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$277 Cheap Flights from Rochester (RST) to Washington (DCA)

View $277 flight on Thu, Feb 4, 2027Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Rochester, MN (RST-Rochester Intl.) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)

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Cheap Flights from Rochester to Washington (RST-DCA)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $277 for one-way flights and $310 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

American Airlines
Sat, Nov 21 - Sat, Dec 5
RST
Rochester
DCA
Washington
$310 Roundtrip, found 18 hours ago
$310
Roundtrip
found 18 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Sat, Nov 21 from Rochester to Washington, returning Sat, Dec 5, priced at $310 found 18 hours ago
Delta
Sat, Oct 17 - Sat, Oct 24
RST
Rochester
DCA
Washington
$310 Roundtrip, found 4 days ago
$310
Roundtrip
found 4 days ago
Select Delta flight, departing Sat, Oct 17 from Rochester to Washington, returning Sat, Oct 24, priced at $310 found 4 days ago
American Airlines
Sat, Oct 24 - Mon, Oct 26
RST
Rochester
DCA
Washington
$319 Roundtrip, found 4 days ago
$319
Roundtrip
found 4 days ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Sat, Oct 24 from Rochester to Washington, returning Mon, Oct 26, priced at $319 found 4 days ago
American Airlines
Fri, Jan 15 - Mon, Jan 18
RST
Rochester
DCA
Washington
$328 Roundtrip, found 4 hours ago
$328
Roundtrip
found 4 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Fri, Jan 15 from Rochester to Washington, returning Mon, Jan 18, priced at $328 found 4 hours ago
American Airlines
Thu, Feb 4 - Sun, Feb 7
RST
Rochester
DCA
Washington
$334 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$334
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Thu, Feb 4 from Rochester to Washington, returning Sun, Feb 7, priced at $334 found 3 days ago
American Airlines
Thu, Feb 4 - Sun, Feb 7
RST
Rochester
DCA
Washington
$339 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$339
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Thu, Feb 4 from Rochester to Washington, returning Sun, Feb 7, priced at $339 found 3 days ago
American Airlines
Fri, Nov 13 - Wed, Nov 18
RST
Rochester
DCA
Washington
$350 Roundtrip, found 4 days ago
$350
Roundtrip
found 4 days ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Fri, Nov 13 from Rochester to Washington, returning Wed, Nov 18, priced at $350 found 4 days ago
American Airlines
Fri, Jan 15 - Mon, Jan 18
RST
Rochester
DCA
Washington
$359 Roundtrip, found 4 hours ago
$359
Roundtrip
found 4 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Fri, Jan 15 from Rochester to Washington, returning Mon, Jan 18, priced at $359 found 4 hours ago
American Airlines
Sat, Nov 21 - Sat, Dec 5
RST
Rochester
DCA
Washington
$360 Roundtrip, found 18 hours ago
$360
Roundtrip
found 18 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Sat, Nov 21 from Rochester to Washington, returning Sat, Dec 5, priced at $360 found 18 hours ago
American Airlines
Thu, Feb 4 - Sun, Feb 7
RST
Rochester
DCA
Washington
$365 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$365
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Thu, Feb 4 from Rochester to Washington, returning Sun, Feb 7, priced at $365 found 3 days ago

What you need to know for your flight from Rochester Intl. to Ronald Reagan Washington National

Rochester (RST) to Washington (DCA) at a glance

Travel from Rochester (RST) to Washington (DCA) with a range of airlines on this domestic short-haul route. Explore various options, including full-service carriers, to find the best itinerary that aligns with your budget and schedule. Whether you're searching for cheap flights from Rochester or planning your next flight to discover Washington's iconic landmarks and neighborhoods, you'll find all the essential details for flights from Rochester International Airport to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport here.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 3h 15m in-flight, plus roughly 1 hour layover with one stop
  • Route distance: roughly 900 miles (1,450 km)
  • Flights per week: around 8 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $125–$425, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Rochester International Airport (RST) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)

According to recent flight bookings, the top airlines flying from Rochester to Washington are typically favored for their one-stop services. Common layover points include O'Hare International Airport (ORD), with an average layover of about 50 minutes, and Minneapolis - St. Paul International Airport (MSP), which has a layover of around 2 hours. This variety allows travelers to balance price, total travel time, and cabin class to find their ideal itinerary.

  • American Airlines: This full-service airline provides one-stop flights, with one-way ticket prices generally ranging from $125 to $450. It represents around 54% of departures along this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 15 minutes and an overall travel time of approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, including layover time.
  • Delta: As another full-service carrier, Delta offers one-stop service, with one-way fares typically falling between $125 and $490. This airline accounts for about 46% of the departures on this route, boasting an in-flight time of 3 hours and 15 minutes and a total journey duration of roughly 4 hours and 30 minutes, factoring in the layover.

Best time to fly from Rochester (RST) to Washington (DCA)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Rochester to Washington are March, July, and October, when peak temperatures in Washington reach up to 79.5°F in July. If you prefer quieter travel, consider August, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 77.4°F. For better deals, February usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $177. Flight availability peaks in November, with approximately 13 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times.

  • Cheapest time to fly: February usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $177, roughly 28% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • Another budget-friendly time to fly: November typically offers an average one-way fare of around $203.
  • Most flight options: November has the highest number of flights from Rochester to Washington, with approximately 13 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January35.1°F (1.7°C)Average7$270
February38.3°F (3.5°C)Average7$177
March45.7°F (7.6°C)Moderately High7$274
April56.3°F (13.5°C)Average7$271
May65.7°F (18.7°C)Average8$239
June74.3°F (23.5°C)Average7$301
July79.5°F (26.4°C)Moderately High7$332
August77.4°F (25.2°C)Moderately Low7$209
September71.1°F (21.7°C)Moderately Low9$225
October59.9°F (15.5°C)Moderately High9$237
November47.8°F (8.8°C)Average13$203
December40.6°F (4.8°C)Moderately Low7$230

*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 Rochester (RST) to Washington (DCA)

  • Minneapolis to Washington (MSP-DCA): Minneapolis - St. Paul International Airport (MSP) is located approximately 76 miles from Rochester International Airport (RST). On this route, one-way economy fares usually fall between $90 and $410, influenced by the season and when tickets are booked. Travelers can choose from both non-stop and one-stop flight options. Major airlines providing service on this route include Delta and American Airlines. Additionally, first-class seating is offered on this route.
  • La Crosse to Washington (LSE-DCA): La Crosse Municipal Airport (LSE) is about 61 miles from Rochester International Airport (RST). For one-way economy tickets on this route, prices generally range from $160 to $490, depending on the time of year and booking timing. This route typically features one-stop flights, most frequently connecting through O'Hare International Airport (ORD). American Airlines is the leading carrier for this journey, and first-class service is also available.

How to find the best prices for flights from Rochester (RST) to Washington (DCA)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Rochester to Washington 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 coincides with when most travelers make their reservations. Morning departures, between 5 AM and 12 PM, often offer lower prices and are the most popular flight times. Additionally, flying on Fridays tends to provide both cheaper fares and is the most favored 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 Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport from Rochester International Airport

Washington welcomes travelers from Rochester with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Washington city center is approximately a 10-minute drive (covering about 5 miles) from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, depending on traffic. Here's how to reach Washington efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Washington, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Ronald Reagan Washington National 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 Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, National Airport Station (a metro station) is located about 0.2 miles away on foot, providing easy access to public transport, while Alexandria Station (a train station) is approximately 3.8 miles from the airport, accessible by car. Additionally, Washington Seaport, situated about 4.8 miles away by car, offers maritime connections.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Rochester, MN (RST-Rochester Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $277 and cheap return flights from $310 Rochester, MN (RST-Rochester Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $218 to $799, and return flights typically cost between $365 and $1378. 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 Rochester, MN (RST-Rochester Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) 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 Rochester, MN (RST-Rochester Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
October is the cheapest month to fly from Rochester, MN (RST) to Washington, DC (DCA), with average round-trip fares around $326. This price is about 25% lower than the average throughout the year, as travel demand tends to drop in the fall. Other cheap months to fly from Rochester to Washington include January and November.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Rochester, MN (RST-Rochester Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
Enter RST to DCA and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Rochester, MN (RST-Rochester Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
American Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Rochester (RST) to Washington, DC (DCA) with a layover in O'Hare Intl. (ORD), starting from around $248. 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 Rochester, MN (RST-Rochester Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
To find a cheap flight from Rochester, MN (RST-Rochester Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National), 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 Rochester, MN (RST-Rochester Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
For flights from Rochester (RST) to Washington, DC (DCA), October and January are the best months to consider. October is popular and offers a vibrant travel experience, while January is the cheapest month with an average price of around $326 for a return flight. This mix provides both affordability and good travel options.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
What is the earliest flight from Rochester, MN (RST-Rochester Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The earliest flight from Rochester, MN (Rochester Intl.) to Washington, DC (Ronald Reagan Washington National) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is available in February, allowing you to start your day early in the nation's capital. 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 Rochester, MN (RST-Rochester Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Rochester International (RST) to Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 47% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Delta Airlines and American Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it lets you maximize your day in Washington, DC.
How long does it take to fly from Rochester, MN (RST-Rochester Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
Flights from RST to DCA with one stop typically take around 4 hours 20 minutes, covering approximately 872 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 Rochester, MN (RST-Rochester Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
Select the "Business class" and "First class" filters when looking for RST to DCA flights on Expedia. This is the easiest way to compare prices, routes and flight times for your trip.
How do I earn miles on a Rochester, MN (RST-Rochester Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Rochester, MN (RST-Rochester Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) 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 Washington from Rochester Intl. (RST)?
From Rochester Intl. (RST), you can fly into Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) and Washington Dulles Intl. (IAD) in Washington. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Minneapolis - St. Paul Intl. (MSP), O'Hare Intl. (ORD) before reaching Washington. 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 Rochester, MN (RST-Rochester Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Rochester, MN (RST-Rochester Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) 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 Rochester, MN (RST-Rochester Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Rochester, MN (RST-Rochester Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) Washington 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 Rochester, MN (RST-Rochester Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National)?
If you booked your Rochester, MN (RST-Rochester Intl.) to Washington, DC (DCA-Ronald Reagan Washington National) 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
Rochester Intl.
Destination airport
Ronald Reagan Washington National
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta
Roundtrip price
$310
Distance
872 mi

Book with confidence

Rochester to Washington Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Rochester to Washington

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 Rochester to Washington are during the month of November. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Rochester to Washington with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.

 

The best time to book a flight from Rochester to Washington

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Rochester to Washington: 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 Rochester to Washington

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 Rochester to Washington in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $277 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 Rochester to Washington 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 Rochester to Washington 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.

 

Rochester to Washington Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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