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$79 Cheap Flights from Chicago (ORD) to Columbus (CMH)

View $79 flight on Sun, Sep 6, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Chicago O'Hare Intl. Airport (ORD) to John Glenn Columbus Intl. Airport (CMH)

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Cheap Flights from Chicago to Columbus (ORD-CMH)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $79 for one-way flights and $157 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

American Airlines
Sat, Sep 5 - Sun, Sep 6
ORD
Chicago
CMH
Columbus
$157 Roundtrip, found 8 hours ago
$157
Roundtrip
found 8 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Sat, Sep 5 from Chicago to Columbus, returning Sun, Sep 6, priced at $157 found 8 hours ago
United
Sat, Sep 5 - Sun, Sep 6
ORD
Chicago
CMH
Columbus
$157 Roundtrip, found 8 hours ago
$157
Roundtrip
found 8 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Sat, Sep 5 from Chicago to Columbus, returning Sun, Sep 6, priced at $157 found 8 hours ago
American Airlines
Sun, Sep 6 - Wed, Sep 9
ORD
Chicago
CMH
Columbus
$167 Roundtrip, found 19 hours ago
$167
Roundtrip
found 19 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Sun, Sep 6 from Chicago to Columbus, returning Wed, Sep 9, priced at $167 found 19 hours ago
Frontier Airlines
Tue, Oct 20 - Fri, Oct 30
ORD
Chicago
CMH
Columbus
$172 Roundtrip, found 23 hours ago
$172
Roundtrip
found 23 hours ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Tue, Oct 20 from Chicago to Columbus, returning Fri, Oct 30, priced at $172 found 23 hours ago
Delta
Sat, Sep 5 - Fri, Sep 11
ORD
Chicago
CMH
Columbus
$177 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$177
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select Delta flight, departing Sat, Sep 5 from Chicago to Columbus, returning Fri, Sep 11, priced at $177 found 3 days ago
United
Sat, Sep 5 - Sun, Sep 6
ORD
Chicago
CMH
Columbus
$188 Roundtrip, found 8 hours ago
$188
Roundtrip
found 8 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Sat, Sep 5 from Chicago to Columbus, returning Sun, Sep 6, priced at $188 found 8 hours ago
Frontier Airlines
Wed, Sep 2 - Sun, Sep 6
ORD
Chicago
CMH
Columbus
$189 Roundtrip, found 5 hours ago
$189
Roundtrip
found 5 hours ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Wed, Sep 2 from Chicago to Columbus, returning Sun, Sep 6, priced at $189 found 5 hours ago
Frontier Airlines
Wed, Sep 23 - Wed, Sep 30
ORD
Chicago
CMH
Columbus
$200 Roundtrip, found 6 days ago
$200
Roundtrip
found 6 days ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Wed, Sep 23 from Chicago to Columbus, returning Wed, Sep 30, priced at $200 found 6 days ago
United
Sun, Sep 6 - Wed, Sep 9
ORD
Chicago
CMH
Columbus
$202 Roundtrip, found 19 hours ago
$202
Roundtrip
found 19 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Sun, Sep 6 from Chicago to Columbus, returning Wed, Sep 9, priced at $202 found 19 hours ago
Alaska Airlines
Fri, Sep 11 - Mon, Sep 14
ORD
Chicago
CMH
Columbus
$838 Roundtrip, found 4 hours ago
$838
Roundtrip
found 4 hours ago
Select Alaska Airlines flight, departing Fri, Sep 11 from Chicago to Columbus, returning Mon, Sep 14, priced at $838 found 4 hours ago

Alternative airports near Columbus

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

Select flight to John Glenn Columbus Intl. CMH. Cheapest and Closest option available. Average driving time to city center is 10 minutes. Flights from $449
CMH
John Glenn Columbus Intl.
CheapestClosest
Average driving time to city center10 min
Flights from $449

What you need to know for your flight from O'Hare Intl. to John Glenn Columbus Intl.

Chicago (ORD) to Columbus (CMH) at a glance

Traveling from Chicago (ORD) to Columbus (CMH) offers a range of airlines, allowing you to choose between full-service and low-cost carriers. This domestic short-haul route makes it easy to find flights that suit your budget and schedule while you discover the vibrant attractions and neighborhoods of Columbus. Check out the essential details for flights from O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) as you plan your journey.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 1h 30m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 300 miles (485 km)
  • Flights per week: around 30+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $65–$360, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH)

Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines flying from Chicago to Columbus, favored for their non-stop and one-stop options. Many travelers opt for convenient layovers at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW, approximately 1 hour), Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL, about 2 hours and 15 minutes), and Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT, around 1 hour). These choices allow you to balance price, total travel time, and cabin class, ensuring you find the best itinerary for your journey.

  • American Airlines: As a comprehensive service airline, it provides both non-stop and one-stop options, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $65 and $370. This carrier represents nearly 50% of the flights on this route, with non-stop travel taking around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  • United: Another full-service airline, United offers non-stop flights with one-way fares typically ranging from $65 to $360. It accounts for about 48% of the departures on this route, maintaining a total flight duration of 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  • Frontier Airlines: Known as a budget airline, Frontier provides one-stop services, with one-way fares usually between $90 and $220. It comprises roughly 1% of the departures, featuring an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 45 minutes and a total travel time of about 5 hours and 45 minutes, including layovers.
  • Delta: This full-service carrier offers one-stop flights, with one-way ticket prices typically ranging from $110 to $435. Passengers can expect an in-flight time of around 3 hours and 45 minutes, leading to a total journey time of approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes, factoring in layovers.

Travelers can enhance their journey from Chicago to Columbus by upgrading their flight. Both United and American Airlines offer first-class service for this route.

Best time to fly from Chicago (ORD) to Columbus (CMH)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Chicago to Columbus are February, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Columbus reach up to 52°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider May, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 63.1°F. For better deals, August usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $182. Flight availability peaks in October, with approximately 40 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January has the fewest flights, with approximately 23 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: August usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $182, roughly 12% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: September, November, and May typically offer average one-way fares of around $196.
  • Most flight options: October has the highest number of flights from Chicago to Columbus, with approximately 40 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January28.6°F (-1.9°C)Average23$224
February31.5°F (-0.3°C)Moderately High27$233
March41.7°F (5.4°C)Moderately High36$218
April52.0°F (11.1°C)Moderately High33$212
May63.1°F (17.3°C)Moderately Low34$198
June70.9°F (21.6°C)Moderately Low34$209
July74.7°F (23.7°C)Average36$208
August73.0°F (22.8°C)Average38$182
September67.3°F (19.6°C)Average35$193
October55.8°F (13.2°C)Average40$200
November43.2°F (6.2°C)Average34$193
December35.4°F (1.9°C)Moderately Low29$230

*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 Columbus (CMH)

  • Chicago to Columbus (MDW-CMH): Midway International Airport (MDW) is approximately 16 miles from O'Hare International Airport (ORD). One-way economy ticket prices for this route generally fall between $50 and $370, influenced by the season and advance booking. Travelers can choose from both non-stop and one-stop flights. Major airlines operating on this route include Southwest Airlines, a budget-friendly option, and Delta.

How to find the best prices for flights from Chicago (ORD) to Columbus (CMH)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Chicago to Columbus 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 2-8 weeks in advance, which coincides with when most travelers make their reservations. Morning departures (5 AM-12 PM) often offer lower prices, while afternoon flights (12 PM-6 PM) are more popular. Additionally, flying on Tuesday typically results in cheaper fares, although Sunday is the most favored 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 John Glenn Columbus International Airport from O'Hare International Airport

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

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Columbus, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from John Glenn Columbus International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at John Glenn Columbus 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 John Glenn Columbus International Airport, Columbus Bus Station, a bus station, is located about 8.6 miles away by car, providing convenient access for travelers heading into the city.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $79 and cheap return flights from $157 Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $128 to $764, and return flights typically cost between $256 and $2173. 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 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus 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 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from ORD to CMH is September 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 (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
Choose from 2 airlines operating direct flights from ORD to CMH:

  • United operates around 88 direct flights from ORD to CMH every week
  • American Airlines operates around 58 direct flights from ORD to CMH every week

What is the cheapest airline that flies from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
Frontier Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from O'Hare Intl. (ORD) to John Glenn Columbus Intl. (CMH), with round-trip tickets starting from around $139. 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 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus 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 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Chicago, IL (ORD) to Columbus, OH (CMH) 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, United typically offers the lowest fares. American Airlines offers the most daily flights from ORD to CMH, 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 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus 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 (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
There are approximately 21 nonstop flights per day from O'Hare Intl. (ORD) to John Glenn Columbus Intl. (CMH). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) typically departs at 12:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This is a seasonal service active in January, which can be a great option if you're looking to start your trip early. 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 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Columbus (CMH) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 25% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Delta, American Airlines, and American Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to arrive in Columbus with plenty of time to start your day.
How long does it take to fly from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
Flying nonstop from ORD to CMH takes around 1 hour 30 minutes, with the route covering approximately 295 miles. Flights with a layover typically take 4 hours 50 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 (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
You can fly first class between ORD and CMH. First class cabins are available on:

  • American Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines
  • United Airlines

How much is a business class flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
A direct, return business class ticket from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Columbus, OH (CMH) typically costs between $803 - $1,177. A non-stop, one-way business class flight is usually around $401 - $591. 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 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus 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 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus 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 Columbus from O'Hare Intl. (ORD)?
When traveling from O'Hare Intl. (ORD) to Columbus, you can fly into John Glenn Columbus Intl. (CMH), Golden Triangle Regional (GTR) and Columbus Metropolitan (CSG). Some flights may connect through major hubs like LaGuardia (LGA), McGhee Tyson (TYS), Love Field (DAL) before reaching Columbus. 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 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus 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 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.) Columbus 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 Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus Intl.)?
If you booked your Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Columbus, OH (CMH-John Glenn Columbus 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
John Glenn Columbus Intl.
Airlines serving
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue Airways, United
Roundtrip price
$166
Distance
295 mi
Average flight time
2 hours 29 mins

Book with confidence

Chicago to Columbus Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Chicago to Columbus

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

 

The best time to book a flight from Chicago to Columbus

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

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 Columbus in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $79 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 Columbus 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 Columbus 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 Columbus Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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