$123 Cheap Flights from Palm Springs (PSP) to Sacramento (SMF)
Popular airlines from Palm Springs Intl. Airport (PSP) to Sacramento Intl. Airport (SMF)
Alaska AirlinesAlaska Airlines
American AirlinesAmerican Airlines
UnitedUnited
Southwest AirlinesSouthwest Airlines
DeltaDelta
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Cheap Flights from Palm Springs to Sacramento (PSP-SMF)
Alternative airports near Sacramento
Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.
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Palm Springs (PSP) to Sacramento (SMF) at a glance
Travel between Palm Springs (PSP) and Sacramento (SMF) with a range of airlines servicing this domestic short-haul route. Evaluate choices from both full-service and budget carriers to discover the itinerary that aligns with your budget and travel needs while you enjoy the iconic sights and neighborhoods of Sacramento. Here you will find essential information regarding flights from Palm Springs International Airport to Sacramento International Airport.
- Fastest flight duration: around 1h 30m non-stop
- Route distance: roughly 450 miles (725 km)
- Flights per week: around 11 departures on average
- Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $85–$360, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book
Flights from Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) to Sacramento International Airport (SMF)
Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Palm Springs to Sacramento, particularly for non-stop and one-stop options. Common layover spots include Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) with a layover of about 1 hour and 45 minutes, Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) with a 1-hour layover, and San Francisco International Airport (SFO) with a 1-hour and 15-minute layover. These choices allow you to balance price, total travel time, and cabin class to create the ideal travel itinerary.
- Southwest Airlines: This budget-friendly airline provides non-stop, one-stop, and multi-stop flights, with one-way ticket prices generally between $85 and $360. It represents about 68% of departures on this route, with a typical non-stop flight duration of 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- American Airlines: A comprehensive service airline, American Airlines offers one-stop flights with one-way fares ranging from $90 to $325. It covers around 16% of departures on this route, featuring an in-flight time of 3 hours and 15 minutes, leading to a total travel time of approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes, including layover.
- United: This full-service airline provides one-stop flights, with one-way prices typically between $105 and $325. United accounts for about 11% of departures on this route, offering an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 15 minutes, and a total journey time of around 4 hours and 45 minutes, factoring in the layover.
- Delta: As a full-service airline, Delta offers one-stop service with one-way fares generally ranging from $85 to $345. It makes up about 4% of departures on this route, featuring a flight time of 3 hours and 15 minutes, and an overall journey time of roughly 4 hours and 45 minutes, including layover.
- Alaska Airlines: This full-service carrier provides one-stop flights, with one-way fares typically falling between $165 and $400. Alaska Airlines represents around 1% of departures on this route, featuring an in-flight time of 3 hours and 15 minutes, and a total travel duration of approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes, including layover.
Best time to fly from Palm Springs (PSP) to Sacramento (SMF)
The most popular months for travelers flying from Palm Springs to Sacramento are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Sacramento reach up to 59.7°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider August, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 76.8°F. For better deals, October usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $165. Flight availability peaks in April, with approximately 12 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January, February, June, July, September, November, and December have the fewest flights, with approximately 10 flights per week.
- Cheapest time to fly: October usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $165, roughly 19% cheaper than the yearly average.
- Another budget-friendly time to fly: May typically offers an average one-way fare of around $180.
- Most flight options: April has the highest number of flights from Palm Springs to Sacramento, with approximately 12 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) | Moderately High | 10 | $230 |
| February | 50.5°F (10.3°C) | Average | 10 | $218 |
| March | 53.6°F (12.0°C) | Moderately High | 11 | $238 |
| April | 59.7°F (15.4°C) | Moderately High | 12 | $216 |
| May | 66.6°F (19.2°C) | Average | 11 | $180 |
| June | 74.5°F (23.6°C) | Moderately Low | 10 | $199 |
| July | 77.5°F (25.3°C) | Average | 10 | $186 |
| August | 76.8°F (24.9°C) | Moderately Low | 11 | $189 |
| September | 74.5°F (23.6°C) | Moderately Low | 10 | $225 |
| October | 66.4°F (19.1°C) | Average | 11 | $165 |
| November | 54.9°F (12.7°C) | Average | 10 | $224 |
| December | 48.4°F (9.1°C) | Average | 10 | $187 |
*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 Palm Springs (PSP) to Sacramento (SMF)
- Palm Springs to Sacramento (PSP-SAC): Sacramento Executive Airport (SAC) is located approximately 13 miles from Sacramento International Airport (SMF), providing easy access for travelers.
- Bermuda Dunes to Sacramento (UDD-SMF): Bermuda Dunes Airport (UDD) lies around 15 miles from Palm Springs International Airport (PSP), making it a convenient departure point for this route.
- Banning to Sacramento (BNG-SAC): Banning Municipal Airport (BNG) is about 21 miles from Palm Springs International Airport (PSP), while Sacramento Executive Airport (SAC) is roughly 13 miles from Sacramento International Airport (SMF), ensuring several options for flyers.
How to find the best prices for flights from Palm Springs (PSP) to Sacramento (SMF)
Getting some of the best deals on flights from Palm Springs 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 reserve their flights two to eight weeks ahead. Afternoon departures from 12 PM to 6 PM often provide better prices, while morning flights from 5 AM to 12 PM are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Tuesday usually offers lower costs, but Friday remains the busiest 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 Palm Springs International Airport
Sacramento welcomes travelers from Palm Springs 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.
Palm Springs to Sacramento Flights
The cheapest times to fly from Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs to Sacramento are during the month of January. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Palm Springs to Sacramento with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.
The best time to book a flight from Palm Springs to Sacramento
Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $123 and cheap return flights $202 Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $135 to $1001, and return flights typically cost between $294 and $1283. 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 Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from PSP to SMF is January when demand is low. Traveling in off-peak or shoulder months is usually a good way to secure cheap tickets, just remember to avoid flying during holidays if you're able to. Use the calendar view in your search to see which months have low fares on this route.
Which airlines fly direct from Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
Enter PSP to SMF and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
Southwest Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop flights from Palm Springs (PSP) to Sacramento (SMF), with round-trip tickets starting from around $444. 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 Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Palm Springs, CA (PSP) to Sacramento, CA (SMF) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, WN offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, WN typically offers the lowest fares. Alaska Airlines offers the most daily flights from PSP 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 Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
The best time to fly is usually mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) and during early morning hours as flights tend to be cheaper, less crowded, and generally more on-time. Avoid major holidays and peak vacation seasons for smoother travel. Combining off-peak days and hours often gives the best combination of cost, comfort, and convenience.
How many flights per day from Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
On average, there are around 2 nonstop flights per day from Palm Springs Intl. (PSP) to Sacramento Intl. (SMF). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) to Sacramento International Airport (SMF) usually departs at around 12:55 AM, operated by United Airlines. This early departure can be ideal for travelers looking to start their day 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 Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Palm Springs Intl. (PSP) to Sacramento Intl. (SMF) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 26% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Alaska Airlines and Southwest Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing is favored as it lets you enjoy a full day in Sacramento after your arrival.
How long does it take to fly from Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
A nonstop flight from PSP to SMF typically takes around 1 hour 30 minutes, covering approximately 440 miles. Connecting flights on this route usually add 5 hours to your travel time. 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 Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
First class is available on flights from PSP to SMF. First class cabins are available on:
- United Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- American Airlines
How do I earn miles on a Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs Intl. (PSP)?
If you're planning to travel to Sacramento from Palm Springs Intl. (PSP), you can fly into Sacramento Intl. (SMF) Some flights may connect through major hubs like San Francisco Intl. (SFO), Harry Reid Intl. (LAS), Seattle - Tacoma Intl. (SEA) 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 Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs Intl.) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
If you booked your Palm Springs, CA (PSP-Palm Springs 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 | Palm Springs Intl. Airport |
|---|---|
Destination airport | Sacramento Intl. Airport |
Distance | 439 miles away |
Airlines serving | Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, United, Southwest Airlines, Delta |
Popular airline | Alaska Airlines |
Roundtrip price | $202 |
Average flight time | 1 hour 32 mins |