Route guide
Cheap Flights from Chicago to Los Angeles: Book Airline Tickets
- Distance
- about 1,740 mi
- Typical flight time
- 3 h 30 min – 4 h 30 min
- Airports
- 2 × 5
- Time difference
- 2 h behind
This page covers the practical side of flying between Chicago and Los Angeles: which airports to compare, how long the trip takes, and when it is busy. It works for either direction. For a price on your dates, ask a specialist.
Airport pairs to compare
Chicago has two main airports: O'Hare handles hub and long-haul traffic, while Midway is smaller and closer to the city center. Los Angeles spreads across a vast basin, so the best airport depends on where you are staying. LAX is the main gateway, but several smaller airports sit within driving distance.
| Pair | Departure airport | Arrival airport |
|---|---|---|
| ORD to LAX | O'Hare International | Los Angeles International |
| ORD to BUR | O'Hare International | Hollywood Burbank |
| ORD to SNA | O'Hare International | John Wayne (Orange County) |
| ORD to LGB | O'Hare International | Long Beach |
| ORD to ONT | O'Hare International | Ontario International |
| MDW to LAX | Midway International | Los Angeles International |
| MDW to BUR | Midway International | Hollywood Burbank |
| MDW to SNA | Midway International | John Wayne (Orange County) |
| MDW to LGB | Midway International | Long Beach |
| MDW to ONT | Midway International | Ontario International |
Airlines with a major base at either end
- At Chicago: United Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines
- At Los Angeles: United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, Alaska Airlines
United Airlines, American Airlines have a base at both ends, which can make nonstop service more likely. Schedules change, so a specialist confirms what actually operates on your dates.
When to go and what to expect
Chicago
Late spring through early fall is the most pleasant stretch. Winter brings snow and cold that can cause delays.
Los Angeles
Spring and fall are comfortable. May and June often bring a coastal marine layer of morning cloud, and summer is a busy season.
Getting between the airport and town
Chicago: CTA trains run from both airports to the city center, which is usually the most predictable option at busy times.
Los Angeles: Freeway traffic can turn a short distance into a long trip at rush hour, so allow generous time between the airport and your destination.
Planning ground transport too? See our car rental guide.
Good to know
- Winter weather is the main source of disruption. Build in extra buffer for connections between November and March.
- If you are flexible about airports, ask for prices into more than one of them. Fares and schedules can differ noticeably.
- Compare the total with bags included, not just the base fare. See baggage fees and taxes and fees.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Chicago from Los Angeles?
The straight-line distance between the main airports is about 1,740 miles (2,800 km). Routes can be longer in practice because of air traffic and weather.
How long is a flight from Chicago to Los Angeles?
A typical scheduled flight takes roughly 3 h 30 min to 4 h 30 min in the air, depending on winds, the aircraft and the airports. Connecting itineraries take longer, and nonstop availability depends on the airline and dates.
Which airports can I use?
At Chicago: ORD (O'Hare International), MDW (Midway International). At Los Angeles: LAX (Los Angeles International), BUR (Hollywood Burbank), SNA (John Wayne (Orange County)), LGB (Long Beach), ONT (Ontario International). Ask for prices on more than one pairing.
Is there a time difference?
Los Angeles is 2 hours behind Chicago.
Do you show fares on this page?
No. Fares change constantly, so we do not publish prices that might be out of date. A specialist checks live availability and confirms the full total, including taxes and bags, before you pay.