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$73 Cheap Flights from Chicago (ORD) to Cincinnati (CVG)

Popular airlines from Chicago O'Hare Intl. Airport (ORD) to Cincinnati-Northern Kentucky Int'l Airport (CVG)

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Cheap Flights from Chicago to Cincinnati (ORD-CVG)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $73 for one-way flights and $142 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Frontier Airlines
American Airlines
Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines
Delta
American Airlines
American Airlines
United
Alaska Airlines

Alternative airports near Cincinnati

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 Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky Intl.

Chicago (ORD) to Cincinnati (CVG) at a glance

Discover a range of options for Cincinnati flights as you travel from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) on this short domestic route. Whether you prefer full-service airlines or budget-friendly carriers, you can compare various itineraries to find one that suits your budget and schedule. Get ready to explore Cincinnati's iconic attractions and vibrant neighborhoods with ease by using our flight finder for flights from Chicago.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 1h 30m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 250 miles (400 km)
  • Flights per week: around 20+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $65–$335, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG)

Based on recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines from Chicago to Cincinnati, favored for both non-stop and one-stop flights. Common layover options include Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) with an approximate 3-hour and 15-minute layover, and Orlando International Airport (MCO) with around a 1-hour and 45-minute layover. These choices provide you the flexibility to compare prices, overall travel time, and cabin class, helping you find the ideal itinerary for your journey.

  • American Airlines: As a full-service airline, it provides non-stop flights with one-way fares generally falling between $70 and $360. This carrier represents about 54% of the departures on this route, with a total flight duration of 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  • United: Another full-service option, United offers non-stop flights with one-way prices typically ranging from $65 to $355. Covering roughly 45% of the departures on this route, the total travel time is also 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  • Frontier Airlines: This low-cost carrier provides one-stop services, with one-way fares usually between $85 and $180. It accounts for approximately 1% of the departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 45 minutes, leading to a total journey time of around 7 hours, including layover.
  • Delta: Offering one-stop services, Delta's one-way fares typically range from $90 to $330. The in-flight time is about 3 hours and 45 minutes, with the total travel time being approximately 7 hours, including any layover.

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

Best time to fly from Chicago (ORD) to Cincinnati (CVG)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Chicago to Cincinnati are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Cincinnati reach up to 53.8°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 68.7°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $177). Flight availability peaks in August and October, with approximately 30 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January and February have the fewest flights, with approximately 19 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: September usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $177, roughly 10% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: August, November, and May typically offer average one-way fares of around $182.
  • Most flight options: August and October have the highest number of flights from Chicago to Cincinnati, 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
January30.9°F (-0.6°C)Slightly High19$231
February34.0°F (1.1°C)Average19$200
March44.1°F (6.7°C)Slightly High23$194
April53.8°F (12.1°C)Slightly High24$208
May64.2°F (17.9°C)Average25$186
June72.3°F (22.4°C)Average28$204
July75.9°F (24.4°C)Slightly Low23$205
August74.7°F (23.7°C)Average30$178
September68.7°F (20.4°C)Slightly Low25$177
October56.8°F (13.8°C)Average30$203
November44.6°F (7.0°C)Average25$180
December37.0°F (2.8°C)Slightly Low24$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 route from Chicago (ORD) to Cincinnati (CVG)

  • Chicago to Cincinnati (MDW-CVG): Midway International Airport (MDW) is located approximately 16 miles from O'Hare International Airport (ORD). On this particular route, one-way economy tickets generally fall within the range of $65 to $355, influenced by the time of year and how far in advance you book. Travelers can typically choose between non-stop and one-stop flights. Major airlines operating on this route include Southwest Airlines, known for its budget-friendly options, and Delta.

How to find the best prices for flights from Chicago (ORD) to Cincinnati (CVG)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Chicago to Cincinnati 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 typically found when booking at least two months in advance, although most travelers book between two to eight weeks ahead. Morning departures from 5 AM to 12 PM often offer lower prices, while afternoon flights from 12 PM to 6 PM are more popular. Additionally, flying on Tuesday generally provides cheaper rates, while Friday is the most common 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 Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky International Airport from O'Hare International Airport

Cincinnati welcomes travelers from Chicago with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Cincinnati city center is approximately a 20-minute drive (covering about 13 miles) from Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky International Airport, depending on traffic. Here's how to reach Cincinnati efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Cincinnati, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky 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 Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky International Airport, Cincinnati Seaport, a seaport, is located about 0.2 miles away on foot, while Anderson Ferry Terminal, a ferry terminal, is situated approximately 3.8 miles from the airport and is best reached by car.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Cincinnati, OH (CVG-Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $73 and cheap return flights from $142 Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Cincinnati, OH (CVG-Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $123 to $623, and return flights typically cost between $270 and $1054. 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 Cincinnati, OH (CVG-Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky 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 Cincinnati, OH (CVG-Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from ORD to CVG is October 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 Cincinnati, OH (CVG-Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky Intl.)?
Choose from 2 airlines operating direct flights from ORD to CVG:

  • United operates around 70 direct flights from ORD to CVG every week
  • American Airlines operates around 62 direct flights from ORD to CVG every week

What is the cheapest airline that flies from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Cincinnati, OH (CVG-Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky Intl.)?
United is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop flights from O'Hare Intl. (ORD) to Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky Intl. (CVG), with round-trip tickets starting from around $229. American Airlines provides one of the cheapest connecting flights from ORD to CVG with a layover in Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) starting from $392. 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 Cincinnati, OH (CVG-Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Cincinnati, OH (CVG-Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky 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 Cincinnati, OH (CVG-Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Chicago, IL (ORD) to Cincinnati, OH (CVG) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, United offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, American Airlines typically offers the lowest fares. American Airlines also offers the most daily flights from ORD to CVG, 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 Cincinnati, OH (CVG-Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky 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 Cincinnati, OH (CVG-Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky Intl.)?
On average, there are around 19 nonstop flights per day from O'Hare Intl. (ORD) to Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky Intl. (CVG). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Cincinnati, OH (CVG-Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky Intl.)?
The earliest flight from O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) usually departs at midnight, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is available in January, giving you a chance to arrive in Cincinnati early and enjoy a full day ahead. 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 Cincinnati, OH (CVG-Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Chicago (ORD) to Cincinnati (CVG) are in the morning, from 6am to 9am. About 22% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including American Airlines, Delta and United, offer flights during this window. This timing is favored as it allows you to arrive in Cincinnati with plenty of time to start your day.
How long does it take to fly from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Cincinnati, OH (CVG-Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky Intl.)?
Flying nonstop from ORD to CVG takes around 1 hour 30 minutes, with the route covering approximately 264 miles. Flights with a layover typically take 3 hours 20 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 Cincinnati, OH (CVG-Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky Intl.)?
You can fly first class between ORD and CVG. 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 Cincinnati, OH (CVG-Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky Intl.)?
A non-stop, one-way business class flight from Chicago, IL (ORD) to Cincinnati, OH (CVG) is usually around $225 - $365. 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 Cincinnati, OH (CVG-Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky 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 Cincinnati, OH (CVG-Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Cincinnati, OH (CVG-Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky 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 Cincinnati from O'Hare Intl. (ORD)?
If you're planning to travel to Cincinnati from O'Hare Intl. (ORD), you can fly into Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky Intl. (CVG) Some flights may connect through major hubs like LaGuardia (LGA), Nashville Intl. (BNA), Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County (DTW) before reaching Cincinnati. 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 Cincinnati, OH (CVG-Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Cincinnati, OH (CVG-Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky 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 Cincinnati, OH (CVG-Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Cincinnati, OH (CVG-Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky Intl.) 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 Cincinnati, OH (CVG-Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky Intl.)?
If you booked your Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Cincinnati, OH (CVG-Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky 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
Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky Intl.
Airlines serving
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Frontier Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$142
Distance
264 mi
Average flight time
2 hours 26 mins

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*Flight schedules are subject to change.

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