San Diego (SAN) to Madison (MSN) at a glance

Travel between San Diego (SAN) and Madison (MSN) with a selection of airlines catering to this domestic short-haul route. Whether you're searching for budget-friendly options or prefer full-service carriers, you can evaluate various flights from San Diego to find an itinerary that suits your needs and travel plans. As you prepare to explore the vibrant sights and neighborhoods of Madison, gather all the essential details for your journey from San Diego International Airport to Dane County Regional Airport.

• Fastest flight duration: around 6h 15m non-stop
• Route distance: roughly 1,700 miles (2,740 km)
• Flights per week: around 12 departures on average
• Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $120–$435, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from San Diego International Airport (SAN) to Dane County Regional Airport (MSN)

Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines flying from San Diego to Madison, favored for their non-stop and one-stop options. Common layover points include O'Hare International Airport (ORD) with a layover of about 1 hour, Denver International Airport (DEN) with around 1 hour and 30 minutes, and Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) offering a layover of approximately 1 hour. These choices provide you with the flexibility to balance cost, total travel time, and cabin class to create your ideal itinerary.

• American Airlines: This full-service airline provides one-stop travel options, with one-way prices generally falling between $120 and $430. It operates about 41% of flights on this route, featuring a flying time of 5 hours and an overall travel duration of approximately 6 hours and 15 minutes, including layovers.
• United: Offering both non-stop and one-stop service, United is a full-service airline with one-way fares usually ranging from $145 to $535. It holds approximately 26% of departures on this route, with in-flight times around 5 hours and a total journey time of about 6 hours and 15 minutes.
• Delta: This full-service carrier provides one-stop travel, with one-way fares typically between $140 and $455. Delta accounts for around 25% of the flights on this route, showcasing a flight duration of 5 hours and a complete journey time of roughly 6 hours and 15 minutes, including layovers.
• Frontier Airlines: As a low-cost option, Frontier Airlines offers one-stop services with one-way fares that generally range from $120 to $290. This airline makes up about 7% of departures on this route, maintaining an in-flight time of 5 hours and a total journey time of approximately 6 hours and 15 minutes, including layovers.
• Alaska Airlines: A full-service provider, Alaska Airlines offers one-stop services with one-way fares typically priced between $225 and $440. It contributes to about 1% of departures on this route, featuring a 5-hour in-flight duration and a total travel time of roughly 6 hours and 15 minutes, including layovers.

Travelers flying from San Diego to Madison can opt for an upgrade, as United provides first-class service on this route.

Best time to fly from San Diego (SAN) to Madison (MSN)

The most popular months for travelers flying from San Diego to Madison are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Madison reach up to 45.3°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 62.8°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $237). Flight availability peaks in March, with approximately 15 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times.

• Cheapest time to fly: September usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $237, roughly 10% cheaper than the yearly average.
• More budget-friendly months to fly: August, October, and May typically offer average one-way fares of around $248.
• Most flight options: March has the highest number of flights from San Diego to Madison, with approximately 15 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.

Month	Temperature	Demand	Weekly Flights	Average one-way Fare
January	18.7°F (-7.4°C)	Moderately High	12	$280
February	20.7°F (-6.3°C)	Average	11	$256
March	34.7°F (1.5°C)	Moderately High	15	$289
April	45.3°F (7.4°C)	Moderately High	12	$264
May	57.9°F (14.4°C)	Average	14	$253
June	67.6°F (19.8°C)	Average	12	$305
July	71.6°F (22.0°C)	Average	10	$264
August	69.8°F (21.0°C)	Average	14	$244
September	62.8°F (17.1°C)	Moderately Low	10	$237
October	50.0°F (10.0°C)	Moderately Low	14	$249
November	37.0°F (2.8°C)	Moderately Low	10	$271
December	26.6°F (-3.0°C)	Average	13	$266

*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 San Diego (SAN) to Madison (MSN)

• Carlsbad to Madison (CLD-MSN): McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD) is located approximately 28 miles from San Diego International Airport (SAN). One-way economy ticket prices on this route generally vary from $135 to $665, influenced by the season and advance booking. Travelers can expect a one-stop flight option, with common layover points at Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) and Denver International Airport (DEN). Major airlines operating on this route include American Airlines and United.

How to find the best prices for flights from San Diego (SAN) to Madison (MSN)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from San Diego to Madison 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 often available when booking within 2 weeks, although most travelers tend to book 2-8 weeks in advance. Departures in the morning (5 am-12 pm) generally offer lower prices and are the most popular flight times, while flying on Wednesday usually results in cheaper tickets, even though Thursday remains 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 Dane County Regional Airport from San Diego International Airport

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

• Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Madison, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
• Car rental: Renting a car from Dane County Regional Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Dane County Regional 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 Dane County Regional Airport, Madison Station (a train station) is located about 7.2 miles away by car, while Madison Dutch Mill Park and Ride (a bus station) is situated approximately 9.2 miles away by car, providing convenient transport options for travelers.