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Points Frog guide

United Airlines MileagePlus vs Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards

United Airlines MileagePlus miles and Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards points are worth the same on Points Frog's valuations as of October 13, 2026: an estimated 1.25¢ each, so 50,000 of either come to about $625. The better program is the one you earn faster and can redeem where you want to go.

Values updated

United Airlines MileagePlus vs Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards, side by side
MeasureUnited Airlines MileagePlusSouthwest Airlines Rapid Rewards
Value per point1.25¢1.25¢
10,000 worth$125$125
50,000 worth$625$625
100,000 worth$1,250$1,250
A great award1.5¢ or more a point1.5¢ or more a point
A poor awardunder 1.13¢ a pointunder 1.13¢ a point
Rewards currencymilespoints
Run byUnited AirlinesSouthwest Airlines
Ranked4 of 11, US airlines22 of 102, airline miles4 of 11, US airlines22 of 102, airline miles

Values are Points Frog's estimates of one point redeemed for good, available awards, not cash-out or transfer rates. How we value points.

United Airlines MileagePlus

Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards

Quick answers

Which is worth more, United Airlines MileagePlus or Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards?

United Airlines MileagePlus miles and Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards points are worth the same on Points Frog's valuations as of October 13, 2026: an estimated 1.25¢ each, so 50,000 of either come to about $625. The better program is the one you earn faster and can redeem where you want to go.

Is a higher value per point always better?

No. A program worth less per point can still win if it earns more points per dollar or per flight, or if its awards fly where you want to go. Compare what you would earn on your own spending and the awards you would book before choosing between United Airlines MileagePlus and Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards.

Where do these values come from?

Points Frog's valuation catalog estimates what one point is worth when redeemed for good, available travel awards, in US cents. It is an editorial average, not a cash-out rate, and each program's page shows its dated valuation history.

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