Everything from the airline you choose, to the time of year and time of day you fly, to even the cost of aircraft fuel can affect the price of your next flight. But one key factor that travelers often overlook—but can often control—in their strategies for booking low airfare is their departure airport. Yes, the airport you choose to fly out of can have a big impact on the price of your plane ticket. In fact, according to new federal data, some of the best airports in the US for affordability can save travelers more than $100 per ticket.
Top US airports for low fares
The US Bureau of Transportation Statistics releases a quarterly report on Average Domestic Airline Itinerary Fares, which tracks what travelers actually pay for tickets, including taxes and fees (but excluding optional charges such as baggage or seat upgrades).
Looking at data from the first quarter of 2025 and focusing on the top 30 busiest US airports by total domestic passengers in 2024, analysts discovered that the following airports had the lowest average fares:
- Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport in Florida (FLL) - $285
- Orlando International Airport (MCO) - $294
- Harry Reid International Airport, Las Vegas (LAS) - $297
- LaGuardia Airport, New York City (LGA) - $338
- Tampa International Airport (TPA) - $341
Fort Lauderdale had the lowest average fare in the group at $285, which is $112 less than the national average of $397. Compared with the most expensive of the top 30 airports, Salt Lake City International, where the average fare was $471, Fort Lauderdale travelers paid $186 less on average.
These rankings reflect traveler volume in 2024 and airfare data from early 2025, offering a snapshot of which major airports currently provide the most budget-friendly options for domestic travel.
Consider nearby airports
Major metro areas such as Chicago and Washington, DC, are often served by more than one airport. Choosing the airport with the lower average fares can be a simple way to save on your next trip.
In Chicago, for example, Midway International Airport (MDW) typically offers lower fares than O’Hare International Airport (ORD).
If you’re flying through the nation’s capital, consider booking your return flight from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) instead of Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD). DCA is not only closer to downtown but also more budget-friendly. As of the first quarter of 2025, average fares from DCA were $105 less than those from Dulles.
New York City travelers have even more options, with three major airports serving the region. Among them, LaGuardia Airport has the lowest average fares. John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) ranks further down the list at No. 19, with Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) just behind at No. 20.
Save more by flying through hubs
Another smart strategy for finding lower airfares is by flying through airline hubs—airports where carriers concentrate flights and resources. These airports often offer more flight options and, at times, more competitive pricing.
Major airlines operate multiple hubs across the country. For example:
- American Airlines has a major hub at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW).
- Delta Air Lines is heavily based at Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL).
- United Airlines has strong operations at both Newark Liberty International Airport and Chicago O’Hare.
Flying through one of these hubs can sometimes mean cheaper fares, especially on routes where the airline is competing aggressively for market share.
The same strategy applies to low-cost carriers. If you’re near an airport where Spirit Airlines, Frontier Airlines, or Allegiant Air has a strong presence, you may be able to score even deeper discounts. Just be aware that these low-cost airlines frequently change routes, so what’s available today may not be tomorrow. Also, be sure to factor in additional fees as low-cost carriers often charge for extras like carry-on bags, seat selection, and printing boarding passes, which can quickly narrow the savings gap.
While not every airline has formal hubs, many operate out of “focal cities,” or airports where they offer a significant number of flights without officially designating them as hubs. These cities can be great places to find low fares and may even be home to some of the best airports in the US for cost-conscious travelers.
Watch for hidden travel costs
Sometimes, the price difference between two airports isn't big enough to justify the extra hassle. For example, the average fare gap between LaGuardia and Newark is about $90—a meaningful difference, but one that could quickly shrink once you account for other expenses. Before opting for a farther airport just to save on airfare, be sure to factor in transportation, tolls, and parking costs. A longer drive or more expensive parking can eat into your savings fast.
Also consider the total cost of getting to your final destination. If one airport offers a direct train to the city center while another requires a costly rideshare or shuttle, the cheaper flight might end up costing you more overall. Airports located farther from the city or in a location lacking transit options can drive up your total trip cost, even if the airfare itself is lower.
While cheap airfare is never guaranteed, starting your travels at one of the best airports in the US for low average fares could be your first step toward a more affordable flight.