20 of the Most Affordable Long-Distance Flights in America
For long-distance travel, you don’t need to empty your bank account. The Bureau of Transportation Statistics reports that the U.S. average domestic airfare reached $268.48 in 2023, but savvy travelers understand this figure represents only a fundamental benchmark. Visitors who enjoy relaxing on beaches or scaling mountain peaks can find numerous dream destinations accessible via flight without spending much money.
Current budget airlines, airline sales, and travel hacks make cross-country flights and city-hopping more accessible than ever. This list presents 20 budget long-distance flights paired with destinations that instantly inspire you to pack your bags. Scroll to see how you can achieve big dreams without spending much money. Adventure is only a boarding pass away!
New York City to Miami
Who would refuse the chance to replace city towers with tropical palms? Due to JetBlue and Frontier airline deals, passengers can fly round-trip between NYC and Miami for between $120 and $150.
When you reach Miami, you can enjoy sunny beach days on its famous beaches and dance nights at South Beach clubs while exploring Little Havana’s Cuban cuisine. Pro tip? Mid-week flight bookings typically result in additional savings.
Los Angeles to Honolulu
Aloha, affordable paradise! Budget airlines such as Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest offer round-trip fares from LA to Honolulu at about $300.
The Aloha State allows visitors to surf at the famous Waikiki Beach and explore trails at Diamond Head. Want extra savings? You can save money on flights by booking your tickets during the off-season months, fall and spring.
Chicago to Las Vegas
Feeling lucky? Book a round-trip flight from Chicago to Las Vegas with Spirit or Allegiant to get tickets for as little as $110. The dazzling Strip lights will captivate thrill-seekers, and Red Rock Canyon’s breathtaking views will satisfy nature enthusiasts.
Explore Las Vegas’s incredible dining scene, which features famous buffet options and top-rated Michelin-starred restaurants.
Denver to Orlando
Trade Colorado’s snowy slopes for Disney magic. A round-trip Southwest or Frontier flight between Denver and Orlando will cost between $120 and $140. Orlando is a worthwhile family destination, and families can meet Darth Vader while sunbathing at Cocoa Beach.
San Francisco to Austin
This airline route from the Golden Gate Bridge to Austin Weird costs an average of $180 round-trip when flying Alaska or United. Austin offers a dynamic destination with its thriving musical performances, unique food trucks, and Southern-friendly atmosphere. Pack accordingly—it can get hot here!
Any food lover visiting Austin should try Franklin Barbecue and La Barbecue because they are some of the city’s most famous barbecue spots. Outdoor enthusiasts should explore Lady Bird Lake on foot or discover Zilker Park to enjoy fresh air alongside beautiful views. Every Austin visit requires a tour of Sixth Street nightlife with abundant, lively bars and live music venues. Austin has attractions for every food lover, music fan, and nature enthusiast.
Seattle to Phoenix
Give up Seattle’s rainy weather for Phoenix’s constant sunshine. Southwest Airlines maintains this route’s affordability by offering an average round-trip price of $130. Phoenix presents adventure and cultural experiences, whether you hike Camelback Mountain or explore the Desert Botanical Garden.
Sunscreen is essential because Phoenix experiences intense desert heat alongside powerful sunshine. Phoenix provides travel options that suit every type of traveler, from outdoor adventures to urban exploration.
Boston to New Orleans
Airlines like Spirit and Delta offer flights from Boston to New Orleans starting at $140, so you can explore the colonial history and lively jazz nights. Stroll through Bourbon Street or delight in beignets from Café du Monde while experiencing world-class live performances. Embrace the spirit of fun and enjoy letting the good times roll.
While nightlife is a major attraction in New Orleans, it remains a vibrant fusion of cultural experiences and historical treasures that captivate everyone who visits. Plan to taste the intense tastes of Creole and Cajun foods, ranging from gumbo to jambalaya, to delight your taste buds.
Dallas to Los Angeles
Texas lives by the saying that everything is bigger except their airfare to Los Angeles. For only $120, you can travel from Dallas to Los Angeles on flights, quickly transitioning from Texas BBQ to California entertainment. Tour the Hollywood Walk of Fame and witness a sunset at Santa Monica Pier.
Los Angeles offers diverse activities, ranging from theme parks to stunning hiking trails, for all types of visitors. Visit Griffith Observatory to take in breathtaking views of the city skyline and the Hollywood sign, or discover Downtown LA’s dynamic art scene. Visit famous restaurants such as In-N-Out Burger for a traditional California meal experience. Los Angeles offers something special for beach lovers, film fans, and food enthusiasts.
Atlanta to Washington, D.C.
This $89 round-trip journey with Spirit and Delta Airlines attracts history enthusiasts and people who love adventure. Explore the renowned National Mall on foot while visiting Smithsonian museums and enjoying craft cocktails in one of D.C.’s fashionable bars.
History enthusiasts should tour the Lincoln Memorial and George Washington’s Mount Vernon to gain deeper insight into American history. Every visitor will find something they love about D.C. without paying high prices!
Portland to San Diego
Travel directly from Portland to San Diego on Southwest or Alaska Airlines and find tickets for about $150. San Diego keeps visitors smiling due to its sunny beaches alongside attractions like the world-renowned San Diego Zoo and lively neighborhoods, including the Gaslamp District.
Balboa Park is a cultural haven where visitors can discover museums, gardens, and Spanish Colonial architectural treasures. San Diego offers both relaxation and excitement.
Philadelphia to Tampa
Travelers can fulfill their desire for sunnier climates by taking flights between Philadelphia and Tampa for only $110 round-trip. Enjoy Tampa’s scenic Riverwalk, taste unique craft beers at local breweries, or travel to Clearwater Beach to experience its perfect beaches.
Explore Tampa’s Ybor City historic district nightlife, which features a dynamic atmosphere, live music, and Cuban traditions. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay presents families with exciting roller coasters and breathtaking wildlife encounters. Experience Florida’s natural splendor at Hillsborough River State Park by kayak, hike through its peaceful environment, or enjoy the green landscapes. Tampa truly has something for everyone!
Detroit to Nashville
Motor City to Music City for $130? Yes, please. You can fly to Nashville at budget-friendly prices through Delta or American Airlines to experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Sing at karaoke bars and enjoy Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry and its famous hot chicken.
Explore Nashville’s artistic vibrancy through the First Art Museum, then experience Broadway’s lively music scene at every honky-tonk. Food enthusiasts must experience Loveless Cafe’s renowned biscuits alongside the sweet offerings from the famous Goo Goo Cluster shop. Nashville offers unforgettable experiences to country music enthusiasts and those who appreciate Southern charm.
Minneapolis to Denver
Spend $120 on a Frontier or Sun Country round-trip ticket and exchange lake scapes for towering mountain ranges. Denver features incredible breweries, countless outdoor activities, and stunning Rocky Mountain National Park views. It also provides hiking trail adventures and vibrant art district explorations for all its visitors.
Visit Denver Botanic Gardens for tranquility and explore Union Station, which offers historic landmarks alongside modern shops and food options. The combination of natural allure and city amenities makes Denver unforgettable for outdoor thrill-seekers and museum lovers.
Houston to Boston
The standard price for Houston to Boston flights is $160, but JetBlue and American’s special offers typically provide lower rates. Walk through Boston Common or discover the Freedom Trail while savoring delicious lobster rolls near the harbor.
Explore Beacon Hill’s cobblestone streets, where historical significance combines with its unique appeal as one of Boston’s most beautiful neighborhoods. Sports enthusiasts should experience a game at Fenway Park, the iconic home of the Red Sox. Enjoy a sunset cruise along the Charles River to witness the perfect mix of historical landmarks and modern cityscapes against the backdrop of the sky.
Phoenix to Salt Lake City
Airfare to Salt Lake City from Phoenix is one of the most economical options for travelers looking for adventure at $90-$110. Enjoy a hike through Zion National Park or ski at world-class resorts before immersing yourself in Salt Lake’s tranquil beauty.
Enjoy low-cost flights to discover each destination’s natural splendors and urban diversity. This route presents endless possibilities for those who want to trek through breathtaking national parks while indulging in delectable local cuisine and immersing themselves in rich cultural history. Watch for seasonal deals and promotions to budget your adventure effectively!
Orlando to San Francisco
Take advantage of special rates starting at $200 for round-trip flights between Florida’s Sunshine State and San Francisco’s Golden Gate City. Discover San Francisco’s famous landmarks alongside family-friendly destinations like Alcatraz and Fisherman’s Wharf. Explore Chinatown’s vibrant streets or discover the culinary offerings of the Mission District. Rent a bike for an adventurous ride on the Golden Gate Bridge and experience fantastic bay views.
San Francisco features a diverse blend of historical sites, cultural experiences, and natural beauty that provide enjoyment for all types of visitors. The region offers access to wine country and beautiful Pacific coastlines, allowing adventures to continue beyond city boundaries.
Las Vegas to Anchorage
Talk about a change of scenery! Tickets for flights from Vegas to Anchorage typically cost $300, allowing travelers to transition from desert lights to Alaska’s raw wilderness. Explore glacier-fed lakes with a kayak or experience the mesmerizing display of the Northern Lights.
Explore Anchorage’s dynamic cultural scene by visiting the Anchorage Museum, which showcases active displays of art, history, and science, or take a picturesque drive along the Seward Highway to appreciate breathtaking coastal landscapes. Hikers in Chugach State Park encounter an unforgettable adventure while having opportunities to see moose, bears, and bald eagles. In summer, you can chase the midnight sun; in winter, you’ll witness captivating auroras, yet Anchorage delivers unmatched adventure opportunities.
Salt Lake City to Los Angeles
Round-trip air travel between these two cities typically costs $100 to $130. Los Angeles has diverse attractions that will provide avid hikers and aspiring artists with unforgettable experiences. Los Angeles offers limitless chances to experience its natural splendor by visiting Santa Monica’s beautiful beaches and hiking through Griffith Park trails. World-class museums such as LACMA and The Getty Center await art enthusiasts to explore.
At the same time, food lovers can experience Los Angeles’s diverse food offerings, ranging from taco trucks to Michelin-starred restaurants. A visit to Los Angeles would be incomplete without touring the Hollywood Walk of Fame and experiencing the lively atmosphere of Venice Beach. This dynamic city offers activities and experiences suitable for all preferences.
San Diego to Dallas
Travelers can book a $115 round-trip flight from San Diego to Dallas to experience Texas’s unique charm and cultural highlights. Big D’s diverse attractions extend from the unique vibe of neighborhoods like Deep Ellum to the peaceful green spaces and Southern cuisine hotspots.
You can explore the city’s deep-rooted history by touring significant landmarks, including the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, which showcases JFK’s enduring influence. Dallas Cowboys game enthusiasts can experience the thrill at AT&T Stadium, while art lovers can visit the Dallas Arts District to enjoy creativity and cultural experiences. Savor authentic Texas barbecue because your taste buds will appreciate it!
Miami to Chicago
Prepare for a cultural immersion and drastic weather shift while traveling between Miami and Chicago at $130-$150 per round trip. Discover Millennium Park or enjoy a warm drink of hot chocolate by Lake Michigan while visiting Chicago—Experience Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods by visiting the historic Old Town and the artistically vibrant Pilsen area.
Explore the city’s architectural wonders through a river tour, which lets you experience the iconic skyline and learn about its rich historical background. A visit to Chicago would be incomplete without tasting deep-dish pizza because it delivers an experience that matches the city’s richness.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
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