$89 Cheap Flights from Memphis (MEM) to Chicago (MDW)

Popular airlines from Memphis International Airport (MEM) to Chicago Midway Airport (MDW)

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Cheap Flights from Memphis to Chicago (MEM-MDW)

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
Delta
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines
Delta
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines
Frontier Airlines
Southwest Airlines

Alternative airports near Chicago

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

What you need to know for your flight from Memphis Intl. to Midway Intl.

Memphis (MEM) to Chicago (MDW) at a glance

Explore a range of airlines offering flights from Memphis International Airport (MEM) to Midway International Airport (MDW) on this domestic short-haul route to Chicago. Whether you're looking for cheap flights from Memphis or the cheapest options available, you can compare both full-service and budget-friendly carriers to find the itinerary that suits your travel plans and budget. Discover the essential details for your journey from Memphis to Chicago as you prepare to visit the city’s iconic attractions and vibrant neighborhoods.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 1h 30m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 500 miles (805 km)
  • Flights per week: around 9 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $80–$345, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Memphis International Airport (MEM) to Midway International Airport (MDW)

Based on recent travel trends, here are the most sought-after airlines flying from Memphis to Chicago, popular for both non-stop and one-stop flights. Common layover options include Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) with about a one-hour layover, Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) with approximately a two-hour and forty-five-minute layover, and Nashville International Airport (BNA) offering a one-hour and fifteen-minute layover. These choices allow you to mix and match price, total travel time, and cabin class to discover your ideal itinerary.

  • Southwest Airlines: Known for its budget-friendly fares, Southwest primarily provides non-stop and one-stop flights, with one-way prices generally between $80 and $345. This airline operates around 89% of the departures on this route, featuring a standard non-stop flight duration of 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  • Delta: As a full-service airline, Delta offers one-stop flights with one-way ticket prices typically ranging from $110 to $465. It represents about 10% of departures on this route, with an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 15 minutes, making the overall travel time approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes, including layover.
  • Frontier Airlines: This low-cost airline provides one-stop services, with one-way fares usually falling between $110 and $195. Frontier accounts for roughly 1% of the departures on this route, featuring a flight time of 3 hours and 15 minutes, leading to a total journey time of around 4 hours and 45 minutes, including layover periods.

Best time to fly from Memphis (MEM) to Chicago (MDW)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Memphis to Chicago are March, April, and October, when peak temperatures in Chicago reach up to 54.9°F in October. If you prefer quieter travel, consider February, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 27°F. For better deals, August usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $162. Flight availability peaks in April and October, with approximately 11 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 16% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: September and October typically offer average one-way fares of around $172.
  • Most flight options: April and October have the highest number of flights from Memphis to Chicago, with approximately 11 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January25.7°F (-3.5°C)Low8$243
February27.0°F (-2.8°C)Low8$189
March37.0°F (2.8°C)High9$213
April46.0°F (7.8°C)High11$188
May57.0°F (13.9°C)Average10$199
June67.3°F (19.6°C)Average9$209
July73.4°F (23.0°C)Average10$196
August73.0°F (22.8°C)Average9$162
September67.1°F (19.5°C)Average8$167
October54.9°F (12.7°C)High11$176
November42.3°F (5.7°C)Low9$196
December33.1°F (0.6°C)Average9$199

*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 Memphis (MEM) to Chicago (MDW)

  • Memphis to Chicago (MEM-ORD): O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is located roughly 16 miles from Midway International Airport (MDW). For this route, one-way economy prices generally fall between $75 and $355, influenced by the season and timing of the booking. Travelers can choose from both non-stop and one-stop flight options. Major airlines servicing this route include American Airlines and United. Additionally, first-class service is available for those seeking a more premium experience.

How to find the best prices for flights from Memphis (MEM) to Chicago (MDW)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Memphis to Chicago 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 reserve their flights two to eight weeks ahead. Morning departures (5 a.m. to 12 p.m.) often offer lower prices, while afternoon flights (12 p.m. to 6 p.m.) are more popular. Additionally, flying on Tuesday tends to be cheaper, though Friday is 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 Midway International Airport from Memphis International Airport

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

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Chicago, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Midway International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Midway 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 Midway International Airport, travelers will find Midway Station, a metro station located just 0.2 miles away on foot, providing easy access into the city. For those needing rail service, Chicago Ashburn Station, a train station, is about 4.1 miles from the airport by car, while Lyons Seaport, a seaport, is approximately 7.2 miles away by car.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $89 and cheap return flights from $177 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $146 and $469, and return flights often range between $251 and $800. 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 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway 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 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.)?
August is the cheapest month to fly from Memphis (MEM) to Chicago (MDW), with average return fares around $227. This is about 27% lower than the average price throughout the year, as demand is typically lower during the late summer. Other cheap months to fly from Memphis to Chicago include September and November.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.)?
Enter MEM to MDW and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.)?
Frontier Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Memphis, TN (MEM) to Chicago, IL (MDW), with round-trip tickets starting from around $246. 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 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway 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 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Memphis, TN (MEM) to Chicago, IL (MDW) 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 Memphis to Chicago, 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 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.)?
The ideal time to fly from Memphis, TN (MEM) to Chicago, IL (MDW) is in August or September. Average return flight prices are around $227, making these months budget-friendly. August and September provide a good mix of reasonable fares and enjoyable weather, perfect for your travel plans.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How many flights per day from Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.)?
There are approximately 2 nonstop flights per day from Memphis Intl. (MEM) to Midway Intl. (MDW). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Memphis International (MEM) to Midway International (MDW) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by Southwest Airlines. This seasonal service is active in June and July, allowing you to kick off your day early in Chicago. 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 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Memphis Intl. (MEM) to Midway Intl. (MDW) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 35% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Delta and Southwest Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing is popular because it helps you maximize your time in Chicago after landing.
How long does it take to fly from Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.)?
Direct flights from MEM to MDW usually take about 1 hour 30 minutes, traveling roughly 481 miles. If you opt for a connecting flight, expect to add around 4 hours 30 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 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.)?
First class seats are offered on the MEM to MDW route with Delta Air Lines.
How do I earn miles on a Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway 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 Chicago from Memphis Intl. (MEM)?
From Memphis Intl. (MEM), you can fly into O'Hare Intl. (ORD) and Midway Intl. (MDW) in Chicago. Some flights may connect through major hubs like William P. Hobby (HOU), Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Intl. (ATL), Dallas-Fort Worth Intl. (DFW) before reaching Chicago. 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 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway 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 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) Chicago 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 Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.)?
If you booked your Memphis, TN (MEM-Memphis Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway 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
Memphis Intl.
Destination airport
Midway Intl.
Roundtrip price
$177
Distance
481 mi
Average flight time
1 hour 35 mins

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