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$123 Cheap Flights from Washington (IAD) to Sacramento (SMF)

View $123 flight on Mon, Oct 5, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Washington Dulles Intl. Airport (IAD) to Sacramento Intl. Airport (SMF)

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Cheap Flights from Washington to Sacramento (IAD-SMF)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $123 for one-way flights and $224 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Frontier Airlines
Mon, Oct 5 - Tue, Oct 6
IAD
Washington
SMF
Sacramento
$224 Roundtrip, found 6 hours ago
$224
Roundtrip
found 6 hours ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Mon, Oct 5 from Washington to Sacramento, returning Tue, Oct 6, priced at $224 found 6 hours ago
Frontier Airlines
Mon, Oct 5 - Wed, Oct 7
IAD
Washington
SMF
Sacramento
$254 Roundtrip, found 9 hours ago
$254
Roundtrip
found 9 hours ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Mon, Oct 5 from Washington to Sacramento, returning Wed, Oct 7, priced at $254 found 9 hours ago
Alaska Airlines
Tue, Oct 13 - Tue, Oct 20
IAD
Washington
SMF
Sacramento
$282 Roundtrip, found 6 hours ago
$282
Roundtrip
found 6 hours ago
Select Alaska Airlines flight, departing Tue, Oct 13 from Washington to Sacramento, returning Tue, Oct 20, priced at $282 found 6 hours ago
Frontier Airlines
Thu, Oct 15 - Wed, Oct 21
IAD
Washington
SMF
Sacramento
$284 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$284
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Thu, Oct 15 from Washington to Sacramento, returning Wed, Oct 21, priced at $284 found 3 days ago
Frontier Airlines
Mon, Oct 5 - Sat, Oct 10
IAD
Washington
SMF
Sacramento
$285 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$285
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Mon, Oct 5 from Washington to Sacramento, returning Sat, Oct 10, priced at $285 found 1 day ago
Frontier Airlines
Wed, Oct 21 - Mon, Oct 26
IAD
Washington
SMF
Sacramento
$296 Roundtrip, found 4 days ago
$296
Roundtrip
found 4 days ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Wed, Oct 21 from Washington to Sacramento, returning Mon, Oct 26, priced at $296 found 4 days ago
Alaska Airlines
Wed, Oct 7 - Tue, Oct 13
IAD
Washington
SMF
Sacramento
$302 Roundtrip, found 8 hours ago
$302
Roundtrip
found 8 hours ago
Select Alaska Airlines flight, departing Wed, Oct 7 from Washington to Sacramento, returning Tue, Oct 13, priced at $302 found 8 hours ago
American Airlines
Wed, Oct 7 - Thu, Oct 8
IAD
Washington
SMF
Sacramento
$305 Roundtrip, found 5 days ago
$305
Roundtrip
found 5 days ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Wed, Oct 7 from Washington to Sacramento, returning Thu, Oct 8, priced at $305 found 5 days ago
Delta
Thu, Dec 3 - Tue, Dec 8
IAD
Washington
SMF
Sacramento
$386 Roundtrip, found 5 hours ago
$386
Roundtrip
found 5 hours ago
Select Delta flight, departing Thu, Dec 3 from Washington to Sacramento, returning Tue, Dec 8, priced at $386 found 5 hours ago
United
Thu, Nov 5 - Sun, Nov 8
IAD
Washington
SMF
Sacramento
$399 Roundtrip, found 1 hour ago
$399
Roundtrip
found 1 hour ago
Select United flight, departing Thu, Nov 5 from Washington to Sacramento, returning Sun, Nov 8, priced at $399 found 1 hour ago

Alternative airports near Sacramento

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

Select flight to Sacramento Intl. SMF. Cheapest option available. Average driving time to city center is 15 minutes. Flights from $327
SMF
Sacramento Intl.
Cheapest
Average driving time to city center15 min
Flights from $327

What you need to know for your flight from Washington Dulles Intl. to Sacramento Intl.

Washington (IAD) to Sacramento (SMF) at a glance

Embark on a journey from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) to Sacramento International Airport (SMF) with various airlines offering this long-haul domestic route. Whether you’re looking for the cheapest flights to Sacramento or prefer a full-service experience, you can compare options to find the next flight that aligns with your budget and schedule. Get ready to explore the iconic sights and neighborhoods of Sacramento as you plan your trip.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 6 hours non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 2,400 miles (3,860 km)
  • Flights per week: around 15+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $135–$440, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) to Sacramento International Airport (SMF)

Based on recent traveler preferences, here are the top airlines flying from Washington to Sacramento, favored for both non-stop and one-stop flights. Common layover points include Denver International Airport (DEN) with a layover of about 1 hour, San Diego International Airport (SAN) at around 45 minutes, and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) with a layover of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. These options provide the flexibility to balance price, total travel time, and cabin class, helping you choose the best itinerary.

  • United: This full-service airline provides both non-stop and one-stop flights, with one-way ticket prices generally between $145 and $555. United represents about 45% of departures on this route, featuring a typical non-stop travel duration of 6 hours.
  • Delta: As a full-service provider, Delta offers one-stop flights with one-way fares typically ranging from $140 to $405. They make up around 21% of departures on this route, with an in-flight duration of 7 hours and a total travel time of approximately 8 hours and 15 minutes (including layover).
  • Southwest Airlines: This budget-friendly carrier features one-stop service, offering one-way fares usually between $135 and $385. Southwest accounts for roughly 17% of flights on this route, with an in-flight time of 7 hours and a total journey duration of about 8 hours and 15 minutes (including layover).
  • Alaska Airlines: Another full-service option, Alaska Airlines provides one-stop service with typical one-way fares ranging from $135 to $280. They represent around 13% of departures on this route, with an in-flight time of 7 hours and a total travel duration of roughly 8 hours and 15 minutes (including layover).
  • American Airlines: This full-service carrier offers one-stop and multi-stop flights, with one-way fares usually ranging from $135 to $815. American Airlines accounts for approximately 4% of departures on this route, with a standard one-stop journey taking 7 hours in-flight and a total travel time of about 8 hours and 15 minutes.

Travelers flying from Washington to Sacramento have the option to enhance their experience with flight upgrades. United Airlines offers first-class service, while Delta provides both first class and premium economy cabins. American Airlines also features first-class service for its passengers.

Best time to fly from Washington (IAD) to Sacramento (SMF)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Washington to Sacramento are March, April, and July, when peak temperatures in Sacramento reach up to 77.5°F in July. If you prefer quieter travel, consider May, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 66.6°F. For better deals, February and August usually offer the lowest average one-way fares around $224. Flight availability peaks in June and July, with approximately 21 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. October has the fewest flights, with approximately 13 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: February and August usually offer good deals with average one-way fares around $224, roughly 11% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: October and January typically offer average one-way fares of around $237.
  • Most flight options: June and July have the highest number of flights from Washington to Sacramento, with approximately 21 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)Average16$239
February50.5°F (10.3°C)Average14$224
March53.6°F (12.0°C)Slightly High15$281
April59.7°F (15.4°C)Slightly High15$273
May66.6°F (19.2°C)Slightly Low19$240
June74.5°F (23.6°C)Average21$251
July77.5°F (25.3°C)Slightly High21$250
August76.8°F (24.9°C)Average17$224
September74.5°F (23.6°C)Slightly Low14$256
October66.4°F (19.1°C)Average13$235
November54.9°F (12.7°C)Slightly Low16$263
December48.4°F (9.1°C)Average14$304

*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 Washington (IAD) to Sacramento (SMF)

  • Washington to Sacramento (DCA-SMF): Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) is located approximately 23 miles from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD). One-way economy ticket prices for this route usually range from $120 to $410, influenced by the season and timing of the booking. Passengers can choose from both non-stop and one-stop flights, with common layover points being O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). Major airlines operating on this route include Delta and Southwest Airlines, which is known for its budget-friendly fares. Additionally, business and first-class service options are offered on this route.

How to find the best prices for flights from Washington (IAD) to Sacramento (SMF)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Washington 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 typically found when booking 2-8 weeks in advance, coinciding with when most travelers make their reservations. Departures in the afternoon, between 12 PM and 6 PM, not only tend to offer lower prices but are also the most popular times to fly. Additionally, flying on Tuesday usually results in cheaper prices, while Thursday remains the busiest 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 Washington Dulles International Airport

Sacramento welcomes travelers from Washington with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. For departures, Washington Dulles International Airport is roughly a 40-minute drive (covering about 29 miles) from central Washington. 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 approximately 8.6 miles from the airport.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Washington, DC (IAD-Washington Dulles Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $123 and cheap return flights from $224 Washington, DC (IAD-Washington Dulles Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $218 to $1216, and return flights typically cost between $400 and $1547. 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 Washington, DC (IAD-Washington Dulles 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 Washington, DC (IAD-Washington Dulles Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
January is the cheapest month to fly from Washington, DC (IAD) to Sacramento, CA (SMF), with average return fares around $378. This is about 18% lower than the average price throughout the year, as demand typically drops after the holiday season. Other budget-friendly months to consider are February and September.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Washington, DC (IAD-Washington Dulles Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
You can fly direct from IAD to SMF on United, with around 7 flights per week.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Washington, DC (IAD-Washington Dulles Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
United is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop flights from Washington Dulles Intl. (IAD) to Sacramento Intl. (SMF), with round-trip tickets starting from around $289. 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 Washington, DC (IAD-Washington Dulles Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Washington, DC (IAD-Washington Dulles 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 Washington, DC (IAD-Washington Dulles Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Washington, DC (IAD) to Sacramento, CA (SMF) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, United offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, United typically offers the lowest fares. Alaska Airlines offers the most daily flights from IAD 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 Washington, DC (IAD-Washington Dulles Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
When flying from Washington, DC (IAD) to Sacramento, CA (SMF), January and February are your best bets. January has an average price of around $378, making it a cost-effective option during the winter months. February also offers similar pricing, allowing you to enjoy a trip to California while avoiding the peak travel season.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How many flights per day from Washington, DC (IAD-Washington Dulles Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
There are approximately 1 nonstop flights per day from Washington Dulles Intl. (IAD) to Sacramento Intl. (SMF). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Washington, DC (IAD-Washington Dulles Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) to Sacramento International Airport (SMF) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is available in December, allowing you to start your day early 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 Washington, DC (IAD-Washington Dulles Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) to Sacramento International Airport (SMF) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 28% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Alaska Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to arrive in Sacramento with plenty of time to enjoy your day.
How long does it take to fly from Washington, DC (IAD-Washington Dulles Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
Flying nonstop from IAD to SMF takes around 6 hours, with the route covering approximately 2,352 miles. Flights with a layover typically take 2 hours 20 minutes longer than direct options. 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 Washington, DC (IAD-Washington Dulles Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
Select the "Business class" and "First class" filters when looking for IAD to SMF flights on Expedia. This is the easiest way to compare prices, routes and flight times for your trip.
How much is a business class flight from Washington, DC (IAD-Washington Dulles Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
A direct, return business class ticket from Washington, DC (IAD) to Sacramento, CA (SMF) typically costs between $2,626 - $3,434. Prices often fluctuate based on seasonality and how early you book. You may also be able to find a cheaper business class journey between Washington, DC (IAD-Washington Dulles 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 Washington, DC (IAD-Washington Dulles Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Washington, DC (IAD-Washington Dulles 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 Washington Dulles Intl. (IAD)?
From Washington Dulles Intl. (IAD), you can fly into Sacramento Intl. (SMF) to reach Sacramento. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Denver Intl. (DEN), Seattle - Tacoma Intl. (SEA), Charlotte-Douglas Intl. (CLT) 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 Washington, DC (IAD-Washington Dulles Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Washington, DC (IAD-Washington Dulles 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 Washington, DC (IAD-Washington Dulles Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Washington, DC (IAD-Washington Dulles 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 Washington, DC (IAD-Washington Dulles Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
If you booked your Washington, DC (IAD-Washington Dulles 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
Washington Dulles Intl.
Destination airport
Sacramento Intl.
Airlines serving
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Frontier Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$224
Distance
2352 mi
Average flight time
4 hours 9 mins

Book with confidence

Washington to Sacramento Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Washington 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 Washington to Sacramento are during the month of October. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Washington to Sacramento with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.

 

The best time to book a flight from Washington to Sacramento

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Washington 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 Washington 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 Washington to Sacramento in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $123 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 Washington 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 Washington 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.

 

Washington to Sacramento Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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