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$89 Cheap Flights from St. Louis (STL) to Detroit (DTW)

Popular airlines from St. Louis Lambert Intl. Airport (STL) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)

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Cheap Flights from St. Louis to Detroit (STL-DTW)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $89 for one-way flights and $178 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines
Southwest Airlines
Delta
American Airlines
United

Alternative airports near Detroit

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

Find the cheapest month to fly from St. Louis (STL) to Detroit (DTW)

January is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $142 - $288 per traveler.

What you need to know for your flight from Lambert-St. Louis Intl. to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County

St. Louis (STL) to Detroit (DTW) at a glance

Travel from St. Louis (STL) to Detroit (DTW) with a selection of airlines catering to this domestic short-haul route. Whether you prefer full-service carriers or budget-friendly options, you can compare choices to discover the itinerary that aligns with your budget, schedule, and travel needs while exploring the iconic sights and neighborhoods of Detroit. Here are the essential details for flights from Lambert-St. Louis International Airport (STL) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW).

  • Fastest flight duration: around 1h 30m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 450 miles (725 km)
  • Flights per week: around 15+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $60–$400, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Lambert-St. Louis International Airport (STL) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)

Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flying from St. Louis to Detroit, particularly for non-stop and one-stop flights. Common layovers include O'Hare International Airport (ORD) with about a 1-hour stop, Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) at roughly 50 minutes, and Midway International Airport (MDW) with a layover of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. This variety allows you to balance price, travel time, and cabin class to create the ideal itinerary.

  • Delta: As a leading full-service airline, Delta provides both non-stop and one-stop options. The one-way fares generally fall between $60 and $420, representing around 59% of all departures on this route. Passengers can expect a typical non-stop flight duration of 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  • Southwest Airlines: Known for its budget-friendly offerings, Southwest Airlines operates non-stop and one-stop services. One-way ticket prices usually range from $60 to $365, accounting for about 33% of the flights on this route. The non-stop journey typically lasts around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  • American Airlines: This full-service airline specializes in one-stop travel, with one-way fares typically priced between $95 and $330. American Airlines handles roughly 5% of departures on this route, featuring an in-flight time of 3 hours and an overall travel duration of about 4 hours and 30 minutes, including layovers.
  • United: Another full-service option, United offers one-stop services with one-way fares usually ranging from $110 to $375. It covers about 2% of departures on this route, with an in-flight duration of 3 hours and a total journey time of roughly 4 hours and 30 minutes, factoring in layover periods.
  • Frontier Airlines: As a low-cost carrier, Frontier Airlines provides one-stop service, with one-way fares typically between $75 and $195. It accounts for approximately 1% of departures on this route, featuring a flight time of 3 hours and a total travel duration of about 4 hours and 30 minutes, including layovers.

Travelers flying from St. Louis to Detroit can opt for an upgrade, with Delta offering first class and premium economy service on this route for a more comfortable journey.

Best time to fly from St. Louis (STL) to Detroit (DTW)

The most popular months for travelers flying from St. Louis to Detroit are March, April, and August, when peak temperatures in Detroit reach up to 72.9°F in August. If you prefer quieter travel, consider May, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 59.4°F. For better deals, July usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $141. Flight availability peaks in August, with approximately 20 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January and February have the fewest flights, with approximately 12 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: July usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $141, roughly 34% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • Most flight options: August has the highest number of flights from St. Louis to Detroit, with approximately 20 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January25.3°F (-3.7°C)Average12$276
February26.2°F (-3.2°C)Slightly Low12$256
March36.3°F (2.4°C)Slightly High16$255
April46.8°F (8.2°C)Slightly High16$233
May59.4°F (15.2°C)Slightly Low17$205
June68.9°F (20.5°C)Average16$179
July74.1°F (23.4°C)Average18$141
August72.9°F (22.7°C)Slightly High20$163
September66.6°F (19.2°C)Average19$183
October54.5°F (12.5°C)Average19$217
November41.9°F (5.5°C)Average17$223
December32.9°F (0.5°C)Slightly Low17$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 routes from St. Louis (STL) to Detroit (DTW)

  • St. Louis to Detroit (SUS-DTW): The Spirit of St. Louis Airport (SUS) is located approximately 16 miles from Lambert-St. Louis International Airport (STL).
  • St. Louis to Detroit (CPS-DTW): St. Louis Downtown Airport (CPS) can be found about 16 miles from Lambert-St. Louis International Airport (STL).

How to find the best prices for flights from St. Louis (STL) to Detroit (DTW)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from St. Louis to Detroit 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 generally available when booking at least two months in advance, although most travelers tend to book between two to eight weeks ahead. Morning departures from 5 AM to 12 PM usually offer lower prices and are quite popular, while flying on Thursday is often cheaper, even though Friday remains the most popular 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 Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport from Lambert-St. Louis International Airport

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

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Detroit, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County 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 Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, Dearborn Station, a train station, is located about 8.3 miles away, providing convenient access for travelers heading to the station.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $89 and cheap return flights from $178 St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $112 and $554, and roundtrip flights usually range from $298 to $1050. 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 St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) 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 St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
The cheapest month to fly from STL to DTW 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 St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
Delta offers around 31 weekly direct flights from STL to DTW.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
Spirit Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop flights from St. Louis, MO (STL) to Detroit, MI (DTW), with return tickets starting from around $60. 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 St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
To find a cheap flight from St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County), 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 St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
The best airline to fly with from St. Louis, MO (STL) to Detroit, MI (DTW) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, Delta offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, Spirit Airlines typically offers the lowest fares. American Airlines offers the most daily flights from STL to DTW, 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 St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
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 St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
On average, there are around 6 nonstop flights per day from Lambert-St. Louis Intl. (STL) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County (DTW). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
The earliest flight from St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is available in January and November, and an early departure allows you to maximize your time in Detroit. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
How long does it take to fly from St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
Direct flights from STL to DTW usually take about 1 hour 30 minutes, traveling roughly 440 miles. If you opt for a connecting flight, expect to add around 4 hours 30 minutes to your journey. 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 St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
First class seats are offered on the STL to DTW route. First class cabins are available on:

  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines

How much is a business class flight from St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
A direct, return business class ticket from St. Louis, MO (STL) to Detroit, MI (DTW) typically costs between $816 - $1,102. A non-stop, one-way business class flight is usually around $431 - $698 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 St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) 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 St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) 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 Detroit from Lambert-St. Louis Intl. (STL)?
If you're planning to travel to Detroit from Lambert-St. Louis Intl. (STL), you can fly into Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County (DTW) Some flights may connect through major hubs like O'Hare Intl. (ORD), Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Intl. (ATL), Charlotte-Douglas Intl. (CLT) before reaching Detroit. 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 St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) 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 St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) flight and hotel package?
Securing a St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) Detroit 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 St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
If you booked your St. Louis, MO (STL-Lambert-St. Louis Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) 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
Lambert-St. Louis Intl.
Destination airport
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County
Airlines serving
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$178
Distance
439 mi
Average flight time
2 hours 31 mins

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