How to Get from Chicago Midway Airport (MDW – United States): Transport, Prices & Tips 2025 ✈️🇺🇸
Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) is the second most important airport in the Chicago area, behind only O’Hare. Located about 16–20 km (10–12 miles) from downtown Chicago (The Loop), Midway is heavily used for domestic flights and is one of the largest hubs for Southwest Airlines.
Although smaller than O’Hare, Midway is very practical for visitors to Chicago because it is closer to downtown and has solid transport connections. Options include the CTA “L” Orange Line train, buses, taxis, rideshare apps such as Uber and Lyft, shared shuttles, and private transfers. The best choice depends on your budget, available time, and comfort level.
Transfer Estimates by Destination 💰
| Destination | Approx. Distance | Economy | Executive | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown Chicago (The Loop) | ~16 km | USD 35–45 | USD 60–80 | USD 90–120 |
| Near South Side / Bridgeport | ~10–12 km | USD 30–40 | USD 55–70 | USD 80–100 |
| Lincoln Park | ~22 km | USD 40–60 | USD 70–90 | USD 100–130 |
| Hyde Park (Univ. of Chicago) | ~18 km | USD 35–50 | USD 65–85 | USD 90–120 |
Private transfers can be booked in advance and are ideal for travelers who prefer to avoid public transport, are traveling in groups, or arrive late at night.
Metro: CTA Orange Line 🚆
The CTA Orange Line is the most affordable and practical way to reach downtown from Midway Airport. The station is attached to the terminal and well signposted.
- Travel time to the Loop: ~25–30 minutes
- Price: USD 2.50–3.00 per ride
- Frequency: every 10 minutes during the day, with longer waits at night
- Hours: approximately 04:00 to 01:00
Besides being quick, the Orange Line avoids Chicago’s frequent traffic jams, making travel time more predictable. It is the best option for solo travelers or couples without heavy luggage.
Local Buses & Shuttles 🚌
Midway is also served by CTA and Pace bus routes connecting the airport to various neighborhoods.
- Local buses: good for shorter trips to nearby areas
- Fare: about USD 2.50
- Travel time: slower than the train, depending on traffic and route
- Shared shuttles: provide service to hotels and tourist spots
- Price: USD 25–30 per person to downtown
- Travel time: 30–45 minutes, depending on stops
- Availability: 24/7 with advance reservation
Taxi 🚕
Official taxis are available 24/7 from the arrivals area.
- Average fare to downtown (Loop): USD 35–40 under normal conditions
- Travel time: 20–30 minutes without heavy traffic
- Extras: tipping (10–15%) and toll charges may apply
Taxis are convenient for groups or travelers with lots of luggage, offering door-to-door service.
Rideshare Apps: Uber & Lyft 📱
Both Uber and Lyft operate at Midway Airport. Pickup areas are clearly marked as Rideshare Pickup Zones.
- UberX to the Loop: USD 35–45
- UberXL / Comfort: USD 50–70
- Uber Black / Luxury: USD 80+
- Average wait time: 5–10 minutes
A major advantage of rideshare apps is pricing transparency, as the estimated fare appears before booking.
Cost & Time Comparison ⚙️
| Option | Time to Downtown | Avg. Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Orange Line (CTA) | 25–30 min | USD 2.50–3.00 | Maximum savings |
| Local bus | 40–60 min | USD 2.50 | Short trips & nearby areas |
| Shared shuttle | 30–45 min | USD 25–30 | Small groups with moderate luggage |
| Taxi | 20–30 min | USD 35–40 | Comfort & luggage |
| Uber/Lyft | 20–30 min | USD 35–70 | Flexibility & digital payment |
| Private transfer | 20–35 min | USD 60–120 | Maximum comfort |
Safety Tips ⚠️
- Only use official taxis and recognized rideshare apps.
- Always confirm license plate and driver’s name for Uber/Lyft.
- On trains and buses, keep belongings close, especially during rush hours.
- At night, if traveling alone with luggage, taxis or rideshare are preferable.
Accessibility ♿
- Airport: fully accessible, with ramps, elevators, and adapted restrooms.
- Orange Line: stations and trains include elevators and wheelchair spaces.
- CTA buses: many vehicles are accessible, but check specific routes.
- Taxis & Uber: accessible vehicles can be requested, though availability may be limited.
Conclusion: Which Transport to Choose? 🎯
- Maximum savings 💰: CTA Orange Line (USD 2.50–3.00)
- Fastest ⚡: Taxi or rideshare outside peak hours (20–30 min)
- Most comfortable 👥: Private transfer or Uber Black
- Most flexible 🚗: Uber/Lyft, available 24/7
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions ❓
How much is the Orange Line to downtown?
USD 2.50–3.00 per ride.
Taxi or Uber: which is cheaper?
Fares are generally similar (~USD 35–40 to the Loop). Uber may be higher during peak demand.
How long does it take to reach the Loop?
25–30 minutes by metro, 20–30 minutes by car/taxi in normal traffic.
Is there a shuttle from the airport to downtown?
Yes, around USD 25–30 per person.
Is the airport wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Both the airport and main transport options are accessible.
Sources 📚
Public Transport
Taxis & Apps
Shuttles & Transfers
