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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.