The 13 Cheapest Flights from New Orleans to Anywhere in 2025

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I’ve got some good news for anyone trying to escape those sweaty New Orleans summers without breaking the bank. After obsessively tracking flight deals from MSY (because apparently that’s what I do with my free time), I’ve found some seriously affordable destinations. The French Quarter is amazing, but sometimes you need to give your beignet budget a break and explore somewhere new.

Just last week I booked a direct flight to Mexico City for less than a night out on Bourbon Street, and spent my days stuffing my face with street tacos in Roma Norte. These are the best places to fly from New Orleans that won’t empty your wallet in 2025. Whether you’re craving mountains, beaches, or just need a change of scene, I’ve got you covered with these flight deals.

#1 tip for finding cheap flights from New Orleans

Looking for cheap places to fly from New Orleans? Before jumping into all the coolest cities and airports to fly into, I want to share a quick tip to save money on airfare.

For the past 5 years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to find cheap flight deals. It’s free and super easy to use. All you have to do is enter in your home airport (i.e. MSY) and where you want to go, and they’ll send you mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals.

In 2024 alone, I saved thousands of dollars thanks to their email alerts. This includes most recently, a $225 roundtrip fare from Miami to London. On average, I save about $300 roundtrip on selected flight routes. So, I’m a huge fan and couldn’t recommend them more!

If you’re a frequent flier, consider getting their premium version. It costs $49 per year, but it will easily save you hundreds (or thousands) of dollars if you fly just 1-2 times. I recommend signing up for the free trial (which you can cancel at any time) to test it out for yourself. And if you like it, use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!

Top Cheap Flight Destinations from New Orleans

Looking for cheap flight destinations from New Orleans? Explore the urban energy of Houston, known for its space center and diverse food scene. Visit Dallas to experience world-class museums, lively entertainment, and Texan charm. Discover Atlanta, a city rich in history, culture, and vibrant nightlife. Relax on the sunny beaches of Miami, where tropical vibes and exciting attractions await. Whether you’re after history, adventure, or relaxation, these destinations offer budget-friendly escapes from New Orleans.

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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!

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1. New Orleans to Houston ($49–$120 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour
• 🛫 Airlines: Spirit, Southwest, United, American (10+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: February to April 🌸 and October to November 🍂 for ideal weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Food enthusiasts 🍜, space explorers 🚀, museum lovers 🎨

Houston is where Southern hospitality meets incredible diversity. This Texas metropolis gives you world-class museums, amazing food scenes, and space exploration history without requiring a long flight or expensive ticket.

Museum District packs 19 museums into a walkable area where you can experience everything from fine art at the Museum of Fine Arts to natural science at the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Space Center Houston lets you get up close with actual NASA rockets, touch moon rocks, and tour mission control where they directed the Apollo missions. The food scene here is legitimately amazing, reflecting the city’s diverse population with everything from authentic Vietnamese and Mexican to innovative chef-driven restaurants earning national acclaim.

Budget airlines make this short hop incredibly affordable. Spirit typically offers the lowest base fares, though Southwest often provides better overall value with their free checked bags policy. March brings perfect weather and the world-famous Houston Rodeo, while October offers similarly pleasant temperatures with fewer tourists and lower hotel rates. 

• Read Next: Cheapest Places to Fly from Houston

2. New Orleans to Dallas ($61–$135 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Spirit, American, Southwest, Frontier (12+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌸 and September to November 🍂 for ideal weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Urban cowboys 🤠, food enthusiasts 🍖, sports fans 🏈

Dallas is where Texas-sized ambition meets surprising cultural depth. This sprawling metropolis delivers incredible restaurants, world-class shopping, and vibrant neighborhoods without the tourist crowds of other major cities.

Deep Ellum packs live music venues, street art, and trendy restaurants into a walkable district that buzzes with energy. Klyde Warren Park is this awesome urban green space built over a freeway where food trucks and free activities create a perfect hangout spot. What makes Dallas special is this perfect blend of Texas pride and cosmopolitan cool. One minute you’re watching rodeo at the Mesquite Championship Rodeo, the next you’re checking out contemporary art at the Nasher Sculpture Center.

For flights, American operates a major hub at DFW with frequent direct flights, while Southwest flies to the more convenient Love Field airport closer to downtown. Time your visit in spring or fall for exploring outdoor attractions like the Dallas Arboretum.

• Read Next: Cheapest Places to Fly from Dallas

3. New Orleans to Atlanta ($55–$125 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Spirit, Delta, Southwest, Frontier (15+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌸 and September to November 🍂 for pleasant weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Urban explorers 🏙️, culture seekers 🎭, film buffs 🎬

Atlanta totally flips the script on what you’d expect from a Southern city. This place is buzzing with creative energy, rich history, and cultural attractions that make it worth way more than just a layover on your way somewhere else.

The Beltline has transformed the entire city vibe. This 22-mile former railway trail now connects Atlanta’s coolest neighborhoods, with street art, pop-up markets, and locals jogging or biking at all hours. History comes alive at the powerful Center for Civil Rights, while pop culture fans can tour the World of Coca-Cola or catch a taping at Tyler Perry Studios. When locals want to escape the concrete jungle, they head to Piedmont Park, Atlanta’s version of Central Park but with skyline views that’ll fill your Instagram feed.

Flight strategy: Delta dominates this route from their ATL hub, but Spirit consistently offers fares up to 40% cheaper if you can travel light. This is one of those routes where midweek flights (Tuesday/Wednesday) can save you serious cash. 

• Read Next: Cheapest Places to Fly from Atlanta

4. New Orleans to Miami ($77–$160 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Spirit, Frontier, American, Delta (8+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April 🌴 and May 🌞 for fewer crowds
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, nightlife seekers 🎉, art enthusiasts 🎨

Miami hits you with this perfect mix of Latin flavor and beach paradise vibes the moment you land. This city gives you way more than just beautiful people and beaches, though those are definitely part of the appeal.

South Beach is exactly what you’ve seen on TV, with art deco buildings in pastel colors lining streets where luxury cars cruise past outdoor cafes. But venture beyond to places like Wynwood, where massive murals transform entire warehouse districts into an outdoor art gallery that changes constantly. The city has incredible energy that shifts by neighborhood. Little Havana delivers authentic Cuban culture with domino players and cigar rollers, while Design District showcases cutting-edge fashion and art installations that feel like you’re walking through a museum.

When it comes to flights, Spirit and Frontier battle for budget travelers with base fares sometimes below $80 roundtrip, though expect to pay for everything from seat selection to carry-on bags. Late April to early June offers the sweet spot of warm weather and smaller crowds before summer humidity hits. 

5. New Orleans to Tampa ($81–$150 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Spirit, Southwest, Delta, American (6+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to May 🌞 and January to February 🏴‍☠️ for pirate festival
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach enthusiasts 🏖️, family travelers 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, water sports lovers 🏄‍♀️

Tampa feels like Florida’s best-kept secret compared to Miami and Orlando. This Gulf Coast gem gives you stunning beaches, a surprisingly cool downtown, and a much more laid-back vibe than its flashier Florida counterparts.

Tampa Riverwalk completely transformed the downtown scene, creating a 2.6-mile waterfront path connecting cool museums, parks, and restaurants where you can grab a drink to-go and stroll along the water. Just across the bay, St. Petersburg has this incredible mix of artsy vibes and beach town feels with the world-class Dalí Museum sitting just minutes from pristine beaches. 

For flight deals, Spirit typically offers the lowest base fares from MSY, though Southwest includes free checked bags which can actually make them cheaper overall if you’re packing for a beach trip. 

• Read Next: Cheap Florida Airports to Fly Into

6. New Orleans to Memphis ($79–$130 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
•  🛫 Airlines: Southern Airways Express, Contour Airlines, American
•  📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌸 and September to October 🍂 for festivals and cooler temps
•  🏆 Perfect for: Music lovers 🎸, history buffs 🏛️, road trip vibes 🚗

Memphis hits different. It’s gritty, soulful, and packed with American music history you can literally walk through. Whether you’re into blues, barbecue, or the civil rights movement, this city delivers culture with depth and character.

Beale Street hums with live music nearly every night. Graceland is a must whether you’re an Elvis fan or not. It’s over-the-top in the best way. The National Civil Rights Museum, built into the Lorraine Motel, is powerful and unforgettable. You’ll also find massive murals, vintage diners, and riverside parks that show off the city’s slower Southern pace.

Flights from New Orleans are short and often overlooked, which means you can find solid fares if you book 2 to 4 weeks ahead. Southern Airways Express and Contour Airlines handle most direct routes with small aircraft, so pack light. For better reliability or checked bags, American through Dallas is a good backup. Tuesdays and Saturdays usually offer the best pricing.

7. New Orleans to Austin ($112–$190 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Southwest, American, United
•  📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌼 and October to November 🍁 for music festivals and cooler temps
• 🏆 Perfect for: Live music junkies 🎶, outdoor enthusiasts 🚴, creative souls 🎨

Austin is where cowboy boots meet tech startups. The city has tons of live music venues, food trucks on every corner, and outdoor spaces that locals actually use year-round. Texas‘ capital perfectly balances laid-back vibes with enough energy to keep you busy without the overwhelming crowds of bigger cities.

Zilker Park is famous for picnics and paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake, while South Congress is packed with quirky shops to check out. Music venues like The Continental Club showcase live bands nightly, and Barton Springs Pool offers a natural spring-fed swimming hole that stays 68 degrees year-round where locals escape the brutal Texas heat. Two days here and you’ll understand why everyone’s been raving about this place. It somehow manages to feel both small-town friendly and big-city cool at the same time.

For the cheapest flights, catch Southwest flash sales that happen every six weeks, or book Spirit 2 months ahead for midweek travel. March brings perfect weather plus SXSW (book way ahead!), while October offers ideal temps and Austin City Limits festival vibes. 

8. New Orleans to Orlando ($66–$140 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Spirit, Southwest, Frontier (6+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: January to April 🌞 and September to November 🍂 for shorter lines and better deals
• 🏆 Perfect for: Theme park enthusiasts 🎢, family vacations 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, budget travelers 💰

Orlando is so much more than just mouse ears and magic kingdoms. The city has tons of world-class theme parks, sure, but also lush nature preserves, surprisingly good food scenes, and perfect weather when the rest of the country is freezing. Florida’s tourism capital delivers maximum fun with minimum planning if you know when to go.

Universal Studios is famous for its mind-blowing Harry Potter world, while Disney Springs offers amazing shopping and dining without the theme park admission fees. Don’t limit yourself to just the big parks though. Wekiwa Springs is where locals escape for crystal-clear swimming and kayaking, and Winter Park offers a charming downtown that feels worlds away from the theme park madness.

Score the cheapest tickets by booking Spirit or Frontier 2-3 months ahead with fares often below $70 roundtrip if you pack light. Southwest costs more but includes two free checked bags. January through early March offers pleasant weather and smaller crowds, while September and October bring shorter lines after kids return to school. 

• Read Next: Best Airports Near Orlando

9. New Orleans to Charlotte ($75–$145 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: American Airlines, Delta, Spirit (4+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June 🌷 and September to October 🍂 for pleasant weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Urban explorers 🏙️, food enthusiasts 🍗, brewery hoppers 🍺

Charlotte delivers Southern hospitality with a modern twist. The city blends banking powerhouse vibes with creative energy, where gleaming skyscrapers tower above buzzing neighborhoods filled with chef-driven restaurants and craft breweries.

Uptown Charlotte is where you’ll find the city’s skyline views and cultural attractions like the NASCAR Hall of Fame and Mint Museum. The trendy NoDa neighborhood buzzes with colorful murals, craft beer spots, and live music venues in converted textile mills. Freedom Park offers 98 acres of green space perfect for picnics after exploring the nearby boutiques and cafes in the historic Dilworth area. The city manages to feel both polished and approachable at the same time.

For flights, American Airlines operates a major hub in Charlotte with the most direct flights, but often Spirit offers fares under $100 roundtrip if you book 6-8 weeks ahead and travel midweek. May and September bring perfect temperatures for exploring the city’s outdoor spaces and rooftop bars, while avoiding the muggy summer heat and higher hotel rates that come with it.

10. New Orleans to San Antonio ($111–$180 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: American Airlines, Southwest, Frontier (3+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌸 and October to December 🍂 for comfortable temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: History buffs 🏛️, foodies 🌮, budget travelers 💰

San Antonio offers Texas-sized charm without the big city hassle. The city blends rich colonial history with vibrant Mexican influence, creating a colorful cultural scene where mariachi music fills historic plazas and the smell of fresh tortillas wafts through bustling markets.

The Riverwalk is the beating heart of downtown with its winding waterway lined with restaurants, shops, and hotels tucked beneath street level. Just blocks away, The Alamo stands as the iconic symbol of Texas independence. For authentic Mexican vibes, Market Square delivers with its festive atmosphere, handcrafted goods, and mouthwatering tacos. 

Flight-wise, watch out for Frontier deals that occasionally drop below $100 roundtrip if you can travel light and book 2-3 months ahead. Southwest often runs flash sales with reasonable fares that include two free checked bags. April and November offer the sweet spot of perfect weather and fewer tourists, meaning lower hotel rates and shorter lines at attractions. 

11. New Orleans to Nashville ($92–$160 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Southwest, American Airlines, Spirit (5+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June 🌸 and September to October 🍂 for milder weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Music lovers 🎸, foodies 🍗, weekend travelers 🍻

Nashville delivers honky-tonk heart with cosmopolitan cool. The city blends legendary music heritage with a booming culinary scene, where iconic recording studios share neighborhoods with chef-driven restaurants and craft cocktail bars that keep the party going till dawn.

Broadway is where neon lights illuminate the famous strip of live music venues pumping out country tunes from morning till night. Just blocks away, The Ryman Auditorium stands as the “Mother Church of Country Music” with its storied history and perfect acoustics. For a taste of local flavor, 12 South offers trendy boutiques and must-try hot chicken spots, while East Nashville serves up hipster vibes with vintage shops and innovative restaurants. The creativity flowing through this city is absolutely contagious.

Southwest consistently offers the most competitive prices and runs sales approximately every six weeks. Spirit sometimes drops fares below $100 roundtrip but charges for everything from seat selection to carry-ons. May and late September bring perfect temperatures for rooftop bars and outdoor concerts, plus hotel rates tend to dip compared to peak summer season.

12. New Orleans to Birmingham ($59–$115 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Delta, American Airlines, United (3+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌼 and September to November 🍂 for pleasant weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: History buffs 🏛️, outdoor enthusiasts 🌄, budget travelers 💰

Birmingham is where industrial grit meets Southern revival. The city has totally transformed in recent years with a downtown renaissance that’s brought new life to historic districts. Old warehouses and factories now house cool breweries, art galleries, and green spaces that locals actually hang out in.

Railroad Park is the heart of downtown’s rebirth, a gorgeous 19-acre green space connecting the city center to Regions Field baseball stadium. The powerful Civil Rights District includes the moving Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and 16th Street Baptist Church, sites that shaped American history. For outdoor vibes, Red Mountain Park offers miles of trails with abandoned mine sites and the best skyline views in the city. This underrated gem gives you an authentic slice of the New South without the touristy feel of places like Nashville or Atlanta.

Score crazy cheap flights on this route when Delta drops fares below $80 roundtrip, which happens about every two months. Since direct flights are limited (usually just 1-2 per day), book at least 6 weeks ahead and be flexible with travel dates. April brings perfect temps and dogwoods blooming all over the city, while October offers fall colors and ideal hiking weather. 

13. New Orleans to Fort Lauderdale ($80–$155 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Spirit, JetBlue, Southwest (5+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April ☀️ and September to October 🌦️ for fewer crowds
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, boating enthusiasts ⛵, nightlife seekers 🍹

Fort Lauderdale has evolved from spring break central to a sophisticated waterfront playground. The city features 23 miles of golden beaches, a network of scenic canals earning it the nickname “Venice of America,” and a revitalized downtown packed with upscale shops and art galleries.

Las Olas Boulevard serves as the city’s stylish spine, lined with palm trees, boutiques, and sidewalk cafes perfect for people-watching. The stunning Fort Lauderdale Beach offers a more relaxed vibe than crowded Miami Beach just 30 miles south. For nature lovers, Hugh Taylor Birch State Park provides a tropical oasis with kayaking through mangrove tunnels and hiking trails where you might spot manatees. 

Spirit Airlines dominates this route with multiple daily nonstop flights often priced below $100 roundtrip if you can travel with just a personal item. JetBlue offers a more comfortable experience for about $30-50 more each way. Time your visit in late September through October for the perfect 80-degree days, fewer crowds, and significantly lower hotel rates before the winter snowbird invasion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Cheapest Flights from New Orleans

Looking to expand your knowledge about the cheapest destinations from New Orleans? Here are some common questions I get a lot about cheap flights from New Orleans to anywhere.

What are some of the cheapest places to fly from New Orleans?

Some popular cheap destinations from New Orleans include cities like Houston, Dallas, Atlanta, Miami, and more!

How can I secure the cheapest flights from New Orleans?

Book in advance, stay flexible with your travel dates, and always keep an eye out for promotional fares and deals from airlines.

What airlines fly out of New Orleans?

New Orleans is primarily served by Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), and several airlines operate flights from this airport. Here’s a list of some of the major airlines that fly out of New Orleans:

1. Delta Air Lines: Offering both domestic and international flights.
2. Southwest Airlines: A major carrier for domestic flights within the U.S.
3. American Airlines: Providing service to various domestic and international destinations.
4. United Airlines: Another significant carrier with a wide range of domestic and international routes.
5. Spirit Airlines: A low-cost carrier with several domestic routes.
6. JetBlue Airways: Operating mainly domestic flights.
7. Alaska Airlines: Serving select domestic destinations.
8. Frontier Airlines: Another low-cost option for domestic travel.
9. Allegiant Air: Focusing on domestic leisure destinations.
10. British Airways: Offering international flights, such as to London.
11. Air Canada: Providing connections to Canadian cities.
12. Copa Airlines: Serving destinations in Central and South America.

Do flight prices vary depending on the time of year?

Absolutely! The cost of tickets can fluctuate based on the season. For instance, destinations with warmer climates might be cheaper during off-peak seasons.

Where is the cheapest place to fly from New Orleans for a quick weekend getaway?

Shorter distance destinations like Houston, Memphis, or Birmingham often have the cheapest flights from MSY for a swift escape.

Are international destinations accessible and affordable from New Orleans?

Yes, while most cheap trips from New Orleans are domestic, there are occasional deals to international destinations, especially in Central America and the Caribbean.

Which airlines typically offer the best cheap flights from MSY?

It varies based on the destination, but airlines like Spirit, Southwest, and Delta often have competitive fares.

Is it possible to find last-minute cheap flights from New Orleans?

While booking in advance is recommended, there are sometimes last-minute deals, especially if airlines have unsold seats. It’s a bit of a gamble but can pay off!

Are the cheapest flights from NEW typically direct flights or do they have stopovers?

Many cheap destinations from New Orleans offer direct flights, but the cheapest flights might sometimes have layovers, depending on the airline and the route.

How does New Orleans compare to other cities in terms of flight affordability?

New Orleans, with its strategic location and bustling airport, often offers competitive fares, especially to southern and eastern US cities.

I’m planning a vacation on a budget. Are there any cheap countries to fly from New Orleans?

While New Orleans primarily offers domestic deals, keep an eye out for discounts to Mexico or the Caribbean for an affordable international escape!