Madison (MSN) to Sacramento (SMF) at a glance

Explore a range of options for flights from Madison (MSN) to Sacramento (SMF) on this convenient domestic route. Whether you prefer full-service airlines or more budget-friendly choices, you can easily compare itineraries to find the best airfares to Sacramento that suit your schedule and travel plans. Discover key details for your journey from Dane County Regional Airport to Sacramento International Airport as you prepare to experience the vibrant sights and neighborhoods of Sacramento.

• Fastest flight duration: around 5h 45m in-flight, plus roughly 1h 30m layover with one stop
• Route distance: roughly 1,700 miles (2,740 km)
• Flights per week: around 11 departures on average
• Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $125–$465, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) to Sacramento International Airport (SMF)

Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines travelers prefer when flying from Madison to Sacramento, often opting for one-stop services. Popular layover choices include O'Hare International Airport (ORD) with about a 1 hour 30 minute layover, Denver International Airport (DEN) also with a 1 hour 30 minute layover, and Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) featuring a shorter 50-minute layover. These options provide the flexibility to balance price, total travel time, and cabin class for the ideal itinerary.

• United: This full-service airline provides convenient one-stop options, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $125 and $480. It constitutes about 44% of all departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 5 hours and 45 minutes, and a complete travel time of approximately 7 hours and 15 minutes, including layovers.
• American Airlines: As a full-service airline, American Airlines offers one-stop services with one-way fares usually ranging from $125 to $465. It represents around 39% of the departures for this route, boasting a flight time of 5 hours and 45 minutes and a total travel duration of roughly 7 hours and 15 minutes, factoring in layovers.
• Delta: A full-service carrier, Delta provides one-stop services with one-way fares that typically range from $145 to $465. It accounts for nearly 17% of the flights on this route, with an in-flight time of 5 hours and 45 minutes and an overall journey time of about 7 hours and 15 minutes, including layover periods.

Travelers have the option to upgrade their flight from Madison to Sacramento, with United providing first-class service on this route.

Best time to fly from Madison (MSN) to Sacramento (SMF)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Madison to Sacramento are March, April, and August, when peak temperatures in Sacramento reach up to 76.8°F in August. 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, September usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $222. Flight availability peaks in May, August, and October, with approximately 13 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. March and April have the fewest flights, with approximately 9 flights per week.

• Cheapest time to fly: September usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $222, roughly 15% cheaper than the yearly average.
• More budget-friendly months to fly: January, May, and July typically offer average one-way fares of around $235.
• Most flight options: May, August, and October have the highest number of flights from Madison to Sacramento, with approximately 13 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	10	$234
February	50.5°F (10.3°C)	Slightly Low	10	$279
March	53.6°F (12.0°C)	Slightly High	9	$273
April	59.7°F (15.4°C)	Slightly High	9	$255
May	66.6°F (19.2°C)	Average	13	$236
June	74.5°F (23.6°C)	Average	10	$273
July	77.5°F (25.3°C)	Average	11	$236
August	76.8°F (24.9°C)	Slightly High	13	$251
September	74.5°F (23.6°C)	Average	11	$222
October	66.4°F (19.1°C)	Average	13	$274
November	54.9°F (12.7°C)	Slightly Low	10	$253
December	48.4°F (9.1°C)	Slightly Low	10	$379

*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 Madison (MSN) to Sacramento (SMF)

• Appleton to Sacramento (ATW-SMF): Appleton International Airport (ATW) is located approximately 88 miles from Dane County Regional Airport (MSN). On this route, one-way economy tickets generally range from $140 to $450, influenced by the season and the timing of the booking. Travelers can choose between one-stop and multi-stop flights, with common layovers at O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Minneapolis - St. Paul International Airport (MSP). Major airlines operating on this route include United and Delta, and first-class service is also offered.

How to find the best prices for flights from Madison (MSN) to Sacramento (SMF)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Madison 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 at least two months in advance, although most travelers tend to book between two to eight weeks ahead. Afternoon departures from 12 PM to 6 PM generally offer lower prices, while morning flights from 5 AM to 12 PM are more popular. Additionally, flying on Wednesday often results in cheaper rates, while Thursday is the most favored 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 Dane County Regional Airport

Sacramento welcomes travelers from Madison 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, providing convenient access to regional transit options.