These are the best airport lounges in America, according to travelers

A recent JD Power 2026 US Airport Lounge Satisfaction Study has ranked the best airport lounges in America. The top two lounges tie for the highest spot: the American Express Centurion Lounge and the Capital One Lounge. These credit card-branded lounges were followed closely by the Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club.

The study surveyed 3,000 passengers on their satisfaction with airport lounges across the country from April to June 2026. It assessed eight factors: experience value, staff, food and beverage, cleanliness, amenities, ease of access, ambiance, and Wi-Fi service. Andrea Stokes, a hospitality practice lead at JD Power, noted the growing challenges in this segment of the airport economy due to crowded facilities and food offerings that fall short of expectations.

Staff was one of the most crucial dimensions, with 77% of guests finding the lounge staff welcoming. However, only about half of the respondents considered the staff to be either happy or knowledgeable. The survey revealed that passengers primarily visit lounges to avoid expensive food and beverage options in airports and to find better meals. Around 45% of participants also used lounges to escape busy airport crowds.

Despite their popularity, the lounges are increasingly crowded, with nearly half of the surveyed guests reporting moderate to severe crowding. Stokes highlighted that while the airport lounge has become an oasis for travelers, it can sometimes turn into a mirage when the lounges are overcrowded and people have to wait in long lines to gain access.