$40 Cheap Flights to Merced, CA

Popular airlines to Merced

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How much is the cheapest flight to Merced?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $40 for one-way flights and $71 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Frontier Airlines
Contour Airlines
Southwest Airlines
Advanced Air
American Airlines

What you need to know for your flight to Merced

Flights to Merced at a glance

Traveling to Merced is easy; choose between full-service and budget airlines. Compare flight times and select the best option to fit your budget and schedule while ensuring you have time to explore the city's renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

  • Major airports in and around Merced: Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT), Merced Municipal Airport (MCE)
  • Closest airport to Merced: Merced Municipal Airport, MCE (within Merced)
  • Flights per week: 1,850+ flights arriving across Merced airports
  • Number of airlines that fly to Merced: around 20+ carriers

Popular airports in and around Merced

Merced is a charming city perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, offering stunning scenery and cultural experiences. Visitors come to enjoy wellness and relaxation, and they can easily access the area via Merced Regional Airport and other popular airports, including Stockton Airport.

  • Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT): Situated in Fresno County, California, approximately 56 miles from Merced, this airport caters to both domestic and international flights, linking over 180 domestic cities and more than 30 international locations. Travelers can opt for first class, premium economy class, or business class seating for enhanced comfort, depending on the airline and route. Major carriers at this airport include American Airlines, United, and Alaska Airlines.
  • Merced Municipal Airport (MCE): Found in Merced County, California, this airport primarily operates domestic flights, connecting to around 2 cities nationwide. Advanced Air is the prominent airline serving this airport, providing essential connections for travelers.

Top routes to Merced

  • Guadalajara (GDL) to Merced (FAT), with one-way airfare from around $150
  • San Diego (SAN) to Merced (FAT), with one-way flights starting at around $50
  • Seattle (SEA) to Merced (FAT), with one-way airfare from around $85
  • Minneapolis (MSP) to Merced (FAT), with one-way flights starting at around $140
  • Portland (PWM/PDX) to Merced (FAT), with one-way fares starting at around $80

Cheapest routes to Merced

  • San Diego (SAN) to Merced (FAT), with budget one-way fares from around $50
  • Las Vegas (LAS) to Merced (MCE/FAT), with low one-way fares from around $65
  • Portland (PWM/PDX) to Merced (FAT), with cheap one-way fares from around $80
  • Seattle (SEA) to Merced (FAT), with affordable one-way prices from around $85
  • Hawthorne (HHR) to Merced (MCE), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $85

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Merced

  • American Airlines: Services Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) and represents about 34% of arrivals in Merced. The average fare for a one-way ticket hovers around $280, with premium cabin options possibly including first class based on the route.
  • United: Also operating flights to Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT), United accounts for roughly 22% of the arrivals in Merced. The average one-way fare is approximately $290, and premium cabin options may feature first class, depending on the route.
  • Southwest Airlines: This airline flies to Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT), contributing around 14% of arrivals to Merced. Travelers can expect an average one-way fare of about $260.
  • Alaska Airlines: Offering flights to Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT), Alaska Airlines makes up approximately 13% of arrivals in Merced. With an average one-way fare of around $240, premium cabin services may include business class and first class based on the route.
  • Delta: Providing service to Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT), Delta accounts for about 11% of arrivals in Merced. The average fare for a one-way ticket is approximately $260, featuring premium cabin service options that can include premium economy class and first class, depending on the route.

Best time to fly to Merced

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Merced are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Merced can reach up to 61.5°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 77.4°F. For better deals, May usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $246, roughly 5% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? September, October, and August offer average one-way fares of around $250, making them good options for flexible travelers.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January49.3°F (9.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$289
February50.9°F (10.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$259
March55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$262
April61.5°F (16.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately High$267
May69.3°F (20.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$246
June78.1°F (25.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$263
July83.8°F (28.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$268
August82.2°F (27.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$252
September77.4°F (25.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately Low$247
October67.1°F (19.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately Low$248
November55.6°F (13.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately Low$262
December48.7°F (9.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$270

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Merced

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Merced is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
  3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Merced hotel and flight deals.
  4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
  5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Merced flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Merced

Merced welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Merced efficiently:

  • Public transportation: From Fresno Yosemite International Airport, Fresno Station, a train station, is located about 5.6 miles away by car.
  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Merced, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in Merced is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Merced on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay in and around Merced

  • Atwater: Located 8 miles drive away from Merced, Atwater offers travelers a refreshing escape into the great outdoors. Known for its stunning scenery and adventure opportunities, visitors can explore highlights like the Castle Air Museum, which showcases aviation history, and Heller Park, a lovely urban park perfect for family outings. The Atwater Branch Merced County Library also serves as a cultural hub, making it an ideal stop for those seeking a mix of education and leisure. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to national and state parks nearby.
  • Athlone: Athlone is located in the area of Merced and caters primarily to business travelers. This village features essential amenities like a convention center and event conference venue, making it ideal for corporate gatherings. Families can enjoy the Merced County Fairgrounds, a vibrant fairground that hosts various outdoor events. Additionally, Roland D. Brooks Jr. Neighborhood Park offers a serene environment for eco-friendly activities, providing a balance of business and leisure for visitors in the area.
  • Fergus: Fergus is located in the area of Merced and is a charming village characterized by its focus on outdoor family entertainment. Visitors can unwind at Stephen Grey Park, a delightful urban park that invites exploration and relaxation. The Merced County Fairgrounds is another key attraction, offering a range of events for families. For those interested in education, Merced College stands as a modern institution within the community, blending leisure with learning opportunities for travelers in this vibrant area.

Tips for short-haul flights to Merced

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

  • Pack light and skip checked bags—with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often more cost-effective. Save space by bringing mini toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothing, and planning your outfits wisely. This strategy also allows you to bypass waiting at baggage claim once you arrive.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may lack in-flight entertainment options. Download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself occupied. Remember to fully charge your devices before you board.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it's advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before departure, taking into account traffic and security lines.
  • Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Merced

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

  • Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines often provide complimentary seat selection once online check-in opens, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may allow you to select your seat even earlier.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—make sure to arrive at least 3 hours before departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
  • Relax at the airport—if you have some extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, enjoy a coffee at a café, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and available.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Aim to sleep or remain awake on the flight according to the local time of your arrival to help minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Merced?
Plan your trip for September if you want to land a deal on your fare. It's the cheapest month to fly to Merced. Try to avoid traveling during busy periods such as public holidays or school breaks.
Which US cities have the cheapest flights to Merced?
Score cheap flights to Merced from San Diego, Los Angeles and Las Vegas. These cities usually offer the lowest fares to this unique destination. But remember that holiday periods, demand and stopovers will also influence rates, so remain flexible and book when you see a bargain.
Which US cities fly direct to Merced?
There are 26 US destinations you're able to fly to Merced directly from. Compare your options by selecting the "Direct flights only" box on Expedia and find the ideal starting point for your trip. Here are a few of the leading cities to leave from:

  • San Diego
  • Los Angeles
  • Las Vegas
  • Seattle
  • Phoenix

How to find a cheap flight to Merced?
Book in advance to score cheap flights to Merced. Also, consider traveling during off-peak months like December and January. If you fly on a Thursday, you can save 16% on average compared to those departing on a Sunday.* Save time searching every day and set up a price alert on the Expedia app. We'll let you know when fares drop.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
How to get a cheap last-minute flight to Merced?
While booking in advance is generally the best way to save money, don't panic if your Merced vacation is last minute. It's still possible to find cheap flights to Merced, especially if your plans have a little wiggle room. Try changing your dates, looking at different ticket options or departing from another hub.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Merced?
To nab some of the best deals on domestic journeys, book your flight to Merced 28 days ahead of your travel dates. For international flights, book two to four months in advance. This boosts your chances of getting the departure dates and seats you want.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which day of the week is the cheapest day to buy a plane ticket to Merced?
Sundays are usually the best day to book a cheap flight to Merced, with savings of about 8% on average compared to Fridays. If you decide to buy tickets on a Friday, expect to pay more as this is typically the most expensive day.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which airlines fly to Merced?
There are 6 airlines that connect Merced with 13 airports across the world. The chief gateway to this city is Fresno Yosemite Intl. Airport (FAT). Book a fare with any of these well-known airlines to Merced:

  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines
  • Alaska Airlines

Where do you fly into Merced?
If you're flying to Merced, the main airport for arrivals is Merced Municipal Airport (MCE). You can also jet into nearby hubs like Modesto, CA (MOD-Modesto City - County), Fresno Yosemite Intl. Airport (FAT) or Mariposa, CA (RMY-Mariposa-Yosemite). Another good option worth keeping in mind when you fly to Merced is Hollister, CA (HLI-Hollister Municipal).
How far is the airport from central Merced?
You'll be roughly 2 mi southwest of central Merced after touching down at Merced Municipal Airport (MCE).
Can I save money by booking a Merced trip package?
Bundle your hotel and flight and you could save hundreds of dollars. Better still, you can add extras like activities and car rentals to your Merced flight and hotel package deal. With Expedia, it's easy to look after all your Merced travel arrangements in the same place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Merced?
If you booked your flight to Merced within the last 24 hours, you can typically cancel or change it without fees. After that, additional costs may apply depending on the airline's terms of service. To learn more, check out our Customer Service Portal. Remember that some flights are non-refundable, so you may be offered a credit for a future flight in place of a direct refund. When browsing on Expedia, check the "No cancel fee" or "Changes included" boxes to find tickets with flexible change policies.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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Travel information

Destination airport
Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.
Destination airport IATA code
SJC
Destination city name
San Jose
Roundtrip price
$70

Trending flights to Merced

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $40 for one-way flights and $71 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Frontier Airlines

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