$89 Cheap Flights from Chicago (MDW) to Washington (DCA)

View $89 flight on Sat, Sep 19, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Chicago Midway Airport (MDW) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)

Cheap Flights from Chicago to Washington (MDW-DCA)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $89 for one-way flights and $177 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Southwest Airlines
Tue, Aug 18 - Tue, Aug 25
MDW
Chicago
DCA
Washington
$177 Roundtrip, found 1 hour ago
$177
Roundtrip
found 1 hour ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Tue, Aug 18 from Chicago to Washington, returning Tue, Aug 25, priced at $177 found 1 hour ago
Southwest Airlines
Sat, Jul 25 - Tue, Jul 28
MDW
Chicago
DCA
Washington
$183 Roundtrip, found 7 hours ago
$183
Roundtrip
found 7 hours ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Sat, Jul 25 from Chicago to Washington, returning Tue, Jul 28, priced at $183 found 7 hours ago
Southwest Airlines
Tue, Aug 18 - Tue, Aug 25
MDW
Chicago
DCA
Washington
$187 Roundtrip, found 1 hour ago
$187
Roundtrip
found 1 hour ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Tue, Aug 18 from Chicago to Washington, returning Tue, Aug 25, priced at $187 found 1 hour ago
Southwest Airlines
Sat, Jul 25 - Tue, Jul 28
MDW
Chicago
DCA
Washington
$192 Roundtrip, found 7 hours ago
$192
Roundtrip
found 7 hours ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Sat, Jul 25 from Chicago to Washington, returning Tue, Jul 28, priced at $192 found 7 hours ago
Delta
Tue, Aug 18 - Tue, Aug 25
MDW
Chicago
DCA
Washington
$197 Roundtrip, found 1 hour ago
$197
Roundtrip
found 1 hour ago
Select Delta flight, departing Tue, Aug 18 from Chicago to Washington, returning Tue, Aug 25, priced at $197 found 1 hour ago
Southwest Airlines
Wed, Sep 2 - Sun, Sep 6
MDW
Chicago
DCA
Washington
$197 Roundtrip, found 3 hours ago
$197
Roundtrip
found 3 hours ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Wed, Sep 2 from Chicago to Washington, returning Sun, Sep 6, priced at $197 found 3 hours ago
Southwest Airlines
Wed, Sep 9 - Sat, Sep 12
MDW
Chicago
DCA
Washington
$198 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$198
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Wed, Sep 9 from Chicago to Washington, returning Sat, Sep 12, priced at $198 found 1 day ago
Southwest Airlines
Tue, Jul 14 - Wed, Jul 15
MDW
Chicago
DCA
Washington
$202 Roundtrip, found 22 hours ago
$202
Roundtrip
found 22 hours ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Tue, Jul 14 from Chicago to Washington, returning Wed, Jul 15, priced at $202 found 22 hours ago
Delta
Wed, Sep 2 - Sun, Sep 6
MDW
Chicago
DCA
Washington
$207 Roundtrip, found 3 hours ago
$207
Roundtrip
found 3 hours ago
Select Delta flight, departing Wed, Sep 2 from Chicago to Washington, returning Sun, Sep 6, priced at $207 found 3 hours ago
Southwest Airlines
Wed, Jul 1 - Sat, Jul 4
MDW
Chicago
DCA
Washington
$207 Roundtrip, found 4 hours ago
$207
Roundtrip
found 4 hours ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Wed, Jul 1 from Chicago to Washington, returning Sat, Jul 4, priced at $207 found 4 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 $350
BWI
Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall
Cheapest
Average driving time to city center40 min
Flights from $350
Select flight to Washington Dulles Intl. IAD. Average driving time to city center is 36 minutes. Flights from $689
IAD
Washington Dulles Intl.
Average driving time to city center36 min
Flights from $689

What you need to know for your flight from Midway Intl. to Ronald Reagan Washington National

Chicago (MDW) to Washington (DCA) at a glance

Travel from Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) with a selection of airlines on this domestic short-haul route. Explore various flight options, from full-service to budget-friendly carriers, to discover the best itinerary for your travel needs. Compare flight prices and schedules as you plan your visit to the iconic sights and neighborhoods of Washington, DC. Find all the essential details for flights from Chicago to Washington.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 1h 45m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 600 miles (970 km)
  • Flights per week: around 15+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $80–$385, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Midway International Airport (MDW) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)

Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines flying from Chicago to Washington, favored for their non-stop and one-stop options. Common layover points include Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) with a 55-minute stop, Denver International Airport (DEN) for about 2 hours and 30 minutes, and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) with a 45-minute layover. These choices allow you to consider various factors like price, total travel time, and cabin class to create your ideal travel plan.

  • Southwest Airlines: This budget-friendly airline provides both non-stop and one-stop options, with one-way fares generally between $80 and $385. It dominates the route, making up about 97% of departures, and typically offers a non-stop flying duration of 1 hour and 45 minutes.
  • Delta: As a full-service airline, Delta presents one-stop flights with one-way ticket prices usually ranging from $120 to $330. It represents around 2% of departures on this route, with an in-flight duration of 3 hours and an overall travel time of approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes, including layover.
  • Frontier Airlines: Another low-cost option, Frontier Airlines features one-stop service, with one-way fares typically falling between $80 and $190. It accounts for about 1% of departures on this route, with a flight time of 3 hours and a total journey duration of around 4 hours and 45 minutes, factoring in the layover.

Best time to fly from Chicago (MDW) to Washington (DCA)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Chicago to Washington are March, April, and July, when peak temperatures in Washington reach up to 79.5°F in July. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 71.1°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $174). Flight availability peaks in June, July, and August, with approximately 22 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January has the fewest flights, with approximately 13 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: September usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $174, roughly 14% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: August and May typically offer average one-way fares of around $179.
  • Most flight options: June, July, and August have the highest number of flights from Chicago to Washington, with approximately 22 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)Low13$207
February38.3°F (3.5°C)Low14$247
March45.7°F (7.6°C)High18$233
April56.3°F (13.5°C)High18$199
May65.7°F (18.7°C)Average20$182
June74.3°F (23.5°C)Average22$205
July79.5°F (26.4°C)High22$204
August77.4°F (25.2°C)Average22$176
September71.1°F (21.7°C)Low16$174
October59.9°F (15.5°C)Average21$192
November47.8°F (8.8°C)Average19$214
December40.6°F (4.8°C)Average17$222

*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 Chicago (MDW) to Washington (DCA)

  • Chicago to Washington (ORD-DCA): O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is located approximately 16 miles from Midway International Airport (MDW). One-way economy fares for this route generally fall between $80 and $350, influenced by the season and how far in advance you book. Travelers can choose from both non-stop and one-stop flights on this route, with major airlines including American Airlines and United. Additionally, first-class service is offered on this route.
  • Chicago to Washington (ORD-IAD): O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is around 16 miles from Midway International Airport (MDW), while Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is situated about 23 miles from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). One-way economy prices on this route typically range from $85 to $385, varying with the season and booking time. The route usually features both non-stop and one-stop options, primarily served by United and Frontier Airlines (a low-cost carrier). First-class service is also available on this route.
  • Chicago to Washington (MDW-IAD): Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is located roughly 23 miles from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). One-way economy fares for this route typically range from $80 to $335, depending on the season and booking timing. Travelers can expect one-stop options, with common layover points at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW). Leading airlines on this route include Frontier Airlines (a low-cost option) and Delta. First-class service is also available here.

How to find the best prices for flights from Chicago (MDW) to Washington (DCA)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Chicago 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 found when booking at least two months in advance, although most travelers tend to book their flights two to eight weeks ahead. Departures between 12 PM and 6 PM often offer lower prices and are also the most popular times, while flying on Saturday generally provides cheaper options, even though Sunday remains the most popular 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 Midway International Airport

Washington welcomes travelers from Chicago 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 about 0.2 miles away on foot, while Alexandria Station (a train station) is approximately 3.8 miles from the airport and best accessed by car. Additionally, Washington Seaport, a seaport, is situated about 4.8 miles away by car.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $89 and cheap return flights from $177 Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $136 and $904, and return flights often range between $286 and $768. 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 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 (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
February is the cheapest month to fly from Chicago, IL (MDW) to Washington, DC (DCA), with average return fares around $270. This price is about 15% lower than the average throughout the year, as winter typically sees less travel. Other affordable months to consider are August and September.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
Enter MDW to DCA 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
Frontier Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National), with round-trip tickets starting from around $440. 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 Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
To find a cheap flight from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway 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 (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The best airline to fly with from Chicago, IL (MDW) to Washington, DC (DCA) 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 offers the most daily flights from MDW 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 (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The best times to fly from Chicago, IL (MDW) to Washington, DC (DCA) are February and September. February offers an average price of about $270 for a return flight, making it a budget-friendly option. September is also popular, providing plenty of flight choices. These months strike a balance between cost and convenience, allowing you to plan your trip effectively.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How many flights per day from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
You can find approximately 6 nonstop flights per day from Midway Intl. (MDW) to Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The earliest flight from Midway International Airport (MDW) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) usually leaves at around 5:00 AM. This seasonal service, primarily operated by Southwest Airlines, gives you a head start on your day 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 Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Chicago, IL (MDW) to Washington, DC (DCA) are in the morning, from 9am to noon. This accounts for about 26% of total traffic. Many major carriers, including Southwest Airlines and Delta Air Lines, offer flights during this window. Many travelers prefer this timing as it allows for a productive start to their day in Washington.
How long does it take to fly from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
A nonstop flight from MDW to DCA typically takes around 1 hour 50 minutes, covering approximately 599 miles. Connecting flights on this route usually add 4 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 Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
First class seats are offered on the MDW to DCA route with Delta Air Lines.
How do I earn miles on a Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway 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 Midway Intl. (MDW)?
From Midway Intl. (MDW), you can fly into Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) and Washington Dulles Intl. (IAD) in Washington. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Birmingham Intl. (BHM), Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Intl. (ATL), Lambert-St. Louis Intl. (STL) 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 (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway 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 (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway 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 (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
If you booked your Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway 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
Midway Intl.
Destination airport
Ronald Reagan Washington National
Airlines serving
Delta, Southwest Airlines
Roundtrip price
$177
Distance
598 mi
Average flight time
2 hours 47 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 August. 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 $89 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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