Closest Airport to the Texas Medical Center: Hobby vs. IAH
If you're flying to Houston for treatment, here's the quick answer. William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) is the closest airport to MD Anderson and the rest of the Texas Medical Center. It's about 10 miles away, usually a 20- to 30-minute drive. George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) is roughly 23 to 25 miles north, closer to 45 minutes in normal traffic and longer at rush hour.
Closest isn't always best, though. Your airline, how the patient feels after a flight, and where you're staying all matter. We're Medical Accommodations (MedStays), and we hear this question on almost every call, so here's what we tell people.
Hobby vs. IAH at a Glance
What Is the Closest Airport to MD Anderson?
Hobby. It's smaller, the walk to baggage claim is short, and the ride into the medical center is quick. Most of our guests take a rideshare or taxi from outside baggage claim, and since it's less than half the distance from IAH, it usually costs less. METRO buses also leave from the Hobby Transit Center, but you'll need a transfer, which is a lot to ask of a patient with luggage.
One tip: MD Anderson spans several buildings, so enter the exact address from your appointment letter, not just "MD Anderson." Still deciding where to stay? Start with our MD Anderson patient housing page or our guide to housing near MD Anderson during cancer treatment.
Getting From IAH to the Texas Medical Center
By car, plan on 35 to 50 minutes, and more on weekday afternoons. By transit, METRO's 102 Bush IAH Express runs from Terminal C to downtown, where you switch to a southbound Red Line train into the medical center. If you're flying in internationally, add time for customs. The Houston Airport System lists current ground transportation for both airports.
Best Airport for Your TMC Hospital?
“Most of the major hospitals are within a few square miles of each other, so for all of them, Hobby is the closest airport. What changes is the location.
MD Anderson: Many patients are here for weeks, so caregivers should check out our caregiver's guide to long-term stays near MD Anderson. Houston Methodist: Check out our Houston Methodist family housing guide and Houston Methodist patient housing page for families planning around surgery or recovery. Texas Children's: Parents with a sick child should favor the easier airport. See Texas Children's Hospital family housing.
Baylor St. Luke’s: Find the flight with the fewest connections and then see our guide to Baylor St. Luke’s patient housing. Memorial Hermann: The airport is okay after an emergency; our Memorial Hermann family housing guide helps next.
Ben Taub: same advice; see our Ben Taub Hospital housing guide.
Texas Orthopedic: it's at the south end of the TMC, among the quickest from Hobby; start with Texas Medical Center housing.
Seeing more than one hospital? Check our commute times from TMC housing to each major hospital.
Where to Stay Once You Land
Request wheelchair assistance when you book, arrive the day before your first appointment if possible, and keep medications in your carry-on. Our caregiver packing list covers the rest.
For longer treatment, a furnished apartment usually beats a hotel: a kitchen, laundry, room for a caregiver, and dates that can stretch. Browse our furnished apartments near the Texas Medical Center or explore our extended-stay housing. The Maroneal is walkable to the TMC, and Stella at the Medical Center offers a free shuttle, so you may not need a rental car. Whether you need Houston Methodist family housing or a place near MD Anderson, patient rates stay the same year-round.
FAQ
What is the closest airport to MD Anderson?
William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) is the closest airport to MD Anderson. It's about 10 miles from the Texas Medical Center, usually a 20- to 30-minute drive.
Is Hobby or IAH better for the Texas Medical Center?
For most domestic travelers, Hobby is better because it's closer, smaller, and cheaper to ride from. IAH makes sense for international flights, United flyers, or nonstops Hobby doesn't offer.
How long does it take to get from IAH to MD Anderson?
About 35 to 50 minutes by car in normal traffic, and an hour or more on weekday afternoons. By METRO, plan on well over an hour.
What is the closest airport to Houston Methodist Hospital?
Hobby (HOU). Houston Methodist is in the same part of the TMC as MD Anderson, so distances and drive times are about the same.
Where should Houston Methodist families stay after flying in?
Most families do best in a furnished apartment near the hospital, especially for stays longer than a week. Houston Methodist family housing near the TMC gives you a kitchen, laundry, and space for a caregiver.
The Bottom Line
If you can, fly into Hobby. It's the closest airport to MD Anderson and every other TMC hospital and the easiest arrival for someone who isn't feeling well. Once you book your flight, tell us your hospital and dates, and we'll find you a place close to your care. Call 888-900-2559 or 713-298-3073, or request housing.
