Memphis (MEM) to San Diego (SAN) at a glance

Travel from Memphis (MEM) to San Diego (SAN) with a range of airlines offering weekly flights on this domestic short-haul route. Whether you prefer full-service carriers or are seeking cheap flights from Memphis, you can find an itinerary that aligns with your budget and schedule. As you plan your journey to explore the iconic sights and vibrant neighborhoods of San Diego, gather all the essential details for your Memphis to San Diego airfare.

• Fastest flight duration: around 5h 30m non-stop
• Route distance: roughly 1,600 miles (2,570 km)
• Flights per week: around 15+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
• Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $105–$475, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Memphis International Airport (MEM) to San Diego International Airport (SAN)

Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines flying from Memphis to San Diego, favored for both one-stop and non-stop flights. Common layover options include Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) with a layover of about 1 hour and 15 minutes, Denver International Airport (DEN) at roughly 1 hour, and Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) also around 1 hour and 15 minutes. This variety allows you to mix and match price, total travel time, and cabin class to create the best itinerary for your journey.

• American Airlines: This established full-service airline provides one-stop flights with one-way ticket prices generally between $145 and $505. It operates about 38% of flights on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 5 hours and 15 minutes, plus a total travel time of around 6 hours and 30 minutes, including layover time.
• Southwest Airlines: A budget-friendly airline, Southwest offers non-stop, one-stop, and multi-stop options, with one-way fares typically ranging from $140 to $475. It constitutes about 20% of the departures for this route, with a standard journey lasting 5 hours and 15 minutes in the air and a total travel duration of approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes.
• Delta: This comprehensive service airline provides one-stop flights, with one-way fares usually falling between $140 and $485. Delta accounts for around 17% of the departures on this route, with an in-flight time of 5 hours and 15 minutes and an overall journey time of about 6 hours and 30 minutes, factoring in layovers.
• United: As a full-service carrier, United offers one-stop flights with one-way fares typically ranging from $145 to $635. It represents roughly 14% of the departures for this route, featuring an in-air time of 5 hours and 15 minutes, alongside a total journey time of approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, including layover time.
• Frontier Airlines: A low-cost option, Frontier provides one-stop service with one-way fares generally between $105 and $300. It makes up about 10% of the departures on this route, allowing for an in-flight duration of 5 hours and 15 minutes with a total travel time of around 6 hours and 30 minutes, including layovers.

Travelers have the option to upgrade their flight from Memphis to San Diego. Leading airlines include United and Delta, both offering first class and premium economy cabins, while American Airlines features first class service for an elevated travel experience.

Best time to fly from Memphis (MEM) to San Diego (SAN)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Memphis to San Diego are February, March, and April, when peak temperatures in San Diego reach up to 60.6°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 72°F. For better deals, February usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $242. Flight availability peaks in November and December, with approximately 20 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January has the fewest flights, with approximately 13 flights per week.

• Cheapest time to fly: February usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $242, roughly 8% cheaper than the yearly average.
• More budget-friendly months to fly: September, August, and May typically offer average one-way fares of around $249.
• Most flight options: November and December have the highest number of flights from Memphis to San Diego, with approximately 20 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.

Month	Temperature	Demand	Weekly Flights	Average one-way Fare
January	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Average	13	$264
February	56.8°F (13.8°C)	Moderately High	15	$242
March	58.1°F (14.5°C)	Moderately High	19	$298
April	60.6°F (15.9°C)	Moderately High	14	$257
May	62.6°F (17.0°C)	Moderately Low	18	$251
June	66.4°F (19.1°C)	Average	19	$257
July	70.5°F (21.4°C)	Average	17	$289
August	72.3°F (22.4°C)	Average	16	$251
September	72.0°F (22.2°C)	Moderately Low	14	$247
October	68.2°F (20.1°C)	Moderately Low	19	$252
November	62.6°F (17.0°C)	Average	20	$275
December	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Average	20	$302

*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 Memphis (MEM) to San Diego (SAN)

• Memphis to Carlsbad (MEM-CLD): McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD) is located approximately 28 miles from San Diego International Airport (SAN). On this route, one-way economy ticket prices generally fluctuate between $155 and $495, influenced by the season and timing of your booking. Most flights typically involve one stop, predominantly connecting through Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). The leading airline operating this route is American Airlines.

How to find the best prices for flights from Memphis (MEM) to San Diego (SAN)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Memphis to San Diego 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 available when booking 2-8 weeks in advance, which coincides with when most travelers make their reservations. Evening departures (6 PM to 12 AM) often offer lower prices, though morning flights (5 AM to 12 PM) are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Monday generally results in cheaper prices, while Thursday is the most sought-after 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.* Find San Diego hotel and flight deals.
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 Diego International Airport from Memphis International Airport

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

• Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in San Diego, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance with your hotel.
• Car rental: Renting a car from San Diego International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at San Diego 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 Diego International Airport, the Seaport, a seaport, is located about 0.1 miles away on foot, while Middletown Station, a metro station, is approximately 2.3 miles from the airport by car. Additionally, for cruise travelers, B Street Cruise Ship Terminal, a cruise terminal, is situated about 3 miles away by car.