A cityscape at dusk with illuminated buildings and a snow-covered mountain in the background.

$79 Cheap Flights from San Diego (SAN) to Reno (RNO)

Popular airlines from San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN) to Reno Tahoe Intl. Airport (RNO)

  • Be in the know

    Get alerts if flight prices drop or rise*
  • Book smarter

    Save up to 30% on select hotels after you book a flight*
  • Earn twice

    Earn your airline miles on top of our OneKeyCash

Cheap Flights from San Diego to Reno (SAN-RNO)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $79 for one-way flights and $157 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines
Alaska Airlines
Frontier Airlines
Southwest Airlines
Alaska Airlines
Southwest Airlines
Alaska Airlines
United
American Airlines

Alternative airports near Reno

Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Find the cheapest month to fly from San Diego (SAN) to Reno (RNO)

September is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $147 - $228 per traveler.

What you need to know for your flight from San Diego Intl. to Reno-Tahoe Intl.

San Diego (SAN) to Reno (RNO) at a glance

Explore a range of options for flights from San Diego (SAN) to Reno (RNO) on this short domestic route. Whether you prefer full-service airlines or budget-friendly carriers, you can compare various itineraries to find one that suits your budget and travel schedule. Discover the key details for your journey from San Diego International Airport to Reno-Tahoe International Airport as you prepare to experience the iconic sights and vibrant neighborhoods of Reno.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 1h 45m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 500 miles (805 km)
  • Flights per week: around 20+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $60–$345, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from San Diego International Airport (SAN) to Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO)

Based on recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines flying from San Diego to Reno, popular for both non-stop and one-stop flights. Common layover points include Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) with about a 1 hour 30 minute layover, San Francisco International Airport (SFO) offering roughly a 1 hour 15 minute stop, and Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) with a 2 hour layover. These options provide the flexibility to balance price, total travel time, and cabin class to help you find the ideal itinerary.

  • Southwest Airlines: This budget-friendly airline provides both non-stop and one-stop flights, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $60 and $355. It represents about 50% of the departures for this route, and non-stop flights typically last around 1 hour and 45 minutes.
  • Alaska Airlines: A comprehensive service airline, Alaska Airlines offers non-stop and one-stop travel options, with one-way fares usually ranging from $60 to $340. Covering approximately 29% of departures on this route, you can expect a non-stop flight time of about 1 hour and 45 minutes.
  • United: Operating as a full-service airline, United provides one-stop services with one-way fares ranging from $80 to $360. It accounts for roughly 9% of the departures along this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 3 hours and a total travel time of approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes, including layover time.
  • Delta: Another full-service option, Delta offers one-stop flights with typical one-way fares between $80 and $325. It makes up about 5% of the departures for this route, with an in-flight time of 3 hours and an overall journey time of about 4 hours and 15 minutes when layover is factored in.
  • American Airlines: This carrier also provides one-stop services and is classified as a full-service airline, with one-way fares generally ranging from $80 to $290. American Airlines comprises about 4% of the departures on this route, delivering an in-flight time of 3 hours and a total travel duration of roughly 4 hours and 15 minutes, including layovers.

Travelers flying from San Diego to Reno can opt for an upgrade. Alaska Airlines features both first class and business class, while United offers first-class service on its flights.

Best time to fly from San Diego (SAN) to Reno (RNO)

The most popular months for travelers flying from San Diego to Reno are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Reno reach up to 47.8°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider May, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 56.7°F. For better deals, November usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $144. Flight availability peaks in December, with approximately 25 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January and September have the fewest flights, with approximately 18 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: November usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $144, roughly 20% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • Another budget-friendly time to fly: January typically offers an average one-way fare of around $159.
  • Most flight options: December has the highest number of flights from San Diego to Reno, with approximately 25 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January32.5°F (0.3°C)Moderately High18$159
February34.7°F (1.5°C)Average21$176
March39.7°F (4.3°C)Moderately High21$192
April47.8°F (8.8°C)Moderately High23$174
May56.7°F (13.7°C)Moderately Low21$202
June67.1°F (19.5°C)Moderately Low21$205
July76.1°F (24.5°C)Moderately Low21$231
August74.1°F (23.4°C)Average21$207
September66.7°F (19.3°C)Average18$172
October53.2°F (11.8°C)Average19$162
November39.9°F (4.4°C)Average22$144
December31.6°F (-0.2°C)Average25$162

*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 San Diego (SAN) to Reno (RNO)

  • San Diego to Carson City (SAN-CSN): Located approximately 22 miles from Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO), Carson City Airport (CSN) serves as a convenient option.
  • San Diego to Truckee (SAN-TKF): Truckee Tahoe Airport (TKF) is about 24 miles away from Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO), making it a viable choice for travelers.
  • Carlsbad to Reno (CLD-RNO): McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD) is situated roughly 28 miles from San Diego International Airport (SAN), providing easy access to the region.

How to find the best prices for flights from San Diego (SAN) to Reno (RNO)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from San Diego to Reno 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 at least two months in advance, although most travelers tend to book 2 to 8 weeks ahead. Evening departures between 6 PM and midnight often offer lower prices, while morning flights from 5 AM to noon are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Tuesday typically results in cheaper fares, but Friday is the busiest 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 Reno-Tahoe International Airport from San Diego International Airport

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

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Reno, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Reno-Tahoe International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Reno-Tahoe 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 Reno-Tahoe International Airport, the Reno Tahoe International Airport Bus Stop (a bus station) is conveniently located just 0.2 miles away on foot, while Reno Station (a train station) is about 3.1 miles from the airport, typically reached by car.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $79 and cheap return flights from $157 San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $120 and $1030, and roundtrip flights usually range from $171 to $1186. 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 San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe 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 San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from SAN to RNO is September 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 San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.)?
Hawaiian Airlines operates around 14 direct flights from SAN to RNO every week.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.)?
Alaska Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from San Diego, CA (SAN) to Reno, NV (RNO), starting from around $138. 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 San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe 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 San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from San Diego, CA (SAN) to Reno, NV (RNO) 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. WN offers the most daily flights from SAN to RNO, 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 San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe 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 San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.)?
There are approximately 3 nonstop flights per day from San Diego Intl. (SAN) to Reno-Tahoe Intl. (RNO). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.)?
The earliest flight from San Diego Intl. (SAN) to Reno-Tahoe Intl. (RNO) typically departs at around 6:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is available in February, March, and April, allowing you to kick off your day in Reno early. 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 San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from San Diego, CA (SAN) to Reno, NV (RNO) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 29% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, and Alaska Airlines, offer flights during this period. This timing works well because it allows you to arrive in Reno with plenty of time to enjoy your day.
How long does it take to fly from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.)?
A nonstop flight from SAN to RNO typically takes around 1 hour 50 minutes, covering approximately 490 miles. Connecting flights on this route usually add 4 hours 10 minutes 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 San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.)?
Business class seats are offered on the SAN to RNO route with American Airlines.First class cabins are available on:

  • American Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines
  • United Airlines
  • Hawaiian Airlines

How do I earn miles on a San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe 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 Reno from San Diego Intl. (SAN)?
From San Diego Intl. (SAN), you can fly into Reno-Tahoe Intl. (RNO) to reach Reno. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Los Angeles Intl. (LAX), San Francisco Intl. (SFO), Sky Harbor Intl. (PHX) before reaching Reno. 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 San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe 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 San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.) Reno 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 San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.)?
If you booked your San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) to Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe 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
San Diego Intl.
Destination airport
Reno-Tahoe Intl.
Airlines serving
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$156
Distance
489 mi
Average flight time
1 hour 39 mins

Book with confidence

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

Explore a world of travel with Expedia