A town with red-tiled roofs, white buildings, and a mountain range in the background.

Popular airlines from Austin-Bergstrom Intl. Airport (AUS) to Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA)

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Cheap Flights from Austin to Santa Barbara (AUS-SBA)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $202 for one-way flights and $348 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

All deals

One way

Roundtrip

Tue, Oct 20 - Wed, Oct 21

AUS

Austin

SBA

Santa Barbara

$348

Roundtrip

found 3 days ago

Wed, Sep 30 - Sat, Oct 3

AUS

Austin

SBA

Santa Barbara

$354

Roundtrip

found 4 days ago

Tue, Oct 20 - Thu, Oct 22

AUS

Austin

SBA

Santa Barbara

$378

Roundtrip

found 2 days ago

Wed, Oct 21 - Sat, Oct 24

AUS

Austin

SBA

Santa Barbara

$408

Roundtrip

found 3 hours ago

Tue, Oct 13 - Wed, Oct 14

AUS

Austin

SBA

Santa Barbara

$413

Roundtrip

found 4 hours ago

Wed, Oct 21 - Sat, Oct 24

AUS

Austin

SBA

Santa Barbara

$414

Roundtrip

found 3 hours ago

Tue, Oct 20 - Fri, Oct 23

AUS

Austin

SBA

Santa Barbara

$418

Roundtrip

found 4 hours ago

Mon, Nov 9 - Mon, Nov 16

AUS

Austin

SBA

Santa Barbara

$427

Roundtrip

found 15 hours ago

Tue, Oct 13 - Wed, Oct 14

AUS

Austin

SBA

Santa Barbara

$436

Roundtrip

found 4 hours ago

Sat, Oct 10 - Tue, Oct 13

AUS

Austin

SBA

Santa Barbara

$461

Roundtrip

found 3 hours ago

What you need to know for your flight from Austin-Bergstrom Intl. to Santa Barbara Municipal

Austin (AUS) to Santa Barbara (SBA) at a glance

Travel from Austin (AUS) to Santa Barbara (SBA) with a selection of airlines offering this domestic short-haul route. Whether you prefer full-service options or are on the lookout for cheap flights from Austin, you can compare various itineraries to find the best fit for your budget and schedule. As you uncover the iconic sights and neighborhoods of Santa Barbara, gather all the essential details for flights from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport to Santa Barbara Municipal Airport.

Fastest (typical) flight duration: around 4h 30m in-flight, plus roughly 1h 15m layover with one stop
Route distance: roughly 1,300 miles (2,090 km)
Flights per week: around 9 departures on average
Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $135–$445, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) to Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA)

According to recent traveler bookings, the top airlines flying from Austin to Santa Barbara typically offer one-stop services, with popular layover locations including Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) with a layover of about 1 hour and 30 minutes, Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) at around 1 hour and 15 minutes, and Denver International Airport (DEN), also approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. This allows you to customize your travel plans by considering factors like price, total travel time, and cabin class to secure the best itinerary.

American Airlines: This full-service airline provides one-stop flights, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $140 and $415. It represents about 47% of departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 4 hours and 30 minutes, totaling approximately 6 hours of travel time, including layover.
United: As another full-service option, United offers one-stop services with one-way fares typically ranging from $150 to $530. It accounts for roughly 21% of the departures along this route, with an in-flight time of 4 hours and 30 minutes and an overall journey time of about 6 hours, including layover.
Southwest Airlines: This low-cost carrier provides one-stop service, with one-way fares usually between $135 and $445. Southwest Airlines makes up about 20% of the departures on this route, featuring a flight duration of 4 hours and 30 minutes and a total travel time of roughly 6 hours, including layover.
Delta: A full-service airline, Delta offers one-stop service with one-way fares typically ranging from $135 to $395. It comprises around 10% of the departures on this route, with an in-flight time of 4 hours and 30 minutes and a total journey duration of approximately 6 hours, factoring in a layover.

Best time to fly from Austin (AUS) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Austin to Santa Barbara are February, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Santa Barbara reach up to 60.3°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider January, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 55.6°F. For better deals, April usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $223. Flight availability peaks in April and August, with approximately 11 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times.

Cheapest time to fly: April usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $223, roughly 11% cheaper than the yearly average.
More budget-friendly months to fly: February and November typically offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $225 to $243.
Most flight options: April and August have the highest number of flights from Austin to Santa Barbara, with approximately 11 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.

Month	Temperature	Demand	Weekly Flights	Average one-way Fare
January	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Low	8	$249
February	55.0°F (12.8°C)	High	9	$225
March	56.7°F (13.7°C)	High	10	$267
April	60.3°F (15.7°C)	High	11	$223
May	63.1°F (17.3°C)	Average	10	$256
June	68.2°F (20.1°C)	Low	9	$252
July	72.1°F (22.3°C)	Average	8	$268
August	72.9°F (22.7°C)	Average	11	$271
September	71.6°F (22.0°C)	Low	8	$266
October	66.7°F (19.3°C)	Average	9	$255
November	60.4°F (15.8°C)	Average	9	$243
December	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Average	10	$257

*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.

Alternative routes from Austin (AUS) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

San Antonio to Santa Barbara (SAT-SBA): San Antonio International Airport (SAT) is located roughly 67 miles from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS). One-way economy ticket prices for this route generally fall between $130 and $450, influenced by the time of year and how early you reserve your flight. Typically, travelers encounter one-stop options, with common layover points at Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) and Harry Reid International Airport (LAS). Major airlines servicing this route include American Airlines and the budget-friendly Southwest Airlines. First-class service is also available.
Austin to San Luis Obispo (AUS-SBP): San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP) is positioned approximately 72 miles from Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA). One-way economy fares on this journey usually range from $120 to $430, varying by season and booking timing. This route frequently features one-stop flights, with popular layovers at Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO). Prominent airlines for this route include American Airlines and United. Additionally, passengers can opt for first-class service.

How to find the best prices for flights from Austin (AUS) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

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

Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are generally found when booking at least two months in advance, although most travelers tend to book between two to eight weeks ahead. Afternoon departures from 12 PM to 6 PM often offer lower prices and are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Wednesday usually provides cheaper options, while Friday remains the most popular travel day.
Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.* Find Santa Barbara hotel and flight deals.
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.
Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
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 allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.

*Members only. Savings vary and are not available on all bundles. Select hotels.

Arriving at Santa Barbara Municipal Airport from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport

Santa Barbara welcomes travelers from Austin with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Santa Barbara city center is approximately a 10-minute drive (covering about 10 miles) from Santa Barbara Municipal Airport, depending on traffic. Here's how to reach Santa Barbara efficiently:

Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Santa Barbara, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance with your hotel.
Car rental: Renting a car from Santa Barbara Municipal Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Santa Barbara Municipal Airport on Expedia.
Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.
Public transportation: From Santa Barbara Municipal Airport, UC Santa Barbara Station, a train station, is located about 1.6 miles away by car, providing convenient access for travelers looking to reach nearby destinations.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) cost?

You can find cheap one-way flights from $202 and cheap return flights from $348 Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $171 to $947, and return flights typically cost between $376 and $1430. 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 the cheapest fares first, and use the Price Tracking tool to receive alerts when Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) ticket fares go up or down.*Typical price ranges based on flights available on Expedia in the last year. Prices include multi-airline options.

What is the cheapest month to fly from Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal)?

The cheapest month to fly from AUS to SBA is October when demand is low. Traveling in off-peak or shoulder months is usually a good way to secure cheap tickets, just remember to avoid flying during holidays if you're able to. Use the calendar view in your search to see which months have low fares on this route.

Which airlines fly direct from Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal)?

Enter AUS to SBA and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.

How do I find cheap flights from Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal)?

To find a cheap flight from Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal), 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 time to fly from Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal)?

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.

What is the earliest flight from Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal)?

The earliest flight from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) to Santa Barbara Municipal (SBA) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This is a seasonal service active in February, March, October, November, and December, allowing you to start your day early and make the most of your time in Santa Barbara. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.

What are the most popular departure times for flights from Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal)?

For flights from Austin (AUS) to Santa Barbara (SBA), the most popular departure times are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 31% of travelers choose this time window. Many major carriers, including American Airlines and United Airlines, provide flights during this period. This timing is favored as it helps you make the most of your day in Santa Barbara upon arrival.

How long does it take to fly from Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal)?

Flights from AUS to SBA with one stop typically take around 5 hours 50 minutes, covering approximately 1,324 miles. 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 Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal)?

You can fly first class between AUS and SBA. First class cabins are available on:

Delta Air Lines
American Airlines
United Airlines

How do I earn miles on a Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) flight with Expedia?

It's easy to earn miles on a Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) 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 Santa Barbara from Austin-Bergstrom Intl. (AUS)?

From Austin-Bergstrom Intl. (AUS), you can fly into Santa Barbara Municipal (SBA) to reach Santa Barbara. Some flights may connect through major hubs like George Bush Intercontinental (IAH), Denver Intl. (DEN), San Diego Intl. (SAN) before reaching Santa Barbara. 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 Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) at the last minute?

Typically, booking a last minute flight from Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) 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 Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) flight and hotel package?

Securing a Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) 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 Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal)?

If you booked your Austin, TX (AUS-Austin-Bergstrom Intl.) to Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) 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	Austin-Bergstrom Intl.
Destination airport	Santa Barbara Municipal
Airlines serving	Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price	$337
Distance	1324 mi

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Austin to Santa Barbara Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Austin to Santa Barbara

On average, Thursday can be the cheapest time to fly, according to data from the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC), one of the world's biggest databases for global airline sales. The data reveals that you could save up to 16% by flying on a Thursday—the cheapest day to travel on average—instead of a Sunday—the most expensive. Some of the most affordable flights from Austin to Santa Barbara are during the month of October. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Austin to Santa Barbara with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.

The best time to book a flight from Austin to Santa Barbara

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Austin to Santa Barbara: Tickets reserved on a Sunday cost between 6% and 13% less than those reserved on a Friday, according to ARC data. The data also suggests booking early can also lead to cheaper airfares. You could save 24% by buying your tickets for domestic flights at least a month in advance and 10% by booking international flights 2 months in advance.

How to find cheap round-trip tickets from Austin to Santa Barbara

Being flexible with your dates and using Expedia's Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking features are some of the best ways of finding a cheap ticket from Austin to Santa Barbara in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $202 one-way. Expedia also offers Price Drop Protection, so if the cost of your airfare goes down after booking, you'll receive a credit for the difference*. This is available for a small fee, and is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

Expedia's Price Tracking feature means you can stay on top of airfares without manually checking every day. It sends you automated price alerts for cheap Austin to Santa Barbara flights and uses historical data to indicate when the best time to book is. Download Expedia's free app to activate this handy tool in a few easy taps.

You could also save big by booking one of Expedia's vacation packages. Bundling together your Austin to Santa Barbara airfare with your accommodations and car rental is often cheaper than booking everything separately. There’s also One Key, Expedia's generous rewards program. Join for free and you could earn One Key cash on most bookings to save on future adventures.

*Terms apply.

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

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

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Flights

$202 Cheap Flights from Austin (AUS) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

Popular airlines from Austin-Bergstrom Intl. Airport (AUS) to Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA)

Be in the know

Book smarter

Earn twice

Cheap Flights from Austin to Santa Barbara (AUS-SBA)

What you need to know for your flight from Austin-Bergstrom Intl. to Santa Barbara Municipal

Austin (AUS) to Santa Barbara (SBA) at a glance

Flights from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) to Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA)

Best time to fly from Austin (AUS) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

Alternative routes from Austin (AUS) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

How to find the best prices for flights from Austin (AUS) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

Arriving at Santa Barbara Municipal Airport from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport

Frequently asked questions

Travel information

Book with confidence

Austin to Santa Barbara Flights

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