flight_takeoff ORD → SAN

Cheap Flights from Chicago to San Diego

Compare fares on the medium-haul flight from Chicago to San Diego — a westbound route of about 1,720 miles, typically flown nonstop in around 3h 55m.

straighten

Distance

1,720 mi

2,768 km

schedule

Est. flight time

3h 55m

nonstop

flight

Nonstop service

Available

3 carriers

language

Time difference

2 hours behind

San Diego

Flying from Chicago to San Diego

Flights from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to San Diego International Airport (SAN) cover roughly 1,720 miles (2,768 km) on a westbound heading, a nonstop flight of about 3h 55m. The route crosses 2 time zones — San Diego is 2 hours behind Chicago. It's served by 3 airlines.

Lets Fly Travel compares live fares across hundreds of airlines to find the best deal on this route — and every booking is reviewed by a real travel agent before ticketing.

Airlines on this route

Carriers that have operated nonstop service between ORD and SAN include:

flightAlaska Airlines flightAmerican Airlines flightUnited Airlines

Airline availability and fares change over time — search your dates for current options.

Best time to fly Chicago to San Diego

Fare patterns and travel conditions vary by season. Here's what to expect on the ORD–SAN route throughout the year.

Jan–Feb

Post-holiday lull means some of the lowest fares of the year on the Chicago–San Diego route. Great for a spontaneous escape.

Mar–May

Spring break drives demand on transcontinental routes like ORD–SAN. Book at least 4–6 weeks ahead for the best prices.

Jun–Aug

Summer is the busiest season for Chicago to San Diego travel. Mid-week flights (Tue/Wed) typically undercut weekend fares by 15–25%.

Sep–Oct

Fares often drop after Labor Day. September and October are among the cheapest months to fly this medium-haul flight.

Nov–Dec

Thanksgiving week and the Christmas/New Year period see significant fare increases. Flexibility on exact dates can save considerably.

flight_land Arriving at

San Diego International Airport

San Diego is served by San Diego International Airport (IATA: SAN , ICAO: KSAN). Allow time for baggage claim and ground transportation after landing.

IATA Code

SAN

Flight Time

~3h 55m

Distance

1,720 mi

tips_and_updates Arrival tips

›Check in online to save time at the airport.
›Arrive 2 hours before departure.
›Compare fares across several nearby dates for best value.

Chicago to San Diego — FAQs

How long is the flight from Chicago to San Diego? expand_more

A nonstop flight from Chicago (ORD) to San Diego (SAN) takes approximately 3h 55m, covering a distance of about 1720 miles (2768 km). Actual flight time varies with aircraft, routing and winds.

Which airlines fly from Chicago to San Diego? expand_more

Airlines that have operated nonstop service on the ORD–SAN route include Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, United Airlines. Use our search to compare current carriers, schedules and fares.

Is there a nonstop flight from Chicago to San Diego? expand_more

Yes. The ORD–SAN route has nonstop service. Nonstop availability can vary by season and day of week, so check live results for your dates.

How far is San Diego from Chicago? expand_more

The distance from Chicago (ORD) to San Diego (SAN) is about 1720 miles (2768 km) as the crow flies.

What is the time difference between Chicago and San Diego? expand_more

San Diego is 2 hours behind Chicago. Factor the time change into your arrival and connection planning.

When is the best time to book flights from Chicago to San Diego? expand_more

For domestic routes like Chicago to San Diego, booking about 1–3 months ahead and choosing mid-week departures usually finds the best prices. Avoid peak Friday and Sunday travel where possible.