9 Cheapest Places to Fly from Detroit

Jon Miksis Jon Miksis clock Updated June 8, 2023 tourism Dream Destinations
by Jon Miksis
cheapest places to fly from detroit
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Looking for the cheapest places to fly from Detroit? Maybe you’re looking for an international vacation destination with affordable flights from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport. Or, perhaps you’d like to seize the opportunity for a cheap domestic flight. No matter where you’re hoping to fly to from Detroit, you’re in luck! We can help you find the best flight deals worldwide. 

Detroit, Michigan is a vibrant city known for its rich history and culture. Foodies love a good Detroit-style pizza or a Coney Dog. Sports fans can watch the Lions play at Ford Field or the Red Wings at the Little Caesars Arena. And music fans worldwide will visit Motor City to pay homage to its famous music scene. One thing about Detroit is certain: this underrated Michigan city has something for everyone. 

One thing Detroiters might not realize about their city is the many cheap places to fly from Detroit. With eight major airports, finding a cheap flight from Detroit to anywhere is easy. Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport is the cheapest airport in Detroit and is only 17 miles away from the city center. This puts Michiganders in a great spot to find affordable flights across the country and to international destinations. 

So, what are the cheapest places to fly to from Detroit? There are many affordable flights from Motor City, and it would be impossible to name them all. However, I’ve rounded up some of the most popular cheap flights from the Detroit Airport. This ranges from sunny Myrtle Beach to artsy Toronto

Without further ado, here are the cheapest places to fly from Detroit in 2023. 

cheapest places to fly from detroit text overlay over a plane flying above the city
This round-up of the cheapest places to fly from Detroit contains affiliate links, where I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

#1 tip for finding cheap flights out of Detroit 

Looking for the cheapest places to fly from DTW? Before we get deep into the most budget-friendly flights from Detroit, I want to let you in on some insider knowledge. This tip will help you save money on airfare and find cheap flights from Detroit.

For 3 years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to find unbelievable flight deals around the world. It’s one of the most simple yet effective sites I’ve used to find cheap airfare. All you have to do is enter your home airport (such as DTW) and where you want to go. They’ll send you mistake fares and other incredible flight deals. And the best part? It’s 100% FREE!

Last year alone, I saved THOUSANDS of dollars thanks to their email alerts – including a recent roundtrip flight to Denmark for under $400 roundtrip. I typically save about $350 roundtrip on selected flight routes.

Interested in trying Scott’s? They have free and paid depending on how often you travel. If you’re a frequent traveler like me, I recommend the premium version. It pays for itself in just one or two trips. I’ve saved enough money to more than justify the $49 per year charge for Going Premium

Want to save money on airfare? Use my discount code Jon20 to save 20%!

Other considerations when finding cheap places to fly from Detroit

While Detroit is the birthplace of the American automobile industry, sometimes you must ditch your Ford in favor of a Boeing. Ready to take flight? We’ve got you covered! We’ve scoured the data from major airports in North America, Europe, and beyond. Doing so, we found 9 of the most popular and cheapest flights from Detroit.

It’s important to point out that flights from Detroit will vary throughout the year. Prices will also vary from destination to destination and from airport to airport. You can also expect higher airfare prices during peak travel times. For instance, flying to tropical destinations will likely be more expensive in the winter when travelers are looking to escape the cold Great Lakes region in favor of the warm Caribbean


Looking to save BIG on airfare? I recommend signing up for Dollar Flight Club. Thanks to DFC, I’ve saved $5,000+ on travel in 2024…so I couldn’t recommend it more!


A colorful city tram in downtown Detroit in the fall
A city tram in downtown Detroit.

Another factor to consider when looking for cheap flights is location. Detroit’s midwest location is advantageous for flying to cities on the east and west coasts, as well as north into Canada. However, flights to Asia, for instance, will generally be more expensive than flying from a west coast airport like LAX. The benefit of using travel deal websites is that you can find great deals on airfare that would otherwise cost you an arm and a leg. 

Cheapest places to fly to from Detroit: cheap flights deals from Motor City

Below are some of the cheapest flights from Detroit to popular destinations. For this article, I have not included any cheap destinations from Detroit that are within easy driving distance. Sure, you can find inexpensive flights to cities like Chicago and Pittsburgh, but we’re looking beyond cities across the country and around the world.

If you’re looking to take a trip from the Great Lake State, you’ll love these 9 cheap destinations from Detroit!

1. Detroit to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina ($54 roundtrip) 

If you’re looking for the cheapest place to fly from Detroit domestically, you must add Myrtle Beach to your travel bucket list. Myrtle Beach is a popular tourist destination because of its stunning beaches, amusement parks, shopping centers, and various outdoor activities.

Myrtle Beach, SC, is one of the cheapest places to fly from Detroit
Myrtle Beach’s coastline is perfect for swimming and sunbathing

Midwesterners looking for a taste of the ocean will love Myrtle Beach’s 60-mile coastline ideal for sunbathing, swimming, surfing, and fishing. Visitors can also enjoy jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides. Looking for some additional fun in the sun? You’ll love golfing on Myrtle Beach’s famous golf courses! 

Looking for family-friendly fun? Then check out the Family Kingdom Amusement Park, Myrtle Waves Water Park, and Pavilion Park. Other popular attractions in Myrtle Beach include Broadway at the Beach, a shopping and entertainment center home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and attractions. Be sure to check out Ripley’s Aquarium, Hollywood Wax Museum, and WonderWorks!

Myrtle Beach coastline at night
A flight to Myrtle Beach is perfect for the whole family.

A flight from Detroit to Myrtle Beach will only take about two hours. When looking for the cheapest flight from Detroit to Myrtle Beach, you’ll want to fly into Myrtle Beach International (MYR). Not only is this airport a close three miles away from the center of Myrtle Beach, but it’s also one of the cheapest airports in South Carolina!

2. Detroit to New York City, New York ($68 roundtrip)

If you’re looking for a cheap place to fly from Detroit on the East Coast, You can’t go wrong with New York City. With an NYC vacation, you can enjoy the city’s rich history, iconic landmarks, delicious food, and world-class shopping. There are four airports in New York, but the cheapest to fly into NYC is New York LaGuardia (LGA). It’s only 8 miles from the center of New York, and finding transportation to and from the airport is easy. 

NYC is one of the cheapest places to fly from Detroit
Central Park in Manhattan

For the most popular attractions, you can visit iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building. For outdoor activities, you can take a stroll around Central Park. You can also walk the High Line, an old rail line converted into a walking path.

It would be a crime not to partake in famous New York staples like pizza, bagels, and dirty water hot dogs from a street vendor. To tour some of the most famous NYC restaurants, visit Katz’s Delicatessen, Rao’s, Keens Steakhouse, and Serendipity 3.

Katz's Delicatessen has been open since 1888
Katz’s Delicatessen is NYC’s oldest deli.

NYC is one of the most popular destinations to visit, no matter where you’re flying from. But if you’re looking for the cheapest flights from Detroit to NYC, you might want to consider flying in the spring or fall. Summer is the busiest time to visit, and airfare prices generally reflect that. When you visit New York in the spring or early summer, you can enjoy a Mets game or Shakespeare in the Park

3. Detroit to Austin ($78 roundtrip)

Looking for an unforgettable experience on a budget? Curious about flights from Detroit to anywhere? Look no further than Austin, Texas! From its world-renowned music scene and mouth-watering cuisine to its unique attractions, Austin has something for everyone. And lucky for you, it’s easy to find a cheap flight from Detroit.

Austin, Texas, is one of the cheapest places to fly from Detroit
Cheap flights out of Detroit can’t touch Austin, Texas.

One of the most popular attractions in Austin is the Texas State Capitol. This impressive building offers free tours of its historic architecture and beautiful grounds. Love the outdoors? Then Lady Bird Lake is a must-visit! This scenic spot offers hiking, biking, and paddleboarding on its peaceful waters.

Foodies will be in heaven with Austin’s famous food scene. For example, Franklin Barbecue is one of the most renowned BBQ joints in the country, with mouth-watering brisket and ribs. For something a bit more upscale, Uchi is a top-rated sushi restaurant known for its creative rolls and impeccable service. And for dessert, you can’t miss Amy’s Ice Creams. Their flavors range from classic vanilla to bizarre combinations like lavender honey and cornbread.

Beer lovers will also have plenty to explore in Austin. The city boasts over 50 breweries, including famous ones like Austin Beerworks and Jester King Brewery. Take a tour of these local spots and try some of the unique brews they have to offer.


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an Aerial view of kayakers on Lady Bird Lake
Lady Bird Lake is popular among kayakers in the city.

Flying into Austin is a breeze, thanks to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS). Besides its wide range of amenities, the airport is just a short drive from downtown Austin, making it easy to start exploring as soon as you arrive.

4. Detroit to Charlotte, North Carolina ($102 roundtrip)

Are you seeking an affordable getaway combining southern charm with big-city energy? Look no further than Charlotte, North Carolina! Just a cheap flight from Detroit, Charlotte is a bustling city with plenty to see and do.

Charlotte, NC, is one of the cheapest places to fly from Detroit
Charlotte is a beautiful tourist destination at any time of year.

Sports fans will love Charlotte’s reputation as a major sports hub. You can catch an NFL game at Bank of America Stadium, home of the Carolina Panthers, or watch the Charlotte Hornets play in the NBA at the Spectrum Center. For racing enthusiasts, the NASCAR Hall of Fame is a must-see attraction celebrating the history of stock car racing in the United States.

Charlotte’s food scene is another major draw for visitors. The city has many award-winning restaurants and breweries, including The Fig Tree Restaurant and Wooden Robot Brewery. For those who love southern comfort food, head to Mert’s Heart and Soul for their famous fried chicken and mac and cheese.

Charlotte has plenty of options if you want to explore the great outdoors. The U.S. National Whitewater Center offers outdoor activities for adrenaline seekers, like whitewater rafting and zip lining. Or, stroll through the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, a 380-acre oasis with themed gardens and stunning displays of flora and fauna.

Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden located in Belmont, NC
The Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is a beautiful place to visit near Charlotte, NC.

When it comes to flights from Detroit to Charlotte, the cheapest airport is Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT). This airport is located just a few miles from downtown and offers a range of affordable flight options from Detroit. Plus, once you arrive, it’s easy to navigate thanks to its efficient layout and helpful staff.

5. Detroit to Fort Lauderdale, Florida ($135 roundtrip)

Looking for a sunny escape from the chilly Detroit weather? Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is the perfect destination! Fort Lauderdale has something for everyone with its warm climate, stunning beaches, and endless activities. And best of all, it’s one of the cheapest places to fly from Detroit.

Fort Lauderdale, FL, is one of the cheapest places to fly from Detroit
Cheap tickets from Detroit lead you to Fort Lauderdale, known for its beaches and boating canals

Of course, Florida beaches are a major draw for visitors to Fort Lauderdale. The city is known for its pristine white sand and clear blue waters, making it the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. Two popular beaches include Fort Lauderdale Beach and Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. They both offer a range of activities like swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking.

But there’s much more to Fort Lauderdale than just the beaches. The city also boasts diverse dining options for foodies, from fresh seafood at Coconuts to Mexican street food at Rocco’s Tacos

Fort Lauderdale is home to several major league teams for those who love sports. You can catch a Florida Panthers NHL game at the BB&T Center or watch the Fort Lauderdale Strikers play in the United Soccer League. And if you’re looking for something more active, head to the Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Complex to watch some of the world’s best swimmers train.

Fort Lauderdale beach coastline
Fort Lauderdale has some of the nicest beaches in the state

When it comes to flights from Detroit to Fort Lauderdale, the cheapest airport is Fort Lauderdale International Airport (FLL). It’s conveniently located just a few miles from downtown Fort Lauderdale and offers a variety of affordable flights from Detroit. For the cheapest flights from Detroit to Fort Lauderdale, look to travel in May. 

6. Detroit to Toronto, Canada ($199 roundtrip)

Looking for a cheap international flight from Detroit? Look no further than Toronto, Canada’s largest city and a vibrant cultural hub. With its world-class museums, delicious dining scene, and stunning landmarks, Toronto is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. When looking for a short and affordable flight from Detroit, it doesn’t get better than Toronto. 

Toronto is one of the cheapest places to fly from Detroit.
Toronto’s city hall

One of the most popular attractions in Toronto is the CN Tower, an impressive structure that offers breathtaking views of the city skyline. For those who love museums, the Royal Ontario Museum is a must-visit destination that showcases everything from ancient civilizations to contemporary art.

Another major draw to this city is its food scene. The city boasts an impressive range of dining options, from international cuisine to local favorites. Head to St. Lawrence Market to sample some of the city’s freshest produce, or check out popular restaurants like Canoe or Lee.

For beer lovers, Toronto has a thriving craft brewery scene, with over 100 breweries in the city. Wet your whistle at Bellwoods Brewery for unique small-batch beers. Additionally, check out Steam Whistle Brewery for a tour and tasting of their signature pilsner.

Dog Fountain in St Lawrence Market district of Toronto
A dog fountain in Toronto’s St Lawrence Market district.

When it comes to getting to Toronto, the cheapest airport is Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ). Conveniently located on an island just minutes from downtown Toronto, it offers a range of affordable flight options from Detroit. With a flight time of about an hour, you’ll get from Detroit to enjoying Toronto’s vibrant city life in no time.  

7. Detroit to Montego Bay, Jamaica ($210 roundtrip)

Looking for a cheap flight from Detroit to a tropical place? Are you dreaming of sun, sand, and relaxation? Then Montego Bay, Jamaica, has everything you want and more. This stunning Caribbean destination is known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. And best of all, the Sangster International Airport (MBJ)is just a cheap flight away from Detroit!

Montego Bay is one of the cheapest places to fly from Detroit
Montego Bay, Jamaica, is known for its beautiful water and beaches.

Of course, visitors to Montego Bay are looking to spend time on the beach. With its white sand and turquoise waters, Doctor’s Cave Beach is one of the most popular spots to soak up the sun. And for those who love adventure, head to Dunn’s River Falls to climb the cascading waterfalls.

But there’s much more to Montego Bay than just the beaches. The city boasts a diverse range of dining options for foodies, from jerk chicken at Scotchies to fresh seafood at The Houseboat Grill. And if you’re a fan of rum, make sure to take a tour of the Appleton Estate Rum Distillery.

Dunn's River Falls near Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Dunn’s River Falls is a famous waterfall near Ocho Rios, Jamaica.

For those who love culture, Montego Bay is home to several museums and landmarks. The Montego Bay Cultural Center offers a fascinating look at the city’s history and culture, while the Greenwood Great House is a beautifully preserved plantation home showcasing the lifestyle of Jamaica’s colonial past.

8. Detroit to Aguadilla, Puerto Rico ($235 roundtrip) 

Looking for a tropical getaway that won’t break the bank or require a passport? Want to find one of the cheapest flights from Detroit to the Caribbean? Add Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, to your bucket list! This stunning coastal city is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture. It even has the nickname Porta del Sol, or the “Doorway to the Sun.” It’s such a beautiful city that it’s hard to believe it’s one of the cheapest places to fly from Detroit!

Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, is one of the cheapest places to fly from Detroit
Wilderness Beach is one of the most popular in Aguadilla.

Aguadilla is a paradise for those who love the outdoors. The city boasts several beautiful beaches, including Crash Boat Beach and Wilderness Beach, where you can swim or relax in the sun. The area is also a surfing mecca and has held several surf competitions. However, if you prefer to stay off the waves, head to the Las Cascadas Water Park or the Gozalandia Waterfalls for a refreshing dip in the pools beneath the falls.

But there’s more to Aguadilla than just outdoor activities. The city also has a vibrant culinary scene, with everything from local seafood to international cuisine. Don’t miss the chance to try mofongo, a traditional Puerto Rican dish made with mashed plantains and a variety of fillings.

a tree growing next to stone ruins of an old lighthouse in Aguadilla
Stone ruins of an old lighthouse in Aguadilla.

When it comes to getting to Aguadilla, the cheapest airport option is Rafael Hernández Airport (BQN). This airport is located just a few miles north of Aguadilla and offers a range of affordable flights from Detroit. JetBlue Airways, United Airlines, and Spirit Airlines all offer cheap flights to Aguadilla. 

9. Detroit to Cancun, Mexico ($236 roundtrip)

Looking for an affordable honeymoon or vacation destination? A trip to paradise doesn’t have to be expensive, and Cancun is the perfect getaway to escape the cold weather and enjoy some sunshine. If you want to save money on your trip, consider flying into Cancun International Airport, which is typically the cheapest airport. From there, you can easily take a taxi or shuttle to your hotel or resort.

Cancun is one of the cheapest places to fly from Detroit
Cancun has some of the best beaches in Mexico.

Overall, Cancun is a fantastic destination for anyone looking for a mix of relaxation, adventure, and culture. You can spend your days lounging on the white sand beaches, swimming in the turquoise water, or exploring the coral reefs and underwater wildlife. Cancun’s most popular beaches include Playa Delfines, Playa Tortugas, and Playa Chac Mool.

If you’re looking for more than beach time, Cancun has plenty of other attractions. One of the most popular activities is visiting the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Other popular attractions include the Interactive Aquarium Cancun, the Cancun Underwater Museum, and the El Rey Archaeological Zone.

After a day of adventure, you can grab some amazing food. Cancun has many restaurants offering everything from traditional Mexican cuisine to international flavors. Some of the most popular restaurants in Cancun include La Habichuela and Harry’s.

Chichen Itza ruins near cancun, mexico
Visitors from all over the world visit Chichen Itza.

When it comes to accommodations, Cancun has no shortage of options. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels, there’s something for every traveler. Cancun is the perfect place to book a cheap flight from Detroit. 

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the cheapest places to fly from Detroit.

Here are some common questions and responses about finding the cheapest flights from Detroit. Note that there are many cheap destinations from Detroit that you can consider as well. Additionally, you can always find the occasional rare deals via travel sites like Going.

How to find cheap flights from Detroit?

Finding cheap flights from Detroit is as easy as revving up an engine with Dollar Flight Club! This service is like your personal pit crew for flight deals, tirelessly scanning the internet’s vast racetrack of airlines and booking sites. Once they spot a winning deal, they’ll wave the checkered flag and send it straight to your inbox. So buckle up, because with Dollar Flight Club, you’re always in pole position for savings!

What is the best time of year to find cheap flights from Detroit? 

Generally, the cheapest time to fly from Detroit to other destinations is during the off-season. This is typically in the fall and winter, but seasonality depends on the destination. For instance, flights to places like Hawaii are generally more expensive during winter and spring break. On the other hand, it is generally cheaper to fly to Europe in the winter and fall months. 

It’s also important to remember that prices can vary depending on the destination and the time of year. Some places will always be more expensive to fly to than others, regardless of the season. 

New York city is one of the cheapest places to fly from Detroit
There is so much to see and do when you fly from Detroit to NYC

How far in advance should I book a cheap flight from Detroit?

Booking a cheap flight from Detroit depends on several factors, such as the destination, time of year, and airline. However, it’s generally recommended to book at least two to three months in advance for the best prices.

If you’re not too particular about the details of your trip and can be flexible, you can sometimes find great deals at the last minute, too. Finding the best deals on airfare isn’t as much a science as it is an art form, so you’ll have to do a bit more research to find the best deals that work for you. 

What budget-friendly airlines fly out of Detroit? 

One of the things that makes finding cheap flights from Detroit a breeze is the budget airline carriers that fly out of Detroit. These include Spirit Airlines, Frontier Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. However, it’s important to keep in mind that budget airlines often charge extra fees for things like checked baggage, seat selection, and in-flight amenities. 

If you are looking for the cheapest flights out of Detroit and aren’t worried about extra perks, budget airlines are a great way to save money on airfare. Otherwise, you might want to consider other airlines. 

Here are some of the biggest and most popular airlines that fly out of Detroit: 

  • Delta Air Lines
  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines
  • Alaska Airlines 
  • JetBlue
  • Air Canada
  • Air France
  • Aeromexico 
  • Lufthansa
  • United Airlines 
Austin, Texas, is a great place to visit
Hamilton Pool in Austin, Texas.

Are there any tips for finding cheap flights from Detroit?

When looking for the cheapest flights from Detroit to anywhere, the biggest tips are patience and flexibility. Finding flight deals is more luck than a guarantee. Sometimes, you have to wait a while to find the best deals. That’s why it’s also important to be flexible. The more flexible you can be with your travel dates, the better chance you have at finding the deal of all flight deals. 

Sometimes, being flexible is as simple as flying out on a Tuesday instead of a Friday. Other times, it could be significantly cheaper flying a week or two later than you originally planned. Flying during your destination’s “off-season” can also save you money on airfare AND accommodations because of supply and demand.

When looking for the cheapest flights out of Detroit, it’s important to compare the prices of different airlines. You should also compare the cost of direct flights versus those with layovers. If you don’t mind longer travel times, you may find a flight with a layover saves you money compared to a direct flight. However, don’t always assume that layovers will save you money. Direct flights can end up being cheaper, which is why you must do your due diligence. 

The other big tip for finding the cheapest places to fly from Detroit is to sign up for email alerts from travel websites and airlines. With these email alerts, you can be notified of any sales and special deals ASAP. My personal favorite is Going. I’ve saved thousands of dollars on flights with premium membership and email alerts. There’s truly no better way to find cheap flights!

Where is the cheapest place to fly from Detroit?

It’s easy to find cheap flights from Detroit with the help of travel websites like Going, Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Hopper. And thanks to its central location, many cheap destinations are reachable from Detroit and the eight major airports serving the Detroit area.

Some of the cheapest domestic flights from Detroit include New York City, Myrtle Beach, Philadelphia, Austin, Fort Lauderdale, and Charlotte. If you’re willing to travel further, popular international destinations like Aguadilla, Toronto, Montego Bay, and Cancun can also be affordable options.

cheapest places to fly from detroit text overlay on the city skyline
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