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$182 Cheap Flights from Buffalo (BUF) to Sacramento (SMF)

Popular airlines from Buffalo Niagara Intl. Airport (BUF) to Sacramento Intl. Airport (SMF)

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Cheap Flights from Buffalo to Sacramento (BUF-SMF)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $182 for one-way flights and $363 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

American Airlines
United
Southwest Airlines
American Airlines
American Airlines
Delta
American Airlines
United
American Airlines
Frontier Airlines

Alternative airports near Sacramento

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

What you need to know for your flight from Buffalo Niagara Intl. to Sacramento Intl.

Buffalo (BUF) to Sacramento (SMF) at a glance

Travel from Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) to Sacramento International Airport (SMF) with a range of airlines offering flights to Sacramento. Discover options for cheap Buffalo to Sacramento flights, whether you prefer full-service carriers or budget-friendly alternatives. This allows you to select an itinerary that aligns perfectly with your travel plans, budget, and schedule as you prepare to explore the iconic sights and vibrant neighborhoods of Sacramento.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 6h 30m in-flight, plus roughly 1h 15m layover with one stop
  • Route distance: roughly 2,200 miles (3,540 km)
  • Flights per week: around 10 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $150–$470, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) to Sacramento International Airport (SMF)

According to recent traveler bookings, the top airlines for flights from Buffalo to Sacramento are typically favored for one-stop and multi-stop journeys. Popular layover options include O'Hare International Airport (ORD), with a layover of about 1 hour and 15 minutes, Midway International Airport (MDW) at approximately 1 hour, and Denver International Airport (DEN), also around 1 hour and 15 minutes. These choices allow you to customize your itinerary by balancing price, total travel time, and cabin class.

  • Southwest Airlines: This budget-friendly airline provides one-stop flights, with one-way fares generally falling between $160 and $460. It handles around 37% of departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 6 hours and 30 minutes, and a total travel time of about 8 hours, including layover.
  • United: A comprehensive service airline, United offers one-stop travel, with one-way ticket prices typically ranging from $155 to $540. It represents roughly 28% of the departures for this route, with an in-air time of 6 hours and 30 minutes and an overall journey time of nearly 8 hours, layover included.
  • American Airlines: This full-service airline provides one-stop options, with one-way fares usually between $150 and $460. It accounts for approximately 20% of the departures on this route, offering a flight time of 6 hours and 30 minutes, leading to a total travel duration of around 8 hours, including the layover.
  • Delta: Delta, a full-service airline, offers one-stop flights with one-way fares typically ranging from $150 to $480. It covers about 13% of departures on this route, featuring an in-flight time of 6 hours and 30 minutes, with a total travel duration of roughly 8 hours, including layover time.
  • JetBlue Airways: This low-cost airline provides one-stop service, with one-way fares generally between $155 and $395. It makes up roughly 2% of departures for this route, with an in-flight duration of 6 hours and 30 minutes, leading to an overall travel time of around 8 hours, including the layover.

Travelers flying from Buffalo to Sacramento have the option to upgrade their flight, with both American Airlines and United offering first-class service for this route.

Best time to fly from Buffalo (BUF) to Sacramento (SMF)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Buffalo to Sacramento are April, July, and August, when peak temperatures in Sacramento reach up to 77.5°F in July. If you prefer quieter travel, consider December, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 48.4°F. For better deals, June usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $227. Flight availability peaks in August, with approximately 14 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. February has the fewest flights, with approximately 7 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: June usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $227, roughly 18% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: September, August, and October typically offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $232 to $245.
  • Most flight options: August has the highest number of flights from Buffalo to Sacramento, with approximately 14 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January48.6°F (9.2°C)Low10$333
February50.5°F (10.3°C)Low7$344
March53.6°F (12.0°C)Average8$325
April59.7°F (15.4°C)High9$326
May66.6°F (19.2°C)Average10$258
June74.5°F (23.6°C)Average10$227
July77.5°F (25.3°C)High13$258
August76.8°F (24.9°C)High14$237
September74.5°F (23.6°C)Average10$232
October66.4°F (19.1°C)Average12$245
November54.9°F (12.7°C)Average8$260
December48.4°F (9.1°C)Low8$273

*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 Buffalo (BUF) to Sacramento (SMF)

  • Rochester to Sacramento (ROC-SMF): Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC) is located approximately 56 miles from Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF). One-way economy tickets for this route generally fall between $135 and $470, influenced by factors such as the time of year and advance booking. Travelers can choose from both one-stop and multi-stop flights, with common layover points at O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW). Major airlines operating on this route include United and Southwest Airlines, a budget-friendly option. Additionally, business and first-class service is also offered on this route.

How to find the best prices for flights from Buffalo (BUF) to Sacramento (SMF)

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

  1. Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are usually found when booking 2-8 weeks in advance, which coincides with when most travelers make their reservations. Afternoon departures between 12 p.m. and 6 p.m. tend to offer lower prices and are popular flight times. Additionally, flying on Tuesday generally provides better deals, although Saturday remains the most popular travel day.
  2. Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
  3. Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
  4. 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.
  5. Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
  6. 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 Buffalo Niagara International Airport

Sacramento welcomes travelers from Buffalo 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 located about 9 miles away, while 7th & Richards/Township 9 Station, a metro station, is approximately 8.6 miles from the airport.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $182 and cheap return flights from $363 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $189 to $908, and return flights typically cost between $390 and $1414. 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
October is the cheapest month to fly from Buffalo to Sacramento, with average return fares around $387. This is about 16% lower than the average price throughout the year, as travel demand tends to drop after the summer. Other budget-friendly months include September and November.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
Enter BUF to SMF and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
Frontier Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Buffalo (BUF) to Sacramento (SMF), with round-trip tickets starting from around $400 with a layover in Orlando Intl. (MCO). 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara 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 time to fly from Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
The best time to fly from Buffalo, NY (BUF) to Sacramento, CA (SMF) is in October or November, with average return flight prices around $387. These months are great for balancing cost and travel experience, ensuring you have a pleasant trip.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
What is the earliest flight from Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) to Sacramento International (SMF) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is available in December, allowing you to make the most of your time in Sacramento. 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) are between 6am and 9am. About 41% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including United Airlines and Southwest Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing is popular because it allows you to arrive in Sacramento with a full day ahead of you.
How long does it take to fly from Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
A flight from BUF to SMF with a layover takes around 8 hours, with the route covering approximately 2,236 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
Select the "Business class" and "First class" filters when looking for BUF to SMF flights on Expedia. This is the easiest way to compare prices, routes and flight times for your trip.
How do I earn miles on a Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara 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 Buffalo Niagara Intl. (BUF)?
From Buffalo Niagara Intl. (BUF), you can fly into Sacramento Intl. (SMF) to reach Sacramento. Some flights may connect through major hubs like O'Hare Intl. (ORD), Midway Intl. (MDW), Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall (BWI) 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara 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 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
If you booked your Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara 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
Buffalo Niagara Intl.
Destination airport
Sacramento Intl.
Airlines serving
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$362
Distance
2235 mi

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*Flight schedules are subject to change.

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