$63 Cheap Flights from Denver (DEN) to Sacramento (SMF)
Popular airlines from Denver Intl. Airport (DEN) to Sacramento Intl. Airport (SMF)
Alaska AirlinesAlaska Airlines
Frontier AirlinesFrontier Airlines
Southwest AirlinesSouthwest Airlines
UnitedUnited
American AirlinesAmerican Airlines
DeltaDelta
Cheap Flights from Denver to Sacramento (DEN-SMF)
Alternative airports near Sacramento
Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.
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Denver (DEN) to Sacramento (SMF) at a glance
Travel between Denver (DEN) and Sacramento (SMF) with a range of airlines on this domestic short-haul route. You can compare options from both full-service and budget carriers to discover the best flights from Denver that suit your travel plans, budget, and schedule. As you prepare to explore Sacramento's renowned attractions and neighborhoods, be sure to check the essential details for your flights from Denver International Airport (DEN) to Sacramento International Airport (SMF).
- Fastest flight duration: around 2h 45m non-stop
- Route distance: roughly 900 miles (1,450 km)
- Flights per week: around 35+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
- Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $60–$420, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book
Flights from Denver International Airport (DEN) to Sacramento International Airport (SMF)
Based on the latest travel bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Denver to Sacramento, including both non-stop and one-stop options. Popular layover spots include San Diego International Airport (SAN) with a layover of approximately 1 hour, Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) at around 1 hour and 15 minutes, and Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) with a longer layover of about 2 hours and 45 minutes. These choices allow you to balance price, total travel time, and cabin class for the ideal travel itinerary.
- United: This full-service airline provides both non-stop and one-stop options, with one-way fares generally between $95 and $420. United accounts for around 48% of departures on this route, featuring a typical non-stop flight time of 2 hours and 45 minutes.
- Southwest Airlines: As a low-cost carrier, Southwest offers both non-stop and one-stop services. One-way ticket prices usually range from $100 to $465, making up about 31% of the departures on this route, with a standard non-stop journey lasting 2 hours and 45 minutes.
- Frontier Airlines: This budget-friendly airline provides non-stop and one-stop flights, with one-way fares typically falling between $60 and $255. Frontier accounts for roughly 11% of departures on this route, maintaining an average non-stop travel time of 2 hours and 45 minutes.
- Alaska Airlines: Offering one-stop services, Alaska Airlines is a full-service carrier with one-way fares usually ranging from $90 to $320. It makes up about 6% of departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 4 hours and 15 minutes, totaling around 5 hours and 30 minutes including layover time.
- American Airlines: As another full-service option, American Airlines provides one-stop services with one-way fares generally between $95 and $255. It represents approximately 3% of the departures for this route, with a flight time of 4 hours and 15 minutes and a total journey time of about 5 hours and 30 minutes, factoring in the layover.
Travelers flying from Denver to Sacramento can opt for an upgrade, with United offering first-class service on this route for a more luxurious experience.
Best time to fly from Denver (DEN) to Sacramento (SMF)
The most popular months for travelers flying from Denver to Sacramento are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Sacramento reach up to 59.7°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 74.5°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $169). Flight availability peaks in October, with approximately 48 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January and February have the fewest flights, with approximately 27 flights per week.
- Cheapest time to fly: September usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $169, roughly 10% cheaper than the yearly average.
- More budget-friendly months to fly: January, May, and October typically offer average one-way fares of around $178.
- Most flight options: October has the highest number of flights from Denver to Sacramento, with approximately 48 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
| Month | Temperature | Demand | Weekly Flights | Average one-way Fare |
| January | 48.6°F (9.2°C) | Slightly High | 27 | $175 |
| February | 50.5°F (10.3°C) | Average | 27 | $180 |
| March | 53.6°F (12.0°C) | Slightly High | 30 | $192 |
| April | 59.7°F (15.4°C) | Slightly High | 36 | $194 |
| May | 66.6°F (19.2°C) | Slightly Low | 38 | $177 |
| June | 74.5°F (23.6°C) | Average | 47 | $202 |
| July | 77.5°F (25.3°C) | Average | 39 | $222 |
| August | 76.8°F (24.9°C) | Average | 41 | $191 |
| September | 74.5°F (23.6°C) | Slightly Low | 39 | $169 |
| October | 66.4°F (19.1°C) | Average | 48 | $180 |
| November | 54.9°F (12.7°C) | Slightly Low | 37 | $186 |
| December | 48.4°F (9.1°C) | Average | 36 | $208 |
*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 route from Denver (DEN) to Sacramento (SMF)
- Colorado Springs to Sacramento (COS-SMF): Located approximately 73 miles from Denver International Airport (DEN), Colorado Springs Airport (COS) offers a variety of travel options. One-way economy fares for this route usually fall between $110 and $380, influenced by the season and timing of your booking. Passengers can expect one-stop flight options, commonly with layovers at Denver International Airport (DEN) and Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). Major airlines servicing this route include United and the budget-friendly Southwest Airlines. Additionally, first-class service is available for those seeking a more premium experience.
How to find the best prices for flights from Denver (DEN) to Sacramento (SMF)
Getting some of the best deals on flights from Denver to Sacramento is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:
- Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are usually available when booking at least two months in advance, although most travelers tend to book their flights 2 to 8 weeks ahead. Morning departures, between 5 a.m. and 12 p.m., often offer lower prices and are the most popular flight times, while flying on Fridays provides both cheaper rates and is the most favored 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.*
- 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 Sacramento International Airport from Denver International Airport
Sacramento welcomes travelers from Denver with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Sacramento efficiently:
- Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Sacramento, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
- Car rental: Renting a car from Sacramento International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Sacramento International 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 Sacramento International Airport, Sacramento Valley Station, a train station, is about 9 miles away, while 7th & Richards/Township 9 Station, a metro station, is located approximately 8.6 miles from the airport.
Denver to Sacramento Flights
The cheapest times to fly from Denver to Sacramento
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 Denver to Sacramento are during the month of December. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Denver to Sacramento with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.
The best time to book a flight from Denver to Sacramento
Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Denver to Sacramento: 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 Denver to Sacramento
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 Denver to Sacramento in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $63 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 Denver to Sacramento 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 Denver to Sacramento 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a flight from Denver, CO (DEN-Denver Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $63 and cheap return flights $112 Denver, CO (DEN-Denver Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $130 to $882, and return flights typically cost between $285 and $886. 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 Denver, CO (DEN-Denver Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) 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 Denver, CO (DEN-Denver Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from DEN to SMF is December 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 Denver, CO (DEN-Denver Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
Choose from 2 airlines operating direct flights from DEN to SMF:
- United operates around 41 direct flights from DEN to SMF every week
- Frontier Airlines operates around 7 direct flights from DEN to SMF every week
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Denver, CO (DEN-Denver Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
Frontier Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop flights from Denver, CO (DEN-Denver Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.), with round-trip tickets starting from around $66. Use Expedia's search tool to compare the prices and schedules of airlines that fly this route to find the best option for your plans and budget.
*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I find cheap flights from Denver, CO (DEN-Denver Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Denver, CO (DEN-Denver Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.), 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 Denver, CO (DEN-Denver Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Denver, CO (DEN) to Sacramento, CA (SMF) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, WN offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, Frontier Airlines typically offers the lowest fares. WN offers the most daily flights from DEN to SMF, 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 Denver, CO (DEN-Denver Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
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 Denver, CO (DEN-Denver Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
You can find approximately 11 nonstop flights per day from Denver Intl. (DEN) to Sacramento Intl. (SMF). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Denver, CO (DEN-Denver Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Denver International Airport (DEN) to Sacramento International Airport (SMF) typically departs at around 12:25 AM, operated by United Airlines. An early flight like this can help you arrive in Sacramento with a full day ahead of you. 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 Denver, CO (DEN-Denver Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Denver (DEN) to Sacramento (SMF) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 26% of passengers choose this time window. Many major carriers, including Southwest Airlines and United, offer flights during this period. This timing is favored because it lets you arrive in Sacramento with plenty of time to explore the city.
How long does it take to fly from Denver, CO (DEN-Denver Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
Direct flights from DEN to SMF usually take about 2 hours 30 minutes, traveling roughly 907 miles. If you opt for a connecting flight, expect to add around 2 hours 30 minutes to your journey. 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 Denver, CO (DEN-Denver Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
You can fly first class between DEN and SMF. First class cabins are available on:
- Delta Air Lines
- American Airlines
- United Airlines
How much is a business class flight from Denver, CO (DEN-Denver Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
A direct, return business class ticket from Denver, CO (DEN) to Sacramento, CA (SMF) typically costs between $1,077 - $1,502. A non-stop, one-way business class flight is usually around $593 - $783. Prices often fluctuate based on seasonality and how early you book. You may also be able to find a cheaper business class journey between Denver, CO (DEN-Denver Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) if you opt for a connecting flight.
*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I earn miles on a Denver, CO (DEN-Denver Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Denver, CO (DEN-Denver Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) 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 Sacramento from Denver Intl. (DEN)?
If you're planning to travel to Sacramento from Denver Intl. (DEN), you can fly into Sacramento Intl. (SMF) Some flights may connect through major hubs like Sky Harbor Intl. (PHX), Harry Reid Intl. (LAS), Seattle - Tacoma Intl. (SEA) before reaching Sacramento. 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 Denver, CO (DEN-Denver Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Denver, CO (DEN-Denver Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) 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 Denver, CO (DEN-Denver Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Denver, CO (DEN-Denver Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) Sacramento Vacation Packages 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 Denver, CO (DEN-Denver Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
If you booked your Denver, CO (DEN-Denver Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) 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 | Denver Intl. Airport |
|---|---|
Destination airport | Sacramento Intl. Airport |
Distance | 907 miles away |
Airlines serving | Alaska Airlines, Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines, United, American Airlines, Delta |
Popular airline | Alaska Airlines |
Roundtrip price | $112 |
Average flight time | 3 hours 4 mins |