Quick answer: Houston Hobby (HOU) is the closest airport to MD Anderson Cancer Center in the Texas Medical Center (TMC)—about 10 miles and typically 15–30 minutes by car. George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) is ~23 miles and 30–45 minutes in normal traffic. For most domestic travelers, Hobby saves time and money on ground transportation.
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Quick pick: For most trips, choose Hobby (HOU)—it’s closer, faster, and cheaper on the ground. If you’re flying international or prefer United, choose IAH. Arriving 4–7pm? Add 10–20 minutes to any estimate.
| Factor | Hobby (HOU) | Bush Intercontinental (IAH) |
|---|---|---|
| Distance to MD Anderson | ~10 miles | ~23 miles |
| Typical drive time | 15–30 min (add 10–15 at peak) | 30–45 min (50+ at peak) |
| Ground transport cost | Lower (shorter trip) | Higher (longer trip) |
| Airport size | Smaller; easy to navigate | Large; more walking/transfers |
| Flight network | Strong domestic; limited international | Extensive domestic + global |
| Airlines at HOU | Southwest (largest), plus American, Delta, Frontier, Allegiant, Sun Country; semi-private JSX from a private terminal | United hub with many U.S. and international carriers |
| Best for | Most domestic MD Anderson trips | International & United routes |
Recommended car service: For pre-scheduled, low-stress airport pickups, we recommend Alto. Lodgeur guests receive a discount.
Choose IAH for the most nonstop routes. After customs/immigration, taxi or rideshare is simplest; consider Alto if you prefer a pre-scheduled pickup.
Three stops on the Red Line to the Texas Medical Center, plus restaurants and coffee outside your door—great for frequent back-and-forth trips.
Stay here: Lodgeur Midtown
Central hub with quick drives to TMC and the Galleria; excellent rates and neighborhood parks. You’ll want a car for TMC appointments.
Stay here: Lodgeur Upper Kirby
Walk to appointments. Expect to rideshare or drive for dining and errands.
Stay here: Lodgeur Med Center
Near Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus; convenient for care at the TMC’s west-side facilities.
Stay here: Lodgeur Energy Corridor
Which airport is closest to MD Anderson?
Hobby (HOU)—about 10 miles and typically 15–30 minutes by car.
Is IAH ever the better choice?
Only if the flight schedules work better for you.
What’s the cheapest way to get to MD Anderson?
Public transit can be under $5 but requires transfers and walking. Most patients prefer rideshare/taxi for ease.
Planning treatment in Houston? Book extended-stay furnished apartments near the Texas Medical Center—kitchens, laundry access, and space to recover.
Multiple MD Anderson visits? Save with Lodgeur’s extended-stay apartments—no leases, book like a hotel.
Need help choosing a neighborhood? Text or call 1-855-LODGEUR for help from our team.