Airports Near Chicago
The closest airports to Chicago, Illinois: IATA codes, names and distances, each with a full airport guide covering terminals, lounges and transit.
The nearest airport to Chicago, Illinois is Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), about 7 mi (11 km) away — roughly 23 min by road. It also serves as the area's main international gateway.
| Code | Airport | Distance | Transfer | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MDW | Chicago Midway International AirportChicago, United States | 7 mi / 11 km | 23 min | International |
| ORD | Chicago O'Hare International AirportChicago, United States | 16 mi / 25 km | 30 min | International |
| GYY | Gary Chicago International AirportGary, United States | 21 mi / 33 km | 40 min | International |
| PWK | Chicago Executive AirportChicago/Prospect Heights/Wheeling, United States | 22 mi / 36 km | 43 min | Regional |
| LOT | Lewis University AirportChicago/Romeoville, United States | 29 mi / 46 km | 55 min | Regional |
| DPA | Dupage AirportChicago/West Chicago, United States | 31 mi / 50 km | 56 min | Regional |
| JOT | Joliet Regional AirportJoliet, United States | 35 mi / 57 km | 1 hr 4 min | Regional |
| UGN | Waukegan Regional AirportChicago/Waukegan, United States | 41 mi / 66 km | 1 hr 14 min | Regional |
Distances are straight-line; transfer times are road estimates. "Type" flags major/international gateways.
Which airport is best?
For the shortest transfer, Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) is the most convenient at about 7 mi out. Larger airports a little farther out can offer more connections, so it's worth comparing fares before booking.
Getting to and from the airport
Taxis and ride-hailing serve every airport here, and the larger ones usually add a rail, metro or bus link into Chicago. Allow extra time in peak traffic. For exact routes, times and fares, open the airport guide — start with MDW.
Hotels near the airport
For early departures or late arrivals, a hotel near MDW saves a stressful morning transfer.
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Other cities these airports serve
Travel tips
Compare the total door-to-door time, not just the airfare — a cheaper flight into a distant airport can cost more once you add the transfer. Check whether your airport has a direct train or metro before defaulting to a taxi, and for international arrivals, confirm any visa or transit rules in advance.
Frequently asked questions
What is the closest airport to Chicago?
The nearest airport to Chicago is Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), about 7 mi (11 km) away — roughly 23 min by road.
Which airport should I fly into for Chicago?
For long-haul and international flights, Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) is the main gateway near Chicago. The closest airport, Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), is the most convenient for transfers — weigh proximity against the breadth of flight connections.
How far is the airport from Chicago?
The nearest is about 7 mi (11 km) away. The table above shows the distance and an estimated transfer time for each airport within about 300 km.
How do I get from the airport into Chicago?
Most airports offer taxis and ride-hailing, and many add a rail, metro or bus link into the city. Tap any airport above for a full guide with ground-transport options, lounges and transit details.