Chicago, IL CHI to San Diego, CA SAN flight with Spirit Airlines

Sat, Dec 20
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Journey information

Overview: Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA flight

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Flights from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA depart on average 29 times per day, taking around 4h 55m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $47 (€38) if you book in advance.

There are 7 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 05:00, the last at 23:10. The fastest flight covers the 1729 miles (2784 km) distance in 4h 14m. April is the cheapest month to fly.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance
1729 miles (2784 km)
Average flight duration
4h 55m
Cheapest ticket price
$47 (€38)
Flights per day
29
Direct flights
7
Fastest flight
4h 14m
Cheapest month to travel
April
First flight
05:00
Last flight
23:10
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information

The cheapest and fastest flights from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA

Showing times and prices for Dec 21

Cheapest price

$203

Average price

$251

Fastest journey

4 h 14 m

Average duration

7 h 27 m

Flights per day

5

Distance

2784 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA will cost around $251 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $203.

Fast flights

Of the 5 flights that leave Chicago, IL for San Diego, CA onSun, Dec 21, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Dec 21 the direct flights cover the 2784 km distance in an average of 7 h 27 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 4 h 14 m .

On Sun, Dec 21 the longest flights will take 14 h 32 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

American Airlines
12:14PM4h14
Chicago, IL
04:28PMSan Diego, CA
$2031One-way
0 transfers
Spirit Airlines
08:18PM9h48
Chicago, IL
06:06AMSan Diego, CA
$2081One-way
0 transfers
American Airlines
03:00PM4h21
Chicago, IL
07:21PMSan Diego, CA
$2711One-way
0 transfers
Spirit Airlines
11:49PM14h32
Chicago, IL
02:21PMSan Diego, CA
$2751One-way
0 transfers
Spirit Airlines
04:21PM22h00
Chicago, IL
02:21PMSan Diego, CA
$2991One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €98. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 55m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.8 - 2.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €98, and a train costs an average of €161.

Distance: 1729 miles (2784 km)

Compare flight with

Flight
Most popular
Train
Bus

€205

Average price

€290

Average price

€182

Average price

Cheapest

7h 55m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 55m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

50h 38m

Average total duration

50h 8m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

45h 8m

Average total duration

44h 38m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8.4 - 16.7kg

CO2 emissions

0.8 - 2.5kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

2.8 - 7.0kg

CO2 emissions

Spirit Airlines

Most popular airline

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA flight times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA flights for today, Saturday, December 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.

Last updated at 12:05 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
unitedUA2634 · UA77412:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
14h46
2:46 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS715 · AS76512:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
12h31
12:31 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS715 · AS69712:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
15h30
3:30 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1621 · UA464312:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
6h30
6:30 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS715 · AS65012:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h35
8:35 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS715 · AS25412:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
16h59
4:59 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1442 · UA217712:15 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h47
9:02 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS413 · AS13941:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h06
9:06 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS413 · AS6671:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
15h03
4:03 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS413 · AS13121:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
12h17
1:17 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA611 · UA21771:05 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h57
9:02 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA19691:10 PM O'Hare International Airport
4h34
5:44 PM San Diego International Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA2280 · UA7741:13 PM O'Hare International Airport
13h33
2:46 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1709 · UA21631:30 PM O'Hare International Airport
10h25
11:55 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1231 · UA19131:35 PM O'Hare International Airport
10h26
12:01 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS7652:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
10h31
12:31 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS6972:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
13h30
3:30 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS2542:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
14h59
4:59 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS6232:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
16h45
6:45 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS14702:39 PM O'Hare International Airport
4h48
7:27 PM San Diego International Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA671 · UA1252 · UA54152:45 PM O'Hare International Airport
13h12
3:57 AM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
unitedUA671 · UA1812 · UA26332:45 PM O'Hare International Airport
14h03
4:48 AM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
unitedUA6602:56 PM O'Hare International Airport
4h34
7:30 PM San Diego International Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA2638 · UA7744:35 PM O'Hare International Airport
10h11
2:46 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1803 · UA1252 · UA54154:56 PM O'Hare International Airport
11h01
3:57 AM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
unitedUA1803 · UA7794:56 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h38
1:34 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1803 · UA1195 · UA54154:56 PM O'Hare International Airport
11h01
3:57 AM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
unitedUA1803 · UA1812 · UA14344:56 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h47
2:43 AM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
unitedUA1803 · UA4164:56 PM O'Hare International Airport
6h05
11:01 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1803 · UA1812 · UA26334:56 PM O'Hare International Airport
11h52
4:48 AM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
unitedUA1322 · UA7745:35 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h11
2:46 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA20655:43 PM O'Hare International Airport
4h30
10:13 PM San Diego International Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA2465 · UA26336:45 PM O'Hare International Airport
10h03
4:48 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2657 · UA7746:50 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h56
2:46 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1363 · UA54157:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h57
3:57 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS329 · AS6977:09 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h21
3:30 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS329 · AS6237:09 PM O'Hare International Airport
11h36
6:45 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS329 · AS2547:09 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h50
4:59 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA293 · UA20547:24 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h28
4:52 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS325 · AS6678:12 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h51
4:03 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS325 · AS7218:12 PM O'Hare International Airport
11h55
8:07 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1577 · UA26338:40 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h08
4:48 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS14479:37 PM O'Hare International Airport
4h42
2:19 AM San Diego International Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA2201 · UA2681 · UA21429:42 PM O'Hare International Airport
10h33
8:15 AM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
unitedUA2201 · UA1368 · UA56129:42 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h55
7:37 AM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
unitedUA2201 · UA18359:42 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h50
6:32 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2201 · UA5409:42 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h05
4:47 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1284 · UA16269:44 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h15
6:59 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1525 · UA54159:47 PM O'Hare International Airport
6h10
3:57 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS407 · AS6239:53 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h52
6:45 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA241710:05 PM O'Hare International Airport
4h36
2:41 AM San Diego International Airport0 transfersDirect
sun_country_airlinesSY260 · SY40511:50 PM O'Hare International Airport
17h36
5:26 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer

This is the last flight of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Sun
Dec 21
Mon
Dec 22
Tue
Dec 23
Wed
Dec 24
Thu
Dec 25
Fri
Dec 26
Sat
Dec 27

Airlines: Spirit Airlines, American Airlines, United from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CAFind the best flights between Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA with Omio's travel partners Spirit Airlines, American Airlines, United from $47 (€38). We can find you the best deals, schedules and tickets when comparing and booking the best trip.

United

About
United Airlines is one of the USA’s leading carriers, operating both domestic and international routes. For your next trip, you can choose from Economy, Premium Economy, and Business Class fares.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 19m
Cheapest Price
$384 (€308)
United frequency
17 a day
Luggage included
Carry-on baggage allowance is 7kg total (2 pieces max. ) for both Choice and Flex fares on United Airlines and Virgin Australia flights.
Additional luggage
Excess baggage fees apply for additional checked luggage beyond the standard allowance.
Luggage storage
Both airlines provide checked baggage services for storing luggage during flights.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation fees apply per person, per booking, with specific fees for different fare types.
Refund
Not applicable to flights; however, full refunds are available if flights are canceled by the airline.
Pregnant on board
Pregnant passengers are permitted to travel, with specific guidelines and medical certificates required after a certain gestational period.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors are permitted to travel, with specific age restrictions and services provided.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Meals and snacks are included on international flights operated by United Airlines and Virgin Australia.
Seat reservation
Seat selection may incur additional fees, depending on the fare type and airline.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
United Airlines and Virgin Australia offer services to and within Australia, providing accessible travel options for passengers with mobility needs.
Bikes
Both airlines permit bicycles onboard, with specific guidelines and fees.
Pets
United Airlines and Virgin Australia allow pets onboard, subject to specific policies and fees.

American Airlines

About
American Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the world, connecting travelers to hundreds of destinations across the United States, Latin America, Europe, Asia, and beyond. Operating from major hubs such as Dallas/Fort Worth, Miami, and Charlotte, American offers a wide range of travel options. Passengers can choose from Economy with affordable fares, Premium Economy with extra space, or Business and First Class featuring flat-bed seats, premium dining, and lounge access. With a modern fleet and membership in the oneworld alliance, American Airlines combines global reach with comfort and reliability.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 14m
Cheapest Price
$106 (€85)
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag (22 x 14 x 9 inches) and 1 personal item (18 x 14 x 8 inches) included in most fares
Additional luggage
Checked bags fees vary by route. First checked bag typically $30, second $40 on domestic flights
Cancellation Policy
Basic Economy tickets cannot be changed or refunded. Other fares allow changes with fee, refunds subject to fare rules.
Pregnant on board
Passengers can fly up to 36 weeks for single pregnancies, 32 weeks for multiple pregnancies. Medical certificate required within 7 days of departure if within 4 weeks of due date.
Unaccompagned minor
Children ages 5-14 can travel alone using American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Service. Service fee is $150 each way.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
USB plugs
Accessibility
American Airlines provides wheelchair assistance and special services for passengers with disabilities. Assistance must be requested at least 48 hours before departure.
Pets
Small dogs and cats allowed in cabin for $125 fee. Must be in approved carrier under seat. Service animals allowed.

Spirit Airlines

About
Spirit Airlines is an American ultra-low-cost carrier, headquartered in Dania Beach, Florida, operating scheduled flights throughout the United States, the Caribbean, and Latin America. Known for its distinctive bright yellow planes, Spirit's business model traditionally focuses on offering low base fares by unbundling services, allowing passengers to pay only for the amenities they choose, such as baggage and seat selection. As of August 2024, Spirit is evolving its offerings, introducing new fare tiers like "Go Big," "Go Comfy," "Go Savvy," and "Go," which include various bundled perks such as wider seats, extra legroom, priority boarding, and in-flight refreshments. Spirit was the seventh largest passenger carrier in North America as of 2023.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 16m
Cheapest Price
$47 (€38)
Luggage included
Personal item (18 x 14 x 8 inches) included
Additional luggage
Checked bags: First bag $79-89, Second bag $89-99, Additional bags $105-110
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation within 24 hours of booking is free, after that fees apply based on fare type and timing
Pregnant on board
Up to 7 days before departure with medical certificate. After 28 weeks, medical certificate required
Unaccompagned minor
Ages 5-14 can travel as unaccompanied minors for $100 fee per direction. Service not available on international flights or connecting flights
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Accessibility
Spirit Airlines offers assistance for passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair services and priority boarding. Passengers are encouraged to request assistance at least 48 hours in advance to ensure availability.

FAQs: Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA Flight

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA by flight. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest flight, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at San Diego, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap plane tickets from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA can start from as little as $56 (€45) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA is $258 (€207); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA flight travel time is 4 h 14 min   for the 1726 mile (2784 km) long route, but the duration can vary if you travel on weekends and holidays.
The earliest flight from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA leaves at 5: 00AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The latest flight from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA leaves at 11: 53PM.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA without having to change trains with United. There are 8 direct flights from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA each day. There may be fewer direct services available on weekends or holidays.
For the best Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA flight to buy, you can travel safely and comfortably with American Airlines, United or Spirit Airlines. However, it's always good to check all possible airlines with services to San Diego, CA from Chicago, IL to compare what amenities they may offer.
The cheapest month for a flight from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and San Diego, CA including taking a bus, train or flight.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor San Diego, CA are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of USA and USA. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
There is a time difference of 2 h between Chicago, IL and San Diego, CA all year round.
The best events to attend in San Diego, CA include:
  • Comic-Con International, the largest comic book and popular arts convention in the world
  • San Diego County Fair, a month-long fair featuring rides, games, and local food
  • San Diego Beer Week, a celebration of craft beer with tastings and events across the county
  • La Jolla Music Festival, an annual event showcasing classical music performances in a picturesque coastal setting.
The best holidays to experience in San Diego, CA include:
  • Memorial Day, ideal weather for beach activities and outdoor events
  • Independence Day, spectacular fireworks and patriotic celebrations
  • Labor Day, perfect for enjoying the last days of summer at the beach
  • Thanksgiving, a time for family gatherings with pleasant fall weather.
The best seasons to visit San Diego, CA are Spring or Fall. The best weather to explore San Diego, CA is during April-June or September-November.
For domestic flights we recommend to arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before departure. Please check the website of your departure airport if in doubt. Some airports may offer booking time slots for security checks or offer additional information on when to get there based on time of day.
Most airlines permit carry-on bags that fit within specific dimensions (e. G. 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. Bags must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
Many airlines impose weight limits, commonly ranging between 7 kg (15 lbs) and 12 kg (26 lbs).
Typically, passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (for example a purse, laptop bag, or backpack). Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you.
Budget Airlines (like Ryanair or Wizz Air) have stricter size and weight limits, often requiring fees for larger carry-ons. Full-Service Airlines have more lenient policies, sometimes including more spacious dimensions or higher weight limits depending on your ticket class.
The list of items prohibited on an airplane varies by country and airline, but in general, the following items are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage: Weapons and self-defence items, sharp objects, flammable materials, explosives, toxic substances, or liquids over 100ml (except for medications and baby essentials). In checked baggage, firearms (without authorization), explosives, large lithium batteries, and hazardous chemicals are prohibited. Electronic cigarettes must be in carry-on bags, while alcohol and dry ice have restrictions. Always check with your airline for specific regulations.

popular airports

Popular airports from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA

Chicago
San Diego
The major airport for departures in Chicago is O'Hare International Airport. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at O'Hare International Airport for your trip from Chicago to San Diego.
Amenities at airport
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
ShowerShower
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Car RentalCar Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
carConnection
Car connection
I-190, Exit 1
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
Shopping
Shopping
  • Shops are located in all terminals, including duty-free and brands like Hudson and MAC Cosmetics.
Parking
Parking
  • Parking available with options including hourly, daily, and economy lots, approximately 2.85€ ($3) per hour.
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurants are located in all terminals, offering a variety of cuisines including American and intertiol. Top options include Tortas Frontera and Publican Tavern.
Taxis
Taxis
  • Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, toilets
WC
WC
  • Available throughout the airport.
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotels such as Hilton Chicago O'Hare are located on airport grounds, with others like the Hyatt Regency nearby.
Shower
Shower
  • Showers are available in some lounges, such as the United Club, but access may require a fee or membership.
Lounge
Lounge
  • Lounges available, including United Club and American Airlines Admirals Club.
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Lost and Found located in terminal 1, near the baggage claim area.
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Car rental services are available at the Multi-Modal Facility, with companies like Hertz and Avis.
Public transit options for O'Hare International Airport
  • CTA Blue Line, O'Hare Station, 45 minutes to city center

Most popular flights to and from San Diego, CA and Chicago, IL

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