How to Get from O'Hare to Midway Airport?

Traveling between Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW) can be a puzzling task for many visitors. It is even more overwhelming for first-time travelers, as the streets are busy. However, the transit system makes everything easier and smoother, as many options are available to cover the distance of 26 miles.

The selection of the best transportation to MDW from ORD depends on the budget, convenience, travel schedule, preferences, etc. To get a detailed overview of the transportation options, such as rental cars, check out this guide.

How Far is Midway Airport from O’Hare Airport?

Before choosing the adequate transportation option, you must know the travel time and distance from O'Hare to Midway Airport. Here are the details:

• The total driving distance between these two airports is 26 miles.

• However, it can stretch up to 31 miles if regular routes are not chosen.

• By traveling with a taxi or rental car in Chicago, you can cover this distance in 30-45 minutes.

• For this, you will need to take the route I-90 and I-94 to I-55 South.

• The duration can be 60+ minutes when traveling during rush hours via the same route.

• Some affordable public transit options are also available.

• These include CTA Trains (Blue and Orange Lines).

• Even though it is a traffic-free option, it will take around 90+ minutes to cover the same distance.

How to Get from O’Hare to Midway Airport? Exploring the Top 4 Ways

Many transportation options are available between ORD and MDW. Some of the highly preferred and popular ones have been described below:

1. Rideshares

It is the most convenient option available between these two prominent airfields. When traffic is normal, you can cover the distance in the fastest way possible.

Pros:

• Hassle-free navigation

• Direct and convenient

• Door-to-door facility

• Cost-effective option for groups

Cons:

• Traffic can increase the travel time

• Unpredictable prices

• No ‘flight tracking’ option

• Not suitable for tight connections

Time:

• Normal Hours: 35-60 minutes

• Rush Hours: 80-90+ minutes

Cost:

• Base Fare: USD 40 to USD 70

Note: These prices are subject to increase during rush hours, inclement weather, and early morning/late evenings.

2. Rental Cars

You can rent a car from MDW Airport to ORD Airport for more flexibility. Conversely, you are advised to check every aspect beforehand.

Pros:

• Flexibility, privacy, and freedom

• Most convenient and direct mode

• Door-to-door option with no dragging of heavy bags

• Ideal choice for groups and families

• Affordable if you want to explore beyond ORD or MDW

Cons:

• Certain hidden charges are included

• Travel duration depends on the traffic

• Parking and toll expenses

Time:

• Normal Hours: 35-45 minutes (via I90/I94 or I294)

• Rush Hours: 60-90+ minutes (7:00 am to 9:00 am | 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm)

Cost:

• Average Prices: USD 35 to USD 60 per day (for a compact or standard car)

• One-Way Fee: USD 50 to USD 150+

• Fuel Charges: USD 5 to USD 10

3. CTA Trains

When looking for a budget-friendly option, no other option can match the magnitude of the CTA trains. However, knowing every aspect is critical to make an informed decision:

Pros:

• Most affordable and the best transportation to Midway Airport

• 24/7 availability with 10 minutes of frequency

• Bypass the traffic on the Chicago Expressway

Cons:

• Not ideal when you have multiple heavy bags to carry

• It is tiring as you will need to walk a lot between platforms

• It is crowded during rush hours and on weekdays

Time:

• Travel Duration: 75-90 minutes (wait times and transfers are not included)

Cost:

• Total Cost: USD 5

4. Taxis/Cabs

This is yet another direct option available, but always consider the travel hours and fees before traveling between ORD Airport and MDW.

Pros:

• Convenient and direct

• Instant access 24/7

• Great option for a group/family of 2-4

Cons:

• Expensive for solo visitors

• Traffic dependency

• Not recommended for tight connections

Time:

• Average Duration: 45-60 minutes

• Poor Weather or Rush Hours: 85-90+ minutes

Cost:

• Metered Fares: USD 55 to USD 85

• Tips and Tolls: 15-20% of the base fare (sometimes)

Note: You can also utilize airport shuttles and your own vehicle (if available) to travel from ORD to MDW.

Comparison Table of Travel Options Between ORD and MDW Airport

Here is the quick comparison table to help you decide on the most suitable travel option:

Note: The time duration is according to the rush hours. If roads are congestion-free, it will only take 35-40+ minutes to cover the distance.

Why Choose Rental Cars to Travel between ORD and MDW Airport?

Rental cars are undeniably the fastest way from O’Hare to Midway Airport. But they are more expensive than CTA transits, but super convenient and more flexible than rideshares. Look at the following to know why it is a sensible choice:

• You will get a direct and private ride, especially when you have heavy bags.

• While traveling with kids or a big group, it is cheaper to rent a car in the United States.

• With rental cars, you can choose from compact/economy to premium cars based on your budget and group size.

• You will get the freedom to stop as many times as you want.

• This is the best way to explore nearby areas, including the oldest streets, beautiful churches, the biggest zoos, etc., at your own pace.

• With price aggregators and booking platforms, like ZadCars, you can get many deals and discounts for maximum savings.

Summary

Plan smartly to cover the distance from O'Hare to Midway and make the transfer smoother and stress-free. From affordable CTA trains to convenient rental cars, you will have many reliable options. If considering rental cars, always use ZadCars to compare prices, ongoing deals, and others for your preferred travel date to save more.