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$92 Cheap Flights from Santa Barbara (SBA) to Phoenix (PHX)

View $92 flight on Tue, Aug 18, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) to Phoenix Sky Harbor Intl. Airport (PHX)

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Cheap Flights from Santa Barbara to Phoenix (SBA-PHX)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $92 for one-way flights and $183 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Southwest Airlines
Mon, Aug 24 - Sat, Aug 29
SBA
Santa Barbara
PHX
Phoenix
$183 Roundtrip, found 7 hours ago
$183
Roundtrip
found 7 hours ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Mon, Aug 24 from Santa Barbara to Phoenix, returning Sat, Aug 29, priced at $183 found 7 hours ago
Alaska Airlines
Mon, Aug 24 - Sat, Aug 29
SBA
Santa Barbara
PHX
Phoenix
$189 Roundtrip, found 7 hours ago
$189
Roundtrip
found 7 hours ago
Select Alaska Airlines flight, departing Mon, Aug 24 from Santa Barbara to Phoenix, returning Sat, Aug 29, priced at $189 found 7 hours ago
Southwest Airlines
Thu, Sep 3 - Mon, Sep 7
SBA
Santa Barbara
PHX
Phoenix
$194 Roundtrip, found 6 hours ago
$194
Roundtrip
found 6 hours ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Thu, Sep 3 from Santa Barbara to Phoenix, returning Mon, Sep 7, priced at $194 found 6 hours ago
Southwest Airlines
Sat, Oct 3 - Mon, Oct 5
SBA
Santa Barbara
PHX
Phoenix
$199 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$199
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Sat, Oct 3 from Santa Barbara to Phoenix, returning Mon, Oct 5, priced at $199 found 1 day ago
Southwest Airlines
Mon, Aug 17 - Thu, Aug 20
SBA
Santa Barbara
PHX
Phoenix
$199 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$199
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Mon, Aug 17 from Santa Barbara to Phoenix, returning Thu, Aug 20, priced at $199 found 1 day ago
Alaska Airlines
Sat, Oct 3 - Mon, Oct 5
SBA
Santa Barbara
PHX
Phoenix
$203 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$203
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select Alaska Airlines flight, departing Sat, Oct 3 from Santa Barbara to Phoenix, returning Mon, Oct 5, priced at $203 found 1 day ago
Alaska Airlines
Sat, Oct 3 - Mon, Oct 5
SBA
Santa Barbara
PHX
Phoenix
$204 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$204
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select Alaska Airlines flight, departing Sat, Oct 3 from Santa Barbara to Phoenix, returning Mon, Oct 5, priced at $204 found 1 day ago
American Airlines
Sat, Sep 5 - Tue, Sep 8
SBA
Santa Barbara
PHX
Phoenix
$224 Roundtrip, found 11 hours ago
$224
Roundtrip
found 11 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Sat, Sep 5 from Santa Barbara to Phoenix, returning Tue, Sep 8, priced at $224 found 11 hours ago
United
Sat, Sep 5 - Wed, Sep 9
SBA
Santa Barbara
PHX
Phoenix
$376 Roundtrip, found 1 hour ago
$376
Roundtrip
found 1 hour ago
Select United flight, departing Sat, Sep 5 from Santa Barbara to Phoenix, returning Wed, Sep 9, priced at $376 found 1 hour ago
Delta
Sat, Sep 5 - Wed, Sep 9
SBA
Santa Barbara
PHX
Phoenix
$386 Roundtrip, found 1 hour ago
$386
Roundtrip
found 1 hour ago
Select Delta flight, departing Sat, Sep 5 from Santa Barbara to Phoenix, returning Wed, Sep 9, priced at $386 found 1 hour ago

Find the cheapest month to fly from Santa Barbara (SBA) to Phoenix (PHX)

May is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $242 - $464 per traveler.

What you need to know for your flight from Santa Barbara Municipal to Sky Harbor Intl.

Santa Barbara (SBA) to Phoenix (PHX) at a glance

Travel from Santa Barbara (SBA) to Phoenix (PHX) with a range of airlines catering to this short domestic route. Compare options between full-service and budget carriers to discover the best flight that suits your travel plans, schedule, and budget. As you prepare to explore the iconic attractions and vibrant neighborhoods of Phoenix, you'll want to check the key details for flights from Santa Barbara Municipal Airport to Sky Harbor International Airport.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 1h 30m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 450 miles (725 km)
  • Flights per week: around 13 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $85–$405, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) to Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)

Recent traveler bookings indicate the top airlines flying from Santa Barbara to Phoenix, usually favored for both non-stop and one-stop flights. Popular layover options include Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) with a layover of about 1 hour and 15 minutes, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) also around 1 hour and 15 minutes, and San Francisco International Airport (SFO) with about a 1-hour layover. These choices provide you with the flexibility to balance price, total travel time, and cabin class, helping you to find the ideal itinerary.

  • American Airlines: This comprehensive airline provides non-stop flights, with one-way fares generally falling between $85 and $435. It dominates the route, making up about 81% of all departures, and the total travel duration is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  • Southwest Airlines: Known for its budget-friendly options, Southwest offers both non-stop and one-stop services. One-way fares usually range from $100 to $285, accounting for around 14% of the departures. Passengers can expect about 2 hours and 30 minutes in the air for one-stop flights, totaling around 4 hours of travel time.
  • United: As another full-service provider, United presents one-stop services, with one-way fares typically between $95 and $365. This carrier represents about 4% of departures on this route, with an in-flight duration of 2 hours and 30 minutes and an overall journey time of approximately 4 hours, including layovers.
  • Alaska Airlines: This full-service airline offers one-stop flights at one-way fares ranging from $90 to $200. Although it accounts for only about 1% of departures, passengers can expect an in-flight time of 2 hours and 30 minutes, leading to a total journey time of around 4 hours, factoring in layovers.

Travelers flying from Santa Barbara to Phoenix can opt for an upgrade, as American Airlines provides first-class service on this route.

Best time to fly from Santa Barbara (SBA) to Phoenix (PHX)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Santa Barbara to Phoenix are February, March, and October, when peak temperatures in Phoenix reach up to 77.7°F in October. If you prefer quieter travel, consider June, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 92.3°F. For better deals, October usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $159. Flight availability peaks in May and November, with approximately 16 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January, August, and December have the fewest flights, with approximately 11 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: October usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $159, roughly 37% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • Most flight options: May and November have the highest number of flights from Santa Barbara to Phoenix, with approximately 16 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January55.4°F (13.0°C)Average11$280
February58.6°F (14.8°C)High12$327
March66.0°F (18.9°C)High12$297
April74.5°F (23.6°C)Average12$289
May82.0°F (27.8°C)Average16$244
June92.3°F (33.5°C)Low13$255
July95.7°F (35.4°C)Low12$266
August94.8°F (34.9°C)Average11$244
September89.8°F (32.1°C)Average13$194
October77.7°F (25.4°C)High15$159
November65.5°F (18.6°C)Average16$221
December55.4°F (13.0°C)Low11$283

*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 Santa Barbara (SBA) to Phoenix (PHX)

  • Santa Barbara to Scottsdale (SBA-SCF): Located approximately 14 miles from Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), Scottsdale Airport (SCF) serves as a convenient option for travelers.
  • Santa Barbara to Mesa (SBA-AZA): Roughly 22 miles from Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), Phoenix - Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA) is another viable choice for those flying to the Phoenix area.

How to find the best prices for flights from Santa Barbara (SBA) to Phoenix (PHX)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Santa Barbara to Phoenix 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 at least two months in advance, although most travelers tend to book between two and eight weeks ahead. Afternoon departures, from 12 PM to 6 PM, typically offer lower prices and are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Sunday usually results in cheaper fares, while Friday remains the most popular 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 Sky Harbor International Airport from Santa Barbara Municipal Airport

Phoenix welcomes travelers from Santa Barbara with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. For departures, Santa Barbara Municipal Airport is roughly a 10-minute drive (covering about 10 miles) from central Santa Barbara. Here's how to reach Phoenix efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Phoenix, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Sky Harbor International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Sky Harbor 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 Sky Harbor International Airport, the nearest transport options are conveniently located within walking distance: Terminal 3 Station, a metro station, is about 0.1 miles away, while the Phoenix Airport Bus Stop, a bus station, is approximately 0.2 miles from the airport.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $92 and cheap return flights from $183 Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $149 and $959, and return flights often range between $291 and $1438. 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 Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor 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 Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
October is the cheapest month to fly from Santa Barbara (SBA) to Phoenix (PHX), with average return fares around $289. This is about 28% lower than the average price throughout the year, as October is a less busy travel month. Other affordable months to consider are June and September.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
American Airlines operates around 37 direct flights from SBA to PHX every week.
How do I find cheap flights from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor 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 Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, American Airlines 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 SBA to PHX, 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 Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
When flying from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX), October and September are the best months to consider. You can expect return flights to average around $289, making these months both affordable and convenient. October offers pleasant weather, perfect for enjoying the outdoor attractions in Phoenix.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How many flights per day from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
On average, there are around 5 nonstop flights per day from Santa Barbara Municipal (SBA) to Sky Harbor Intl. (PHX). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) usually departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by United. This seasonal service runs in February, March, and April, giving you a chance to enjoy an early start to your day in Phoenix. 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 Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Santa Barbara Municipal (SBA) to Sky Harbor Intl. (PHX) are in the early afternoon, from 12pm to 3pm. About 29% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including American Airlines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing is popular because it allows you to have a relaxed morning before heading to the airport.
How long does it take to fly from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
Direct flights from SBA to PHX usually take about 1 hour 50 minutes, traveling roughly 454 miles. If you opt for a connecting flight, expect to add around 4 hours to your journey. 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 Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
First class seats are offered on the SBA to PHX route. First class cabins are available on:

  • United Airlines
  • American Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines

How much is a business class flight from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
A direct, return business class ticket from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX) typically costs between $1,198 - $1,849. A non-stop, one-way business class flight is usually around $490 - $740 per adult. Prices often fluctuate based on seasonality and how early you book. You may also be able to find a cheaper business class journey between Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) if you opt for a connecting flight.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I earn miles on a Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor 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 Phoenix from Santa Barbara Municipal (SBA)?
If you're planning to travel to Phoenix from Santa Barbara Municipal (SBA), you can fly into Sky Harbor Intl. (PHX) Some flights may connect through major hubs like San Francisco Intl. (SFO), Portland Intl. (PDX), Los Angeles Intl. (LAX) before reaching Phoenix. 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 Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor 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 Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.) Phoenix 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 Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor Intl.)?
If you booked your Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) to Phoenix, AZ (PHX-Sky Harbor 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

0
Origin airport
Santa Barbara Municipal
Destination airport
Sky Harbor Intl.
Airlines serving
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$182
Distance
453 mi

Book with confidence

Santa Barbara to Phoenix Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Santa Barbara to Phoenix

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 Santa Barbara to Phoenix are during the month of August. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Santa Barbara to Phoenix with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.

 

The best time to book a flight from Santa Barbara to Phoenix

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Santa Barbara to Phoenix: 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 Santa Barbara to Phoenix

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 Santa Barbara to Phoenix in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $92 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 Santa Barbara to Phoenix 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 Santa Barbara to Phoenix 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.

 

Santa Barbara to Phoenix Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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