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$91 Cheap Flights from Chicago (ORD) to San Jose (SJC)

View $91 flight on Mon, Nov 16, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Chicago O'Hare Intl. Airport (ORD) to Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl. Airport (SJC)

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Cheap Flights from Chicago to San Jose (ORD-SJC)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $91 for one-way flights and $182 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Frontier Airlines
Thu, Oct 15 - Mon, Oct 19
ORD
Chicago
SJC
San Jose
$182 Roundtrip, found 9 hours ago
$182
Roundtrip
found 9 hours ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Thu, Oct 15 from Chicago to San Jose, returning Mon, Oct 19, priced at $182 found 9 hours ago
Frontier Airlines
Thu, Oct 8 - Mon, Oct 12
ORD
Chicago
SJC
San Jose
$224 Roundtrip, found 7 hours ago
$224
Roundtrip
found 7 hours ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Thu, Oct 8 from Chicago to San Jose, returning Mon, Oct 12, priced at $224 found 7 hours ago
Delta
Fri, Sep 11 - Thu, Sep 17
ORD
Chicago
SJC
San Jose
$225 Roundtrip, found 8 hours ago
$225
Roundtrip
found 8 hours ago
Select Delta flight, departing Fri, Sep 11 from Chicago to San Jose, returning Thu, Sep 17, priced at $225 found 8 hours ago
Frontier Airlines
Thu, Oct 8 - Sun, Oct 11
ORD
Chicago
SJC
San Jose
$230 Roundtrip, found 4 hours ago
$230
Roundtrip
found 4 hours ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Thu, Oct 8 from Chicago to San Jose, returning Sun, Oct 11, priced at $230 found 4 hours ago
American Airlines
Tue, Oct 13 - Mon, Oct 19
ORD
Chicago
SJC
San Jose
$232 Roundtrip, found 9 hours ago
$232
Roundtrip
found 9 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Tue, Oct 13 from Chicago to San Jose, returning Mon, Oct 19, priced at $232 found 9 hours ago
Alaska Airlines
Fri, Sep 11 - Thu, Sep 17
ORD
Chicago
SJC
San Jose
$235 Roundtrip, found 8 hours ago
$235
Roundtrip
found 8 hours ago
Select Alaska Airlines flight, departing Fri, Sep 11 from Chicago to San Jose, returning Thu, Sep 17, priced at $235 found 8 hours ago
American Airlines
Sun, Sep 6 - Thu, Sep 10
ORD
Chicago
SJC
San Jose
$237 Roundtrip, found 3 hours ago
$237
Roundtrip
found 3 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Sun, Sep 6 from Chicago to San Jose, returning Thu, Sep 10, priced at $237 found 3 hours ago
United
Sat, Oct 3 - Sat, Oct 10
ORD
Chicago
SJC
San Jose
$237 Roundtrip, just found
$237
Roundtrip
just found
Select United flight, departing Sat, Oct 3 from Chicago to San Jose, returning Sat, Oct 10, priced at $237 just found
Alaska Airlines
Fri, Sep 11 - Thu, Sep 17
ORD
Chicago
SJC
San Jose
$241 Roundtrip, found 8 hours ago
$241
Roundtrip
found 8 hours ago
Select Alaska Airlines flight, departing Fri, Sep 11 from Chicago to San Jose, returning Thu, Sep 17, priced at $241 found 8 hours ago
Alaska Airlines
Thu, Oct 22 - Thu, Oct 29
ORD
Chicago
SJC
San Jose
$247 Roundtrip, just found
$247
Roundtrip
just found
Select Alaska Airlines flight, departing Thu, Oct 22 from Chicago to San Jose, returning Thu, Oct 29, priced at $247 just found

Alternative airports near San Jose

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

Select flight to Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl. SJC. Cheapest and Closest option available. Average driving time to city center is 6 minutes. Flights from $408
SJC
Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.
CheapestClosest
Average driving time to city center6 min
Flights from $408

Find the cheapest month to fly from Chicago (ORD) to San Jose (SJC)

September is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $237 - $340 per traveler.

What you need to know for your flight from O'Hare Intl. to Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.

Chicago (ORD) to San Jose (SJC) at a glance

Travel from Chicago (ORD) to San Jose (SJC) with a selection of airlines on this domestic short-haul route. Explore available options, including full-service and budget-friendly carriers, to find the best flights that align with your travel plans and budget. With weekly flights available, you can easily compare flight times and itineraries to experience San Jose's vibrant neighborhoods and attractions. Discover the key details for flights departing from O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC).

  • Fastest flight duration: around 4h 45m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 1,800 miles (2,900 km)
  • Flights per week: around 15+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $100–$565, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC)

Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for routes from Chicago to San Jose, featuring both one-stop and non-stop flights. Common layover points include Denver International Airport (DEN, approximately 1 hour 45 minutes), San Diego International Airport (SAN, about 1 hour 30 minutes), and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA, also around 1 hour 30 minutes). These options provide the flexibility to balance price, total travel time, and cabin class, helping you craft the ideal itinerary.

  • United: As a comprehensive airline, United provides both non-stop and one-stop options, with one-way ticket prices generally between $140 and $565. This carrier makes up about 40% of the flights on this route, offering a standard non-stop duration of 4 hours and 45 minutes.
  • Alaska Airlines: This full-service airline focuses on one-stop services, with one-way fares that usually range from $115 to $525. It accounts for roughly 17% of departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 5 hours and 45 minutes and a total travel time of about 7 hours and 15 minutes, including layovers.
  • Delta: Another major full-service option, Delta provides one-stop flights, with one-way fares typically between $130 and $625. Representing around 14% of the route's departures, passengers can expect an in-flight time of 5 hours and 45 minutes, totaling about 7 hours and 15 minutes when layovers are factored in.
  • Southwest Airlines: Known as a budget-friendly carrier, Southwest offers both non-stop and one-stop flights, with one-way fares that range from $165 to $640. This airline accounts for approximately 13% of the route's departures, featuring a typical one-stop journey of 5 hours and 45 minutes in the air and a total duration of roughly 7 hours and 15 minutes.
  • Frontier Airlines: A low-cost airline, Frontier specializes in one-stop services with one-way ticket prices typically between $100 and $225. This carrier represents about 8% of departures on this route, providing an in-flight time of 5 hours and 45 minutes, leading to a total journey time of around 7 hours and 15 minutes, including layovers.

Travelers flying from Chicago to San Jose can enhance their journey by upgrading to first class, with options available from both United and Delta for a more luxurious experience.

Best time to fly from Chicago (ORD) to San Jose (SJC)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Chicago to San Jose are January, March, and November, when peak temperatures in San Jose reach up to 56.3°F in November. If you prefer quieter travel, consider May, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 61°F. For better deals, August and October usually offer the lowest average one-way fares around $244. Flight availability peaks in October, November, and December, with approximately 18 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. April has the fewest flights, with approximately 12 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: August and October usually offer good deals with average one-way fares around $244, roughly 11% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: April and May typically offer average one-way fares of around $251.
  • Most flight options: October, November, and December have the highest number of flights from Chicago to San Jose, with approximately 18 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January50.9°F (10.5°C)Slightly High14$282
February51.8°F (11.0°C)Average13$286
March53.8°F (12.1°C)Slightly High15$275
April57.0°F (13.9°C)Average12$249
May61.0°F (16.1°C)Slightly Low14$253
June66.9°F (19.4°C)Slightly Low15$282
July70.3°F (21.3°C)Average17$314
August70.7°F (21.5°C)Average15$244
September69.8°F (21.0°C)Slightly Low16$287
October64.8°F (18.2°C)Average18$244
November56.3°F (13.5°C)Slightly High18$292
December50.7°F (10.4°C)Average18$298

*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 routes from Chicago (ORD) to San Jose (SJC)

  • Chicago to San Jose (MDW-SJC): Midway International Airport (MDW) is located approximately 16 miles from O'Hare International Airport (ORD). On this route, one-way economy fares generally fall between $125 and $625, influenced by the season and how early you book. Travelers can choose from both non-stop and one-stop flights. Major airlines operating on this route include low-cost carriers like Southwest Airlines and Frontier Airlines.
  • Chicago to Oakland (ORD-OAK): Oakland International Airport (OAK) is situated around 28 miles from Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC). One-way economy fares along this path usually range from $110 to $360, varying based on the season and booking time. This route typically features one-stop flights, with common layover points at Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) and Harry Reid International Airport (LAS). Leading airlines for this journey include low-cost Southwest Airlines and Delta. Additionally, options for business and first class service are available.

How to find the best prices for flights from Chicago (ORD) to San Jose (SJC)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Chicago to San Jose 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 2-8 weeks in advance, which aligns with when most travelers make their reservations. Morning departures (5 am-12 pm) often offer lower prices, while evening flights (6 pm-12 am) are more popular. Additionally, flying on Monday generally provides cheaper options, although 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 Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport from O'Hare International Airport

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

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in San Jose, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance with your hotel.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Norman Y. Mineta San Jose 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 Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport, several public transport options are conveniently located nearby. Karina Court Station, a metro station, is about 0.7 miles from the airport, while San Jose College Park Station, a train station, is approximately 2.4 miles away by car. For bus travel, San Jose Diridon Station is situated about 3.5 miles from the airport, making it accessible for various transit needs.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $91 and cheap return flights from $182 Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $202 to $1501, and return flights typically cost between $383 and $2557. 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 San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose 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 San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from ORD to SJC 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 San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.)?
There are 2 airlines offering direct flights from ORD to SJC:

  • United operates around 13 direct flights from ORD to SJC every week
  • American Airlines operates around 14 direct flights from ORD to SJC every week

What is the cheapest airline that flies from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.)?
United is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop flights from Chicago, IL (ORD) to San Jose, CA (SJC), with round-trip tickets starting from around $581. 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 San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose 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 San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Chicago, IL (ORD) to San Jose, CA (SJC) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, United offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, United typically offers the lowest fares. Alaska Airlines offers the most daily flights from ORD to SJC, 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 San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose 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 San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.)?
You can find approximately 2 nonstop flights per day from O'Hare Intl. (ORD) to Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl. (SJC). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Chicago (ORD) to San Jose (SJC) typically departs at around 12:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is available in December, making it a great option for holiday travel. An early departure allows you to maximize your time in San Jose. 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 San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from O'Hare Intl. (ORD) to Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl. (SJC) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 36% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Alaska Airlines, Delta, and United Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing is favored as it helps you arrive in San Jose with plenty of time to start your day.
How long does it take to fly from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.)?
Flying nonstop from ORD to SJC takes around 5 hours, with the route covering approximately 1,825 miles. Flights with a layover typically take 2 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 San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.)?
First class is available on flights from ORD to SJC. First class cabins are available on:

  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines

How much is a business class flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.)?
A direct, return business class ticket from Chicago, IL (ORD) to San Jose, CA (SJC) typically costs between $1,493 - $1,967. A non-stop, one-way business class flight is usually around $968. 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 San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose 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 San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose 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 San Jose from O'Hare Intl. (ORD)?
When traveling from O'Hare Intl. (ORD) to San Jose, you can fly into Juan Santamaria Intl. (SJO) and Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl. (SJC). Some flights may connect through major hubs like LaGuardia (LGA), Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA), El Dorado Intl. (BOG) before reaching San Jose. 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 San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose 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 San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose 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 San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.)?
If you booked your Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose 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
Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.
Airlines serving
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Frontier Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$182
Distance
1824 mi
Average flight time
2 hours 46 mins

Book with confidence

Chicago to San Jose Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Chicago to San Jose

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

 

The best time to book a flight from Chicago to San Jose

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

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 San Jose in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $91 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 San Jose 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 San Jose 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 San Jose Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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