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$149 Cheap Flights from Washington (DCA) to Raleigh (RDU)

View $149 flight on Sun, Oct 11, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)

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Cheap Flights from Washington to Raleigh (DCA-RDU)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $149 for one-way flights and $228 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

American Airlines
Thu, Sep 24 - Thu, Oct 1
DCA
Washington
RDU
Raleigh
$228 Roundtrip, found 2 days ago
$228
Roundtrip
found 2 days ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Thu, Sep 24 from Washington to Raleigh, returning Thu, Oct 1, priced at $228 found 2 days ago
American Airlines
Thu, Sep 24 - Thu, Oct 1
DCA
Washington
RDU
Raleigh
$238 Roundtrip, found 2 days ago
$238
Roundtrip
found 2 days ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Thu, Sep 24 from Washington to Raleigh, returning Thu, Oct 1, priced at $238 found 2 days ago
American Airlines
Thu, Sep 17 - Mon, Nov 16
DCA
Washington
RDU
Raleigh
$253 Roundtrip, found 4 days ago
$253
Roundtrip
found 4 days ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Thu, Sep 17 from Washington to Raleigh, returning Mon, Nov 16, priced at $253 found 4 days ago
American Airlines
Fri, Nov 13 - Mon, Nov 16
DCA
Washington
RDU
Raleigh
$262 Roundtrip, found 4 days ago
$262
Roundtrip
found 4 days ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Fri, Nov 13 from Washington to Raleigh, returning Mon, Nov 16, priced at $262 found 4 days ago
American Airlines
Thu, Sep 17 - Mon, Nov 16
DCA
Washington
RDU
Raleigh
$263 Roundtrip, found 4 days ago
$263
Roundtrip
found 4 days ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Thu, Sep 17 from Washington to Raleigh, returning Mon, Nov 16, priced at $263 found 4 days ago
Delta
Fri, Dec 11 - Sun, Dec 20
DCA
Washington
RDU
Raleigh
$267 Roundtrip, found 2 days ago
$267
Roundtrip
found 2 days ago
Select Delta flight, departing Fri, Dec 11 from Washington to Raleigh, returning Sun, Dec 20, priced at $267 found 2 days ago
American Airlines
Fri, Oct 23 - Mon, Oct 26
DCA
Washington
RDU
Raleigh
$267 Roundtrip, found 2 days ago
$267
Roundtrip
found 2 days ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Fri, Oct 23 from Washington to Raleigh, returning Mon, Oct 26, priced at $267 found 2 days ago
JetBlue Airways
Tue, Oct 6 - Wed, Oct 7
DCA
Washington
RDU
Raleigh
$297 Roundtrip, just found
$297
Roundtrip
just found
Select JetBlue Airways flight, departing Tue, Oct 6 from Washington to Raleigh, returning Wed, Oct 7, priced at $297 just found
Southwest Airlines
Fri, Oct 23 - Sat, Oct 24
DCA
Washington
RDU
Raleigh
$437 Roundtrip, found 1 hour ago
$437
Roundtrip
found 1 hour ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Fri, Oct 23 from Washington to Raleigh, returning Sat, Oct 24, priced at $437 found 1 hour ago
United
Wed, Sep 16 - Tue, Oct 27
DCA
Washington
RDU
Raleigh
$455 Roundtrip, found 4 hours ago
$455
Roundtrip
found 4 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Wed, Sep 16 from Washington to Raleigh, returning Tue, Oct 27, priced at $455 found 4 hours ago

Alternative airports near Raleigh

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

Select flight to Raleigh - Durham Intl. RDU. Cheapest and Closest option available. Average driving time to city center is 20 minutes. Flights from $357
RDU
Raleigh - Durham Intl.
CheapestClosest
Average driving time to city center20 min
Flights from $357

What you need to know for your flight from Ronald Reagan Washington National to Raleigh - Durham Intl.

Washington (DCA) to Raleigh (RDU) at a glance

Travel from Washington (DCA) to Raleigh (RDU) with a range of airlines offering convenient options on this short domestic route. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly fares or prefer full-service airlines, you can compare various flights to find the perfect match for your schedule and travel plans. Discover essential information about flights from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport to Raleigh-Durham International Airport as you prepare to explore the vibrant sights and neighborhoods of Raleigh.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 1h 15m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 250 miles (400 km)
  • Flights per week: around 20+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $80–$320, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to Raleigh - Durham International Airport (RDU)

According to recent traveler bookings, the top airlines favored for flights from Washington to Raleigh include both non-stop and one-stop options. Popular layover spots are Logan International Airport (BOS) with an approximate 1-hour stop, John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) at about 45 minutes, and Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) with a roughly 1-hour layover. These choices allow travelers to easily compare pricing, total travel time, and cabin class to find the ideal itinerary for their needs.

  • American Airlines: This full-service airline provides non-stop flights, with one-way ticket prices usually falling between $85 and $330. It represents roughly 64% of the departures on this route, offering a total travel duration of 1 hour and 15 minutes.
  • Delta: Another full-service option, Delta also features non-stop services, with typical one-way fares ranging from $80 to $330. It makes up about 35% of the departures for this route, with an overall journey time of 1 hour and 15 minutes.
  • JetBlue Airways: As a low-cost carrier, JetBlue offers one-stop flights, with one-way prices generally between $100 and $295. It accounts for around 1% of departures on this route, with an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 30 minutes and a total trip time of approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes, including the layover.

Travelers flying from Washington to Raleigh have the option to upgrade their flight. American Airlines offers first-class service, while Delta provides both first class and premium economy cabins.

Best time to fly from Washington (DCA) to Raleigh (RDU)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Washington to Raleigh are February, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Raleigh reach up to 61°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 73°F. For better deals, August usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $140. Flight availability peaks in May and October, with approximately 29 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 $140, roughly 15% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: January and September typically offer average one-way fares of around $157.
  • Most flight options: May and October have the highest number of flights from Washington to Raleigh, with approximately 29 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January41.5°F (5.3°C)Average22$157
February45.1°F (7.3°C)Moderately High23$174
March51.4°F (10.8°C)Moderately High26$172
April61.0°F (16.1°C)Moderately High25$181
May69.1°F (20.6°C)Average29$160
June76.6°F (24.8°C)Moderately Low25$168
July79.9°F (26.6°C)Moderately Low23$161
August78.3°F (25.7°C)Average22$140
September73.0°F (22.8°C)Moderately Low22$157
October62.8°F (17.1°C)Average29$160
November51.8°F (11.0°C)Average23$169
December46.0°F (7.8°C)Average22$179

*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 find the best prices for flights from Washington (DCA) to Raleigh (RDU)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Washington to Raleigh 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 found when booking 2-8 weeks in advance, which aligns with when most travelers make their reservations. Evening departures from 6 PM to 12 AM tend to be less expensive, although morning flights from 5 AM to 12 PM are more popular. Additionally, flying on Monday often offers lower prices, while Friday remains 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 Raleigh - Durham International Airport from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport

Raleigh 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. Raleigh city center is approximately a 20-minute drive (covering about 15 miles) from Raleigh - Durham International Airport, depending on traffic. Here's how to reach Raleigh efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Raleigh, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Raleigh - Durham International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Raleigh - Durham 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 Raleigh-Durham International Airport, Cary Station, a train station, is located about 6 miles away, providing convenient access to rail services for travelers.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $149 and cheap return flights from $228 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $101 and $674, and return flights often range between $263 and $2195. 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
August is the cheapest month to fly from Washington, DC to Raleigh, with average return fares around $249. This fare is about 10% lower than the average price throughout the year, as demand is typically lower during the late summer. Other economical months to fly from Washington, DC to Raleigh include January and February.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
Choose from 2 airlines operating direct flights from DCA to RDU:

  • American Airlines operates around 55 direct flights from DCA to RDU every week
  • Delta operates around 20 direct flights from DCA to RDU every week

What is the cheapest airline that flies from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
Delta is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop flights from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) to Raleigh - Durham Intl. (RDU), with round-trip tickets starting from around $309. 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Washington, DC (DCA) to Raleigh, NC (RDU) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, Delta offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, Delta typically offers the lowest fares. United offers the most daily flights from DCA to RDU, 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
The best time to fly from Washington, DC (DCA) to Raleigh, NC (RDU) is in August or January, with average prices around $249 for a return flight. While March and May are popular months for travel, flying in January can offer significant savings while still allowing you to experience the vibrant culture of Raleigh.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How many flights per day from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
There are approximately 11 nonstop flights per day from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) to Raleigh - Durham Intl. (RDU). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Washington, DC (DCA) to Raleigh, NC (RDU) usually leaves at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This early flight allows you to arrive in Raleigh with a full day ahead of you. This service operates seasonally in April. 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Washington, DC (DCA) to Raleigh (RDU) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 31% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including American Airlines and Delta Air Lines, offer flights during this window. This timing is popular because it allows you to maximize your day in Raleigh after a quick flight.
How long does it take to fly from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
A nonstop flight from DCA to RDU typically takes around 1 hour 20 minutes, covering approximately 227 miles. Connecting flights on this route usually add 5 hours to your travel time. 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
First class is available on flights from DCA to RDU. 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
A direct, return business class ticket from Washington, DC (DCA) to Raleigh, NC (RDU) typically costs between $571 - $849. A non-stop, one-way business class flight is usually around $306 - $518. 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.) 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham 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 Raleigh from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA)?
If you're planning to travel to Raleigh from Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA), you can fly into Raleigh - Durham Intl. (RDU) Some flights may connect through major hubs like Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Intl. (ATL), John Glenn Columbus Intl. (CMH), Logan Intl. (BOS) before reaching Raleigh. 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.) Raleigh 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
If you booked your Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham 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
Ronald Reagan Washington National
Destination airport
Raleigh - Durham Intl.
Airlines serving
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$228
Distance
226 mi
Average flight time
1 hour 23 mins

Book with confidence

Washington to Raleigh Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Washington to Raleigh

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

 

The best time to book a flight from Washington to Raleigh

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

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 Raleigh in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $149 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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