$78 Cheap Flights from Chicago (MDW) to Houston (HOU)
Popular airlines from Chicago Midway Airport (MDW) to Houston William Hobby Airport (HOU)
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Cheap Flights from Chicago to Houston (MDW-HOU)
Alternative airports near Houston
Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.
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Chicago (MDW) to Houston (HOU) at a glance
Travel from Chicago (MDW) to Houston (HOU) with a selection of airlines catering to this convenient domestic route. Explore various options, whether you prefer full-service airlines or budget-friendly choices, to discover the best itinerary that aligns with your budget and schedule. As you embark on your journey to experience Houston's renowned sights and neighborhoods, find essential information for flights from Midway International Airport to William P. Hobby Airport.
- Fastest flight duration: around 2h 45m non-stop
- Route distance: roughly 900 miles (1,450 km)
- Flights per week: around 20+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
- Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $80–$435, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book
Flights from Midway International Airport (MDW) to William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)
Based on recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Chicago to Houston, featuring both non-stop and one-stop options. Common layover points include Love Field Airport (DAL) with an average layover of about 1 hour and 15 minutes, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) at around 1 hour and 45 minutes, and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) also with approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. This variety allows you to mix and match price, total travel time, and cabin class to create your ideal itinerary.
- Southwest Airlines: This budget-friendly airline dominates the route, providing both non-stop and one-stop options. One-way ticket prices typically fall between $80 and $435, with a direct flight duration of about 2 hours and 45 minutes.
- Delta: As a full-service airline, Delta offers one-stop flights with one-way fares generally ranging from $220 to $410. Passengers can expect an in-flight duration of approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes, leading to a total travel time of around 5 hours and 15 minutes, including the layover.
Best time to fly from Chicago (MDW) to Houston (HOU)
The most popular months for travelers flying from Chicago 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 September, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 80.6°F. For better deals, January usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $172. Flight availability peaks in July, with approximately 22 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. February has the fewest flights, with approximately 16 flights per week.
- Cheapest time to fly: January usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $172, roughly 13% cheaper than the yearly average.
- More budget-friendly months to fly: April, May, and September typically offer average one-way fares of around $178.
- Most flight options: July has the highest number of flights from Chicago to Houston, with approximately 22 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
| Month | Temperature | Demand | Weekly Flights | Average one-way Fare |
| January | 54.1°F (12.3°C) | Average | 17 | $172 |
| February | 57.0°F (13.9°C) | Low | 16 | $191 |
| March | 63.9°F (17.7°C) | High | 21 | $256 |
| April | 69.6°F (20.9°C) | High | 20 | $176 |
| May | 76.6°F (24.8°C) | Average | 20 | $181 |
| June | 82.8°F (28.2°C) | Low | 21 | $220 |
| July | 84.2°F (29.0°C) | High | 22 | $215 |
| August | 84.9°F (29.4°C) | Average | 21 | $195 |
| September | 80.6°F (27.0°C) | Low | 17 | $181 |
| October | 72.7°F (22.6°C) | Average | 17 | $192 |
| November | 62.8°F (17.1°C) | Average | 18 | $181 |
| December | 57.4°F (14.1°C) | Average | 20 | $210 |
*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 Houston (HOU)
- Chicago to Houston (ORD-HOU): Located roughly 16 miles from Midway International Airport (MDW), O'Hare International Airport (ORD) serves as a key departure point. One-way economy prices for this route generally vary from $110 to $440, influenced by the time of year and how early you book. Travelers usually find one-stop options, with common layovers at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Love Field Airport (DAL). Notable airlines flying this route include Southwest Airlines, a low-cost choice, and American Airlines.
- Chicago to Houston (ORD-IAH): O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is about 16 miles from Midway International Airport (MDW), while George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is located approximately 23 miles from William P. Hobby Airport (HOU). Economy fares for one-way tickets on this route typically fall between $45 and $400, contingent on the season and when you make your reservation. Both non-stop and one-stop flights are available, with leading carriers including United and American Airlines. First-class service is also an option on this route.
- Chicago to Houston (MDW-IAH): Situated around 23 miles from William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is accessible from Midway International Airport (MDW). One-way economy fares for this route typically range from $40 to $240, varying by season and booking timing. Travelers can choose between non-stop and one-stop flights. Prominent airlines operating this route include Frontier Airlines, a low-cost carrier, and Delta.
How to find the best prices for flights from Chicago (MDW) to Houston (HOU)
Getting some of the best deals on flights from Chicago to Houston is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:
- 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 within the two to eight weeks before departure. Evening flights from 6 PM to midnight often offer lower prices, while morning flights from 5 AM to noon are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Wednesday generally yields cheaper prices, though Friday is the busiest travel day.
- Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
- Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
- 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.
- Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
- 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 Midway International Airport
Houston welcomes travelers from Chicago with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. 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 options.
Chicago to Houston Flights
The cheapest times to fly from Chicago 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 Chicago to Houston are during the month of February. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Chicago to Houston with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.
The best time to book a flight from Chicago to Houston
Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Chicago 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 Chicago 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 Chicago to Houston in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $78 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 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 Chicago 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a flight from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $78 and cheap return flights $160 Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $166 and $546, and roundtrip flights usually range from $273 to $762. 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 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 Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby)?
February is generally the cheapest month to fly from Chicago, IL (MDW) to Houston, TX (HOU), with average round-trip fares around $262. This price is about 18% lower than the average throughout the year, as travel demand is lower during the winter months. Other economical months to fly from MDW to HOU include January and September.
*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby)?
Enter MDW to HOU 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 Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby)?
Frontier Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop flights from Midway Intl. (MDW) to William P. Hobby (HOU), with round-trip tickets starting from around $67. 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 Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby)?
To find a cheap flight from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) 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 Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby)?
The best airline to fly with from Chicago, IL (MDW) 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, Frontier Airlines typically offers the lowest fares. WN offers the most daily flights from MDW 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 Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby)?
For flights from Chicago (MDW) to Houston (HOU), January and February are the best months to travel. You can find return flights for about $262, making it a cost-effective choice. These months are less busy, allowing for a more relaxed travel experience.
*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How many flights per day from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby)?
You can find approximately 5 nonstop flights per day from Midway Intl. (MDW) to William P. Hobby (HOU). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby)?
You can catch the earliest flight from Midway International Airport (MDW) to William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) at around 5:00 AM. This seasonal service is provided by Frontier Airlines, allowing you to make the most of your day in Houston. 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 Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Chicago, IL (MDW) to Houston, TX (HOU) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 24% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Southwest Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing is popular because it allows you to start your day in Houston early.
How long does it take to fly from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby)?
A nonstop flight from MDW to HOU typically takes around 2 hours 50 minutes, covering approximately 938 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 Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby)?
First class seats are offered on the MDW to HOU route with Delta Air Lines.
How do I earn miles on a Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) 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 Midway Intl. (MDW)?
When traveling from Midway Intl. (MDW) to Houston, you can fly into William P. Hobby (HOU) and George Bush Intercontinental (IAH). Some flights may connect through major hubs like Nashville Intl. (BNA), Louisville Intl. (SDF), Lambert-St. Louis Intl. (STL) 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 Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) 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 Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) 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 Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) to Houston, TX (HOU-William P. Hobby)?
If you booked your Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) 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 | Chicago Midway Airport |
|---|---|
Destination airport | Houston William Hobby Airport |
Distance | 937 miles away |
Airlines serving | Southwest Airlines, Delta |
Popular airline | Southwest Airlines |
Roundtrip price | $160 |
Average flight time | 3 hours 9 mins |