Cost from Midway Airport to Downtown Chicago: CTA, Rideshare & Taxi

Midway Airport (MDW) is 8–10 miles from the Loop. Here are current typical costs (2024):

Public Transit (Cheapest & Often Fastest)

• CTA Orange Line: $2.50 (Ventra card/contactless). 20–25 min to Loop stations (Library, Washington, Quincy, LaSalle/Van Buren). Runs ~4 AM–1 AM; every 8–15 min.

Rideshare (Uber / Lyft)

• UberX / Lyft Standard: $25–35 (non-surge).
• UberXL / Lyft XL: $35–50.
• Uber Black / Lyft Lux: $50–70+.
• Surge pricing: Can double/triple during events, weather, rush hour.

Taxi

• Flat Rate to Downtown: $35–45 (includes $4 credit card fee, $1 per extra passenger).
• Metered: Similar range; ensure meter runs.
• Wait time: Usually available at designated stands; 5–15 min wait.

Other Options

• Hotel Shuttle: Free for guests (check your hotel).
• Private Car Service: $60–100+ (pre-booked).
• Rental Car: $40–80/day + parking ($40–70/night downtown).

Recommendation

• Solo, light luggage, daytime: Orange Line ($2.50) — best value.
• Group, heavy bags, late night: UberX/Lyft ($25–35) — door-to-door convenience.
• Business, expense account: Taxi or Black car — receipt reliability.

Pro Tip

Download Ventra app or use contactless bank card for instant CTA payment. Orange Line runs elevated—great skyline views approaching the Loop.