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$129 Cheap Flights from Baltimore (BWI) to San Francisco (SFO)

Popular airlines from Baltimore Washington Intl. Airport (BWI) to San Francisco Intl. Airport (SFO)

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Cheap Flights from Baltimore to San Francisco (BWI-SFO)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $129 for one-way flights and $258 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines
Alaska Airlines
Southwest Airlines
American Airlines
Delta

Alternative airports near San Francisco

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

Find the cheapest month to fly from Baltimore (BWI) to San Francisco (SFO)

October is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $233 - $347 per traveler.

What you need to know for your flight from Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall to San Francisco Intl.

Baltimore (BWI) to San Francisco (SFO) at a glance

Travel from Baltimore (BWI) to San Francisco (SFO) with a range of airlines offering various options on this long-haul domestic route. Whether you're looking for full-service or budget-friendly carriers, you can easily compare choices to discover the best itinerary that aligns with your budget and travel plans. As you prepare to explore the iconic sights and vibrant neighborhoods of San Francisco, find essential details for your flight from Baltimore Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport to San Francisco International Airport.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 6h 15m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 2,500 miles (4,020 km)
  • Flights per week: around 25+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $130–$495, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Baltimore Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) to San Francisco International Airport (SFO)

According to recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Baltimore to San Francisco, including non-stop and one-stop options. Common layover spots are Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) with a layover of about 1 hour and 30 minutes, Denver International Airport (DEN) with roughly 2 hours, and Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) at about 1 hour and 15 minutes. These choices provide the flexibility to balance cost, overall travel time, and cabin class for the ideal itinerary.

  • United: This full-service airline provides both non-stop and one-stop options, with one-way ticket prices typically falling between $140 and $580. It handles around 46% of departures for this route, offering a direct flight duration of about 6 hours and 15 minutes.
  • Southwest Airlines: Known for its low-cost fares, Southwest offers a range of non-stop, one-stop, and multi-stop flights. One-way tickets average between $145 and $500, making up roughly 22% of the departures on this route, with a non-stop travel time of 6 hours and 15 minutes.
  • Delta: As a full-service carrier, Delta provides one-stop service with one-way fares generally ranging from $150 to $460. It represents around 17% of departures on this route, with a flight time of 7 hours and 15 minutes and a total travel duration of approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes, including layover.
  • American Airlines: Another full-service option, American Airlines offers one-stop flights with one-way fares typically ranging from $130 to $385. It accounts for about 7% of this route's departures, featuring a flight time of 7 hours and 15 minutes and a total journey time of around 8 hours and 30 minutes, including layover.
  • Frontier Airlines: A budget-friendly choice, Frontier provides one-stop services with one-way fares usually between $130 and $300. It constitutes roughly 6% of departures on this route, with an in-flight duration of 7 hours and 15 minutes and a total travel time of about 8 hours and 30 minutes, factoring in layover.

Travelers flying from Baltimore to San Francisco can opt to upgrade their experience, as United and Delta offer both first class and premium economy class service for a more comfortable journey.

Best time to fly from Baltimore (BWI) to San Francisco (SFO)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Baltimore to San Francisco are March, April, and July, when peak temperatures in San Francisco reach up to 63.1°F in July. If you prefer quieter travel, consider October, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 62.6°F. For better deals, April usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $262. Flight availability peaks in May, with approximately 37 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. February has the fewest flights, with approximately 20 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: April usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $262, roughly 8% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: May, June, and October typically offer average one-way fares of around $272.
  • Most flight options: May has the highest number of flights from Baltimore to San Francisco, with approximately 37 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January51.4°F (10.8°C)Average24$279
February52.2°F (11.2°C)Average20$278
March53.4°F (11.9°C)High31$278
April55.8°F (13.2°C)High33$262
May58.1°F (14.5°C)Average37$269
June62.1°F (16.7°C)Average36$272
July63.1°F (17.3°C)High32$284
August64.2°F (17.9°C)Average29$290
September64.9°F (18.3°C)Low23$278
October62.6°F (17.0°C)Low27$276
November56.1°F (13.4°C)Low21$357
December51.3°F (10.7°C)Average31$323

*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 Baltimore (BWI) to San Francisco (SFO)

  • Baltimore to Oakland (BWI-OAK): Oakland International Airport (OAK) lies approximately 12 miles from San Francisco International Airport (SFO). One-way economy fares on this route generally vary between $175 and $505, influenced by the time of year and how far in advance tickets are booked. Travelers can choose from both non-stop and one-stop flights, with common layover locations including Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) and Denver International Airport (DEN). Major airlines operating on this route comprise Southwest Airlines (a budget carrier) and Delta, with first-class service also available.
  • Washington to San Francisco (DCA-SFO): Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) is located roughly 30 miles from Baltimore Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI). One-way economy fares on this route typically range from $110 to $515, influenced by seasonal demand and booking timing. This route features both non-stop and one-stop flight options. Leading airlines on this route include United and Alaska Airlines, with both business and first-class service offered.

How to find the best prices for flights from Baltimore (BWI) to San Francisco (SFO)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Baltimore to San Francisco 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 typically available when booking at least two months in advance, although most travelers tend to book 2 to 8 weeks ahead. Departures in the afternoon (12 PM to 6 PM) usually offer lower prices, while morning flights (5 AM to 12 PM) are more popular. Additionally, flying on Tuesday generally yields cheaper prices, despite Friday being 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 San Francisco International Airport from Baltimore Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport

San Francisco welcomes travelers from Baltimore with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach San Francisco efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in San Francisco, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from San Francisco International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at San Francisco 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 San Francisco International Airport, the nearest transport link is San Francisco Intl. Airport Station, a metro station located about 0.2 miles away on foot, while San Bruno Station, a train station, is situated approximately 2.4 miles from the airport and is best reached by car.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Baltimore, MD (BWI-Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $129 and cheap return flights from $258 Baltimore, MD (BWI-Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $200 to $1256, and return flights typically cost between $361 and $2159. 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 Baltimore, MD (BWI-Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco 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 Baltimore, MD (BWI-Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
September is the cheapest month to fly from Baltimore to San Francisco, with average round-trip fares around $392. This price is about 15% lower than the average throughout the year, as travel demand tends to decrease after the summer peak. Other affordable months to fly from Baltimore to San Francisco include April and August.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Baltimore, MD (BWI-Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
United operates around 20 direct flights from BWI to SFO every week.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Baltimore, MD (BWI-Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
United is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop flights from Baltimore, MD (BWI) to San Francisco, CA (SFO), with round-trip tickets starting from around $367. 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 Baltimore, MD (BWI-Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Baltimore, MD (BWI-Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco 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 Baltimore, MD (BWI-Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Baltimore, MD (BWI) to San Francisco, CA (SFO) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, United offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, WN typically offers the lowest fares. WN also offers the most daily flights from BWI to SFO, 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 Baltimore, MD (BWI-Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
The best time to fly from Baltimore (BWI) to San Francisco (SFO) is typically in September or August. During these months, you can expect average return flight prices around $392. September is particularly appealing as it offers a balance of good weather and lower travel demand, making it a great time to explore the Bay Area.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How many flights per day from Baltimore, MD (BWI-Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
On average, there are around 4 nonstop flights per day from Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall (BWI) to San Francisco Intl. (SFO). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Baltimore, MD (BWI-Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Baltimore Washington International Thurgood Marshall (BWI) to San Francisco International (SFO) typically departs at around 5:00 AM. This seasonal service operates in December, giving you a head start on your day in San Francisco. 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 Baltimore, MD (BWI-Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Baltimore, MD (BWI) to San Francisco, CA (SFO) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 42% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including United, Southwest Airlines, and Delta offer flights during this window. This timing is favored as it allows you to maximize your time in San Francisco upon arrival.
How long does it take to fly from Baltimore, MD (BWI-Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
Direct flights from BWI to SFO usually take about 6 hours 20 minutes, traveling roughly 2,452 miles. If you opt for a connecting flight, expect to add around 2 hours 10 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 Baltimore, MD (BWI-Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
First class is available on flights from BWI to SFO. First class cabins are available on:

  • United Airlines
  • American Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines

How much is a business class flight from Baltimore, MD (BWI-Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
A direct, return business class ticket from Baltimore, MD (BWI) to San Francisco, CA (SFO) typically costs between $1,966 - $2,739. A non-stop, one-way business class flight is usually around $687 - $908. Prices often fluctuate based on seasonality and how early you book. You may also be able to find a cheaper business class journey between Baltimore, MD (BWI-Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco 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 Baltimore, MD (BWI-Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Baltimore, MD (BWI-Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco 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 San Francisco from Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall (BWI)?
If you're planning to travel to San Francisco from Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall (BWI), you can fly into San Francisco Intl. (SFO) Some flights may connect through major hubs like Seattle - Tacoma Intl. (SEA), Charlotte-Douglas Intl. (CLT), Love Field (DAL) before reaching San Francisco. 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 Baltimore, MD (BWI-Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Baltimore, MD (BWI-Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco 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 Baltimore, MD (BWI-Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Baltimore, MD (BWI-Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.) San Francisco 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 Baltimore, MD (BWI-Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
If you booked your Baltimore, MD (BWI-Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco 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
Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall
Destination airport
San Francisco Intl.
Airlines serving
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines, Sun Country Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$258
Distance
2451 mi
Average flight time
3 hours 9 mins

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*Flight schedules are subject to change.

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