Flights from Chicago to Houston

Looking for flights from Chicago to Houston? CompareWings brings you the latest offers, travel tips, non-stop airline options, and essential information to help you plan a smooth journey from the Windy City to Space City.

Route Overview

The air route between Chicago and Houston is a key connection between two of America's largest economic hubs. Frequent flights cater to business travelers in the energy and tech sectors, as well as tourists visiting family or exploring the Gulf Coast.

The flight duration is efficient, with an average non-stop time of around 2 hours and 50 minutes. Flights depart from both Chicago O'Hare (ORD) and Chicago Midway (MDW), arriving at either George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) or William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) in Houston.

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When’s a good time to book a flight Chicago to Houston

What’s the cheapest day of the week to fly from Chicago to Houston?

If you’re looking for a flight deals from Chicago to Houston, it’s recommended to look for departures on Monday. Sunday tends to have higher prices.

What is the cheapest month to fly from Chicago to Houston?

Historically, December has been the cheapest month for flights from Chicago to Houston. On the other hand, the most expensive months tend to be May.

Airlines & Flight Options

  • United Airlines: Offers extensive hub-to-hub service between ORD and IAH, providing the highest number of daily flights.
  • Southwest Airlines: The primary carrier for MDW–HOU flights, ideal for flexible travel and free checked bags.
  • American Airlines: Operates frequent non-stop service from ORD to IAH.
  • Spirit & Frontier Airlines: Budget-friendly options serving ORD and MDW, usually flying into IAH.

Offers, Deals & Best Ways to Save

Chicago to Houston is a highly competitive route, often resulting in attractive fares year-round.

  • Best Booking Window: Book 3–5 weeks in advance for the best prices.
  • Cheapest Days: Tuesdays and Wednesdays generally offer the lowest fares.
  • Seasonal Trends: January, February, and September are usually the cheapest months to fly.
  • Airport Flexibility: Compare total trip costs between flying into HOU and IAH—ground transport may change the overall value.

Tips to Get the Best Deals:

  • Mix & Match Airlines: Consider flying United one way and Southwest the other if it reduces costs.
  • Travel Light: Spirit and Frontier charge for bags—include baggage fees in your comparison.
  • Watch for Sales: Southwest often launches fare sales for MDW–HOU flights.

Travel Tips for CHI → HOU Flyers

  • Time Zone: Both cities operate on Central Time (CT), so no time change is needed.
  • Airport Transportation (Houston):
    • From IAH: METRO Bus 102 to downtown is the cheapest option. Rideshares typically cost $35–$60.
    • From HOU: Hobby is closer to downtown—rideshares take 20–30 minutes and cost less.
  • Weather: Houston is warmer and more humid than Chicago. Winters are mild, while summers can be hot and sticky—pack breathable clothing.

Frequently Asked Questions

The average non-stop flight time is approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes.

If you live near downtown Chicago or the South Side, Midway (MDW) to Hobby (HOU) is often the most convenient and fastest route. If you are in the Chicago suburbs or connecting internationally, O'Hare (ORD) to Intercontinental (IAH) is likely better.

United, American, Southwest, Spirit, and Frontier all operate non-stop flights between Chicago and Houston.

September and January typically offer the lowest fares, avoiding summer heat and holiday peaks.

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