These Are the Most Expensive Airports in America
A new report from Savings.com revealed the most expensive airports in America, and the reason for the disparity is shocking. The report looked at airfare data for the 200 busiest airports in the U.S., comparing the average price of tickets in each region as well as through carriers from January through June 2025. The data was provided by the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS).
Report Finds Surprising Financial Info About Air Travel
According to the report, the price for airtravel has actually dropped in the last 30 years. “The average U.S. domestic airfare is $391 in 2025, down 1.3 percent year over year,” the report noted. “Adjusted for inflation, flying is actually 36 percent cheaper now than in 1995.”
Nonetheless, not everyone can afford a vacation these days. The report found that Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is the nation’s most expensive. The average domestic airfare at IAD is $475 per passenger. Close on IAD’s heels is Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), where the average cost per passenger is $461. Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) placed third. The average cost per passenger at CLT is $445.
“Some smaller markets — particularly resort destinations and mountain towns — command some of the nation’s highest fares, thanks to limited airline competition and seasonal demand.”
The Reason for the Disparate Pricing Will Shock You
Buried deeper within the report is one of its most interesting points. The price for airfare can vary greatly depending on your airport of origin. “Even within the same metro area, airfare costs can vary dramatically depending on which airport you choose. For travelers in multi-airport regions, those differences can translate into serious savings,” the report explained. “Of course, not all airports serve the same destinations, and differences in travel time and parking fees should be considered when deciding which airport to depart from.”
However, the report wasn’t all sad news. It also determined the nation’s most affordable airports, with Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport (FLL) taking the top spot. The average cost per passenger at FLL is $281. Orlando International Airport (MCO) came next, with an average per-passenger cost of $289. Las Vegas’ Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), where the average cost per passenger is $291, came third. St. Petersburg–Clearwater (PIE), Orlando Sanford (SFB), and Punta Gorda (PGD) were ranked the cheapest. Each of those airports offer average per-passenger prices below $150.