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$101 Cheap Flights from Chicago (ORD) to Buffalo (BUF)

Popular airlines from Chicago O'Hare Intl. Airport (ORD) to Buffalo Niagara Intl. Airport (BUF)

Cheap Flights from Chicago to Buffalo (ORD-BUF)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $101 for one-way flights and $177 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

JetBlue Airways
JetBlue Airways
JetBlue Airways
JetBlue Airways
Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines
JetBlue Airways
American Airlines
United
Delta

Alternative airports near Buffalo

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

What you need to know for your flight from O'Hare Intl. to Buffalo Niagara Intl.

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

Travel from Chicago (ORD) to Buffalo (BUF) with a range of airlines offering convenient options for this short domestic journey. You can explore various choices between full-service and budget carriers to find the best fit for your schedule and budget. With weekly flights available, check the flight time and compare Chicago to Buffalo airfare as you plan your adventure to discover Buffalo's iconic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 1h 45m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 450 miles (725 km)
  • Flights per week: around 20+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $75–$345, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF)

Based on recent travel bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Chicago to Buffalo, particularly for non-stop and one-stop options. Common layover points include John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) with a layover of about 1 hour, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) with approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, and Logan International Airport (BOS) also around 1 hour and 45 minutes. These choices provide flexibility in balancing price, total travel time, and cabin class, helping you to find the ideal itinerary.

  • American Airlines: This full-service airline provides both non-stop and one-stop options, with one-way fares usually falling between $75 and $360. It represents around 51% of departures on this route, and non-stop flights typically take about 1 hour and 45 minutes.
  • United: Offering a full-service experience, United features non-stop and one-stop flights, with one-way fares generally ranging from $75 to $360. It accounts for nearly 42% of departures on this route, with a standard non-stop travel time of 1 hour and 45 minutes.
  • JetBlue Airways: As a budget airline, JetBlue provides one-stop services with one-way fares typically between $85 and $255. It represents about 3% of the departures for this route, with an in-flight duration of 4 hours and a total travel time of approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes, including layovers.
  • Frontier Airlines: Another low-cost option, Frontier offers one-stop flights, with one-way fares usually ranging from $75 to $210. It constitutes roughly 2% of departures on this route, featuring an in-flight time of 4 hours and a total journey time of around 5 hours and 45 minutes, factoring in layovers.
  • Delta: This full-service airline offers one-stop flights with one-way fares generally between $90 and $360. Delta accounts for about 1% of departures on this route, with a flight time of 4 hours and an overall travel duration of approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes, including a layover.

Travelers flying from Chicago to Buffalo can opt for an upgrade, as both American Airlines and United offer first-class cabins for this route.

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

The most popular months for travelers flying from Chicago to Buffalo are July, August, and October, when peak temperatures in Buffalo reach up to 72°F in July. If you prefer quieter travel, consider February, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 26.1°F. For better deals, September usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $162. Flight availability peaks in August, with approximately 30 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 $162, roughly 20% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • Another budget-friendly time to fly: August typically offers an average one-way fare of around $165.
  • Most flight options: August has the highest number of flights from Chicago to Buffalo, with approximately 30 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January25.5°F (-3.6°C)Moderately Low13$227
February26.1°F (-3.3°C)Moderately Low14$222
March34.3°F (1.3°C)Average18$226
April45.0°F (7.2°C)Average17$224
May57.7°F (14.3°C)Average25$195
June66.0°F (18.9°C)Average28$198
July72.0°F (22.2°C)Moderately High29$194
August70.7°F (21.5°C)Moderately High30$165
September64.6°F (18.1°C)Average25$162
October53.2°F (11.8°C)Moderately High24$189
November41.4°F (5.2°C)Average22$215
December33.1°F (0.6°C)Moderately Low18$223

*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 (ORD) to Buffalo (BUF)

  • Chicago to Buffalo (MDW-BUF): Midway International Airport (MDW) is located approximately 16 miles from O'Hare International Airport (ORD). One-way economy ticket prices for this route generally fall between $60 and $380, influenced by the time of year and how far in advance you book. Travelers can typically choose from both non-stop and one-stop flight options. Major airlines operating this route include Southwest Airlines and Frontier Airlines, both known for their budget-friendly services.

How to find the best prices for flights from Chicago (ORD) 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 2 to 8 weeks ahead. Morning departures between 5 am and 12 pm often offer lower prices and are the most popular flight times. Additionally, flying on Tuesday typically results in cheaper fares, while Friday remains 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 Buffalo Niagara International Airport from O'Hare 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 about 6.5 miles away by car, providing convenient public transport options for travelers.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $101 and cheap return flights from $177 Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $135 and $552, and roundtrip flights usually range from $182 to $1472. 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 (ORD-O'Hare 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 (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?
September is the cheapest month to fly from Chicago (ORD) to Buffalo (BUF), with average round-trip fares around $268. This is about 24% lower than the average price for the year, as travel demand typically decreases after the summer. Other affordable months to consider are August and November.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?
There are 2 airlines offering direct flights from ORD to BUF:

  • American Airlines operates around 41 direct flights from ORD to BUF every week
  • United operates around 40 direct flights from ORD to BUF every week

What is the cheapest airline that flies from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?
American Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop flights from Chicago, IL (ORD) to Buffalo, NY (BUF), with round-trip tickets starting from around $273. 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 (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare 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 (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Chicago, IL (ORD) to Buffalo, NY (BUF) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, American Airlines offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, American Airlines typically offers the lowest fares. American Airlines offers the most daily flights from ORD 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 (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?
The ideal times to fly from Chicago, IL (ORD) to Buffalo, NY (BUF) are in August and September. Both months offer an average return flight price of around $268, making them budget-friendly options. August is particularly busy, while September tends to have slightly fewer travelers, allowing for a more comfortable journey. This information is based on booking data from the past year.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How many flights per day from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?
You can find approximately 12 nonstop flights per day from O'Hare Intl. (ORD) to Buffalo Niagara Intl. (BUF). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Buffalo (BUF) typically leaves at 12:05 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is active in December, allowing you to get an early start on your trip to New York. 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 (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 33% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including American Airlines and Delta Air Lines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to maximize your day in Buffalo after an early start.
How long does it take to fly from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?
Direct flights from ORD to BUF usually take about 1 hour 50 minutes, traveling roughly 472 miles. If you opt for a connecting flight, expect to add around 3 hours 10 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 Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?
Select the "Business class" and "First class" filters when looking for ORD to BUF flights on Expedia. This is the easiest way to compare prices, routes and flight times for your trip.
How much is a business class flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?
A direct, return business class ticket from Chicago (ORD) to Buffalo (BUF) typically costs between $710 - $948. A non-stop, one-way business class flight is usually around $239 - $429. Prices often fluctuate based on seasonality and how early you book. You may also be able to find a cheaper business class journey between Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) if you opt for a connecting flight.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I earn miles on a Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare 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 O'Hare Intl. (ORD)?
If you're planning to travel to Buffalo from O'Hare Intl. (ORD), you can fly into Buffalo Niagara Intl. (BUF) Some flights may connect through major hubs like Logan Intl. (BOS), Nashville Intl. (BNA), Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) 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 (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare 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 (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare 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 (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)?
If you booked your Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare 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.

Travel information

Origin airport
O'Hare Intl.
Destination airport
Buffalo Niagara Intl.
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Sun Country Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$176
Distance
471 mi
Average flight time
2 hours 47 mins

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*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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