A city skyline with a prominent arch bridge at sunset.

$59 Cheap Flights from Chicago (ORD) to St. Louis (STL)

Popular airlines from Chicago O'Hare Intl. Airport (ORD) to St. Louis Lambert Intl. Airport (STL)

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Cheap Flights from Chicago to St. Louis (ORD-STL)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $59 for one-way flights and $117 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

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

Alternative airports near St. Louis

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

Find the cheapest month to fly from Chicago (ORD) to St. Louis (STL)

January is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $91 - $379 per traveler.

What you need to know for your flight from O'Hare Intl. to Lambert-St. Louis Intl.

Chicago (ORD) to St. Louis (STL) at a glance

Travel between Chicago (ORD) and St. Louis (STL) with a range of airlines covering this domestic short-haul route. Evaluate options from both full-service and low-cost carriers to discover the best Chicago to St. Louis airfare that aligns with your budget and schedule. As you plan your visit to St. Louis's iconic attractions and vibrant neighborhoods, be sure to check the essential details for your flight from Chicago to St. Louis.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 1h 30m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 250 miles (400 km)
  • Flights per week: around 25+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $45–$360, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Lambert-St. Louis International Airport (STL)

According to recent traveler bookings, the most popular airlines flying from Chicago to St. Louis typically offer both non-stop and one-stop flights. Common layover points include Quincy Regional-Baldwin Field Airport, UIN (with about a 50-minute layover), Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, ATL (around 1 hour and 15 minutes), and Nashville International Airport, BNA (also about 1 hour and 15 minutes). This variety allows you to choose the best itinerary by balancing price, total travel time, and cabin class.

  • American Airlines: This established carrier provides non-stop flights, operating about 49% of departures along this route. One-way ticket prices generally range between $50 and $370, with a typical flight duration of 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  • United: Another full-service airline, United offers both non-stop and one-stop options. It commands around 41% of departures on this route, with fares for one-way tickets usually spanning from $45 to $395, and a standard non-stop flight time of 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  • Southern Airways: Known for its one-stop service, Southern Airways covers about 9% of flights on this route. One-way fares typically fall between $80 and $190, resulting in an in-flight time of 3 hours and a total travel duration of approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including layovers.
  • Southwest Airlines: A budget-friendly option, Southwest Airlines provides one-stop services, with fares ranging from $50 to $365 for one-way tickets. The in-flight time is about 3 hours, leading to a total journey time of roughly 3 hours and 30 minutes, factoring in layover periods.

Travelers have the option to upgrade their flight from Chicago to St. Louis, with both United and American Airlines providing first-class service for this route.

Best time to fly from Chicago (ORD) to St. Louis (STL)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Chicago to St. Louis are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in St. Louis reach up to 56.1°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider June, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 76.1°F. For better deals, September usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $148. Flight availability peaks in September, with approximately 34 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. February has the fewest flights, with approximately 19 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: September usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $148, roughly 24% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: August and May typically offer average one-way fares of around $161.
  • Most flight options: September has the highest number of flights from Chicago to St. Louis, with approximately 34 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January31.6°F (-0.2°C)Moderately High20$212
February34.9°F (1.6°C)Average19$243
March46.4°F (8.0°C)Moderately High26$213
April56.1°F (13.4°C)Moderately High22$184
May66.6°F (19.2°C)Average27$161
June76.1°F (24.5°C)Moderately Low27$203
July78.6°F (25.9°C)Moderately Low24$228
August77.0°F (25.0°C)Average28$161
September70.9°F (21.6°C)Average34$148
October58.6°F (14.8°C)Average32$173
November46.2°F (7.9°C)Average24$178
December37.8°F (3.2°C)Moderately Low20$232

*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 St. Louis (STL)

  • Chicago to St. Louis (MDW-STL): Midway International Airport (MDW) is located approximately 16 miles from O'Hare International Airport (ORD). One-way economy fares for this route generally fall between $40 and $365, influenced by the time of year and how far in advance you book. Travelers can choose from both non-stop and one-stop flights. The primary airlines operating on this route include low-cost carriers such as Southwest Airlines and Frontier Airlines.

How to find the best prices for flights from Chicago (ORD) to St. Louis (STL)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Chicago to St. Louis 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 aligns with when most travelers make their reservations. Evening departures (6 PM to 12 AM) tend to be less expensive, although afternoon flights (12 PM to 6 PM) are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Wednesday generally offers lower prices, while Sunday is 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 Lambert-St. Louis International Airport from O'Hare International Airport

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

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in St. Louis, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Lambert-St. Louis International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Lambert-St. Louis 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 Lambert-St. Louis International Airport, Lambert Main Terminal Station, a metro station, is located about 0.1 miles away on foot, providing convenient access to the city's rail connections.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $59 and cheap return flights from $117 Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $105 and $662, and return flights often range between $234 and $4092. 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 St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis 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 St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.)?
October is the cheapest month to fly from Chicago (ORD) to St. Louis (STL), with average return fares around $231. This price is about 24% lower than the average, as October typically sees a drop in travel demand after the summer. Other cheap months to fly from Chicago to St. Louis include April and August.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.)?
There are 2 airlines offering direct flights from ORD to STL:

  • United operates around 98 direct flights from ORD to STL every week
  • American Airlines operates around 68 direct flights from ORD to STL every week

What is the cheapest airline that flies from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.)?
United is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop flights from O'Hare Intl. (ORD) to Lambert-St. Louis Intl. (STL), with round-trip tickets starting from around $165. 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 St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis 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 St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Chicago, IL (ORD) to St. Louis, MO (STL) 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 offers the most daily flights from ORD to STL, 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 St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.)?
The best times to fly from Chicago, IL (ORD) to St. Louis, MO (STL) are October and April. Both months are popular for travel, with return flights averaging around $231, providing a great balance of affordability and convenience.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How many flights per day from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.)?
There are approximately 24 nonstop flights per day from O'Hare Intl. (ORD) to Lambert-St. Louis Intl. (STL). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Chicago (O'Hare Intl.) to St. Louis (Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) usually departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is active in February, making it a great option for early risers looking to get to St. Louis quickly. 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 St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Chicago, IL (ORD) to St. Louis, MO (STL) are in the early afternoon, from 12pm to 3pm. About 25% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including American Airlines, United, and Southwest Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing is popular because it allows travelers to have a leisurely morning before heading to their destination.
How long does it take to fly from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.)?
Flying nonstop from ORD to STL takes around 1 hour 30 minutes, with the route covering approximately 258 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 St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.)?
First class is available on flights from ORD to STL. 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 St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.)?
A direct, return business class ticket from Chicago (ORD) to St. Louis (STL) typically costs between $648 - $907. A non-stop, one-way business class flight is usually around $273 - $426 per adult. 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 St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis 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 St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis 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 St. Louis from O'Hare Intl. (ORD)?
From O'Hare Intl. (ORD), you can fly into Lambert-St. Louis Intl. (STL) to reach St. Louis. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Love Field (DAL), Harry Reid Intl. (LAS), Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall (BWI) before reaching St. Louis. 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 St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis 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 St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) St Louis 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 St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.)?
If you booked your Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis 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
Lambert-St. Louis Intl.
Airlines serving
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Frontier Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$117
Distance
258 mi
Average flight time
1 hour 25 mins

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*Flight schedules are subject to change.

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