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$111 Cheap Flights from Houston (HOU) to Washington (DCA)

View $111 flight on Mon, Aug 10, 2026Opens in a new window

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

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Cheap Flights from Houston to Washington (HOU-DCA)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $111 for one-way flights and $221 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Southwest Airlines
Tue, Oct 27 - Sat, Oct 31
HOU
Houston
DCA
Washington
$221 Roundtrip, just found
$221
Roundtrip
just found
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Tue, Oct 27 from Houston to Washington, returning Sat, Oct 31, priced at $221 just found
Southwest Airlines
Tue, Oct 27 - Sat, Oct 31
HOU
Houston
DCA
Washington
$227 Roundtrip, just found
$227
Roundtrip
just found
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Tue, Oct 27 from Houston to Washington, returning Sat, Oct 31, priced at $227 just found
Southwest Airlines
Tue, Oct 27 - Sat, Oct 31
HOU
Houston
DCA
Washington
$236 Roundtrip, just found
$236
Roundtrip
just found
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Tue, Oct 27 from Houston to Washington, returning Sat, Oct 31, priced at $236 just found
Southwest Airlines
Mon, Aug 10 - Wed, Aug 12
HOU
Houston
DCA
Washington
$242 Roundtrip, found 5 hours ago
$242
Roundtrip
found 5 hours ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Mon, Aug 10 from Houston to Washington, returning Wed, Aug 12, priced at $242 found 5 hours ago

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. Cheapest option available. Average driving time to city center is 40 minutes. Flights from $258
BWI
Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall
Cheapest
Average driving time to city center40 min
Flights from $258
Select flight to Washington Dulles Intl. IAD. Average driving time to city center is 36 minutes. Flights from $320
IAD
Washington Dulles Intl.
Average driving time to city center36 min
Flights from $320

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

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

Travel from Houston (HOU) to Washington (DCA) with a selection of airlines catering to this domestic short-haul route. Explore various options, from full-service providers to budget-friendly carriers, to discover the best itinerary that aligns with your schedule and budget. Whether you’re seeking cheap tickets from Houston or planning to experience Washington's iconic landmarks and neighborhoods, find essential flight details for your journey from William P. Hobby Airport to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 3 hours non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 1,200 miles (1,930 km)
  • Flights per week: around 13 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 William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)

Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines flying from Houston to Washington, favored for both non-stop and one-stop flights. Common layover points include Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) with a 1 hour and 30-minute stop, Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) offering about a 55-minute layover, and Denver International Airport (DEN) with a longer stop of approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes. These options allow you to tailor your journey based on price, travel time, and cabin class to secure the ideal itinerary.

  • Southwest Airlines: This budget-friendly airline provides both non-stop and one-stop routes, with one-way fares generally falling between $90 and $425. It serves about 96% of departures for this journey, with a direct flight taking approximately 3 hours.
  • Delta: As a full-service airline, Delta offers one-stop flights, with one-way tickets priced between $125 and $450. It represents roughly 2% of departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 4 hours and a total travel time of around 5 hours, including layover.
  • American Airlines: This full-service carrier provides one-stop options, with typical one-way fares ranging from $220 to $430. It accounts for about 1% of departures along this route, with an in-flight time of 4 hours and an overall journey time of roughly 5 hours, factoring in the layover.
  • Frontier Airlines: A low-cost option, Frontier Airlines offers one-stop services, with one-way fares usually between $90 and $165. It comprises approximately 1% of departures for this route, with a flight time of 4 hours and a total travel duration of about 5 hours, including layover.

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

The most popular months for travelers flying from Houston to Washington are March, April, and May, when peak temperatures in Washington reach up to 65.7°F in May. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 71.1°F. For better deals, August usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $183. Flight availability peaks in May and June, with approximately 15 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January has the fewest flights, with approximately 10 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: August usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $183, roughly 23% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • Another budget-friendly time to fly: September typically offers an average one-way fare of around $184.
  • Most flight options: May and June have the highest number of flights from Houston to Washington, with approximately 15 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January35.1°F (1.7°C)Moderately Low10$264
February38.3°F (3.5°C)Moderately Low12$266
March45.7°F (7.6°C)Moderately High13$280
April56.3°F (13.5°C)Moderately High12$278
May65.7°F (18.7°C)Moderately High15$226
June74.3°F (23.5°C)Average15$249
July79.5°F (26.4°C)Average13$216
August77.4°F (25.2°C)Average14$183
September71.1°F (21.7°C)Moderately Low11$184
October59.9°F (15.5°C)Average11$226
November47.8°F (8.8°C)Average13$237
December40.6°F (4.8°C)Average13$251

*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 Houston (HOU) to Washington (DCA)

  • Houston to Washington (HOU-IAD): Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is located approximately 23 miles from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). One-way economy fares for this journey usually range between $100 and $485, influenced by the season and how far in advance you book. This route is commonly served by one-stop flights, with frequent layovers at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). Major carriers on this route include Delta and American Airlines, and first-class service is also available.
  • Houston to Washington (IAH-DCA): George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is situated about 23 miles from William P. Hobby Airport (HOU). One-way economy fares on this route generally fall between $90 and $410, varying based on the season and booking time. This route offers both non-stop and one-stop flight choices. Leading airlines operating on this route include United and American Airlines, with first-class service also an option.

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

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Houston to Washington 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 between two to eight weeks ahead. Morning departures from 5 AM to 12 PM often offer lower prices and are quite popular, while flying on Tuesday generally results in cheaper rates, even though Friday remains the most sought-after 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 Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport from William P. Hobby Airport

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

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Washington, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Ronald Reagan Washington National 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 Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, National Airport Station, a metro station, is located just 0.2 miles away on foot, making it easily accessible for travelers. For those looking to reach Alexandria Station, a train station about 3.8 miles away by car, or Washington Seaport, a seaport situated approximately 4.8 miles away by car, convenient driving options are available.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $111 and cheap return flights from $221 Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $115 and $749, and roundtrip flights usually range from $331 to $1030. 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 Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) 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 Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The cheapest month to fly from HOU to DCA is October 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 Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
Enter HOU to DCA and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
How do I find cheap flights from Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
To find a cheap flight from Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) 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 Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The best airline to fly with from Houston, TX (HOU) to Washington, DC (DCA) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, United offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, WN typically offers the lowest fares. WN offers the most daily flights from HOU 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 Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
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 Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
You can find approximately 3 nonstop flights per day from William P. Hobby (HOU) to Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The earliest flight from William P. Hobby (HOU) to Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) usually departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This service is seasonal and active in January, February, November, and December. An early flight can help you make the most of your time in 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 Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
For flights from Houston, TX (HOU) to Washington, DC (DCA), the most popular departure times are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. This accounts for around 28% of total traffic. Many major carriers, including American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Delta, offer flights during this window. Many travelers prefer this timing because it allows them to arrive in Washington, DC with a full day ahead to explore.
How long does it take to fly from Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
Direct flights from HOU to DCA usually take about 3 hours, traveling roughly 1,216 miles. If you opt for a connecting flight, expect to add around 2 hours 20 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 Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
First class is available on flights from HOU to DCA. First class cabins are available on:

  • Delta Air Lines
  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines

How do I earn miles on a Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) 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 William P. Hobby (HOU)?
From William P. Hobby (HOU), you can fly into Washington Dulles Intl. (IAD) and Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) in Washington. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Portland Intl. (PDX), Seattle - Tacoma Intl. (SEA), Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Intl. (ATL) 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 Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) 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 Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) 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 Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
If you booked your Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) 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
William P. Hobby
Destination airport
Ronald Reagan Washington National
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, Southwest Airlines
Roundtrip price
$221
Distance
1216 mi
Average flight time
4 hours 57 mins

Book with confidence

Houston to Washington Flights

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

 

The best time to book a flight from Houston to Washington

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Houston 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 Houston 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 Houston to Washington in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $111 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 Houston 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 Houston 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.

 

Houston to Washington Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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