$136 Cheap Flights from Chicago (ORD) to Columbus (CSG)
Popular airlines from Chicago O'Hare Intl. Airport (ORD) to Columbus, GA (CSG-Columbus Metropolitan)
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Cheap Flights from Chicago to Columbus (ORD-CSG)
Alternative airports near Columbus
Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.
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Chicago (ORD) to Columbus (CSG) at a glance
Travel from Chicago (ORD) to Columbus (CSG) with a selection of airlines servicing this domestic short-haul route. Explore various options, from full-service carriers to budget-friendly choices, to find the best flights from Chicago that align with your travel plans and budget. As you prepare for your trip to Columbus, check out the essential details for flights departing from O'Hare International Airport to Columbus Metropolitan Airport.
- Fastest flight duration: around 2h 45m in-flight, plus roughly 2 hours layover with one stop
- Route distance: roughly 700 miles (1,130 km)
- Flights per week: around 7 departures on average
- Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $145–$475, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book
Flights from O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Columbus Metropolitan Airport (CSG)
Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines preferred for flights from Chicago to Columbus, primarily featuring one-stop services. Many itineraries include a popular layover at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), typically lasting around 2 hours. This allows travelers the flexibility to compare prices, overall travel time, and cabin classes to discover the best flight options.
- Delta: This comprehensive airline provides one-stop service and dominates the departures for this route. One-way tickets generally fall between $145 and $475, with an in-flight duration of approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, leading to a total travel time of about 4 hours and 45 minutes when factoring in the layover.
Alternative routes from Chicago (ORD) to Columbus (CSG)
How to find the best prices for flights from Chicago (ORD) to Columbus (CSG)
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:
- Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are typically found when booking 2-8 weeks in advance, coinciding with when most travelers make their reservations. Morning departures between 5 a.m. and noon not only tend to offer lower prices but are also the most popular flight times. Additionally, flying on Wednesday provides both affordable options and is the favored 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.* Find Columbus hotel and flight deals.
- 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 Columbus Metropolitan 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 options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance with your hotel.
- Car rental: Renting a car from Columbus Metropolitan Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Columbus Metropolitan 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.
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 January. 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 $136 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Columbus, GA (CSG-Columbus Metropolitan) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $136 and cheap return flights $280 Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Columbus, GA (CSG-Columbus Metropolitan) with Expedia. Return flights typically cost between $712 and $1464. 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, GA (CSG-Columbus Metropolitan) 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, GA (CSG-Columbus Metropolitan)?
The cheapest month to fly from ORD to CSG is January 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, GA (CSG-Columbus Metropolitan)?
Enter ORD to CSG and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Columbus, GA (CSG-Columbus Metropolitan)?
Key Lime Air is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from O'Hare Intl. (ORD) to Columbus Metropolitan (CSG), with round-trip tickets starting from around $722 with a layover in McKellar-Sipes Regional (MKL). 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, GA (CSG-Columbus Metropolitan)?
To find a cheap flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Columbus, GA (CSG-Columbus Metropolitan), 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 time to fly from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Columbus, GA (CSG-Columbus Metropolitan)?
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.
What is the earliest flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Columbus, GA (CSG-Columbus Metropolitan)?
The earliest flight from O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Columbus Metropolitan Airport (CSG) typically leaves at around 5:30 AM, operated by Delta. This seasonal service is available in December, allowing you to maximize your time in Columbus. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What day of the week has the most flights from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Columbus, GA (CSG-Columbus Metropolitan)?
a Tuesday typically has the most flights from O'Hare Intl. (ORD) to Columbus Metropolitan (CSG), with approximately 15 flights available. This gives you plenty of options for your travel plans. Major airlines on this route include United, Delta, and Key Lime Air.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Columbus, GA (CSG-Columbus Metropolitan)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Chicago, IL (ORD) to Columbus, GA (CSG) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 36% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including United Airlines and Delta, offer flights during this window. This timing is favored because it lets you maximize your day in Columbus after arriving in the morning.
How long does it take to fly from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Columbus, GA (CSG-Columbus Metropolitan)?
A flight from ORD to CSG with a layover takes around 5 hours 50 minutes, with the route covering approximately 673 miles. 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, GA (CSG-Columbus Metropolitan)?
First class seats are offered on the ORD to CSG route with Delta Air Lines.
How do I earn miles on a Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Columbus, GA (CSG-Columbus Metropolitan) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Columbus, GA (CSG-Columbus Metropolitan) 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 Columbus Metropolitan (CSG), John Glenn Columbus Intl. (CMH) and Golden Triangle Regional (GTR). Some flights may connect through major hubs like LaGuardia (LGA), Fort Lauderdale - Hollywood Intl. (FLL), Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County (DTW) 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, GA (CSG-Columbus Metropolitan) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Columbus, GA (CSG-Columbus Metropolitan) 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, GA (CSG-Columbus Metropolitan) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Columbus, GA (CSG-Columbus Metropolitan) flight and hotel package 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, GA (CSG-Columbus Metropolitan)?
If you booked your Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Columbus, GA (CSG-Columbus Metropolitan) 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 O'Hare Intl. Airport |
|---|---|
Destination airport | Columbus, GA |
Distance | 673 miles away |
Airlines serving | Delta |
Popular airline | Delta |
Roundtrip price | $280 |