O'Hare vs Midway Airport
O'Hare vs Midway Airport comparison for Chicago travelers. Distance, transfer time, pricing, terminals, airlines, and which airport is best for your trip.
Chicago has two major airports and choosing the right one affects your entire trip. O'Hare International (ORD) is the larger hub with more airlines and international flights. Midway (MDW) is smaller, closer to downtown, and primarily serves Southwest Airlines. Here is a factual comparison to help you decide, plus what to expect from your car service to each airport.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Royal Carriage | Midway Airport |
|---|---|---|
| Distance from Downtown | 17 miles northwest | 10 miles southwest |
| Average Transfer Time | 45-75 min depending on traffic | 25-45 min depending on traffic |
| Starting Price (Sedan) | From $79 flat rate | From $69 flat rate |
| Number of Terminals | 4 terminals (1, 2, 3, 5) | 1 terminal with 3 concourses |
| Airlines Served | 50+ airlines including all major carriers | Primarily Southwest, plus Volaris, Porter, Delta |
| Wait Time Included | 60 min complimentary for arrivals | 60 min complimentary for arrivals |
| Meet-and-Greet | Available at all terminals with name sign | Available at baggage claim with name sign |
| Best For | Business travelers, international flights, connections | Budget travelers, domestic flights, quick trips |
The Verdict
Choose O'Hare for international flights, more airline options, and business travel with lounge access. Choose Midway for Southwest flights, shorter commute times from downtown and the south suburbs, and lower fares on domestic routes. Royal Carriage provides flat-rate car service to both airports with identical service standards.
Common Questions
Which Chicago airport is cheaper to fly into?
Midway is typically cheaper for domestic flights because Southwest dominates the airport. O'Hare has more competition on certain routes, so it is worth comparing both. Car service to Midway is also $10-20 less from most areas.
Which airport is closer to downtown Chicago?
Midway is closer at 10 miles southwest of the Loop. O'Hare is 17 miles northwest. In normal traffic, Midway is a 25-minute drive versus 45 minutes to O'Hare. During rush hour, the difference is even more significant.
Do you provide car service to both airports?
Yes. Royal Carriage operates flat-rate car service to O'Hare and Midway 24/7. Both include meet-and-greet, flight tracking, 60-minute wait time, and luggage assistance. Pricing is based on your pickup address.
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