The Cheapest U.S. Airports to Use For Your Next Flight

The average price of an airline ticket is $365.64, according to data from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. That’s a serious blow to the wallet. While most people spend time comparing airlines to find the best ticket prices, comparing airports may save you even more money. 

We combed through data from BTS that determines the 50th busiest airports in the country, which are the ones you’re most likely to use for your next trip. Out of those airports, these are the top 10 cheapest options, plus the five airports that are the most overpriced.

Average Fare: $324

Only 11 miles from downtown NOLA, the airport code MSY seems to have nothing to do with the city or the actual airport name. It’s because the airport was once named for the land it sits on, the Moisant Stock Yards. The airport was renamed to honor jazz musician Louis Armstrong in 2001.

Average Fare: $323

Not only is SJC one of the cheaper airport options, but it’s also been named America’s best airport for multiple years by the Airport Service Quality Awards. The airport wins points for being easy to navigate and offering outstanding check-in, retail, and dining options. It’s located only three miles from downtown San Jose.

Average Fare: $318

MIA is the second busiest airport in America for international flights, according to airport statistics. It offers more flights to Latin America and the Caribbean than any other airport in the United States. Considering it ranks as the 10th overall busiest airport in the country, it’s a pleasant surprise that it’s also one of the cheapest.

Average Fare: $314

Oakland is a more affordable way to get to San Francisco than flying straight into the city itself — and it’s just a 25-minute ride to downtown San Francisco. Oakland is also an hour's drive from Napa Valley and wine country, making it the best option for getting to these areas.

Average Fare: $303

After decades with the reputation of being an airport equivalent of a third-world country, LaGuardia underwent a massive $8 million renovation that’s led to it being known as one of the best mid-size airports in the country. LaGuardia is also, on average, nearly $100 cheaper than JFK per ticket.

Average Fare: $292

Chicago Midway is a cheaper option than Chicago O’Hare’s $344 average, which is also a larger and busier airport thanks to being a hub for international flights. Midway is also closer to downtown Chicago, by a distance of 12.5 miles vs. O’Hare’s 18 miles.

Average Fare: $275

Harry Reid International Airport is just two miles from the Las Vegas Strip, making it one of the closest and most convenient airport rides in the country. You’ll be able to save your extra commuting time and extra plane fare money for the casinos.

Average Fare: $270

Orlando is the third most visited city in the country, so it’s rather amazing it would be the third cheapest. Of course, Orlando is busy for a good reason — it’s the closest airport to Disney World. The airport is an easy six miles from downtown Orlando.

Average Fare: $266

Despite being the busiest and biggest airport in the Caribbean, San Juan is the most affordable place to fly into and out of. You can reach many of the other islands directly from SJU, but it may pay to just make it your destination, as San Juan offers gorgeous beaches, great culture, and natural attractions like tropical forests.

Average Fare: $252

Out of the three Florida airports that made the list for cheapest flight, Fort Lauderdale comes in number one, and first in the country. Fort Lauderdale has a reputation as a hotspot for spring breakers, but there’s a lot to do for all visitors. It’s known as the “Venice” of America thanks to 300 miles of inland waterways. The airport is also 21 miles north of Miami, making it a cheaper option for traveling to that area.

Average Fare: $404

Detroit is a major hub for Delta Airlines, and the limited competition from other airlines means Delta can price flights from this location higher. Detroit is also an airport gateway for international flights, which are typically pricier here versus other airports that offer international flights.

Average Fare: $411

Salt Lake City’s Pricey flights are another case of Delta Airlines taking over terminals. Less competition means higher prices for customers, and short of picking a different airport, there’s not much more you can do.

Average Fare: $425

Nothing much in San Francisco can be described as cheap, including the airport. Because the cost of living is so high in the area, it also drives up the price of all aspects of the airport, including retail spaces and vendors, employees, and maintenance costs.

Average Fare: $428

Santa Ana airport may be expensive thanks to its proximity to the affluent area of Orange County. It’s also a relatively small airport, meaning it’s more competitive for flights. However, if you’re traveling to Disneyland, it’s the closest airport option.

Average Fare: $473

The most expensive, highly-traveled airport in the nation is in Washington D.C. What makes Washington-Dulles so expensive? As a United hub, the airport is limited in other airline options. That means higher prices, thanks to less competition. It’s also a major destination for business travel and international flights.