7 Cheapest places to fly from Houston

Jon Miksis Jon Miksis clock Updated April 7, 2023 tourism Dream Destinations
by Jon Miksis
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Looking for the cheapest places to fly from Houston? Whether you want to explore life on the west coast or escape to a tropical destination, you’re in luck! Texas is a hub for cheap flights. But if you’re looking for the absolute cheapest cities to fly to from Houston, I’ve got you covered.

If you love hot weather and honky tonk, you probably love living in Houston. However, if you decide to pack your bags for a family vacation, romantic honeymoon, or a cheap weekend flight from Houston, you’re in a good spot. Houston’s airport system is the 4th largest in the country, so you can easily find the best flight deals around.  

When looking for cheap flights from Houston, you have two options. You can fly out of George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) or William P. Hobby Airport (HOU). George Bush Intercontinental is 22 miles from Downtown Houston and is the 10th busiest airport in the US. If you’re looking for cheap international flights from Houston, IAH is your best bet. Hobby Airport is much smaller but closer to downtown. If you’re looking for cheap domestic flights from Houston, HOU is hard to beat.

No matter which airport you choose, you can find cheap round-trip flights from Houston to anywhere. As an avid flier, I always check out the best sites for booking flights to compare the best destinations, prices, and even times to fly. From my research, I’ve found that the most affordable flights from Houston include everything from big cities to tropical paradises.

Here are the 7 cheapest places to fly from Houston in 2023. 

cheapest places to fly from Houston text overlay on a photo of the Houston skyline
This round-up of the cheapest places to fly from Houston contains affiliate links, where I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

My #1 tip for finding the best flight deals from Houston

Looking for the cheapest flights from Houston? While there are many affordable destinations from the Lone Star State, the best way to truly save a lot of money is to find the best flight deals. So, before we cover the cheapest places to fly from Houston, I’d first like to share my favorite way to save money on airfare. 

For the past two years, my secret to finding amazing flight deals has been Going. Not only is this website quick and easy to use, but it is also the best way I’ve found to score last-minute flight deals from Houston and everywhere else. To see the travel savings, all you have to do is select your departure airport and where you’d like to go. That’s it! Going will then send you cheap flight deals directly to your inbox!

In 2022 alone, Going’s email alerts helped me save thousands of dollars on airfare. Typically, I save between $200 and $500 on trips found through Going. The best part? You can start saving money today with a FREE membership! However, if you’re a frequent traveler like myself, you’ll see even more benefits to a premium membership. At just $49 annually, you’ll get access to even more features and better discounts. The membership practically pays for itself with your first flight deal. 

Use my discount code Jon20 to save 20% off your premium membership!

Considerations for finding the cheapest places to fly from Houston

When you start looking for the cheapest flights from Houston, Texas, it’s important to take a few things into consideration first. First, consider what type of trip you are planning. Are you looking for a relaxing beach vacation? Or are you looking for somewhere with a lot of family-friendly activities? This will go far in helping you narrow down your list. Believe it or not, there are affordable flights from Houston to just about anywhere. 

If you like to spend a lot of time outdoors, you may want to consider a destination that caters more to adventures, such as hiking, white water rafting, or skiing. Once you can picture your ideal vacation, it will be easy to find the best flight deals for this trip and any future ones you’re dreaming about. It will also help you pick the best time of year to plan your trip. Some vacation destinations are impacted by the weather of the seasons, while others just experience higher tourist months. The time of year generally impacts the price of airfare, especially when choosing popular destinations from Houston. 

My biggest tip for finding the cheapest places to fly from Houston is to do plenty of research beforehand. When you’re thorough, even the most expensive vacation destinations can become cheap trips from Houston. 

a photo of downtown Houston looking up to the sky
William P. Hobby Airport is the closest airport to downtown Houston.

Cheapest places to fly from Houston: the best flight deals from Houston 2023

Are you interested in experiencing the hustle and bustle of downtown LA? Are you looking to escape the flat plains of Texas for the Colorado Rockies? How about relaxing on stunning beaches in Jamaica? No matter where you are headed, you can find a flight deal from Houston. 

Here are 8 of the cheapest places to fly from Houston, Texas. 

1. Houston to Denver, Colorado $35 round trip)

Looking for a fun and affordable cheap flight from Houston? It’s time to check out the Mile High City! With an elevation of 5,280 feet (one mile) above sea level, Denver, Colorado, is one of the top destinations to visit this year. This State Capital city is known for its world-class museums, public art displays, and beautiful parks. In fact, you’ll see the beauty of the  Rocky Mountains before you even land at the Denver International Airport (DIA)

Denver, CO, is one of the cheapest places to fly from Houston
Denver, Colorado, is the gateway to the Rockies.

When visiting Denver, skiing is a popular attraction in the winter, but you don’t have to hit the slopes to have a good time. Besides skiing and snowboarding, Denver’s second biggest attraction is Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater. Here, you can watch a concert with stunning views of the Rockies. You can also explore miles of hiking trails throughout the 700-some-acre park. 

For other outdoor activities, Rocky Mountain National Park is a must-see for anyone visiting Colorado. With 355 miles of hiking trails, 147 lakes, and over 70 mountains, RMNP is considered one of the best trips in the world. From scenic drives up Trail Ridge Road to wildlife viewing elk, bighorn sheep, and moose, there is much to see and do for the whole family. 

Sprague Lake at Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is a must-see if you fly into Denver.

After a day of adventure, fuel up at Denver’s best eateries. Root Down had a creative menu and bright cocktails for anyone looking for a classy dining experience. For the best brunch, check out the Denver Biscuit Company. One of their signature dishes is Sully’s Fries — waffle fries with gravy, pimento cheese, bacon, and green onions.

2. Houston to Atlanta, Georgia ($37 roundtrip)

If you’re looking for cheap weekend flights from Houston, consider flying to Atlanta! Not only is this a quick flight (flights from Houston to the Atlanta International Airport (ATL) are only 2 hours), it’s a top southern destination. Atlanta made the list of National Geographic’s top destinations in 2022, and this city is as exciting as ever. 

Atlanta is one of the cheapest places to fly from Houston
Atlanta is one of the South’s most iconic cities.

This creative, dynamic city is bursting with world-class restaurants, vivacious nightlife, and an abundance of attractions and events. Whether you catch a Falcons game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium or the dolphin show at the Georgia Aquarium, you’ll never have a dull moment visiting the Big Peach

For other iconic attractions, check out the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park. Here, you can learn more about the civil rights leader and how he became an instrument for change. It’s also worth exploring the surrounding Sweet Auburn Historic District, where you can tour the APEX Museum, have lunch at The Municipal Market, and follow the Freedom Park Trail to the Fernbank Museum of Natural History.

A tree-lined walking path in Atlanta's Piedmont Park
Piedmont Park is a popular destination for Atlanta residents and visitors.

For a real taste of Atlanta, Georgia, you can visit the World of Coca-Cola and explore the fascinating history of the brand. You can interact with a variety of exhibits and even sample beverages from around the world. Before you depart the city, be sure to check out some of the most iconic film locations in Georgia, such as The Swan House at The Atlanta History Center, Piedmont Park, and the Atlanta Marriott Marquis

3. Houston to Orlando, Florida ($48 roundtrip)

Is a beach vacation in your future? Well, Houston, we don’t have a problem because Orlando, Florida, is one of the cheapest places to fly from Houston, Texas. And Orlando is more than just an affordable flight: it’s a family-friendly destination and the amusement park capital of the world. If you love amusement, you can enjoy 10 major theme parks, including Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Studios Florida, SeaWorld, LEGOLand, and Busch Gardens

Orlando, Florida is one of the cheapest places to fly from Houston
Orlando is a family-friendly vacation destination.

If you’re looking for things to do in Orlando beyond the theme parks, you have plenty of options! Florida is synonymous with sunshine, and there are many ways to enjoy Orlando’s natural beauty through eco-tours, birding, nature trails, and more. For wildlife lovers, the Gatorland Bird Rookery has more than 20 different species of roosting birds. 

Outdoor adventurists can enjoy kayaking throughout Orlando through Adventures in Florida, Epic Paddle Adventures, and Get Up and Go Kayaking. You can even take a guided kayak tour at Brevard Zoo, which is located about an hour away. If outdoor thrills are more your speed, check out Gatorland’s Screamin’ Gator Zip Line and Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park. These locations offer fun zip-lining opportunities for the whole family! 

Diagon Alley inside the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando.

Besides all the things you can do in Orlando, the other benefit of booking a cheap flight from Houston to Florida is the flight time. A direct flight from Houston to Orlando International Airport (MCO) only takes two hours. This means you can spend less time traveling and more time having fun! 

4. Houston to Los Angeles, California ($55 roundtrip)

For a destination with a lot to offer, consider booking a cheap flight from Houston to Los Angeles, California. This entertainment capital of the world has a myriad of attractions to keep you busy day and night. From stunning beaches to world-famous theme parks, the City of Angels has something for everyone. 

Los Angeles is one of the cheapest places to fly from Houston
A view of the famous LA skyline.

If you’re looking to check out the West Coast’s best beaches, Zuma Beach is a must. This clean, wide beach is a popular weekend and holiday spot for locals and tourists alike. El Matador State Beach, while smaller, is one of the most beautiful beaches in SoCal and a photographer’s dream destination. 

For some outdoor adventure, there are many hiking trails you can enjoy throughout LA. For a moderate hike, it’s hard to beat the views of Caballero Canyon Trail, which runs along the famous Mulholland Drive. If you’re up for a challenge, Angeles National Forest has many difficult routes. This includes the 15.6-mile Heaton Flats Trail that takes you to Iron Mountain.

scenic views of Mulholland Drive in LA
The Caballero Canyon Trail runs along the famous Mulholland Drive.

After a day of outdoor adventure, you can’t go wrong with enjoying some of LA’s famous cuisine. Los Angeles is known for its dynamic dining, with delicious options ranging from food trucks to Michelin-starred fine dining establishments.  For some of the best el pastor tacos in LA, look out for Leo’s Taco Truck – there are seven in the city. Additionally, for upscale vegan cuisine, check out Crossroads Kitchen on Melrose Avenue. Their weekend brunch is among the best in the city.       

If you book a flight from Houston to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), you can expect your trip to take just under four hours.  

5. Houston to Cancun, Mexico ($173 roundtrip) 

When it comes to cheap international flights from Houston, Cancun should be on your bucket list. This Mexican city is known for its beautiful beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and colorful nightlife. When you book a cheap flight from Houston to Cancun International Airport (CUN), you are truly booking a ticket to paradise. 

Cancun, Mexico is one of the cheapest places to fly to from Houston
Cancun is a great vacation destination for families and couples.

No trip to Cancun would be complete without enjoying the city’s gorgeous turquoise waters, powdery white sand beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. While all of Cancun’s beaches are wonderful, some are more popular than others. Playa Delfines is Cancun’s largest beach and is widely considered one of its best. You can expect to find not only ivory sand and clear waters but also dolphins, which are frequent visitors. In addition, Playa Caracol and Playa Marlin are also top beaches. 

For an adventurous Cancun vacation, you can travel about an hour away to visit world-famous adventure parks. Xcaret has incredible beach coves, culture shows, jungle walks, and canals you can swim through. It’s a must for anyone looking for adventure. You can also tap into your sense of adventure with a snorkel tour of The Cancun Underwater Museum (MUSA). This underwater museum has 500 sculptures at the bottom of the sea meant to stimulate coral reef growth. 

people swimming in a cenote in Cancun
A cenote in Cancun, Mexico.

Cancun is the Mexican Caribbean’s party center, so no adult trip would be complete without experiencing the nightlife. Coco Bongo is a popular nightclub that brings the fun of Vegas to Mexico. You can enjoy live performances, cocktails, and non-stop partying. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

6. Houston to Edmonton, Alberta, Canada ($180 roundtrip)

If your ideal vacation involved exploring the wilderness, Edmonton might just be your kind of place. The capital of Alberta, Edmonton, is the northernmost city in North America and the fifth largest in Canada. It is also one of the cheapest flights from Houston. 

Edmonton is one of the cheapest places to fly to from Houston
Edmonton is a city with great access to outdoor activities.

Unlike your average city, Edmonton is truly wild. Bison, moose, deer, elk, and over 250 species of birds call Elk Island National Park home. In addition to wildlife like grizzly bears, Edmonton also features gorgeous landscapes with scenic waterfalls, canyons, and glacier-fed lakes. For the modern adventurer, the Rocky Mountains and Canada’s Northern Territories are not that far away. 

For the traveler that enjoys culinary adventure, you’ll find that, too. In fact, Edmonton has some of Canada’s most delicious and experimental flavors, ranging from spiced cardamom plum crepes at Café Linnea to the beef tartare at Smokey Bear. Craving Texas-style BBQ while exploring the YEG? Then you must try out MEAT, a locally owned and operated smokehouse in the heart of Old Strathcona. For an elegant dining experience and a thoughtful cocktail menu, add Clementine to your itinerary. 

Wood Bison at Elk Island National Park
Wood Bison at Elk Island National Park.

There’s more to this cultural city than food and forests; sports fans can catch a number of professional sporting events, such as the Edmonton Oilers (NHL) and Edmonton Stingers (CEBL). Before heading back to the airport, be sure to squeeze in a visit to North America’s largest shopping and entertainment center, West Edmonton Mall, for some last-minute gifts.

7. Houston to Montego Bay, Jamaica ($227 roundtrip)

Would you like to book a cheap flight from Houston to Paradise? Then add Montego Bay, Jamaica, to your bucket list! This Caribbean paradise offers an abundance of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and exciting activities that will make your trip unforgettable. 

Montego Bay, Jamaica, is one of the cheapest places to fly from Houston
Montego Bay is a popular cruise ship port with many beaches.

The Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay is the perfect gateway to your Jamaican adventure. This airport is one of the largest in the Caribbean and offers a wide range of amenities to make your travel experience comfortable and enjoyable. This airport has everything you need to start your vacation off right.

Montego Bay has stunning beaches that are perfect for soaking up the sun and enjoying crystal-clear waters. Doctor’s Cave Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Jamaica. The beach boasts pristine white sand, turquoise waters, and a relaxed atmosphere. For a more secluded spot, head to Cornwall Beach, where you can enjoy the stunning scenery and calm waters without the crowds.

A resort at Doctor's Cave Beach in Montego Bay, Jamaica
Doctor’s Cave Beach is one of Montego Bay’s most popular beaches.

Jamaica is known for its vibrant food scene, and Montego Bay is no exception. From street vendors selling jerk chicken to high-end restaurants serving fresh seafood and farm-to-table cuisine, there is something for everyone. For a truly authentic Jamaican experience, head to Scotchie’s, where you can feast on mouth-watering jerk chicken, pork, and fish cooked over an open flame.

Whether you’re looking to book a family vacation or a romantic honeymoon, Montego Bay has something for everyone! 

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the cheapest places to fly from Houston 

If you’re looking for the cheapest flights from Houston but still have questions? Here are some common questions and answers about how to get cheap plane tickets from Houston, Texas: 

How can you save the most money on flights from Houston?

There are many options for cheap flights out of Houston. However, there are some insider tips and tricks you can take advantage of to save even more money on your flights. 

One tip is to fly outside of the peak travel seasons. Summer is big for travel, especially when you’re looking at beaches and family-friendly destinations. Most families wait until school is out to travel. Not only will you see inflated airfare through the season, but hotels and accommodations will also be more expensive, and there will be more crowds. If you can, avoid traveling between Memorial Day and Labor Day. 

The other biggest tip is to utilize cheap flight websites when it comes to planning your trip. Sites like Skyscanner can help you find the cheapest flights and destinations within your budget. Also, don’t forget to sign up for Going’s free flight alerts to never miss a great deal on a flight again! 

Houston airport at sunset
There are many great places you can fly to from Houston’s airports

What’s the cheapest airport in Houston?

When looking for the best flight deals out of Houston, the cheapest airport is the William P. Hobby Airport (HOU). While smaller than George Bush Intercontinental, Hobby is a hub for Southwest Airlines, a low-cost carrier with cheap flight deals out of Houston. If you’re looking for a cheap domestic flight, your best bet is Hobby. However, for international flights from Houston, George Bush International is your better option. 

What are the cheapest places to fly from Houston, Texas?

Looking for an unforgettable vacation that’s friendly on the wallet? There are many cheap flights available from Houston to popular vacation destinations. While prices change all the time, here are some of the cheapest places to fly from Houston right now:

  • Denver, Colorado
  • Atlanta, Georgia
  • Orlando, Florida
  • Los Angeles, California
  • Cancun, Mexico
  • Edmonton, Alberta
  • Montego Bay, Jamaica
Denver is one of the cheapest places to fly from Houston
Denver is one of the cheapest places to fly from Houston

What airlines leave out of Hobby Airport?

William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) is an international airport operating flights to 11 international destinations. These airlines all operate out of Houston Hobby Airport: 

  • Southwest Airlines
  • Allegiant Air
  • American Airlines
  • Delta
  • Frontier Airlines
  • British Airways
  • Virgin Atlantic
  • Iberia
  • JetBlue Airways
  • Japan Airlines
  • Qatar Airways
  • Korean Air
  • KLM
  • Qantas Airways
  • Air France
  • LATAM Airlines Group

What airlines serve Houston George Bush Airport (IAH)?

IAH is currently the busiest airport in Texas for international passenger traffic and the number of international destinations. It is also ranked the second busiest airport in Texas overall. These airlines currently operate out of IAH: 

  • AeroMexico
  • Air Canada
  • Air France
  • Air New Zealand 
  • Alaska Airlines
  • American Airlines
  • ANA
  • Avianca
  • British Airways
  • Delta
  • Emirates
  • Ethiopian 
  • Eva Air
  • Frontier Airlines
  • JetBlue
  • KLM
  • Lufthansa
  • Qatar
  • Singapore Airlines
  • Southwest
  • Spirit
  • Sun Country Airlines
  • Turkish Airlines
  • United
  • VivaAerobus
  • Volaris
  • Westjet 
cheapest places to fly from Houston text overlay of a photo showing Houston through a heart-shaped hole in a fence
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