$153 Cheap Flights from Washington (DCA) to Houston (HOU)

View $153 flight on Tue, Oct 6, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to Houston William Hobby Airport (HOU)

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Cheap Flights from Washington to Houston (DCA-HOU)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $153 for one-way flights and $329 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Delta
Thu, Aug 20 - Sat, Aug 22
DCA
Washington
HOU
Houston
$329 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$329
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select Delta flight, departing Thu, Aug 20 from Washington to Houston, returning Sat, Aug 22, priced at $329 found 5 days ago
Southwest Airlines
Wed, Jun 24 - Mon, Jun 29
DCA
Washington
HOU
Houston
$351 Roundtrip, found 4 days ago
$351
Roundtrip
found 4 days ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Wed, Jun 24 from Washington to Houston, returning Mon, Jun 29, priced at $351 found 4 days ago

Alternative airports near Houston

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

Select flight to George Bush Intercontinental IAH. Cheapest option available. Average driving time to city center is 24 minutes. Flights from $432
IAH
George Bush Intercontinental
Cheapest
Average driving time to city center24 min
Flights from $432

What you need to know for your flight from Ronald Reagan Washington National to William P. Hobby

Washington (DCA) to Houston (HOU) at a glance

Travel from Washington, D.C. (DCA) to Houston (HOU) with a range of airlines on this domestic short-haul route. Evaluate options from both full-service and low-cost carriers to discover the itinerary that aligns with your budget and schedule. As you plan your trip to explore Houston's iconic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods, be sure to check the latest deals on flights and keep an eye on the flight time for your journey from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to William P. Hobby Airport (HOU).

  • Fastest flight duration: around 3h 30m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 1,200 miles (1,930 km)
  • Flights per week: around 12 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $90–$425, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)

According to recent traveler bookings, here are the most popular airlines for flights from Washington to Houston, featuring both non-stop and one-stop options. Common layovers include Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) with about a 1-hour stop, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) with roughly a 2-hour layover, and Love Field Airport (DAL) at around 1 hour and 15 minutes. This variety allows you to tailor your itinerary by considering price, total travel time, and cabin class.

  • Southwest Airlines: This budget-friendly airline provides both non-stop and one-stop flights, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $90 and $425. Southwest controls about 94% of departures on this route, and a typical non-stop flight takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes.
  • American Airlines: A full-service option, American Airlines offers one-stop flights, with one-way fares that typically range from $140 to $705. This carrier accounts for roughly 4% of flights on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 4 hours and 30 minutes, leading to a total travel time of about 6 hours including layovers.
  • Delta: Another full-service airline, Delta provides one-stop services with one-way fares usually between $145 and $385. It makes up approximately 2% of the departures on this route, with an in-flight time of 4 hours and 30 minutes, resulting in an overall journey of around 6 hours with layover included.

Best time to fly from Washington (DCA) to Houston (HOU)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Washington to Houston are March, April, and July, when peak temperatures in Houston reach up to 84.2°F in July. If you prefer quieter travel, consider February, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 57°F. For better deals, August usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $177. Flight availability peaks in May, with approximately 14 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times.

  • Cheapest time to fly: August usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $177, roughly 24% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • Another budget-friendly time to fly: September typically offers an average one-way fare of around $193.
  • Most flight options: May has the highest number of flights from Washington to Houston, with approximately 14 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January54.1°F (12.3°C)Slightly Low11$263
February57.0°F (13.9°C)Slightly Low11$241
March63.9°F (17.7°C)Slightly High12$284
April69.6°F (20.9°C)Slightly High11$268
May76.6°F (24.8°C)Average14$234
June82.8°F (28.2°C)Average13$237
July84.2°F (29.0°C)Slightly High13$200
August84.9°F (29.4°C)Average13$177
September80.6°F (27.0°C)Average12$193
October72.7°F (22.6°C)Average11$205
November62.8°F (17.1°C)Slightly Low11$250
December57.4°F (14.1°C)Average12$244

*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 routes from Washington (DCA) to Houston (HOU)

  • Washington to Houston (IAD-HOU): Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is located approximately 23 miles from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). One-way economy fares for this journey generally fall between $115 and $445, influenced by the time of year and how far in advance you book. Flights on this route are usually offered as one-stop options, with common layover points being Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). Major airlines operating on this route include Delta and American Airlines.
  • Washington to Houston (DCA-IAH): George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is situated around 23 miles from William P. Hobby Airport (HOU). One-way economy fares on this path typically range from $90 to $415, varying with the season and booking timing. This route provides both non-stop and one-stop flight options. Leading carriers for this journey are United and American Airlines. Additionally, first-class service is available on this route.
  • Washington to Houston (IAD-IAH): Located about 23 miles from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) connects to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), also around 23 miles from William P. Hobby Airport (HOU). Economy fares on this route typically fall between $90 and $425, depending on the season and your booking time. Both non-stop and one-stop flights are available. Top airlines for this route include United and low-cost carrier Frontier Airlines, with first-class service offered as well.

How to find the best prices for flights from Washington (DCA) to Houston (HOU)

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

  1. Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are usually available when booking at least two months in advance, although most travelers tend to book two to eight weeks ahead. Morning departures from 5 a.m. to 12 p.m. often offer lower prices, while afternoon flights from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. are more popular. Additionally, flying on Thursday typically results in cheaper prices, despite Friday being the busiest travel day.
  2. Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
  3. Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
  4. 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.
  5. Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
  6. 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 William P. Hobby Airport from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport

Houston welcomes travelers from Washington with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. For departures, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is roughly a 10-minute drive (covering about 5 miles) from central Washington. Here's how to reach Houston efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Houston, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from William P. Hobby Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at William P. Hobby 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 William P. Hobby Airport, the Palm Center Transit Center, a metro station, is located about 5.5 miles away by car, providing convenient access to public transportation for your travels.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $153 and cheap return flights from $329 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $181 and $819, and return flights often range between $343 and $1483. 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby)?
The cheapest month to fly from DCA to HOU is August when demand is low. Traveling in off-peak or shoulder months is usually a good way to secure cheap tickets, just remember to avoid flying during holidays if you're able to. Use the calendar view in your search to see which months have low fares on this route.
Which airlines fly direct from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby)?
Enter DCA to HOU and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby)?
Southwest Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop flights from Washington, DC (DCA) to Houston, TX (HOU), with prices starting from around $149. 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby)?
To find a cheap flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby), 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby)?
The best airline to fly with from Washington, DC (DCA) to Houston, TX (HOU) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, WN offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, United typically offers the lowest fares. WN offers the most daily flights from DCA to HOU, 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby)?
The best time to fly is usually mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) and during early morning hours as flights tend to be cheaper, less crowded, and generally more on-time. Avoid major holidays and peak vacation seasons for smoother travel. Combining off-peak days and hours often gives the best combination of cost, comfort, and convenience.
How many flights per day from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby)?
There are approximately 3 nonstop flights per day from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) to William P. Hobby (HOU). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby)?
The earliest flight from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) typically departs at 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. An early departure like this allows you to make the most of your day in Houston. This service operates seasonally in April, May, and June. 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Houston (HOU-William P. Hobby) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 31% of passengers prefer this time window, with airlines like Delta, Southwest, and American Airlines providing service. This timing is favored because it lets you arrive in Houston with a full day ahead of you.
How long does it take to fly from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby)?
Direct flights from DCA to HOU usually take about 3 hours 50 minutes, traveling roughly 1,216 miles. If you opt for a connecting flight, expect to add around 2 hours 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby)?
First class seats are offered on the DCA to HOU route. First class cabins are available on:

  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines

How much is a business class flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby)?
A direct, return business class ticket from Washington, DC (DCA) to Houston, TX (HOU) typically costs between $996 - $1,286 per adult. Prices often fluctuate based on seasonality and how early you book. You may also be able to find a cheaper business class journey between Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) 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 Houston from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA)?
From Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA), you can fly into William P. Hobby (HOU) and George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) in Houston. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Nashville Intl. (BNA), Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Intl. (ATL), Los Angeles Intl. (LAX) before reaching Houston. 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) Houston 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby)?
If you booked your Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) 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
Ronald Reagan Washington National
Destination airport
William P. Hobby
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, Southwest Airlines
Roundtrip price
$328
Distance
1216 mi
Average flight time
2 hours 24 mins

Book with confidence

Washington to Houston Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Washington to Houston

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

 

The best time to book a flight from Washington to Houston

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

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 Washington to Houston in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $153 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 Washington to Houston 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 Washington to Houston 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.

 

Washington to Houston Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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