Is Your Go-To Airport One Of The Most Expensive In The US?
Travel plans can fall apart quickly once airfare enters the equation. Certain airports keep prices painfully high due to factors like low competition and strategic hub dominance. Each one on this list has a reputation for blowing budgets wide open—sometimes in places you’d least expect.
John Wayne Airport (SNA) – California
Orange County’s SNA typically sees fares around $428 due to its location near wealthy communities and strict flight caps that limit the number of daily departures. These factors push prices up fast. Flyers often look to nearby alternatives like LAX or Long Beach for better deals.
Dulles International Airport (IAD) – Washington, D.C.
Sky-high fares await at Dulles, where domestic tickets average $490 in 2024, over $120 above the national average. United Airlines dominates here, limiting competition and keeping prices steep. Despite being a major hub, budget carriers are scarce, which leaves passengers with few affordable options.
San Diego International Airport (SAN) – California
San Diego International’s flight prices average $385.57, driven by limited airline competition and year-round demand. It also stands out due to its location near the Pacific Ocean. Popular attractions like beaches and military bases influence both operational costs and pricing.
Telluride Regional Airport (TEX) – Colorado
Domiciled in the Rockies, Telluride’s typical airfare soared to $818 in 2024. Limited flights and carriers mean less competition, driving up costs. Its remote location and popularity among ski enthusiasts contribute to the high price tag for departures.
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) – California
SFO’s average fare of $452.89 reflects its major tech and international hub role. High demand from business travelers and limited budget airline options contribute to the steep prices. Still, its global connectivity and convenience offer solid value for frequent international travelers.
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) – Utah
With ticket prices reaching $410.70, Salt Lake City ranks among the priciest major airports. Delta dominates the scene, limiting low-cost options. Even after its sleek new upgrades, budget-conscious people might want to search for better deals beyond SLC.
Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) – Michigan
Fares at DTW average around $426, which is tough on tight budgets. Delta’s dominance and elevated operational costs keep prices high. Some travelers opt for nearby airports to escape the hefty expenses tied to flying out of DTW.
Albany International Airport (ALB) – New York
Albany’s airfare peaked at $741—shockingly steep for a smaller airport. With limited direct flights and few carriers, competition stays low. Many ditch convenience and drive to major hubs instead, hoping to snag better fares and avoid ALB’s budget-busting prices.
Huntsville International Airport (HSV) – Alabama
Budget travelers often look to nearby cities as better options when flying from Alabama. Huntsville’s going rate for fares sits at $561.69, driven up by its business-focused routes and limited leisure service. With fewer airlines competing, prices rarely dip into wallet-friendly territory.
Pocatello Regional Airport (PIH) – Idaho
Remote and lightly trafficked, Pocatello’s ticket prices climb to $795. The airport serves a small population with few flight options, leaving people with little pricing relief. Without airline competition, prices soar—so brace yourself for serious sticker shock before booking from this Idaho hub.
Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport (GUC) – Colorado
Ski lovers heading to Gunnison face average fares of around $769. Seasonal surges and limited flight options push prices higher. For travelers watching their wallets, nearby hubs like Denver or Montrose often offer cheaper routes with more flexibility and competition.
Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) – North Carolina
The usual fare at Charlotte Douglas International Airport is $425, which is influenced by its status as an American Airlines hub. While the airport offers numerous connections, the dominance of a single carrier limits competitive pricing
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) – Texas
DFW’s fare is driven up by its status as a major American Airlines hub. With limited competition, expect higher prices compared to smaller regional airports. If you’re a budget traveler, you might find better deals at nearby Dallas Love Field.
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) – New York
JFK’s fare lands at $473, reflecting its status as a major international gateway. While it offers numerous flights, the airport’s operational costs and demand contribute to higher prices compared to many nearby options. Thankfully, the value of convenient international connections often outweighs the premium cost of John F. Kennedy International Airport.
Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) – Wyoming
Operating in a scenic region, Jackson Hole’s typical airfare hovers around $790. Popular with outdoor enthusiasts and luxury travelers, this airport rarely offers wallet-friendly departures, especially during peak travel months. Its remote location, heavy seasonal traffic, and limited flight availability send prices soaring.
