$159 Cheap Flights from Portland (PDX) to Milwaukee (MKE)
Popular airlines from Portland International Airport (PDX) to General Mitchell Intl. Airport (MKE)
Alaska AirlinesAlaska Airlines
American AirlinesAmerican Airlines
UnitedUnited
Southwest AirlinesSouthwest Airlines
DeltaDelta
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Cheap Flights from Portland to Milwaukee (PDX-MKE)
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Portland (PDX) to Milwaukee (MKE) at a glance
Explore a range of Milwaukee flights from Portland (PDX) to Milwaukee (MKE) on this domestic short-haul route. You can choose from both full-service and low-cost carriers, enabling you to compare options that align with your budget and schedule. Whether you're searching for the cheapest flights from Portland or planning your next flight, you'll find everything you need to embark on your adventure through Milwaukee's vibrant neighborhoods and iconic attractions.
- Fastest flight duration: around 5 hours in-flight, plus roughly 1h 15m layover with one stop
- Route distance: roughly 1,700 miles (2,740 km)
- Flights per week: around 15+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
- Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $120–$405, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book
Flights from Portland International Airport (PDX) to General Mitchell International Airport (MKE)
According to recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Portland to Milwaukee, particularly for one-stop and multi-stop options. Popular layover airports include Denver International Airport (DEN) with approximately a 1 hour and 15-minute layover, O'Hare International Airport (ORD) with around a 1-hour layover, and Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) also offering about a 1-hour layover. This variety allows you to tailor your travel experience by balancing price, total travel time, and cabin class to find the ideal itinerary.
- Delta: As a full-service airline providing one-stop options, Delta features one-way fares generally between $120 and $445. This carrier represents nearly 30% of departures on this route, with a flight duration of 5 hours and an approximate total travel time of 6 hours and 15 minutes, including layover.
- United: Another full-service airline, United offers one-stop services with one-way fares typically ranging from $130 to $475. This airline accounts for about 22% of departures on the route, with a flying time of 5 hours and a total journey time of around 6 hours and 15 minutes, factoring in the layover.
- Southwest Airlines: This low-cost airline provides one-stop service with one-way fares usually between $165 and $400. Southwest comprises approximately 19% of the route's departures, taking about 5 hours in the air and roughly 6 hours and 15 minutes for the entire trip, including layover time.
- American Airlines: Offering one-stop service, American Airlines is a full-service carrier with one-way fares ranging from $130 to $380. It makes up around 15% of the departures on this route, featuring a flight time of 5 hours and a total journey duration of about 6 hours and 15 minutes, including layover.
- Alaska Airlines: A full-service option, Alaska Airlines offers one-stop flights with one-way fares typically between $155 and $430. This airline accounts for approximately 12% of departures on this route, with an in-flight duration of 5 hours and a total travel time of about 6 hours and 15 minutes, including layover.
Travelers flying from Portland to Milwaukee have the option to upgrade their flight. Delta features both first class and premium economy cabins, while United offers first class service.
Best time to fly from Portland (PDX) to Milwaukee (MKE)
The most popular months for travelers flying from Portland to Milwaukee are April, July, and August, when peak temperatures in Milwaukee reach up to 71.4°F in July. If you prefer quieter travel, consider February, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 23.5°F. For better deals, September usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $237. Flight availability peaks in July, with approximately 22 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times.
- Cheapest time to fly: September usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $237, roughly 8% cheaper than the yearly average.
- More budget-friendly months to fly: February, August, and May typically offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $239 to $254.
- Most flight options: July has the highest number of flights from Portland to Milwaukee, with approximately 22 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
| Month | Temperature | Demand | Weekly Flights | Average one-way Fare |
| January | 22.1°F (-5.5°C) | Moderately Low | 11 | $265 |
| February | 23.5°F (-4.7°C) | Moderately Low | 11 | $239 |
| March | 34.7°F (1.5°C) | Average | 15 | $304 |
| April | 43.7°F (6.5°C) | Moderately High | 14 | $254 |
| May | 54.9°F (12.7°C) | Average | 17 | $254 |
| June | 64.9°F (18.3°C) | Average | 19 | $259 |
| July | 71.4°F (21.9°C) | Moderately High | 22 | $259 |
| August | 70.7°F (21.5°C) | Moderately High | 21 | $241 |
| September | 64.2°F (17.9°C) | Average | 19 | $237 |
| October | 52.0°F (11.1°C) | Average | 18 | $261 |
| November | 39.2°F (4.0°C) | Average | 15 | $259 |
| December | 29.7°F (-1.3°C) | Moderately Low | 15 | $281 |
*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 Portland (PDX) to Milwaukee (MKE)
- Portland to Racine (PDX-RAC): Located roughly 14 miles from General Mitchell International Airport (MKE), John H. Batten Airport (RAC) is conveniently accessible.
- Portland to Waukesha (PDX-UES): Waukesha County Airport (UES) is approximately 18 miles distant from General Mitchell International Airport (MKE), making it a viable option.
- Portland to Kenosha (PDX-ENW): Situated around 24 miles from General Mitchell International Airport (MKE), Kenosha Regional Airport (ENW) offers a practical travel choice.
How to find the best prices for flights from Portland (PDX) to Milwaukee (MKE)
Getting some of the best deals on flights from Portland to Milwaukee is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:
- Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are usually found when booking 2-8 weeks in advance, coinciding with when most travelers make their reservations. Evening departures (6 PM-12 AM) tend to offer lower prices, while morning flights (5 AM-12 PM) are more popular. Additionally, flying on Saturday often provides better deals, although Thursday is the most 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.*
- 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 General Mitchell International Airport from Portland International Airport
Milwaukee welcomes travelers from Portland with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Milwaukee efficiently:
- Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Milwaukee, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
- Car rental: Renting a car from General Mitchell International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at General Mitchell 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 General Mitchell International Airport, travelers can easily access nearby transportation options; Milwaukee Airport Bus Station, a bus station, is located just 0.1 miles away on foot, while Milwaukee Airport Station, a train station, is approximately 1.8 miles away by car. For those seeking metro services, the Michigan & Jackson Tram Stop, a metro station, is situated about 7.8 miles away by car.
Portland to Milwaukee Flights
The cheapest times to fly from Portland to Milwaukee
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 Portland to Milwaukee are during the month of December. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Portland to Milwaukee with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.
The best time to book a flight from Portland to Milwaukee
Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Portland to Milwaukee: 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 Portland to Milwaukee
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 Portland to Milwaukee in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $159 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 Portland to Milwaukee 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 Portland to Milwaukee 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 Portland, OR (PDX-Portland Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $159 and cheap return flights $312 Portland, OR (PDX-Portland Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $189 and $816, and return flights often range between $381 and $1237. 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 Portland, OR (PDX-Portland Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell 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 Portland, OR (PDX-Portland Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from PDX to MKE is December 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 Portland, OR (PDX-Portland Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.)?
Enter PDX to MKE and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Portland, OR (PDX-Portland Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.)?
Frontier Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Portland, OR (PDX) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE), starting from around $205 for a round-trip ticket. 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 Portland, OR (PDX-Portland Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Portland, OR (PDX-Portland Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell 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 time to fly from Portland, OR (PDX-Portland Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell 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.
What is the earliest flight from Portland, OR (PDX-Portland Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Portland International Airport (PDX) to General Mitchell International (MKE) usually departs at around 12:05 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is active during the months of June and July, allowing you to make the most of your travel time. 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 Portland, OR (PDX-Portland Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Portland (PDX) to Milwaukee (MKE) are in the morning, from 6am to 9am. About 30% of passengers prefer this time window. United Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and Southwest Airlines offer flights during this window. This timing works well for travelers looking to start their day early and arrive in Milwaukee with plenty of time to explore.
How long does it take to fly from Portland, OR (PDX-Portland Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.)?
Flights from PDX to MKE with one stop typically take around 7 hours 50 minutes, covering approximately 1,712 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 Portland, OR (PDX-Portland Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.)?
First class seats are offered on the PDX to MKE route. First class cabins are available on:
- American Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- United Airlines
- Spirit Airlines
How do I earn miles on a Portland, OR (PDX-Portland Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Portland, OR (PDX-Portland Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell 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 Milwaukee from Portland Intl. (PDX)?
If you're planning to travel to Milwaukee from Portland Intl. (PDX), you can fly into General Mitchell Intl. (MKE) Some flights may connect through major hubs like Denver Intl. (DEN), Oakland Intl. (OAK), Sacramento Intl. (SMF) before reaching Milwaukee. 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 Portland, OR (PDX-Portland Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Portland, OR (PDX-Portland Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell 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 Portland, OR (PDX-Portland Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Portland, OR (PDX-Portland Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.) Milwaukee 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 Portland, OR (PDX-Portland Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.)?
If you booked your Portland, OR (PDX-Portland Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell 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 | Portland International Airport |
|---|---|
Destination airport | General Mitchell Intl. Airport |
Distance | 1,712 miles away |
Airlines serving | Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, United, Southwest Airlines, Delta |
Popular airline | Alaska Airlines |
Roundtrip price | $312 |