$133 Cheap Flights from Milwaukee (MKE) to Sacramento (SMF)
Popular airlines from General Mitchell Intl. Airport (MKE) to Sacramento Intl. Airport (SMF)
Alaska AirlinesAlaska Airlines
American AirlinesAmerican Airlines
Southwest AirlinesSouthwest Airlines
DeltaDelta
UnitedUnited
Frontier AirlinesFrontier Airlines
Be in the knowGet alerts if flight prices drop or rise*
Book smarterSave up to 30% on select hotels after you book a flight*
Cheap Flights from Milwaukee to Sacramento (MKE-SMF)
Alternative airports near Sacramento
Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.
Book with confidence
Milwaukee (MKE) to Sacramento (SMF) at a glance
Explore a range of options for flights from Milwaukee (MKE) to Sacramento (SMF) on this domestic short-haul route. Whether you're looking for full-service airlines or the cheapest flights to Sacramento Intl., you can compare itineraries to find the perfect match for your travel budget and schedule. With multiple weekly flights available, you can easily plan your visit to Sacramento's iconic attractions and vibrant neighborhoods. Discover the essential details for your journey from General Mitchell International Airport to Sacramento International Airport.
- Fastest flight duration: around 6 hours non-stop
- Route distance: roughly 1,800 miles (2,900 km)
- Flights per week: around 14 flights with multiple daily departures on average
- Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $130–$460, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book
Flights from General Mitchell International Airport (MKE) to Sacramento International Airport (SMF)
Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Milwaukee to Sacramento, particularly for one-stop and multi-stop journeys. Common layover spots include Denver International Airport (DEN) with an average layover of about 1 hour and 15 minutes, O'Hare International Airport (ORD) also around 1 hour and 15 minutes, and Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) with a shorter layover of approximately 45 minutes. This variety gives you the flexibility to choose based on price, total travel time, and cabin class to create your ideal itinerary.
- Southwest Airlines: This budget-friendly airline provides one-stop flights, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $150 and $470. It is responsible for approximately 32% of departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 5 hours and 30 minutes, and a total travel time of around 6 hours and 45 minutes, including layover time.
- Delta: A major player in air travel, Delta offers one-stop service with one-way fares usually ranging from $140 to $480. It makes up about 24% of departures on this route, boasting an in-flight time of 5 hours and 30 minutes, and a complete journey time of roughly 6 hours and 45 minutes, including layovers.
- United: As a full-service airline, United provides one-stop flights with one-way fares typically between $140 and $505. It accounts for around 21% of departures on this route, with an in-flight duration of 5 hours and 30 minutes and a total travel time of roughly 6 hours and 45 minutes, factoring in layover time.
- American Airlines: Another full-service option, American Airlines offers one-stop service with one-way fares usually ranging from $130 to $420. This airline manages about 19% of departures for this route, featuring an in-flight time of 5 hours and 30 minutes, alongside an overall journey time of approximately 6 hours and 45 minutes, including layovers.
- Alaska Airlines: Known for its one-stop service, Alaska Airlines offers one-way fares that typically range from $130 to $295. Holding about 3% of the departures on this route, it provides an in-flight time of 5 hours and 30 minutes and a total travel duration of about 6 hours and 45 minutes, including layover time.
Travelers flying from Milwaukee to Sacramento can enhance their experience by upgrading to first class, which is offered by United on this route.
Best time to fly from Milwaukee (MKE) to Sacramento (SMF)
The most popular months for travelers flying from Milwaukee to Sacramento are March, April, and June, when peak temperatures in Sacramento reach up to 74.5°F in June. If you prefer quieter travel, consider November, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 54.9°F. For better deals, August usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $212. Flight availability peaks in June, with approximately 18 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January has the fewest flights, with approximately 11 flights per week.
- Cheapest time to fly: August usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $212, roughly 13% cheaper than the yearly average.
- More budget-friendly months to fly: October, May, and September typically offer average one-way fares of around $225.
- Most flight options: June has the highest number of flights from Milwaukee to Sacramento, with approximately 18 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) | Average | 11 | $257 |
| February | 50.5°F (10.3°C) | Average | 12 | $241 |
| March | 53.6°F (12.0°C) | Slightly High | 12 | $271 |
| April | 59.7°F (15.4°C) | Slightly High | 12 | $268 |
| May | 66.6°F (19.2°C) | Average | 14 | $223 |
| June | 74.5°F (23.6°C) | Slightly High | 18 | $233 |
| July | 77.5°F (25.3°C) | Slightly Low | 15 | $270 |
| August | 76.8°F (24.9°C) | Average | 16 | $212 |
| September | 74.5°F (23.6°C) | Average | 15 | $230 |
| October | 66.4°F (19.1°C) | Average | 16 | $220 |
| November | 54.9°F (12.7°C) | Slightly Low | 16 | $258 |
| December | 48.4°F (9.1°C) | Slightly Low | 16 | $268 |
*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 Milwaukee (MKE) to Sacramento (SMF)
- Milwaukee to Sacramento (MWC-SMF): Located approximately 13 miles from General Mitchell International Airport (MKE), Lawrence J. Timmerman Airport (MWC) serves as a convenient departure point for travelers heading to Sacramento.
- Milwaukee to Sacramento (MKE-SAC): Sacramento Executive Airport (SAC) is roughly 13 miles distant from Sacramento International Airport (SMF), providing an accessible option for flights coming from Milwaukee.
- Milwaukee to Sacramento (MWC-SAC): Travelers can fly from Lawrence J. Timmerman Airport (MWC), which is about 13 miles from General Mitchell International Airport (MKE), to Sacramento Executive Airport (SAC), located around 13 miles from Sacramento International Airport (SMF).
How to find the best prices for flights from Milwaukee (MKE) to Sacramento (SMF)
Getting some of the best deals on flights from Milwaukee 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 typically found when booking at least two months in advance, although most travelers book between two to eight weeks ahead. Departures in the afternoon (12 PM to 6 PM) tend to be cheaper, while morning flights (5 AM to 12 PM) are the most popular. Flying on Friday usually offers lower prices, yet Saturday remains the most popular 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 General Mitchell International Airport
Sacramento welcomes travelers from Milwaukee 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.
Milwaukee to Sacramento Flights
The cheapest times to fly from Milwaukee 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 Milwaukee to Sacramento are during the month of October. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Milwaukee to Sacramento with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.
The best time to book a flight from Milwaukee to Sacramento
Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Milwaukee 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 Milwaukee 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 Milwaukee to Sacramento in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $133 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 Milwaukee 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 Milwaukee 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 Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $133 and cheap return flights $275 Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $182 to $755, and return flights typically cost between $390 and $1070. 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 Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell 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 Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
September is typically the cheapest month to fly from Milwaukee (MKE) to Sacramento (SMF), with average round-trip fares around $365. This price is about 18% lower than the average throughout the year, as September is after the summer travel peak when demand decreases. Other cheap months to fly from Milwaukee to Sacramento include February and August.
*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
Enter MKE to SMF and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
How do I find cheap flights from Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell 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 Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
The best time to fly from Milwaukee (MKE) to Sacramento (SMF) is in September or August. September offers a good mix of popularity and affordability, with average prices around $365, while August is also a cost-effective choice. Traveling during these months means you can enjoy favorable prices and a variety of flight options, based on booking data from the past year.
*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
What is the earliest flight from Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Milwaukee (MKE - General Mitchell Intl.) to Sacramento (SMF - Sacramento Intl.) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service can help you start your day early and maximize your time in California. 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 Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Milwaukee (MKE) to Sacramento (SMF) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 30% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including United Airlines, Southwest Airlines and American 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 Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
Flights from MKE to SMF with one stop typically take around 7 hours, covering approximately 1,774 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 Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
First class is available on flights from MKE to SMF. First class cabins are available on:
- Delta Air Lines
- American Airlines
- United Airlines
How do I earn miles on a Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell 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 General Mitchell Intl. (MKE)?
From General Mitchell Intl. (MKE), you can fly into Sacramento Intl. (SMF) to reach Sacramento. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Denver Intl. (DEN), Harry Reid Intl. (LAS), O'Hare Intl. (ORD) 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 Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell 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 Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell 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 Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
If you booked your Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell 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 | General Mitchell Intl. Airport |
|---|---|
Destination airport | Sacramento Intl. Airport |
Distance | 1,773 miles away |
Airlines serving | Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Delta, United, Frontier Airlines |
Popular airline | Alaska Airlines |
Roundtrip price | $270 |