A Guide to Airport Transportation in Chicago

Chicago is one of the busiest cities in the United States, and its airports welcome millions of travelers every year. Whether you are flying into O’Hare International Airport (ORD), Midway International Airport (MDW), or even a smaller airport like Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD), you’ll need a way to get to and from the airport smoothly.

Luckily, Chicago offers many airport transportation options that fit all types of travelers — from solo adventurers to big groups. In this guide, we’ll break down the best ways to get around, including taxis, public transit, private rides, and more.

1. Taxi Services

Taxis are a classic and easy option for airport transportation. You can find taxi stands outside of both O’Hare and Midway terminals. There’s no need to book ahead — just walk to the taxi line and wait for the next available cab.

Pros of taking a taxi:

• Convenient — you can leave right away.

• Licensed drivers who know the city well.

• Fixed rates for some destinations from the airport.

Cons of taking a taxi:

• Taxis can be expensive, especially during heavy traffic.

• You might have to wait in line during busy times.

At O’Hare, a taxi ride to downtown Chicago usually costs between $35 and $50, while from Midway, it’s around $30 to $40. Make sure you have cash or a credit card, as most cabs accept both.

2. Rideshare Apps (Uber and Lyft)

If you prefer using your phone to book a ride, Uber and Lyft are great options. Both services operate at O’Hare and Midway airports.

Here’s how it works:

• After you land, open your rideshare app and request a ride.

• Follow airport signs to the rideshare pick-up area (different from taxi stands).

• Meet your driver and enjoy your trip!

Pros of using rideshare apps:

• Easy to use with your smartphone.

• You can choose different types of rides (basic, luxury, bigger vehicles).

• Often cheaper than taxis.

Cons of using rideshare apps:

• Surge pricing can make rides more expensive during peak times.

• You might wait longer for a driver during busy hours.

A typical UberX or Lyft ride to downtown from O’Hare costs about $30 to $45. From Midway, it's usually $25 to $35.

3. Airport Shuttles

Airport shuttle services are another popular option, especially for travelers going to hotels, conference centers, or suburban areas.

Companies like GO Airport Express offer shared shuttles that you can pre-book or arrange at the airport. They pick up multiple passengers and drop them off at different locations.

Pros of airport shuttles:

• Cost-effective, especially for solo travelers.

• Reliable and run frequently.

• Door-to-door service.

Cons of airport shuttles:

• Longer travel times because of multiple stops.

• You may have to wait for the van to fill up before leaving.

Prices for shared shuttle services to downtown Chicago start around $30 per person. Private shuttle options are also available if you want a vehicle just for your group.

4. Public Transportation (CTA Trains and Buses)

For budget-conscious travelers, Chicago’s public transportation system is one of the best options.

From O’Hare Airport:

• Take the CTA Blue Line train directly to downtown Chicago.

• Trains run 24/7 and cost only $5 from O’Hare.

From Midway Airport:

• Take the CTA Orange Line train to the downtown Loop area.

• The fare is $2.50.

Pros of public transportation:

• Very affordable.

• Frequent service.

• No worries about traffic jams.

Cons of public transportation:

• Not ideal if you have heavy luggage.

• You may have to transfer to buses or walk to reach your final destination.

If you’re familiar with city trains or buses, this is a great way to save money and avoid the city’s famous traffic jams.

5. Rental Cars

If you plan to explore areas outside Chicago or want full control over your schedule, renting a car might be your best choice. All major rental companies operate at both airports, and they have easy shuttle service from the terminals to their rental centers.

Pros of renting a car:

• Flexibility to travel wherever and whenever you want.

• Good for visiting suburbs, national parks, or nearby cities.

Cons of renting a car:

• Parking in Chicago can be expensive and hard to find.

• Driving in downtown Chicago traffic can be stressful.

• Rental costs can add up, especially with insurance and gas.

Daily rental rates vary depending on the company, the type of car, and the time of year. Booking ahead often gets you the best deals.

6. Private Car Services

For a more luxurious and stress-free experience, many travelers choose private car services or limousines. Companies like Echo Limousine and A1 Limousine offer airport pickups with professional drivers.

Pros of private car services:

• Comfortable and stylish rides.

• Meet-and-greet services available.

• Great for business travelers or special occasions.

Cons of private car services:

• More expensive than taxis or rideshares.

• Must be booked in advance.

Prices vary but expect to pay around $70 to $100 for a private car ride from O’Hare or Midway to downtown Chicago.

7. Charter Bus Services

For large groups, a charter bus or private shuttle bus is a smart and economical option. Whether it’s a wedding party, a school trip, or a corporate event, buses can transport many people at once, with enough room for everyone’s luggage.

Charter buses can be customized to your needs — some even offer Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and TV screens.

Pros of charter buses:

• Ideal for large groups.

• Affordable per person when splitting costs.

• Comfortable and spacious.

Cons of charter buses:

• Must be scheduled ahead of time.

• Not practical for solo travelers or very small groups.

Prices vary depending on the size of the bus and the distance traveled.

Final Tips for Airport Transportation in Chicago

• Plan ahead. Booking transportation before you land can save time and stress.

• Watch traffic times. Chicago’s rush hours (7–9 AM and 4–6 PM) can make trips much longer.

• Consider your luggage. If you have a lot of bags, a taxi, rideshare, or private car may be easier than public transit.

• Stay safe. Only use licensed taxis, official rideshare drivers, or registered shuttle services.

In short:
Chicago has an airport transportation option for everyone, whether you're looking for something cheap, fast, luxurious, or group-friendly. Choosing the right service depends on your budget, group size, and how comfortable you want your trip to be.

Safe travels and enjoy your time in the Windy City!