Archive · 17 Nov 2025
10 Affordable US Winter Destinations in 2026: Kayak's Findings
Kayak, a travel research company, found that visiting certain US cities during January and February 2026 can be very affordable.
They looked at lots of flight and hotel searches and found that you can go to places like Chicago, Dallas, or even New York City and spend less than $500 for your trip.
This is because fewer people travel then, so tickets and rooms cost less.
It's a great way to see new places without spending too much money.
Kayak's research highlights 10 affordable US winter destinations for 2026, with most trips costing under $500.
Chicago is identified as the top deal, followed by cities like Dallas and Minneapolis.
Other affordable destinations include Washington D.C., Boston, Baltimore, New York City, Raleigh, Nashville, and Tampa.
Traveling in January and February offers fewer tourists and lower prices, making it an ideal time for budget-friendly getaways.
Kayak analyzed millions of flight and hotel searches from March 15 to September 15, 2025, for trips planned between January 2 and February 28, 2026.
- Who
- Kayak, a travel research company
- What
- Identified the 10 most affordable US winter destinations for 2026, with most trips costing under $500 for flights and hotels.
- When
- Based on data analyzed from March 15 to September 15, 2025, for trips planned between January 2 and February 28, 2026.
- Where
- Across various US cities, including Chicago, Dallas, Minneapolis, Washington D.C., Boston, Baltimore, New York City, Raleigh, Nashville, and Tampa.
- Why
- To highlight the benefits of traveling in the off-peak winter season, such as fewer tourists, cheaper airfare and hotel rates, and a calmer atmosphere.
- Research Source
- Kayak
- Analysis Period
- March 15 - September 15, 2025
- Travel Dates
- January 2 - February 28, 2026
- Cost Metric
- Flight and hotel combined cost
- Top Affordable City
- Chicago