$78 Cheap Flights from Chicago (ORD) to Washington (DCA)

View $78 flight on Sat, May 23, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Chicago O'Hare Intl. Airport (ORD) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)

Cheap Flights from Chicago to Washington (ORD-DCA)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $78 for one-way flights and $164 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Frontier Airlines
Sat, May 23 - Tue, Jun 2
ORD
Chicago
DCA
Washington
$164 Roundtrip, found 18 hours ago
$164
Roundtrip
found 18 hours ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Sat, May 23 from Chicago to Washington, returning Tue, Jun 2, priced at $164 found 18 hours ago
Frontier Airlines
Sat, May 23 - Tue, Jun 2
ORD
Chicago
DCA
Washington
$169 Roundtrip, found 18 hours ago
$169
Roundtrip
found 18 hours ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Sat, May 23 from Chicago to Washington, returning Tue, Jun 2, priced at $169 found 18 hours ago
American Airlines
Wed, May 27 - Tue, Jun 2
ORD
Chicago
DCA
Washington
$177 Roundtrip, just found
$177
Roundtrip
just found
Select American Airlines flight, departing Wed, May 27 from Chicago to Washington, returning Tue, Jun 2, priced at $177 just found
United
Wed, May 27 - Tue, Jun 2
ORD
Chicago
DCA
Washington
$177 Roundtrip, just found
$177
Roundtrip
just found
Select United flight, departing Wed, May 27 from Chicago to Washington, returning Tue, Jun 2, priced at $177 just found
American Airlines
Wed, Sep 9 - Wed, Sep 16
ORD
Chicago
DCA
Washington
$179 Roundtrip, found 15 hours ago
$179
Roundtrip
found 15 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Wed, Sep 9 from Chicago to Washington, returning Wed, Sep 16, priced at $179 found 15 hours ago
American Airlines
Tue, Sep 15 - Tue, Sep 29
ORD
Chicago
DCA
Washington
$181 Roundtrip, found 5 hours ago
$181
Roundtrip
found 5 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Tue, Sep 15 from Chicago to Washington, returning Tue, Sep 29, priced at $181 found 5 hours ago
American Airlines
Wed, Sep 16 - Wed, Sep 23
ORD
Chicago
DCA
Washington
$181 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$181
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Wed, Sep 16 from Chicago to Washington, returning Wed, Sep 23, priced at $181 found 3 days ago
Frontier Airlines
Wed, May 20 - Wed, May 27
ORD
Chicago
DCA
Washington
$184 Roundtrip, just found
$184
Roundtrip
just found
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Wed, May 20 from Chicago to Washington, returning Wed, May 27, priced at $184 just found
Delta
Wed, May 27 - Tue, Jun 2
ORD
Chicago
DCA
Washington
$187 Roundtrip, just found
$187
Roundtrip
just found
Select Delta flight, departing Wed, May 27 from Chicago to Washington, returning Tue, Jun 2, priced at $187 just found
Southwest Airlines
Wed, May 27 - Tue, Jun 2
ORD
Chicago
DCA
Washington
$197 Roundtrip, just found
$197
Roundtrip
just found
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Wed, May 27 from Chicago to Washington, returning Tue, Jun 2, priced at $197 just found

Alternative airports near Washington

Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Select flight to Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall BWI. Average driving time to city center is 40 minutes. Flights from $205
BWI
Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall
Average driving time to city center40 min
Flights from $205
Select flight to Washington Dulles Intl. IAD. Cheapest option available. Average driving time to city center is 36 minutes. Flights from $160
IAD
Washington Dulles Intl.
Cheapest
Average driving time to city center36 min
Flights from $160

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights and cheap return flights from $164 Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $99 to $711, and return flights typically cost between $268 and $1201. 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 (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) 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 (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
September is the cheapest month to fly from Chicago (ORD) to Washington, DC (DCA), with average round-trip fares around $253. This fare is about 13% lower than the average price throughout the year, as travel demand typically decreases after the summer. Other budget-friendly months for this route include May and July.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
Choose from 2 airlines operating direct flights from ORD to DCA:

  • United operates around 105 direct flights from ORD to DCA every week
  • American Airlines operates around 75 direct flights from ORD to DCA every week

What is the cheapest airline that flies from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
Alaska Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Chicago, IL (ORD) to Washington, DC (DCA), with round-trip tickets starting from around $190.49. 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 (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
To find a cheap flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National), 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 (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The best airline to fly with from Chicago, IL (ORD) to Washington, DC (DCA) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, American Airlines offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, American Airlines typically offers the lowest fares. American Airlines also offers the most daily flights from ORD to DCA, 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 (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
When traveling from Chicago, IL (ORD) to Washington, DC (DCA), September and May are the best months to fly. September typically has an average price of around $253 for a return flight, making it a cost-effective choice. May is also popular, offering a great combination of good weather and reasonable fares, ensuring a pleasant travel experience.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How many flights per day from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
On average, there are around 26 nonstop flights per day from O'Hare Intl. (ORD) to Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The earliest flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) typically departs at around 12:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is perfect for getting an early start on your trip to Washington, DC. 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 (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Chicago (ORD) to Washington, DC (DCA) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 28% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including American Airlines, United and Delta offer flights during this window. This timing is popular because it allows you to arrive in DC early and make the most of your day.
How long does it take to fly from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
Direct flights from ORD to DCA usually take about 2 hours, traveling roughly 610 miles. If you opt for a connecting flight, expect to add around 2 hours 50 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 (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
Business class seats are offered on the ORD to DCA route with American Airlines.First class cabins are available on:

  • American Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines
  • United Airlines

How much is a business class flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
A direct, return business class ticket from Chicago, IL (ORD) to Washington, DC (DCA) typically costs between $894 - $1,247. Prices often fluctuate based on seasonality and how early you book. You may also be able to find a cheaper business class journey between Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) if you opt for a connecting flight.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I earn miles on a Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) 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 Washington from O'Hare Intl. (ORD)?
When traveling from O'Hare Intl. (ORD) to Washington, you can fly into Washington Dulles Intl. (IAD) and Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA). Some flights may connect through major hubs like Pittsburgh Intl. (PIT), LaGuardia (LGA), Indianapolis Intl. (IND) before reaching Washington. 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 (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) 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 (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) Washington 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 (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
If you booked your Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) 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
O'Hare Intl.
Destination airport
Ronald Reagan Washington National
Airlines serving
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$164
Distance
610 mi
Average flight time
2 hours 58 mins

Book with confidence

Chicago to Washington Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Chicago to Washington

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 Washington are during the month of May. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Chicago to Washington with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.

 

The best time to book a flight from Chicago to Washington

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Chicago to Washington: 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 Washington

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 Washington in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $78 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 Washington 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 Washington 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.

 

Chicago to Washington Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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