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$138 Cheap Flights to San José

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Popular airlines to San José

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How much is the cheapest flight to San José?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $138 for one-way flights and $331 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Copa
Arajet
JetBlue Airways
Delta
Southwest Airlines

Alternative airports near San José

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

Find the cheapest month to fly from Columbus (CMH) to San José (SJO)

From $303 - $585 per traveler.

What you need to know for your flight to San José

Flights to San José at a glance

Booking a flight to San José is easy—choose between full-service and budget airlines, compare travel times, and select the option that best fits your budget, itinerary, and plans to discover the city's renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

  • Major airport near San José: Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)
  • Flights per week: 2,050+ flights arriving at San José airport
  • Number of airlines that fly to San José: around 25+ carriers

Popular airport near San José

San José is a vibrant city ideal for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure-filled vacations. Travelers are drawn to its stunning scenery, family-friendly activities, and outdoor experiences. The city is conveniently served by a major airport, enhancing accessibility for visitors.

  • Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO): Situated in Cantón Alajuela, in the Alajuela Province, this airport is approximately 17 miles from San José. It facilitates both domestic and international travel, linking to around 8 domestic locations and over 230 international spots. Passengers have the option to enhance their journey with upgrades to business class, premium economy, or first-class seating, depending on the airline and route. Key airlines operating at this airport include United, American Airlines, and JetBlue Airways.

Top routes to San José

  • Los Angeles (LAX) to San José (SJO), with one-way fares starting at around $150
  • Newark (EWR) to San José (SJO), with one-way tickets available from around $120
  • New York (JFK/LGA) to San José (SJO), with one-way airfare from around $110
  • Miami (MIA) to San José (SJO), with one-way airfare from around $95
  • Orlando (MCO) to San José (SJO), with one-way tickets available from around $55

Cheapest routes to San José

  • Orlando (MCO) to San José (SJO), with affordable one-way prices from around $55
  • San Juan (SJU) to San José (SJO), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $90
  • Fort Lauderdale (FLL) to San José (SJO), with affordable one-way prices from around $90
  • San Salvador (SAL) to San José (SJO), with budget one-way fares from around $90
  • Guatemala City (GUA) to San José (SJO), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $95

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

Top airlines with flights to San José

  • American Airlines: Operating flights to Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), American Airlines represents about 26% of San José's arrivals. The typical one-way fare hovers around $320, and depending on the route, premium service may include business class.
  • United: United Airlines flies into Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), making up roughly 20% of the arrivals in San José. Average one-way fares are around $330, with premium options potentially featuring business class based on the specific route.
  • Avianca: With routes to Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), Avianca accounts for about 11% of the arrivals to San José. The average price for a one-way ticket is around $330, and premium cabin options might include business class, depending on the route.
  • Copa: Copa Airlines services Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) and accounts for approximately 11% of San José's arrivals. One-way fares generally average about $310, with premium cabin choices possibly featuring business class, subject to the route taken.
  • JetBlue Airways: JetBlue Airways operates flights to Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), contributing around 7% of total arrivals in San José. The average one-way fare is roughly $260, with premium service potentially including premium economy class, depending on the route.

How to save money on a flight to San José

Getting some of the best deals on flights to San José 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.*
  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 San José flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in San José

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

  • Public transportation: From Juan Santamaría International Airport, Bahia Drake Seaport, a seaport, is located about 1.5 miles away by car, while San Antonio de Belen Station, a train station, is situated approximately 2.8 miles away by car, providing convenient options for onward travel.
  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in San José, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in San José is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in San José 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 around San José

  • Atenas: Atenas is located 15 miles drive away from San José and is a vibrant city known for its stunning outdoor adventures and scenic views. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities ranging from shopping at local centers to relaxing at resorts. The area is home to noteworthy attractions such as Parque Viva, an entertainment venue perfect for families, the culturally rich Palmares Church, and the Botanical Orchid Garden La Garita, which offers a romantic setting amid lush greenery.
  • Rodríguez: Rodríguez is located 6 miles drive away from San José and is an ideal destination for those seeking outdoor experiences and breathtaking scenery. The area features natural wonders, including the famous Poás Volcano National Park, which offers picturesque landscapes and adventure opportunities. Families can also explore the Else Kientzler Botanical Garden or enjoy events at Parque Viva, an arena that hosts various entertainment options suitable for all ages.
  • Los Ángeles: Los Ángeles is located 7 miles away from San José and is a charming village that beckons travelers with its rich history and natural beauty. Highlights include the awe-inspiring Poás Volcano National Park, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Families can unwind at Grecia Park, an urban oasis, or delve into the region's past at the Ruinas de Ujarras, an archaeological site that offers a glimpse into Costa Rica's cultural heritage.

Tips for short-haul flights to San José

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

  • Pack light and skip checked bags—when flying with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often more economical. Optimize your packing by using mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and planning versatile outfits. This strategy also helps you avoid the hassle of waiting at baggage claim after your flight.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may lack in-flight entertainment options. To keep yourself entertained, download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book. Remember to fully charge your devices before you board.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—for even short or domestic flights, it’s advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, taking into account potential 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 San José

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

  • Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat ahead of time is essential for your comfort. Full-service airlines often provide free seat selection once online check-in begins, 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 the airport at least 3 hours prior to 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, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Most airports offer free Wi-Fi for your convenience.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin to sync your body clock by changing your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Aim to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to San José?
The cheapest month to fly to San José is December when demand is low. Off-peak months are usually when you'll find cheap flights. To keep costs down, steer clear of flying during school breaks and major holidays.
Which US cities fly direct to San José?
Nonstop flights make travel a little easier. When you search on Expedia, check "Direct flights only" and we'll show you the nonstop options to fly to San José.
How to find a cheap flight to San José?
If you're looking for cheap flights to San José, consider low-season travel. Booking as early as possible is also likely to save you money. Or, fly on a different day — Thursday flights are on average 16% cheaper than Sunday departures.* Sign up to receive price alerts on the Expedia app and get notifications as soon as 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 San José?
It's possible to get great deals on last-minute departures to San José, especially if your travel plans aren't set in stone. Consider your options for leaving from a different airport, changing your trip dates or picking an alternative airline to get a cheap flight to San José.
How far in advance should I book a flight to San José?
To pick up some of the best deals on domestic journeys, book your flight to San José 28 days ahead of your travel dates. For international flights, book two to four months in advance. This boosts your chances of locking in the departure dates and times 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 San José?
You can usually get cheap flights to San José on a Sunday. Travelers can save about 8% on average compared to booking on a Friday, which is typically the most expensive day for tickets.**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 San José?
There are 24 carriers that connect San José with 40 airports all over the world. The major entry point to this city is Juan Santamaria Intl. Airport (SJO). Book a ticket with any of these leading airlines to San José:
  • Copa Airlines
  • SANSA Regional
  • GetJet Airlines
  • AVIANCA
Where do you fly into San José?
San José's main gateway is Juan Santamaria Intl. Airport (SJO). If you'd like some nearby alternatives when flying to San José, consider Tobias Bolanos Intl. Airport (SYQ), Puntarenas (JAP-Chacarita) or La Fortuna (FON-Arenal). It's also possible to fly to San José through Tambor Airport (TMU).
How far is the airport from central San José?
If you're arriving at Juan Santamaria Intl. Airport (SJO), you'll be approximately 17 mi southeast of central San José.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

Book with confidence

Tips to find the cheapest flights to San José

The cheapest day to fly

Get started finding a cheap flight to San José on Expedia by either choosing a deal on this page or entering into the search bar your travel dates, origin airport, and whether you want roundtrip or one-way airfare. You can filter for flexibility, number of stops, airline, and departure/arrival times to find the best flight for you.

The cheapest month to fly

December is the cheapest month to fly to San José. This coincides with the low season when fewer people travel. Whichever month you travel in, though, be sure to book at least a month in advance if you want to score cheap tickets to San José. ARC's data shows that domestic flights booked 28 days or more before departure are typically 24% cheaper than those booked last minute.

The most affordable time to book a flight

Typically, a Sunday can be the cheapest time to book a flight to San José, according to ARC’s data. On average, you could save between 6% and 13% by booking on a Sunday instead of a Friday, which is the most expensive day to make a reservation.

The cheapest round-trip tickets to San José

The lowest price for round-trip flights to San José in 2026 starts from from $331, while one-way tickets start from from $138. Expedia's effective search tool is one of the best ways to find a budget airfare. Simply enter your dates, and within seconds, it'll show you a vast selection of the cheapest flights to San José. If you have a preferred departure time or airline, you can use the handy filters to customize your search.

The cheapest airlines flying to San José

Frontier Airlines, Arajet, Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, United, Copa, JetBlue Airways, Delta are just some of the airlines that can typically offer cheap tickets to San José. You can find their most affordable flights by using the “airline” search filter and then sorting prices from low to high. As a trusted partner of the world's leading airlines, Expedia offers you some of the best airfare deals to San José and countless more destinations worldwide.

The most affordable airports to fly into

To view the cheapest airports to fly into for San José, simply order your search results from lowest to highest price. Expedia's search tool compares flight prices for all airports close to your destination, so you don't have to manually search them one by one to find the cheapest flight to San José. If you have a preferred place to fly into, take advantage of the “arrival airport” filter to narrow down your search on Expedia.

Save with a package

With Expedia's amazing package deals, you could save hundreds of dollars by booking your San José plane tickets together with your accommodations, car rental, or activities. Just select the search wizard's “package” option to view some of the cheapest deals. Look out for the green savings label to see how much you're saving.

Date flexibility for the cheapest flights to San José

If you can be flexible with your travel dates, it's a good idea to broaden your search by comparing prices on different days. This will open up more options, meaning you could uncover a less expensive flight to San José.

Stopover savings

The cheapest tickets to San José are sometimes those with a stopover. Book one of these flights, and you'll change planes at an airport en route to San José. While the overall travel time might be longer than a non-stop flight, you may decide it's worth it for the money saved.

Get Expedia's Price Drop Protection

Price Drop Protection means that if your flight gets cheaper after booking, you'll be credited the difference*. This gives you peace of mind that you're getting one of the cheapest flights to San José for your chosen departure. Expedia's Price Drop Protection is available for a small fee but is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

*Terms apply.

Use our Price Tracking feature

Expedia's Price Tracking feature is another great tool that removes the guesswork from finding cheap flights to San José. Simply download the free Expedia app to your smart device and activate San José flight price alerts for your travel dates. There's even a price predictor tool that uses historical data to indicate the best time to book, giving you peace of mind that you'll nab the lowest prices.

Book with Expedia

As well as Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking, Expedia's close partnership with a vast selection of the world's leading airlines means you're sure to find cheap flights to San José. Plus, the One Key rewards program lets you earn real cash rewards on most bookings that you can use to save money on future trips. Best of all, it's free to join, and members often unlock exclusive discounts, too.

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.

Tips to find the cheapest flights to San José

Travel information

Destination airport
Juan Santamaría Intl.
Destination airport IATA code
SJO
Destination city name
San José
Roundtrip price
$331

Trending flights to San José

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $138 for one-way flights and $331 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Copa

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