by Mia Taylor
Last updated: 3:30 PM ET, Tue January 20, 2026
It’s one of the most affordable times of the year to book a flight, but scoring the best deal possible really depends on which airport you’re flying from.
A new Airport Affordability Report from Savings.com reveals that there are significant airline ticket price gaps between U.S. airports. What’s more, if you’re flexible, it’s possible to save as much as $277 per airline ticket by selecting an alternative airport.
The same study reveals the most affordable and the most expensive airports in the country.
If it’s a bargain ticket you’re after, flying out of Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International in Florida can save you a significant amount of money. The average ticket price from the airport is $280.67, which is $107 less than the national average of $387, according to the Airport Affordability Report.
In fact, Florida airports lead the country in affordability: St.
Pete–Clearwater (PIE), Orlando Sanford (SFB), and Punta Gorda (PGD) are
the nation’s cheapest airports for departures, all served by ultra
low-cost carriers like Allegiant and Sun Country.
Meanwhile, Washington Dulles International (IAD) ranks as the most expensive airport in the United States, with travelers paying an average of $475.05 per ticket, which is a staggering $194.38 more than the cheapest major airport. Globetrotters who fly in and out of Washington D.C. frequently can save nearly $100 simply by
choosing Reagan National over Dulles.
Here’s another helpful tip for travelers in Arizona: Flying out of Phoenix-Mesa Gateway instead of more commonly used Sky Harbor can save you about $240 on average.
Read on for more helpful data from the Airport Affordability Report.
Top 3 Most Affordable Major Airports
- Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International (FLL): $280.67
- Orlando International (MCO): $289.25
- Harry Reid International (LAS): $290.64
Top 3 Most Expensive Major Airports
- Washington Dulles International (IAD): $475.05
- Salt Lake City International (SLC): $460.97
- Charlotte Douglas International (CLT): $445.34
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
