Want to save on flights? Start with these 10 budget-friendly airports. Airports like Fort Lauderdale (FLL) and Orlando (MCO) consistently offer fares well below the national average, thanks to competition from budget carriers like Spirit, Frontier, and Southwest. Here’s a quick look at the cheapest airports and their standout features:
- Fort Lauderdale (FLL): Lowest average airfare at $265.32, with ultra-cheap one-way flights starting at $40.
- Orlando (MCO): Average fare of $275.79, a hub for budget airlines near major attractions.
- Las Vegas (LAS): $285.46 average fare, with fierce competition keeping prices low.
- Denver (DEN): Central hub with fares averaging $351.81 and strong airline competition.
- Nashville (BNA): $357.19 average, with Southwest leading affordable options.
- LaGuardia (LGA): NYC access at $331.91 average fare, with budget carriers like Spirit.
- Dallas Love Field (DAL): $337.15 average, dominated by Southwest Airlines.
- Chicago Midway (MDW): $306.96 average, with Southwest and expanding budget options.
Quick Comparison Table:
| Airport | Average Fare | Main Budget Airlines | Key Routes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Lauderdale | $265.32 | Spirit, JetBlue, Southwest | Domestic, Caribbean |
| Orlando | $275.79 | Frontier, Spirit, Southwest | Domestic, International |
| Las Vegas | $285.46 | Southwest, Spirit, Frontier | West Coast, Mountain West |
| Denver | $351.81 | Southwest, Frontier, Spirit | Nationwide hub |
| Nashville | $357.19 | Southwest, Allegiant | Southeastern, Midwest |
| LaGuardia | $331.91 | Spirit, JetBlue, Southwest | Domestic US |
| Dallas Love Field | $337.15 | Southwest | Southwest US |
| Chicago Midway | $306.96 | Southwest, Frontier, Avelo | Midwest, National |
Pro Tips to Save Even More:
- Be flexible: Adjust travel dates and consider nearby airports.
- Set up alerts: Use tools like Google Flights or Dollar Flight Club to track price drops.
- Book early: Secure deals by planning ahead, but watch for last-minute sales.
Start your search at these airports to stretch your travel budget further!
How to Find the Cheapest Airfares
Landing the best airfare deals often comes down to understanding what drives ticket prices. One key factor is competition. When multiple airlines operate on the same route, they frequently lower their fares to attract passengers. Timing also plays a big role, as the combination of competition and when you book can significantly impact prices.
Traveling during peak periods, such as holidays or school breaks, tends to cost more. On the flip side, off-peak times and certain seasons often bring lower fares. By recognizing these trends, you can better plan around them, making it easier to save money by adjusting your travel dates or even exploring alternative airports.
Speaking of airports, expanding your search beyond just one departure or arrival location can make a big difference. Nearby airports often have cheaper options, so it’s worth checking them out. For instance, if you’re flying into or out of a major city, look into smaller regional airports nearby – they could save you a good chunk of change.
Another savvy move? Set up flight alerts. Services like Dollar Flight Club can be a game-changer. They monitor fares for their members and send out email or SMS notifications when prices drop – sometimes by as much as 90%. These alerts track fare changes and even pricing errors, so you’ll be among the first to know when a bargain pops up.
Tools like Google Flights are also incredibly handy. They let you search multiple airports at once (e.g., NYC for all New York City airports) and often include calendar views to help you spot the cheapest days to fly. Fare comparison websites with similar features can also show how prices fluctuate throughout the week, making it easier to plan smarter.
1. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
When it comes to saving on airfare, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) stands out as a top choice. It’s recognized as the cheapest airport in the United States, consistently offering budget travelers some of the lowest airfares in the country.
Average Airfare
Flying out of FLL costs an average of $265.32 per ticket – over $118 less than the national average of $384. Even better, prices have dropped by $5.36 compared to last year. One-way flights can start as low as $40 to Nashville, with other affordable routes including $44 flights to Atlanta, New York, Chicago, and Boston. For round-trip fares, you’ll find deals like $87 to New York or Atlanta, $92 to Las Vegas, and $114 to San Juan.
Major Budget Airlines Operating
FLL owes its low prices to a strong presence of budget airlines. Spirit Airlines leads the way, offering no-frills, low-cost options. Other carriers like JetBlue Airways, Frontier Airlines, and Avelo Airlines also operate here. Avelo Airlines, for instance, runs seasonal routes to destinations like Philadelphia/Wilmington, Delaware, and Wilmington, North Carolina, starting June 2025. This variety of carriers fuels competition, helping keep ticket prices low.
Why Fares Are So Low
With 35.9 million passengers passing through annually and over 34 airlines offering both domestic and international flights, FLL is a hub of activity. This high traffic creates fierce competition among airlines, especially on popular routes where multiple budget carriers battle to offer the lowest fares. For travelers, this means better deals and more affordable options.
Tips for Booking Cheap Flights
To make the most of FLL’s low fares, focus on flexibility with travel dates. Mid-week flights are often cheaper than weekend departures, and avoiding peak travel times can lead to even bigger savings. Even if you’re not based in South Florida, it’s worth considering FLL for its cost advantages. For example, flights from New York to Fort Lauderdale average $237, making it practical to book separate positioning flights to take advantage of FLL’s deals.
Another tip: book early but keep an eye on last-minute sales. Budget airlines often release discounted tickets to fill unsold seats, and FLL’s competitive market means these opportunities pop up frequently. Staying alert to fare changes can help you snag incredible deals.
2. Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, San Juan (SJU)
Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU), located in San Juan, Puerto Rico, is a wallet-friendly option for travelers heading to the Caribbean and beyond.
Average Airfare
One-way tickets start at just $49, and round-trip fares begin at $98, with the average cost landing around $235. Occasionally, you might even snag rare deals like a $60 flight from Boston Logan International Airport. Round-trip prices vary depending on where you’re flying from – expect fares as low as $98 from Fort Lauderdale, $120 from Miami, $146 from Newark, and $157 from New York. Spirit Airlines, known for its budget-friendly options, offers one-way flights starting at $42 to Miami and $61 to Fort Lauderdale.
Major Budget Airlines Operating
SJU owes its affordable fares to the strong presence of budget airlines. Frontier Airlines leads the pack, with 40–45% of passengers choosing this carrier. Spirit Airlines and JetBlue Airways also play a significant role in keeping prices competitive. For instance, Frontier and Spirit offer round-trip deals from Fort Lauderdale for about $128 and $98, respectively.
Why Are Fares So Affordable?
Several factors help keep ticket prices low at SJU. The airport handles an impressive 1,565 flights weekly, creating a competitive environment among airlines. As a major hub for Caribbean travel and a favorite tourist destination, it attracts numerous airlines vying for passengers. Additionally, Puerto Rico’s status as a U.S. territory makes travel more convenient for American tourists while still delivering a tropical getaway vibe. These dynamics encourage competitive pricing and influence the best times to book.
Tips for Scoring Cheap Flights
To stretch your travel budget, aim to book about 40 days in advance, fly on Tuesdays, and consider traveling during off-peak months like May, June, or July. Tools like price alerts and Skyscanner’s “Whole Month” feature can help you track the best deals. Flexibility with your travel dates can lead to even greater savings.
3. Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Orlando International Airport (MCO) ranks as the second most affordable among the 40 busiest airports in the United States, making it a favorite for travelers looking to save money.
Average Airfare
Flying out of MCO can save you a good chunk of change. The average round-trip fare is $327.92, but Dollar Flight Club members often snag deals for just $184.43 on average – a 44% discount. One-way flights can be incredibly cheap, starting at $32 with Spirit Airlines, while Avelo Airlines offers fares as low as $47.
Major Budget Airlines Operating
MCO’s affordability is fueled by a strong lineup of low-cost carriers. Spirit Airlines leads the way with its extensive route options, including one-way flights to destinations like New Orleans for $40 and Dallas, Newark, and Atlanta for $44-$46. Frontier Airlines and Avelo Airlines also play a big role, with Avelo operating out of Terminal A.
Key Reasons for Lower Fares
Several factors keep fares at MCO competitive. The Orlando area has multiple airports, including Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB), creating a competitive environment that drives prices down. Additionally, Allegiant Air’s return to MCO in May 2024 after a 13-year hiatus introduced 12 nonstop routes to places like Asheville, Allentown, and Knoxville, with one-way fares starting at $48. The high volume of flights – both domestic and international – combined with the presence of budget airlines like Spirit, Frontier, and Allegiant ensures that ticket prices remain low.
Tips for Booking Cheap Flights
Leverage MCO’s low fares by following a few smart booking strategies. Compare prices across budget carriers – Spirit Airlines offers extensive options, but Avelo and Allegiant also have excellent deals, especially to smaller East Coast cities. Don’t forget to explore nearby Orlando Sanford International Airport, which sometimes offers even cheaper flights and parking rates of $12 per day compared to MCO’s $24.
If you’re a Dollar Flight Club member, keep an eye on your email and SMS alerts for flash deals. Flexibility is key – traveling during off-peak times and being open to different travel dates can help you save even more.
4. Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport is a standout when it comes to finding budget-friendly airfare. Known for its competitive market, LAS consistently ranks as one of the most affordable airports in the United States. A 2022 FinanceBuzz study even placed it third for having the lowest average domestic ticket prices among 45 major airports nationwide.
Average Airfare
For 2025, the average airfare at LAS sits at $285.46 – an impressive $99 below the national average – despite a slight increase of $13.31 from the previous year. Back in 2022, the average fare was even lower at $247.53. However, that year marked the first time since 2018 that LAS didn’t claim the top spot for the lowest fares. Travelers can still find great deals, with roundtrip flights often dropping to as low as $190 during off-peak seasons.
Major Budget Airlines Operating
LAS is a hub for budget carriers, making it a go-to airport for affordable travel. Southwest Airlines leads the pack with a 40.54% share of passengers, followed by Spirit Airlines at 15.32%. The airport also serves as a base for Allegiant Air, Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Spirit Airlines. Additional options like Avelo Airlines, Breeze Airways, Viva Aerobus, and Volaris further expand the low-cost choices for travelers.
Key Reasons for Lower Fares
Several factors help keep fares low at LAS. Its status as a major leisure destination attracts a high volume of flights, fostering fierce competition among airlines. In 2024, the airport handled over 58.4 million passengers, creating economies of scale that drive down ticket prices. The abundance of low-cost carriers operating here also plays a big role in maintaining affordable airfare.
Tips for Booking Cheap Flights
If you’re looking to score a great deal, timing is everything. The cheapest days to fly domestically from LAS are typically Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays. Early morning or late-night flights are also worth considering, as they tend to have lower demand. Comparing fares across budget airlines is another smart move. For Dollar Flight Club members, keeping alerts active can help you snag flash deals to and from Las Vegas. Booking during the off-season is especially rewarding, with roundtrip flights sometimes dropping to $190 or less.
5. Denver International Airport (DEN)
Denver International Airport is a standout choice for travelers looking for affordable flights, whether flying domestically or internationally. It consistently offers some of the best airfare deals around.
Average Airfare
At $351.81, DEN’s average airfare is more than $32 below the national average. This makes it a prime pick for those trying to stretch their travel dollars.
Major Budget Airlines Operating
DEN is home to a variety of budget airlines that make affordable travel accessible. Frontier Airlines is a major player here, offering direct flights to over 60 destinations across the U.S. and internationally.
Southwest Airlines also has a strong foothold at DEN. Other budget-friendly options include Allegiant Air, Breeze Airways, Sun Country Airlines, Viva Aerobus, and Volaris. With an impressive 842 daily departures, travelers have plenty of chances to snag a deal that fits their schedule and budget.
Why Fares Are Lower
DEN’s role as a hub for both budget and traditional airlines creates intense competition, which naturally drives down prices. Its central location in the U.S. further enhances its appeal, making it a hotspot for competitive airfare.
How to Book Cheaper Flights
To get the most out of DEN’s low fares, keep an eye on deals from budget carriers. For example, Frontier Airlines currently offers roundtrip flights from Denver to Las Vegas for just $103 and from Denver to Dallas for $109. Flexibility with your travel dates and booking early can unlock even more savings.
If you’re a Dollar Flight Club member, enabling alerts for Denver departures is a smart move to catch flash sales and exclusive promotions. These strategies can help you make the most of DEN’s competitive pricing.
6. Nashville International Airport (BNA)
Nashville International Airport (BNA) stands out as a hub for affordable air travel, offering a mix of low fares and solid connectivity across the U.S. and beyond. Here’s a closer look at why this Tennessee airport is a smart pick for budget-conscious travelers.
Average Airfare
Flying out of BNA can save you a good chunk of change. In 2025, the average airfare is $357.19, which is about $27 below the national average of $384. To compare, during the third quarter of 2024, Nashville’s average domestic airfare was $342, while the national average sat at $366.
For even more perspective, flying out of BNA costs over $100 less than departing from Washington Dulles International, the most expensive airport in the U.S. during the same period. Although fares at BNA have risen by $8.37 compared to the previous year, it still ranks as one of the most wallet-friendly departure points in the country.
Major Budget Airlines Operating
BNA’s affordability is bolstered by the presence of several budget airlines. Southwest Airlines, the airport’s largest carrier, plays a significant role in keeping fares low. In 2025, Southwest expanded its Nashville operations by adding new nonstop routes, introducing redeye flights, and launching its first international partnership with Icelandair.
Other budget-friendly airlines like Spirit, Frontier, and Allegiant also operate at BNA, offering basic services at competitive base fares. While these airlines charge extra for things like baggage and seat selection, their low starting prices make them a great option for travelers looking to save.
Why Are Fares So Low?
The combination of a strong presence of budget carriers and Nashville’s central location creates a competitive pricing environment that helps keep fares low. This competition benefits travelers, giving them access to more affordable options.
Tips for Booking Cheap Flights
To make the most of BNA’s low fares, compare prices across airlines and take advantage of Southwest’s newly expanded routes and redeye flights. Keep an eye on fees for extras like baggage when booking, and plan ahead to lock in the best rates during busy travel seasons.
For those looking to score even better deals, services like Dollar Flight Club can alert you to exclusive discounts from BNA’s budget carriers. With its competitive pricing and frequent promotions, Nashville International is a top choice for stretching your travel dollars further.
7. LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
LaGuardia Airport (LGA) proves that traveling to and from New York City doesn’t have to break the bank. Nestled in one of the nation’s most expensive cities, LGA consistently offers budget-friendly airfare options, making it a favorite for cost-conscious travelers. Here’s a closer look at its fares, airlines, and tips to snag the best deals.
Average Airfare
LaGuardia’s airfare is impressively lower than the national average. In 2025, the average ticket price was $331.91 – around $52 less than the national average of $384. While this marked a slight increase of $3.75 from the previous year, LGA remains among the most affordable major airports in the U.S. For context, KAYAK reported average round-trip flights at $306, with good deals starting at $191. One-way flights could cost as little as $99, and the cheapest destination, Detroit, had flights starting at just $71.
Major Budget Airlines Operating
Budget airlines play a big role in keeping fares low at LGA. Spirit Airlines, for instance, offers one-way flights to Detroit for just $41 and to Myrtle Beach for $42. Round-trip fares on Spirit include $87 to Fort Lauderdale and $104 to Orlando. Frontier Airlines is another option for budget travelers, while Southwest Airlines sweetens the deal with its no-change-fee policy and two free checked bags.
Why Fares Stay Low
Several factors contribute to LGA’s affordable pricing. The airport’s high flight frequency and intense airline competition in the New York City market drive prices down. As a hub for domestic travel with limited international routes (mainly to Canada, Aruba, and the Bahamas), airlines operating at LGA can streamline their operations, reducing costs. Plus, its location – just a short distance from Manhattan – makes it the closest airport to the city center, adding convenience for travelers.
Tips for Booking Cheap Flights
Timing is everything when booking flights from LaGuardia. To save up to 25%, book your tickets 1–3 months in advance. Flying on Saturdays can help you save about 17% compared to Sundays, and choosing Tuesday or Friday flights can cut costs by 12%. For the best deals, book on Sundays – domestic fares drop by 6%, while international fares can be 17% cheaper. September is often the most affordable month to fly from LGA, making it perfect for budget travelers. Setting up price alerts, booking one-way tickets separately, or checking nearby airports like JFK or Newark can also help you land better deals.
For even more savings, services like Dollar Flight Club can alert you to exclusive discounts from LGA’s budget airlines, ensuring you make the most of the airport’s competitive pricing.
8. Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
Boston Logan International Airport stands out for offering affordable airfare options, even though it serves a region known for its high cost of living. Thanks to fierce competition among airlines and strategic scheduling, travelers can consistently find budget-friendly flights from BOS.
Average Airfare
The average airfare at Boston Logan is $283 for flights heading to Boston. Round-trip fares start as low as $64, and one-way tickets can be found for just $32. For instance, recent KAYAK searches revealed flights from Baltimore to Boston priced at $36. Other examples include one-way fares from Boston starting at $42, flights to Fort Lauderdale for $44, and tickets to Chicago beginning at $137. Domestic travelers can also snag deals like flights from Boston to Washington D.C. for approximately $55 (converted from 50 €).
Major Budget Airlines Operating
Boston Logan is a hub for several budget-friendly airlines, making it a prime spot for affordable travel. JetBlue leads the pack as the largest carrier at BOS, with 8,990 return flights scheduled in April 2024. Its fleet includes Airbus A220-300, A320, A321, and Embraer E190 aircraft. Spirit Airlines, known for its ultra-low-cost model, has 1,376 return flights planned in the same month, covering numerous U.S. destinations like San Juan. Southwest Airlines connects Boston to cities such as Nashville, Baltimore, Denver, Chicago Midway, and St. Louis with 1,028 return flights using its Boeing 737 fleet. Allegiant Air also offers 106 return flights to destinations like Asheville, Grand Rapids, Sarasota, Knoxville, and Destin. For international travelers, Norse Atlantic Airways operates 60 return flights to London Gatwick using Boeing 787-9 aircraft. This variety of budget carriers ensures plenty of opportunities for cost-conscious travelers.
Key Reasons for Lower Fares
Boston Logan’s affordability is largely driven by competition among budget airlines and its status as a high-volume hub. Major carriers like Delta Air Lines and JetBlue also play a role in keeping fares low by boosting operational efficiency. In 2022, BOS served 17.4 million passengers, allowing airlines to distribute fixed costs across a large traveler base. Additionally, connecting flights and stopover options often come with reduced fares. For example, while direct JetBlue flights to Oranjestad, Aruba average $574 round-trip, indirect routes with United, American, or US Airways can cost just $357.
Tips for Booking Cheap Flights
Planning ahead can make a big difference when booking flights out of Boston Logan. Reserving domestic tickets at least 28 days in advance can lead to savings of up to 24%. For the best deals, aim to book around 19 weeks before your travel date. Using flexible date searches and setting up price alerts can help you catch the most competitive offers. Seasonal trends also affect prices – October is the cheapest month for return flights to Boston, with fares averaging $133. In contrast, prices climb in April and May, reaching averages of $257 and $237, respectively. Even the time of day matters: afternoon flights average $282, while evening flights during peak times can cost as much as $459.
For even greater savings, consider routes with stopovers. Services like Dollar Flight Club can help you monitor deals and snag bargains when airlines at BOS drop their fares.
9. Dallas Love Field (DAL)
Dallas Love Field stands out as one of the most wallet-friendly airports in the U.S., offering travelers a chance to save big compared to pricier hubs. Flights from DAL average about $284, with ticket prices hovering around $323.76 – well below the national average of $365.64. Recent deals underscore its affordability: a one-way ticket from Tulsa was spotted for just $38 on KAYAK in the past two weeks, and round-trip fares have dropped as low as $139 from various cities. Even popular routes come with competitive pricing, such as $246 for flights from Atlanta to Dallas Love Field and $270 from Washington, D.C.. These low fares make DAL an attractive choice for savvy travelers looking to stretch their budget.
Major Budget Airlines Operating
Southwest Airlines is the undisputed leader at Dallas Love Field, commanding a whopping 95% market share as of August 2021. With its headquarters based locally, Southwest drives down fares and offers a wide range of flight options. Delta Air Lines also operates at DAL, while Alaska Airlines ceased its services on May 14, 2025. JSX adds to the mix with flights from its private terminal, giving passengers even more choices. By 2023, Love Field had served 17.5 million passengers, reflecting its growing popularity.
Why Are Fares So Low?
Several factors contribute to the lower ticket prices at DAL. For one, it consistently outperforms its larger neighbor, DFW, in terms of affordability. In the first quarter of 2023, the average ticket price at Love Field was $339, compared to $406 at DFW. Regulatory changes have also fueled competition among airlines, with the airport’s capped gate capacity of 20 helping to maintain a competitive pricing environment.
Tips for Finding Cheap Flights
Timing is everything when booking flights at Dallas Love Field. For example, round-trip fares average $254 in June but can climb to $385–$410 in December and April. If you’re booking one-way tickets, May offers the best value, with an average price of $256. Flying on Wednesdays can also save you money, with round-trip fares averaging $341, compared to Sundays, which are the priciest at around $434. Night flights are another budget-friendly choice, costing about $296 for a round-trip, whereas afternoon departures during peak times can reach $425. Choosing DAL over DFW for trips to the Dallas area is another smart way to cut costs.
To stay ahead of fare drops, services like Dollar Flight Club can alert you to deals, ensuring you snag those $38 one-way tickets or $139 round-trip bargains. With these strategies, Dallas Love Field becomes a top pick for travelers looking to save without sacrificing convenience.
10. Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)
Chicago Midway International Airport is a go-to hub for travelers looking to save on airfare in the Midwest. With flights averaging about $270, MDW consistently offers fares roughly 10% below the national average. Its central location and fierce airline competition make it a hotspot for affordable travel. For example, a recent search on KAYAK turned up a one-way ticket from Nashville for just $38 within the past two weeks.
Average Airfare
MDW stands out for its wallet-friendly ticket prices. Round-trip fares can dip as low as $97 from major cities, with January being the most budget-friendly month – averaging $208 for round-trips and $268 for one-way tickets. By contrast, December sees peak pricing at $399. Even one-way tickets can drop to just $49. Fridays are the best day for deals, with round-trip tickets averaging $276, compared to Sunday flights, which cost about $371. Night flights are another opportunity to save, averaging $258 for round-trips, while evening departures during peak hours can climb to $351.
Major Budget Airlines Operating
Southwest Airlines is the dominant player at MDW, handling over 90% of passenger traffic. It offers flights to more than 70 destinations across the U.S. and operates exclusively from Concourse B.
Other low-cost carriers have also carved out a significant presence at MDW. Frontier Airlines has made it its main Chicago hub, adding new nonstop routes. Allegiant Air is expanding rapidly, with June 2025 projected to have the highest number of departing seats from Midway in its history. By July 2025, Allegiant plans to serve six nonstop destinations during its peak summer schedule. Avelo Airlines also contributes to the competitive pricing landscape, giving travelers even more options.
Key Reasons for Lower Fares
MDW’s affordability is no accident. The intense competition among airlines drives prices down. Additionally, the airport’s lower operating costs compared to larger hubs allow carriers to pass those savings on to passengers. Its Midwest location also helps, as shorter flights reduce operational expenses.
The Chicago Department of Aviation has worked closely with low-cost carriers to maintain affordable airfares. This partnership has been effective, with MDW serving over 22 million passengers in 2023. These factors combine to make MDW a top choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Tips for Booking Cheap Flights
Timing is everything when it comes to scoring deals at MDW. January offers the lowest fares, while December and August are the priciest months, with round-trip tickets averaging $399 and $362, respectively. For the best savings, book flights on Fridays and opt for night departures, which can save you up to $100 per round-trip ticket.
For domestic travel, MDW often beats Chicago O’Hare on price, thanks to its focus on budget carriers. Southwest Airlines, in particular, offers frequent sales and competitive pricing on popular routes. Services like Dollar Flight Club can help you stay ahead of the game, ensuring you don’t miss out on MDW’s best deals.
Airport Comparison Table
Here’s a quick look at eight budget-friendly airports to help you decide where to fly from for your next trip. The table below breaks down airfare costs, major airlines, popular destinations, and regional perks.
| Airport | Average Airfare | Major Budget Airlines | Typical Destinations | Regional Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Lauderdale (FLL) | $265.32 | Spirit, JetBlue, Southwest | Caribbean, Latin America, Domestic US | Offers the lowest fares in the country – $118 below the national average – with excellent international connections. |
| Orlando (MCO) | $275.79 | Frontier, Spirit, Southwest, JetBlue | Domestic routes, select international destinations | Close to major theme parks and benefits from competitive pricing among airlines. |
| Las Vegas (LAS) | $285.46 | Southwest, Spirit, Frontier, Allegiant | West Coast, Mountain West, select East Coast | Nearly $99 below the national average; a popular gateway to entertainment and leisure. |
| Denver (DEN) | $351.81 | Southwest, Frontier, Spirit | Nationwide hub coverage | Centrally located, serving as a major connecting hub for budget airlines. |
| Nashville (BNA) | $357.19 | Southwest, Allegiant, Frontier | Southeastern and Midwestern routes, some nationwide | A rising destination with growing airline competition, thanks to its booming music scene. |
| LaGuardia (LGA) | $331.91 | JetBlue, Southwest, Spirit | Primarily domestic US | Offers access to NYC without the higher costs of larger airports and features recent facility upgrades. |
| Dallas Love Field (DAL) | $337.15 | Southwest (dominant) | Routes across the Southwest | Known as Southwest Airlines’ original hub, with streamlined operations. |
| Chicago Midway (MDW) | $306.96 | Southwest, Frontier, Allegiant, Avelo | Midwest-focused with expanding national routes | $77 below the national average, with strong competition among carriers. |
Fort Lauderdale stands out for its unbeatable fares, coming in at $118 less than the national average of $384. Each airport brings its own regional strengths, whether it’s proximity to major attractions, competitive airline markets, or strategic locations for connecting flights.
If you’re looking to snag the best deals, services like Dollar Flight Club can help track flights from these airports, making it easier to spot the lowest fares for your travel dates.
More Tips for Booking Cheap Flights
If you’re looking to save even more on airfare, here are some extra strategies to consider. Staying flexible with your travel plans can make a big difference. Adjusting your travel dates or even your destination can often lead to significant savings.
Explore nearby airports. Sometimes flying into or out of alternative airports within 70 to 100 miles of your main destination can save you money. For example, if you’re heading to New York City, compare fares from LaGuardia, JFK, and Newark airports to see which offers the best deal.
Set up fare alerts. These can be a lifesaver when it comes to spotting flash sales, midweek price drops, or surprise discounts during peak travel times. Some airlines even let you rebook at lower rates using travel credits, which can stretch your budget further.
Consider using services like Dollar Flight Club. This platform sends email and SMS alerts for flights discounted by as much as 90%, covering both domestic and international routes. With over 3 million members, it’s helped travelers snag deals like San Francisco to Hawaii for $181, Boston to Amsterdam for $289, and Denver to New York for just $59.
Conclusion
Choosing the right airport can make a big difference in your travel budget. In fact, 72% of U.S. airline passengers say ticket price is one of the main factors they consider when picking an airport. The airports we’ve discussed are some of the best options for finding affordable flights, whether you’re traveling domestically or internationally.
However, it’s not just about the ticket price – think about the total cost of your trip. Larger airports might come with extra expenses like higher parking fees, tolls, or pricier transportation options. On the other hand, smaller regional airports often offer perks like free or low-cost parking, which can help you save even more.
To get the most out of these budget-friendly airports, consider tools like Dollar Flight Club. It provides personalized alerts for deals from up to four departure airports and even highlights mistake fares that could save you up to 90% on flights. It’s a smart way to keep your travel costs in check without spending hours searching for deals.
Flexibility is your best friend when it comes to affordable travel. By being open with your travel dates and destinations while keeping these airports in mind, you can explore more of the world without breaking the bank.
FAQs
What are the best ways to save money when flying from affordable airports like Fort Lauderdale or Orlando?
To stretch your travel budget when flying from cost-effective hubs like Fort Lauderdale or Orlando, consider booking your tickets 2 to 3 weeks ahead of your trip. This timing often aligns with the lowest fares. Also, aim to fly on Tuesdays or Wednesdays, as these midweek days typically offer cheaper options compared to high-demand days like Fridays or Sundays.
Being flexible with your travel plans can make a big difference. Adjusting your departure dates or times, especially during less busy months like March, can unlock better deals. For even deeper discounts, think about signing up for email or SMS alerts from services like Dollar Flight Club, which occasionally features flight deals with savings of up to 90%.
How can I find the cheapest flights during busy travel seasons?
Finding cheaper flights during busy travel times might seem tough, but a few smart tactics can make a big difference. Start booking early – domestic flights are often cheaper when booked 3 to 7 months ahead, while international trips usually offer better prices 4 to 10 months in advance. Timing matters too; flying midweek, especially on Tuesdays or Wednesdays, can often land you lower fares.
Steer clear of peak travel dates, like major holidays, to avoid inflated prices. Setting up price alerts is another handy trick to catch deals as they pop up. And if you can be flexible with your travel dates or even your departure airport, you’ll have more chances to snag a budget-friendly ticket.
Are alternative airports cheaper and more convenient for travelers?
Flying out of smaller, alternative airports can be a great way to cut travel costs – sometimes by as much as 30% compared to major hubs. Beyond the savings, these airports often come with added benefits like shorter security lines and less crowded terminals, which can make your journey feel a lot less stressful.
That said, it’s worth considering the trade-offs. Depending on your location, getting to these airports might take more time or cost extra for transportation. A little planning can go a long way in figuring out if the lower fares and smoother experience outweigh the additional effort for your trip.
