Route guide
Cheap Flights from Chicago to Miami: Book Airline Tickets
- Distance
- about 1,200 mi
- Typical flight time
- 2 h 45 min – 3 h 45 min
- Airports
- 2 × 2
- Time difference
- 1 h ahead
This page covers the practical side of flying between Chicago and Miami: 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. Miami's airport sits close to downtown and is a major gateway to Latin America and the Caribbean. Fort Lauderdale, about 30 miles north, is a common alternative.
| Pair | Departure airport | Arrival airport |
|---|---|---|
| ORD to MIA | O'Hare International | Miami International |
| ORD to FLL | O'Hare International | Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International |
| MDW to MIA | Midway International | Miami International |
| MDW to FLL | Midway International | Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International |
Airlines with a major base at either end
- At Chicago: United Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines
- At Miami: American Airlines
American Airlines has 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.
Miami
The dry season runs roughly from December through April, which is also the peak and most expensive period. Hurricane season runs from June through November.
Hurricane season runs from June through November and can affect travel to or from Miami. Read the fare rules on changes and consider weather coverage if you travel then.
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.
Miami: Rental cars and ride-hail are the most common ways to get around. Public transit exists but covers less ground than in older Northeastern cities.
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 travel in hurricane season, look closely at fare rules for changes and consider travel insurance that covers weather.
- 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 Miami?
The straight-line distance between the main airports is about 1,200 miles (1,930 km). Routes can be longer in practice because of air traffic and weather.
How long is a flight from Chicago to Miami?
A typical scheduled flight takes roughly 2 h 45 min to 3 h 45 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 Miami: MIA (Miami International), FLL (Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International). Ask for prices on more than one pairing.
Is there a time difference?
Miami is 1 hour ahead of 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.