How long does it take to fly to Chicago?

Average flight duration from California to Chicago depends on which airport you fly into and out of. Flying from San Diego to Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport is 3h 54m on average, while flying from Los Angeles to Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport is 3h 56m on average. Chicago O'Hare Intl Airport is the most popular airport in Chicago.

What airlines fly to Chicago?

American Airlines, United Airlines and Spirit Airlines are the top three most popular airlines that fly to Chicago from California according to our data. American Airlines is the first choice among our users, with 43% of people opting to fly with this airline when traveling to Chicago. Keep in mind that there are 9 different airlines that fly to Chicago on a routine basis, so you have a few additional options to choose from.

What is the cheapest airline that flies from California to Chicago?

Alaska Airlines, Frontier, and Southwest are the most popular carriers operating from California to Chicago

How many flights depart from California to Chicago on average per week?

As of December 2025, 1,409 flights take off from California and land in Chicago each week. The most common flight departure day for this route is Wed, with 18% of weekly flights taking off on this day.

How many flights depart from California to Chicago on average per day?

As of December 2025, 201 flights take off from California and land in Chicago each day. The most common flight departure time for this route is 6:00AM, with 51% of daily flights taking off at noon.

When did momondo last update prices for flights from California to Chicago?

Prices for flights from California to Chicago are updated daily.

How many operators does momondo search for flights from California to Chicago?

The number of operators available for flights from California to Chicago is 9 as of December 2025.

How old do you have to be to fly from California to Chicago?

The minimum age for a child to fly alone is five, but airlines that offer an unaccompanied minor (UNMR) service may have their own age limitations. Flight duration, scheduling, and layovers are among the considerations that may influence age limits. We recommend that you double-check with the airline you are booking with for travel from California to Chicago.

What documentation or ID do you need to fly to Chicago?

The travel and health documents you'll need for your trip to Chicago may differ based on your itinerary and personal situation. Typically, you should have several documents on hand, such as a national ID card or driver's license and a passport that is valid for six months after your intended arrival at Chicago. It is always advisable to seek advice from your airline or a trusted third party, such as IATA.

$54 Cheap Flights from California to Chicago in 2025/26

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Cheap round-trip flights

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11:59 pm - 1:37 pmLAS-ORD

11h 38m1 stop

9:38 pm - 11:59 pmORD-LAS

4h 21mnonstop

$89Frontier

Find Deal

Wed, Jan 28 - Sun, Feb 1

3:19 pm - 9:11 pmLAS-ORD

3h 52mnonstop

12:07 pm - 5:35 pmORD-LAS

7h 28m1 stop

$91Frontier

Find Deal

Fri, Jan 16 - Sun, Jan 25

12:31 pm - 6:15 pmLAS-ORD

3h 44mnonstop

9:05 pm - 11:19 pmORD-LAS

4h 14mnonstop

$96United Airlines

Find Deal

Wed, Jan 7 - Mon, Jan 12

3:19 pm - 9:11 pmLAS-ORD

3h 52mnonstop

4:34 pm - 6:47 pmORD-LAS

28h 13m1 stop

$100Multiple Airlines

Find Deal

Fri, Jan 16 - Fri, Jan 23

12:30 am - 6:08 amLAS-ORD

3h 38mnonstop

4:07 pm - 6:17 pmORD-LAS

4h 10mnonstop

$101United Airlines

Find Deal

Fri, Jan 16 - Sat, Jan 17

9:17 am - 9:32 pmLAX-ORD

10h 15m1 stop

6:15 am - 4:48 pmORD-LAX

12h 33m1 stop

$143Multiple Airlines

Find Deal

Fri, Jan 9 - Sun, Jan 11

10:40 am - 4:49 pmLAX-ORD

4h 09mnonstop

7:00 am - 9:36 amORD-LAX

4h 36mnonstop

$146American Airlines

Find Deal

Fri, Jan 16 - Fri, Jan 23

11:59 pm - 6:05 amLAX-ORD

4h 06mnonstop

9:14 pm - 9:30 amORD-LAX

14h 16m1 stop

$147Spirit Airlines

Find Deal

Sat, Dec 13 - Sun, Dec 14

8:05 am - 2:11 pmSNA-ORD

4h 06mnonstop

8:15 am - 10:49 amORD-SNA

4h 34mnonstop

$269American Airlines

Find Deal

Thu, Jan 8 - Mon, Jan 12

4:37 pm - 2:17 pmSNA-ORD

19h 40m2 stops

8:43 pm - 8:57 pmORD-SNA

26h 14m3 stops

$277Spirit Airlines

Find Deal

Thu, Jan 8 - Sun, Jan 11

Frontier flights from California to Chicago

Our best Frontier deals on California to Chicago flight tickets

Frontier

Jan 28

LAS11:59 pmLas Vegas Harry Reid Intl

11h 38m

1 stop

ORD1:37 pmChicago O'Hare Intl

Feb 1

ORD9:38 pmChicago O'Hare Intl

4h 21m

LAS11:59 pmLas Vegas Harry Reid Intl

$89

Find similar

Frontier

Jan 16

LAS3:19 pmLas Vegas Harry Reid Intl

3h 52m

ORD9:11 pmChicago O'Hare Intl

Jan 25

ORD12:07 pmChicago O'Hare Intl

7h 28m

1 stop

LAS5:35 pmLas Vegas Harry Reid Intl

$91

Find similar

Frontier

Jan 8

LAS3:42 pmLas Vegas Harry Reid Intl

3h 50m

ORD9:32 pmChicago O'Hare Intl

Jan 11

ORD10:07 pmChicago O'Hare Intl

12h 55m

1 stop

LAS9:02 amLas Vegas Harry Reid Intl

$92

Find similar

Spirit Airlines flights from California to Chicago

Our best Spirit Airlines deals on California to Chicago flight tickets

Spirit Airlines

Dec 31

LAS3:47 pmLas Vegas Harry Reid Intl

12h 18m

1 stop

ORD6:05 amChicago O'Hare Intl

Jan 7

ORD7:57 pmChicago O'Hare Intl

4h 14m

LAS10:11 pmLas Vegas Harry Reid Intl

$141

Find similar

Spirit Airlines

Dec 12

LAX11:59 pmLos Angeles

4h 06m

ORD6:05 amChicago O'Hare Intl

Dec 22

ORD7:44 pmChicago O'Hare Intl

4h 45m

LAX10:29 pmLos Angeles

$143

Find similar

Spirit Airlines

Dec 11

LAX11:59 pmLos Angeles

4h 06m

ORD6:05 amChicago O'Hare Intl

Dec 12

ORD9:06 pmChicago O'Hare Intl

4h 46m

LAX11:52 pmLos Angeles

$145

Find similar

Fly from

Fly to

Route

Depart

Return

Price

Las VegasChicago

LAS - ORD

LASORD

Las Vegas Harry Reid Intl

Wed 1/28

11:59 pm-1:37 pm

1 stop11h 38m

Chicago O'Hare Intl

Sun 2/1

9:38 pm-11:59 pm

Nonstop4h 21m

$89

Las VegasChicago

LAS - ORD

LASORD

Las Vegas Harry Reid Intl

Fri 1/16

3:19 pm-9:11 pm

Nonstop3h 52m

Chicago O'Hare Intl

Sun 1/25

12:07 pm-5:35 pm

1 stop7h 28m

$91

Las VegasChicago

LAS - ORD

LASORD

Las Vegas Harry Reid Intl

Wed 1/7

12:31 pm-6:15 pm

Nonstop3h 44m

Chicago O'Hare Intl

Mon 1/12

9:05 pm-11:19 pm

Nonstop4h 14m

$96

Las VegasChicago

LAS - ORD

LASORD

Las Vegas Harry Reid Intl

Fri 1/16

3:19 pm-9:11 pm

Nonstop3h 52m

Chicago O'Hare Intl

Fri 1/23

4:34 pm-6:47 pm

1 stop28h 13m

$100

Las VegasChicago

LAS - ORD

LASORD

Las Vegas Harry Reid Intl

Fri 1/16

12:30 am-6:08 am

Nonstop3h 38m

Chicago O'Hare Intl

Sat 1/17

4:07 pm-6:17 pm

Nonstop4h 10m

$101

Los AngelesChicago

LAX - ORD

LAXORD

Los Angeles

Fri 1/9

9:17 am-9:32 pm

1 stop10h 15m

Chicago O'Hare Intl

Sun 1/11

6:15 am-4:48 pm

1 stop12h 33m

$143

Los AngelesChicago

LAX - ORD

LAXORD

Los Angeles

Fri 1/16

10:40 am-4:49 pm

Nonstop4h 09m

Chicago O'Hare Intl

Fri 1/23

7:00 am-9:36 am

Nonstop4h 36m

$146

Los AngelesChicago

LAX - ORD

LAXORD

Los Angeles

Sat 12/13

11:59 pm-6:05 am

Nonstop4h 06m

Chicago O'Hare Intl

Sun 12/14

9:14 pm-9:30 am

1 stop14h 16m

$147

Santa AnaChicago

SNA - ORD

SNAORD

Santa Ana J. Wayne/Orange Cnty

Thu 1/8

8:05 am-2:11 pm

Nonstop4h 06m

Chicago O'Hare Intl

Mon 1/12

8:15 am-10:49 am

Nonstop4h 34m

$269

Santa AnaChicago

SNA - ORD

SNAORD

Santa Ana J. Wayne/Orange Cnty

Thu 1/8

4:37 pm-2:17 pm

2 stops19h 40m

Chicago O'Hare Intl

Sun 1/11

8:43 pm-8:57 pm

3 stops26h 14m

$277

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How to get the cheapest flight ticket from California to Chicago

Look no further. We've gone through all the searches for this route on momondo so you have the important information and insights to find the cheapest flight ticket for your trip

Prices

Airlines

Other information

What is the cheapest month to fly to Chicago?

The month of September is, on average, the cheapest month to fly to Chicago from California, with most prices found around $242. If you’re not able to fly to Chicago in September, then February is your next best option. Flight prices from California to Chicago during February average around $257.

What is the cheapest day to depart on your flight to Chicago?

The cheapest day to depart on your flight to Chicago is on a Thursday when prices can be found for as low as $358. This is often the case because there is less demand to fly during this day of the week. When flying out on a Sunday, the most expensive travel day of the week, you can expect to see flight prices from California to Chicago for around $441.

What is the cheapest time of day to depart on your flight to Chicago?

Our most recent data shows that the best time of day to fly to Chicago is in the afternoon. Flights from California to Chicago during this time can be as low as $273. In contrast, the most expensive time of day to depart to Chicago is at noon when prices are around $456.

What is the cheapest California to Chicago flight route?

Fly from Los Angeles to Chicago O'Hare Intl for the best California - Chicago flight prices

How far in advance should I book a flight to Chicago?

You are more likely to see cheaper flights to Chicago from California when booking weeks ahead of your departure date. In general, you can expect to find flights to Chicago for around $301 when searching weeks out. However, flight prices might be lower outside of this timeframe. For example, people recently found flights to Chicago from California for as low as $244 on momondo.

What cabin class options are available on California to Chicago flights?

There are 4 cabin classes available to choose from on California to Chicago flights. Cabin price and availability will vary by airline so perform a search above to find the right deals for you.

Can stopping save me money on California to Chicago flights?

No. A direct flight is the cheapest option for a flight between California to Chicago.

Cheap California to Chicago flight deals and tips

Find info about flight duration, direct flights, and airports for your flight from California to Chicago

Best Price Found	$128
Fastest flight time	3h 20m
Direct flights	Every day
Airports in Chicago	1 airport

The best one-way flight to Chicago from California in the past 72 hours is $128. The best round-trip flight deal from California to Chicago found on momondo in the last 72 hours is $258.

The fastest flight from California to Chicago takes 3h 20m

Direct flights go from California to Chicago every day.

There is 1 airport near Chicago: Chicago O'Hare Intl (ORD)

Search flight deals

When did momondo last update prices for flights from California to Chicago?
Prices for flights from California to Chicago are updated daily.
How many operators does momondo search for flights from California to Chicago?
The number of operators available for flights from California to Chicago is 9 as of December 2025.
How old do you have to be to fly from California to Chicago?
The minimum age for a child to fly alone is five, but airlines that offer an unaccompanied minor (UNMR) service may have their own age limitations. Flight duration, scheduling, and layovers are among the considerations that may influence age limits. We recommend that you double-check with the airline you are booking with for travel from California to Chicago.
What documentation or ID do you need to fly to Chicago?
The travel and health documents you'll need for your trip to Chicago may differ based on your itinerary and personal situation. Typically, you should have several documents on hand, such as a national ID card or driver's license and a passport that is valid for six months after your intended arrival at Chicago. It is always advisable to seek advice from your airline or a trusted third party, such as IATA.
What is the most popular plane model from California to Chicago?
momondo data reveals that the most frequently booked plane model on the route from California to Chicago is Airbus A321neo, representing 18.04% of all bookings. The subsequent popular models are Boeing 737-800 at 17.74%, Boeing 757-300 at 10.54%, and Boeing 737 MAX 8 at 9.73%.

Best airlines flying from California to Chicago

Compare and see reviews for airlines that fly from California to Chicago with momondo

Airline	Rating	Free Cancellation	Price
Spirit Airlines	PriceFrom $77	Free Cancellation	Rating 6.3 8,161 reviews	Search Spirit Airlines flights
Frontier	PriceFrom $87	Free Cancellation	Rating 5.8 3,092 reviews	Search Frontier flights
Hawaiian Airlines	PriceFrom $108	Free Cancellation	Rating 7.8 2,815 reviews	Search Hawaiian Airlines flights
Delta	PriceFrom $128	Free Cancellation	Rating 7.9 8,011 reviews	Search Delta flights
Sun Country Air	PriceFrom $130	Free Cancellation	Rating 6.9 332 reviews	Search Sun Country Air flights
United Airlines	PriceFrom $133	Free Cancellation	Rating 7.4 9,065 reviews	Search United Airlines flights
Alaska Airlines	PriceFrom $139	Free Cancellation	Rating 8.0 11,396 reviews	Search Alaska Airlines flights
American Airlines	PriceFrom $166	Free Cancellation	Rating 7.2 11,044 reviews	Search American Airlines flights
Southwest	PriceFrom $179	Free Cancellation	Rating 8.0 4,254 reviews	Search Southwest flights

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Saint Joseph

Portage

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Valparaiso

Crown Point

Munster

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Monticello

Porter

Griffith

Saint John

Why use momondo?

Why should I use momondo to find a flight deal from California to Chicago?

Finding the right flight to Chicago from California is quick and easy when you have a range of options in front of you, from reputable agents and recognisable airlines. Options that can then be filtered down to find the best fit. That is what momondo does. We make finding flights to Chicago quick and easy, saving you time and money.

Can I find flights from California to Chicago with flexible booking policies on momondo?

Yes. momondo allows you to filter the results for California to Chicago flights to just show those with flexible booking policies.

How can momondo help me find flights from California to Chicago?

momondo helps you find the best flight between California and Chicago by providing filters to narrow your choice of flights to those matching your criteria. You can select flights based on numerous factors such as price, departure and landing times, airport and airline.

I’m not ready to book a flight from California to Chicago right now. Can momondo alert me if prices change?

Price alerts on flights to Chicago from California are quick and easy to set up on momondo. Simply perform a search and select the price alert feature. It is as simple as that.

An easier way to manage your Chicago trip

We make it super easy to schedule, organize and travel with friends or family. Trips is free — and available to use no matter where you book.

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Cheap flights from California to Chicago from $54

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a momondo user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from California to Chicago departing on 2/27. Fares may change, and may not be available for all flights or travel dates. Click the price to refresh the search for this deal.

Big names and deals

Big names and deals

Filter for what you want

Filter for what you want

Trusted and free

Trusted and free

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Price Alerts

Find the cheapest flights from California to Chicago

Cheap round-trip flights

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Cheap last minute flights

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Frontier flights from California to Chicago

Our best Frontier deals on California to Chicago flight tickets

Spirit Airlines flights from California to Chicago

Our best Spirit Airlines deals on California to Chicago flight tickets

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Use the filters below to find and compare flights from California to Chicago that are best for you.

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How to get the cheapest flight ticket from California to Chicago

Look no further. We've gone through all the searches for this route on momondo so you have the important information and insights to find the cheapest flight ticket for your trip

What is the cheapest month to fly to Chicago?

The month of September is, on average, the cheapest month to fly to Chicago from California, with most prices found around $242. If you’re not able to fly to Chicago in September, then February is your next best option. Flight prices from California to Chicago during February average around $257.

What is the cheapest day to depart on your flight to Chicago?

What is the cheapest time of day to depart on your flight to Chicago?

Our most recent data shows that the best time of day to fly to Chicago is in the afternoon. Flights from California to Chicago during this time can be as low as $273. In contrast, the most expensive time of day to depart to Chicago is at noon when prices are around $456.

What is the cheapest California to Chicago flight route?

Fly from Los Angeles to Chicago O'Hare Intl for the best California - Chicago flight prices

How far in advance should I book a flight to Chicago?

What cabin class options are available on California to Chicago flights?

There are 4 cabin classes available to choose from on California to Chicago flights. Cabin price and availability will vary by airline so perform a search above to find the right deals for you.

Can stopping save me money on California to Chicago flights?

No. A direct flight is the cheapest option for a flight between California to Chicago.

What is the cheapest airline that flies from California to Chicago?

Alaska Airlines, Frontier, and Southwest are the most popular carriers operating from California to Chicago

What airlines fly to Chicago?

How many flights depart from California to Chicago on average per day?

As of December 2025, 201 flights take off from California and land in Chicago each day. The most common flight departure time for this route is 6:00AM, with 51% of daily flights taking off at noon.

How many flights depart from California to Chicago on average per week?

As of December 2025, 1,409 flights take off from California and land in Chicago each week. The most common flight departure day for this route is Wed, with 18% of weekly flights taking off on this day.

How long does it take to fly to Chicago?

Cheap California to Chicago flight deals and tips

Find info about flight duration, direct flights, and airports for your flight from California to Chicago

Best Price Found

Fastest flight time

Direct flights

Airports in Chicago

When did momondo last update prices for flights from California to Chicago?

How many operators does momondo search for flights from California to Chicago?

How old do you have to be to fly from California to Chicago?

What documentation or ID do you need to fly to Chicago?

What is the most popular plane model from California to Chicago?

Best airlines flying from California to Chicago

Compare and see reviews for airlines that fly from California to Chicago with momondo

Traveling to a place near Chicago?

Why use momondo?

Why should I use momondo to find a flight deal from California to Chicago?

Can I find flights from California to Chicago with flexible booking policies on momondo?

How can momondo help me find flights from California to Chicago?

I’m not ready to book a flight from California to Chicago right now. Can momondo alert me if prices change?

An easier way to manage your Chicago trip

We make it super easy to schedule, organize and travel with friends or family. Trips is free — and available to use no matter where you book.

Get notified when prices go down

Daily price changes in your inbox - only with Price Alerts.

Find better results for your trip to the United States

Fly into one of these airports located in Chicago

Airports listed have a maximum distance of 78.5 mi from Chicago