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Cheap Flights from San Diego (SAN) to San Francisco (SFO)

Popular airlines from San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN) to San Francisco International Airport (SFO)

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Cheap Flights from San Diego (SAN) to San Francisco (SFO)

Prices were available within the past 7 days for one-way flights and round trip tickets for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines
Delta
Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines
Delta
Delta
American Airlines
Alaska Airlines
United

Alternative airports near San Francisco

Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Find the cheapest month to fly from San Diego (SAN) to San Francisco (SFO)

September is typically the cheapest month to fly

From AU$80 - AU$149 per traveller.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.) cost?
You can find one-way and return flights from SAN to SFO with Expedia. Flight prices vary based on the month and day of the week you want to travel, as well as the airline and how far in advance you book your ticket. Filter your search on Expedia by "Price (lowest to highest)" to see our cheapest fares first, and use the Price Tracking tool to receive alerts when SAN to SFO ticket fares go up or down.
What is the cheapest month to fly from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
March is typically the cheapest month to fly from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.), with average return fares around AU$227. March often sees lower prices as it's before the peak summer travel season, when demand tends to increase. Other cheap months to fly from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.) include April and May.
Which airlines fly direct from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
There are 9 airlines offering direct flights from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.). Here are some of the top carriers:
  • United operates 75 direct flights from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.) every week.
  • Southwest Airlines operates 46 direct flights from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.) every week.
  • American Airlines operates 25 direct flights from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.) every week.
  • Frontier Airlines operates 7 direct flights from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.) every week.
  • Condor operates 9 direct flights from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.) every week.

How do I find cheap flights from San Diego, CA (SAN) to San Francisco, CA (SFO)?
To find a cheap flight from San Diego, CA (SAN) to San Francisco, CA (SFO), be flexible with your dates. Traveling outside of peak vacation months and booking a mid-week flight can help you save. Early morning and late night flights are often more affordable, too. Expedia allows you to compare flight times, airlines and routes all in one place to find low fares. You can also set up Price Tracking and receive alerts when fares go up or down.
What is the best airline to fly with from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, Southwest Airlines offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, Frontier Airlines typically offers the lowest fares. Southwest Airlines offers the most daily flights from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.), which is great if flexibility is what you value most. The best carrier for this journey could also be the one you have a loyalty membership with, as flying with that airline or another airline within the same alliance could help you collect points or enjoy lounge access.
What is the best time to fly from San Diego, CA (SAN) to San Francisco, CA (SFO)?
The best time to fly is usually mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) and during early morning hours as flights tend to be cheaper, less crowded, and generally more on-time. Avoid major holidays and peak vacation seasons for smoother travel. Combining off-peak days and hours often gives the best combination of cost, comfort, and convenience.
How many flights per day from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
You'll find approximately 18 nonstop flights per day from San Diego International (SAN) to San Francisco International (SFO). For even more choices, look at flights that include layovers, as there are around 102 connecting flights daily. Some common connection points include Harry Reid International (LAS), Sky Harbor International (PHX), and Seattle - Tacoma International (SEA).
What is the earliest flight from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
The earliest flight from San Diego Intl. (SAN) to San Francisco Intl. (SFO) typically departs around 12:55 AM local time. This service is operated by American Airlines and is seasonal, active only in June. An early departure like this can help you make the most of your time at your destination. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What day of the week has the most flights from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
You'll find the most flights from San Diego International Airport (SAN) to San Francisco International Airport (SFO) on a Friday, with around 89 flights available. This gives you plenty of options for your travel plans. Major airlines on this route include Southwest Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and United. Flight options are notably more plentiful on Fridays compared to other days of the week, offering you greater flexibility.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from San Diego Intl. (SAN) to San Francisco Intl. (SFO) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. Many major carriers, including Southwest Airlines, United and Alaska Airlines, offer flights during this window. Many travellers prefer these times because it allows them to arrive at their destination early, giving them a full day for business or leisure activities.
How long does it take to fly from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
Flying nonstop from SAN to SFO takes around 1 hour 50 minutes, with the route covering approximately 719 kilometers. Flights with a layover typically take 4 hours 40 minutes longer than direct options. Keep in mind that actual flight times can vary due to wind patterns, weather, and air traffic.
Can you fly business or first class from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
You can fly business class or first class between SAN and SFO.Airlines that offer business class service on this route include:
  • Alaska Airlines
  • Frontier Airlines
  • JetBlue Airways
  • Delta
  • American Airlines
First class cabins are available on:
  • Alaska Airlines
  • United
  • Delta
  • Hawaiian Airlines
  • American Airlines
How do I earn miles on a San Diego, CA (SAN) to San Francisco, CA (SFO) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a San Diego, CA (SAN) to San Francisco, CA (SFO) flight when you book with Expedia. Before you confirm your booking, simply select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number. As a member of One Key™, you can also earn OneKeyCash™* on top of your airline miles when you book with Expedia.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
What airports do you fly into for San Francisco, CA (SFO) from San Diego, CA (SAN)?
If you're planning to travel to San Francisco from San Diego Intl. (SAN), you can fly directly into San Francisco Intl. (SFO). Some flights may connect through major hubs like Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), Sky Harbor Intl. (PHX), or Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl. (SJC) before reaching San Francisco. Compare routes and airports on Expedia to find the best flight options for your travel plans.
Is it cheaper to buy a plane ticket from San Diego, CA (SAN) to San Francisco, CA (SFO) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from San Diego, CA (SAN) to San Francisco, CA (SFO) will be more expensive than booking in advance. As the departure date approaches, there are usually fewer seats available which can drive up the cost. However, if there's some wiggle room with your travel dates and times, you could bag a cheap last-minute fare.
Is it cheaper to book a San Diego, CA (SAN) to San Francisco, CA (SFO) flight and hotel package?
Securing a San Diego, CA (SAN) to San Francisco, CA (SFO) flight and hotel package is usually cheaper than booking separately. With Expedia, you can enjoy the ease of organizing your travels all in one place. Select from our extensive range of stays and then add flights, activities and car rentals to your booking. Bundle everything together, and you could save hundreds of dollars.
Can I cancel or change the date of my flight from San Diego, CA (SAN) to San Francisco, CA (SFO)?
If you booked your San Diego, CA (SAN) to San Francisco, CA (SFO) flight within the last 24 hours, you may be able to modify or cancel it without any fees. Depending on the airline and the type of ticket you have, additional charges may apply for changes beyond this timeframe. Airline policies and contact information can be found in your itinerary or confirmation email. Or, head to our Customer Service portal if you'd like more information.

Travel information

Origin airport
San Diego Intl.
Destination airport
San Francisco Intl.
Airlines serving
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, United
Return price
AU$169
Distance
714 km
Average flight time
1 hour 36 mins

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