$156 Cheap Flights from Chicago (MDW) to Buffalo (BUF)

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Chicago (MDW) to Buffalo (BUF) at a glance

Explore a range of airlines offering flights from Chicago (MDW) to Buffalo (BUF) on this convenient domestic short-haul route. Whether you’re looking for cheap flights from Chicago or prefer full-service options, you can easily compare choices to find the best fit for your budget and travel schedule. Discover essential details for your journey from Midway International Airport to Buffalo Niagara International Airport as you prepare to experience the sights and neighborhoods that Buffalo has to offer.

• Fastest flight duration: around 1h 30m non-stop
• Route distance: roughly 450 miles (725 km)
• Flights per week: around 9 departures on average
• Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $60–$380, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Midway International Airport (MDW) to Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF)

According to recent traveler bookings, the top airlines flying from Chicago to Buffalo are favored for their non-stop and one-stop options. Popular layover choices include Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) with a layover of about 1 hour and 15 minutes, Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) at around 55 minutes, and Orlando International Airport (MCO) with a longer layover of approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes. This variety allows you to tailor your itinerary based on price, total travel time, and cabin class preferences.

• Southwest Airlines: This budget-friendly airline provides non-stop flights, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $60 and $380. It dominates this route, accounting for about 89% of departures, and offers a total travel duration of 1 hour and 30 minutes.
• Frontier Airlines: Known for its low-cost options, this airline offers one-stop service with fares typically ranging from $75 to $175. It represents roughly 7% of the departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 4 hours and 15 minutes, leading to a total journey time of about 5 hours and 30 minutes, including layover.
• Delta: As a full-service airline, Delta provides one-stop flights with one-way ticket prices usually between $90 and $280. It constitutes around 4% of departures on this route, with an in-flight time of 4 hours and 15 minutes, resulting in a total travel time of approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, including layover.

Best time to fly from Chicago (MDW) to Buffalo (BUF)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Chicago to Buffalo are April, July, and August, when peak temperatures in Buffalo reach up to 72°F in July. If you prefer quieter travel, consider January, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 25.5°F. For better deals, August usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $162. Flight availability peaks in June, August, September, and November, with approximately 10 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 $162, roughly 20% cheaper than the yearly average.
• Another budget-friendly time to fly: September typically offers an average one-way fare of around $174.
• Most flight options: June, August, September, and November have the highest number of flights from Chicago to Buffalo, with approximately 10 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.

*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 Buffalo (BUF)

• Chicago to Buffalo (ORD-BUF): O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is located approximately 16 miles from Midway International Airport (MDW). On this route, one-way economy ticket prices generally fall between $75 and $345, influenced by the time of year and how far in advance you book. Passengers can choose from both non-stop and one-stop flight options. Major airlines that operate this route include American Airlines and United. First-class service is also offered on this route.

How to find the best prices for flights from Chicago (MDW) to Buffalo (BUF)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Chicago to Buffalo 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 and eight weeks ahead. Afternoon departures, from 12 PM to 6 PM, often offer lower prices, while morning flights, from 5 AM to 12 PM, are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Friday tends to provide both affordability and high demand.
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 Buffalo Niagara International Airport from Midway International Airport

Buffalo welcomes travelers from Chicago with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Buffalo efficiently:

• Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Buffalo, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
• Car rental: Renting a car from Buffalo Niagara International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Buffalo Niagara 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 Buffalo Niagara International Airport, Buffalo-Depew Station, a train station, is located about 2.6 miles away by car, while University Station, a metro station, is situated approximately 6.5 miles away by car, providing convenient access to public transport options.

Chicago to Buffalo Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Chicago to Buffalo

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

The best time to book a flight from Chicago to Buffalo

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

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 Buffalo in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $156 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 Buffalo 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 Buffalo 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) cost?

You can find cheap one-way flights from $156 and cheap return flights $309 Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $187 and $475, and roundtrip flights usually range from $276 to $660. 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?

The cheapest month to fly from MDW to BUF is December 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 Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?

Enter MDW to BUF and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.

What is the cheapest airline that flies from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?

Frontier Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Midway Intl. (MDW) to Buffalo Niagara Intl. (BUF), with round-trip tickets starting from around $170. 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?

To find a cheap flight from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?

The best airline to fly with from Chicago, IL (MDW) to Buffalo, NY (BUF) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, WN offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, WN typically offers the lowest fares. WN also offers the most daily flights from MDW to BUF, 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?

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 Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?

There are approximately 2 nonstop flights per day from Midway Intl. (MDW) to Buffalo Niagara Intl. (BUF). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.

What is the earliest flight from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?

The earliest flight from Midway International (MDW) to Buffalo Niagara International (BUF) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by Southwest Airlines. This seasonal service is available in July, allowing you to get an early start on your trip to Buffalo. 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?

The most popular departure times for flights from Chicago (MDW) to Buffalo (BUF) are in the late morning, from 9am to 12pm. About 32% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Southwest Airlines and Delta Air Lines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to travel after the morning rush, making for a smoother airport experience.

How long does it take to fly from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?

Flying nonstop from MDW to BUF takes around 1 hour 30 minutes, with the route covering approximately 467 miles. Flights with a layover typically take 2 hours 30 minutes longer than direct options. 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?

First class seats are offered on the MDW to BUF route with Delta Air Lines.

How do I earn miles on a Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) flight with Expedia?

It's easy to earn miles on a Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara 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 Buffalo from Midway Intl. (MDW)?

From Midway Intl. (MDW), you can fly into Buffalo Niagara Intl. (BUF) to reach Buffalo. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Louisville Intl. (SDF), Norfolk Intl. (ORF), Bradley Intl. (BDL) before reaching Buffalo. 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) at the last minute?

Typically, booking a last minute flight from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) flight and hotel package?

Securing a Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) Buffalo 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?

If you booked your Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara 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.