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.
10. Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport
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.
9. San Jose Mineta International Airport
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.8. Miami International Airport
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.7. Oakland International Airport
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.
6. New York LaGuardia
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.Trending on Cheapism
5. Chicago Midway International Airport
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.
4. Harry Reid International Airport
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.
3. Orlando International Airport
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.Sign up for our newsletter
2. Luis Munoz Marin International Airport
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.
1. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport
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.Most Expensive: Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport
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.
Most Expensive: Salt Lake City International Airport
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.
Most Expensive: San Francisco International Airport
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.
Most Expensive: John Wayne Airport
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.
Most Expensive: Washington-Dulles
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.
