fares go up or down.
*Typical price ranges based on flights available on Expedia in the last year. Prices include multi-airline options.
What is the cheapest month to fly from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
February is typically the cheapest month to fly from Chicago (MDW) to Phoenix (PHX), with average round-trip fares around $278. This price is about 21% lower than the average for the year, as demand is generally lower after the holiday season. Other budget-friendly months include August and October.
*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
Frontier Airlines operates around 8 direct flights from MDW to PHX every week.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
Frontier Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop flights from Chicago, IL (MDW) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX), with return tickets starting from around $396. Use Expedia's search tool to compare the prices and schedules of airlines that fly this route to find the best option for your plans and budget.
*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I find cheap flights from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.), be flexible with your dates. Traveling outside of peak vacation months and booking a mid-week flight can help you save. Early morning and late night flights are often more affordable, too. Expedia allows you to compare flight times, airlines and routes all in one place to find low fares. You can also set up Price Tracking and receive alerts when fares go up or down.
What is the best airline to fly with from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Chicago, IL (MDW) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, WN offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, Frontier Airlines typically offers the lowest fares. WN offers the most daily flights from Chicago to Phoenix, which is great if flexibility is what you value most. The best carrier for this journey could also be the one you have a loyalty membership with, as flying with that airline or another airline within the same alliance could help you collect points or enjoy lounge access.
What is the best time to fly from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
When flying from Chicago to Phoenix, February and August are the best months to travel. Return flights during these months average around $278, providing a great value. February offers mild weather perfect for exploring, while August is ideal for those looking to escape to the desert heat.
*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How many flights per day from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
There are approximately 8 nonstop flights per day from Midway Intl. (MDW) to Sky Harbor Intl. (PHX). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Chicago (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Phoenix (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by Southwest Airlines. This seasonal service is available in January, November, and December, allowing you to start your day early in Phoenix. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 25% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Southwest Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing is favored as it allows you to maximize your time in Phoenix upon arrival.
How long does it take to fly from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
Direct flights from MDW to PHX usually take about 3 hours 50 minutes, traveling roughly 1,442 miles. If you opt for a connecting flight, expect to add around 2 hours 40 minutes to your journey. Keep in mind that actual flight times can vary due to wind patterns, weather, and air traffic.
Can you fly business or first class from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
First class seats are offered on the MDW to PHX route with Delta Air Lines.
How do I earn miles on a Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) flight when you book with Expedia. Before you confirm your booking, simply select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number. As a member of One Key™, you can also earn OneKeyCash™* on top of your airline miles when you book with Expedia.
*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
What airports do you fly into for Phoenix from Midway Intl. (MDW)?
From Midway Intl. (MDW), you can fly into Sky Harbor Intl. (PHX) to reach Phoenix. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Love Field (DAL), Lambert-St. Louis Intl. (STL), Eppley Field (OMA) before reaching Phoenix. Compare routes and airports on Expedia to find the best flight options for your travel plans.
Is it cheaper to buy a plane ticket from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) will be more expensive than booking in advance. As the departure date approaches, there are usually fewer seats available which can drive up the cost. However, if there's some wiggle room with your travel dates and times, you could bag a cheap last-minute fare.
Is it cheaper to book a Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) Phoenix Vacation Packages is usually cheaper than booking separately. With Expedia, you can enjoy the ease of organizing your travels all in one place. Select from our extensive range of stays and then add flights, activities and car rentals to your booking. Bundle everything together, and you could save hundreds of dollars.
Can I cancel or change the date of my flight from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
If you booked your Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) flight within the last 24 hours, you may be able to modify or cancel it without any fees. Depending on the airline and the type of ticket you have, additional charges may apply for changes beyond this timeframe. Airline policies and contact information can be found in your itinerary or confirmation email. Or, head to our Customer Service portal if you'd like more information.
Travel information
Origin airport | Chicago Midway Airport |
|---|---|
Destination airport | Phoenix Sky Harbor Intl. Airport |
Distance | 1,441 miles away |
Airlines serving | Southwest Airlines, Delta, Frontier Airlines |
Popular airline | Southwest Airlines |
Roundtrip price | $227 |
Average flight time | 4 hours 21 mins |