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Cheap Flights from Chicago (ORD) to San Diego (SAN)

View AU$165 flight on Sat, 5 Sept 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN)

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Cheap Flights from Chicago (ORD) to San Diego (SAN)

Prices were available within the past 7 days for one-way flights and round trip tickets for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

American Airlines
Wed, 2 Sept - Mon, 7 Sept
ORD
Chicago
SAN
San Diego
AU$328 Return, found 1 day ago
AU$328
Return
found 1 day ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Wed, 2 Sept from Chicago to San Diego, returning Mon, 7 Sept, priced at AU$328 found 1 day ago
Alaska Airlines
Wed, 2 Sept - Mon, 7 Sept
ORD
Chicago
SAN
San Diego
AU$328 Return, found 1 day ago
AU$328
Return
found 1 day ago
Select Alaska Airlines flight, departing Wed, 2 Sept from Chicago to San Diego, returning Mon, 7 Sept, priced at AU$328 found 1 day ago
Delta
Wed, 2 Sept - Mon, 7 Sept
ORD
Chicago
SAN
San Diego
AU$343 Return, found 1 day ago
AU$343
Return
found 1 day ago
Select Delta flight, departing Wed, 2 Sept from Chicago to San Diego, returning Mon, 7 Sept, priced at AU$343 found 1 day ago
Delta
Sun, 23 Aug - Sun, 30 Aug
ORD
Chicago
SAN
San Diego
AU$357 Return, found 1 day ago
AU$357
Return
found 1 day ago
Select Delta flight, departing Sun, 23 Aug from Chicago to San Diego, returning Sun, 30 Aug, priced at AU$357 found 1 day ago
Alaska Airlines
Tue, 11 Aug - Thu, 13 Aug
ORD
Chicago
SAN
San Diego
AU$371 Return, found 5 hours ago
AU$371
Return
found 5 hours ago
Select Alaska Airlines flight, departing Tue, 11 Aug from Chicago to San Diego, returning Thu, 13 Aug, priced at AU$371 found 5 hours ago
American Airlines
Wed, 2 Sept - Mon, 7 Sept
ORD
Chicago
SAN
San Diego
AU$375 Return, found 1 day ago
AU$375
Return
found 1 day ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Wed, 2 Sept from Chicago to San Diego, returning Mon, 7 Sept, priced at AU$375 found 1 day ago
Delta
Wed, 2 Sept - Mon, 7 Sept
ORD
Chicago
SAN
San Diego
AU$379 Return, found 1 day ago
AU$379
Return
found 1 day ago
Select Delta flight, departing Wed, 2 Sept from Chicago to San Diego, returning Mon, 7 Sept, priced at AU$379 found 1 day ago
Delta
Thu, 6 Aug - Fri, 21 Aug
ORD
Chicago
SAN
San Diego
AU$381 Return, found 2 days ago
AU$381
Return
found 2 days ago
Select Delta flight, departing Thu, 6 Aug from Chicago to San Diego, returning Fri, 21 Aug, priced at AU$381 found 2 days ago
Alaska Airlines
Tue, 11 Aug - Thu, 13 Aug
ORD
Chicago
SAN
San Diego
AU$386 Return, found 5 hours ago
AU$386
Return
found 5 hours ago
Select Alaska Airlines flight, departing Tue, 11 Aug from Chicago to San Diego, returning Thu, 13 Aug, priced at AU$386 found 5 hours ago
United
Wed, 2 Sept - Mon, 7 Sept
ORD
Chicago
SAN
San Diego
AU$409 Return, found 1 day ago
AU$409
Return
found 1 day ago
Select United flight, departing Wed, 2 Sept from Chicago to San Diego, returning Mon, 7 Sept, priced at AU$409 found 1 day ago

Find the cheapest month to fly from Chicago (ORD) to San Diego (SAN)

March is typically the cheapest month to fly

From AU$193 - AU$456 per traveller.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) cost?
You can find one-way and return flights from ORD to SAN with Expedia. Flight prices vary based on the month and day of the week you want to travel, as well as the airline and how far in advance you book your ticket. Filter your search on Expedia by "Price (lowest to highest)" to see our cheapest fares first, and use the Price Tracking tool to receive alerts when ORD to SAN ticket fares go up or down.
What is the cheapest month to fly from Chicago, IL (ORD) to San Diego, CA (SAN)?
The cheapest months to fly from Chicago, IL (ORD) to San Diego, CA (SAN) are typically during off-peak season when demand is low. Traveling in off-peak or shoulder months is usually a good way to secure cheap tickets, just remember to avoid flying during holidays if you are able to. Use the calendar view in your search to see which months have low fares on this route.
Which airlines fly direct from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
There are 2 airlines offering direct flights from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.).
  • United operates 54 direct flights from ORD to SAN every week.
  • American Airlines operates 42 direct flights from ORD to SAN every week.
How do I find cheap flights from Chicago, IL (ORD) to San Diego, CA (SAN)?
To find a cheap flight from Chicago, IL (ORD) to San Diego, CA (SAN), be flexible with your dates. Traveling outside of peak vacation months and booking a mid-week flight can help you save. Early morning and late night flights are often more affordable, too. Expedia allows you to compare flight times, airlines and routes all in one place to find low fares. You can also set up Price Tracking and receive alerts when fares go up or down.
What is the best airline to fly with from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, Alaska Airlines offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, Southwest Airlines typically offers the lowest fares. United offers the most daily flights from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.), which is great if flexibility is what you value most. The best carrier for this journey could also be the one you have a loyalty membership with, as flying with that airline or another airline within the same alliance could help you collect points or enjoy lounge access.
What is the best time to fly from Chicago, IL (ORD) to San Diego, CA (SAN)?
The best time to fly is usually mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) and during early morning hours as flights tend to be cheaper, less crowded, and generally more on-time. Avoid major holidays and peak vacation seasons for smoother travel. Combining off-peak days and hours often gives the best combination of cost, comfort, and convenience.
How many flights per day from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
You'll find approximately 14 nonstop flights per day from Chicago O'Hare International (ORD) to San Diego International (SAN). For even more choices, look at flights that include layovers, as there are around 152 connecting flights per day. Some common connection points include Dallas-Fort Worth International (DFW), Denver International (DEN), and Seattle - Tacoma International (SEA).
What is the earliest flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to San Diego International Airport (SAN) typically departs around 12:00 AM local time. This flight is operated by American Airlines. This is a seasonal service, active only in December. An early departure like this can help you make the most of your time at your destination. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What day of the week has the most flights from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
You'll find the most flights from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to San Diego International Airport (SAN) on Fridays, with around 97 flights available. This gives you plenty of options for your travel plans. Notably, Fridays and Thursdays have significantly more flight options compared to other days of the week. Major airlines on this route include United, American Airlines, and Delta.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) are in the morning, from 6am to 9am. Many major carriers, including United, Alaska Airlines and American Airlines, offer flights during this window. Many travelers prefer this because it allows for an early start to their travel day, getting them to San Diego with plenty of time to enjoy the afternoon.
How long does it take to fly from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
Flying nonstop from ORD to SAN takes around 4 hours 30 minutes, with the route covering approximately 2,770 kilometers. Flights with a layover typically take 3 hours 50 minutes longer than direct options. Keep in mind that actual flight times can vary due to wind patterns, weather, and air traffic.
Can you fly business or first class from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
You can fly business class or first class between ORD and SAN. Airlines that offer business class service on this route include:
  • Frontier Airlines
  • Delta
First class cabins are available on:
  • Alaska Airlines
  • Delta
  • United
  • American Airlines
How do I earn miles on a Chicago, IL (ORD) to San Diego, CA (SAN) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Chicago, IL (ORD) to San Diego, CA (SAN) flight when you book with Expedia. Before you confirm your booking, simply select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number. As a member of One Key™, you can also earn OneKeyCash™* on top of your airline miles when you book with Expedia.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
What airports do you fly into for San Diego, CA (SAN) from Chicago, IL (ORD)?
If you're planning to travel to San Diego from O'Hare Intl. (ORD), you can fly directly into San Diego Intl. (SAN). Some flights may connect through major hubs like Denver Intl. (DEN), Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), or Love Field (DAL) before reaching San Diego. Compare routes and airports on Expedia to find the best flight options for your travel plans.
Is it cheaper to buy a plane ticket from Chicago, IL (ORD) to San Diego, CA (SAN) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Chicago, IL (ORD) to San Diego, CA (SAN) will be more expensive than booking in advance. As the departure date approaches, there are usually fewer seats available which can drive up the cost. However, if there's some wiggle room with your travel dates and times, you could bag a cheap last-minute fare.
Is it cheaper to book a Chicago, IL (ORD) to San Diego, CA (SAN) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Chicago, IL (ORD) to San Diego, CA (SAN) flight and hotel package is usually cheaper than booking separately. With Expedia, you can enjoy the ease of organizing your travels all in one place. Select from our extensive range of stays and then add flights, activities and car rentals to your booking. Bundle everything together, and you could save hundreds of dollars.
Can I cancel or change the date of my flight from Chicago, IL (ORD) to San Diego, CA (SAN)?
If you booked your Chicago, IL (ORD) to San Diego, CA (SAN) flight within the last 24 hours, you may be able to modify or cancel it without any fees. Depending on the airline and the type of ticket you have, additional charges may apply for changes beyond this timeframe. Airline policies and contact information can be found in your itinerary or confirmation email. Or, head to our Customer Service portal if you'd like more information.

Travel information

Origin airport
O'Hare Intl.
Destination airport
San Diego Intl.
Airlines serving
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, United
Return price
AU$327
Distance
2752 km
Average flight time
2 hours 23 mins

Book with confidence

Your quick guide to flights from Chicago to San Diego

Pick up great flights from Chicago to San Diego

With Expedia, you have your pick of flights a day with 20 airlines covering flights from Chicago to San Diego. Whether you’re on a business trip, a family holiday or a luxury break, just enter your travel dates, hit search then check out your choice of flights. Select from return, one way or multi-city flights, and use the advance search tool if you want a direct or refundable flight. You can narrow your search to show you just your preferred cabin class and airline, too. It’s all easy. You can book direct flights from Chicago to San Diego that take around hours.

Find cheap flights from Chicago to San Diego

From the great flight deals with prices currently ranging from AU$328 to AU$409, you can choose to see the cheapest flights first. Generally, you can book the cheapest flights from Chicago to San Diego around 4 to 6 weeks in advance. If your travel dates are flexible, try to avoid weekends and peak seasons – when you are more likely to grab the lowest prices. Even last minute, there are some impressive deals. The cheapest time to fly to San Diego is normally in September.

Reasons to book your flight from Chicago to San Diego with Expedia

Expedia makes it easy to find, book, and travel, with everything you need all in one place. When you enter your travel details, find fantastic deals just for you on flight tickets from Chicago to San Diego across all the main airline carriers, so you can save time, dollars, and hassle finding the perfect flight. If you think your plans could change, choose refundable flights so any changes won’t cost you more. Book your flight to San Diego right now and, if you join Expedia Rewards, you earn points this time and every time you travel with Expedia.

Your quick guide to flights from Chicago to San Diego

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*Available to Expedia members.