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$204 Cheap Flights from Louisville (SDF) to San Diego (SAN)

Popular airlines from Louisville Intl. Airport (SDF) to San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN)

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Cheap Flights from Louisville to San Diego (SDF-SAN)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $204 for one-way flights and $316 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

American Airlines
Southwest Airlines
American Airlines
United
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines
American Airlines
Southwest Airlines
American Airlines
Delta

Alternative airports near San Diego

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

What you need to know for your flight from Louisville Intl. to San Diego Intl.

Louisville (SDF) to San Diego (SAN) at a glance

Travel from Louisville (SDF) to San Diego (SAN) with a selection of airlines on this domestic short-haul route. Discover a range of options, from full-service to low-cost carriers, so you can find the best itinerary that suits your budget and schedule. Whether you're looking for cheap flights from Louisville or simply exploring the vibrant sights and neighborhoods of San Diego, you'll find key details for your journey from Louisville International Airport to San Diego International Airport.

  • Fastest (typical) flight duration: around 5h 45m in-flight, plus roughly 1h 15m layover with one stop
  • Route distance: roughly 1,800 miles (2,900 km)
  • Flights per week: around 15+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $130–$505, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Louisville International Airport (SDF) to San Diego International Airport (SAN)

Based on recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Louisville to San Diego, particularly for one-stop services. Popular layover options include Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW, approximately 1h 15m layover), O'Hare International Airport (ORD, around 1h 30m layover), and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL, about 1h 15m layover). These choices allow you to tailor your itinerary by balancing price, total travel time, and cabin class for the best experience.

  • American Airlines: This comprehensive airline provides one-stop service, with one-way ticket prices generally between $130 and $470. It represents nearly 39% of flights along this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 5 hours and 45 minutes, and a total travel time of about 7 hours and 15 minutes, including layover time.
  • Southwest Airlines: Known for its budget-friendly options, Southwest offers one-stop service with one-way fares usually ranging from $130 to $535. It accounts for approximately 25% of departures on this route, with an in-flight time of 5 hours and 45 minutes and a total journey length of around 7 hours and 15 minutes, including a layover.
  • Delta: As a full-service airline, Delta provides one-stop service with one-way prices typically from $140 to $535. It contributes to about 19% of the flights on this route, featuring an in-flight time of 5 hours and 45 minutes, and a total journey time of roughly 7 hours and 15 minutes, including layover.
  • United: This full-service carrier offers one-stop flights, with one-way fares generally ranging from $150 to $640. United makes up approximately 16% of departures on this route, with an in-flight duration of 5 hours and 45 minutes, and a total travel time of around 7 hours and 15 minutes, including layover.
  • Alaska Airlines: Offering one-stop service as a full-service airline, Alaska Airlines' one-way fares typically range from $255 to $555. The in-flight time is 5 hours and 45 minutes, with the overall journey taking about 7 hours and 15 minutes, including the layover.

Travelers flying from Louisville to San Diego can enhance their journey by upgrading their flight. Major airlines provide options: Delta and United both feature first class and premium economy class, while American Airlines offers first class seating for a more comfortable experience.

Best time to fly from Louisville (SDF) to San Diego (SAN)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Louisville to San Diego are February, March, and April, when peak temperatures in San Diego reach up to 60.6°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider August, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 72.3°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $207). Flight availability peaks in September, with approximately 20 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times.

  • Cheapest time to fly: August usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $207, roughly 23% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • Another budget-friendly time to fly: September typically offers an average one-way fare of around $230.
  • Most flight options: September has the highest number of flights from Louisville to San Diego, with approximately 20 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January57.4°F (14.1°C)Average12$274
February56.8°F (13.8°C)Slightly High14$293
March58.1°F (14.5°C)Slightly High13$294
April60.6°F (15.9°C)Slightly High14$272
May62.6°F (17.0°C)Average12$259
June66.4°F (19.1°C)Average17$277
July70.5°F (21.4°C)Average17$273
August72.3°F (22.4°C)Slightly Low10$207
September72.0°F (22.2°C)Average20$230
October68.2°F (20.1°C)Average19$262
November62.6°F (17.0°C)Slightly Low14$305
December57.4°F (14.1°C)Slightly Low17$322

*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 Louisville (SDF) to San Diego (SAN)

  • Louisville to San Diego (SDF-MYF): Montgomery Field Airport (MYF) lies approximately 6 miles from San Diego International Airport (SAN).
  • Louisville to San Diego (SDF-SEE): Gillespie Field Airport (SEE) is located about 14 miles from San Diego International Airport (SAN).
  • Louisville to Carlsbad (SDF-CLD): McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD) can be found around 28 miles away from San Diego International Airport (SAN).

How to find the best prices for flights from Louisville (SDF) to San Diego (SAN)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Louisville to San Diego 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 2-8 weeks in advance, which coincides with when most travelers make their reservations. Evening departures from 6 PM to 12 AM often offer lower prices, while morning flights from 5 AM to 12 PM are more popular. Additionally, flying on Tuesday generally provides cheaper rates, although Friday 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.* Find San Diego hotel and flight deals.
  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 San Diego International Airport from Louisville International Airport

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

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in San Diego, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance with your hotel.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from San Diego International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at San Diego 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 San Diego International Airport, Seaport, a seaport, is located about 0.1 miles away on foot, while Middletown Station, a metro station, is approximately 2.3 miles from the airport by car. For cruise travelers, B Street Cruise Ship Terminal, a cruise terminal, is situated about 3 miles away by car, making it accessible for various modes of transportation.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $204 and cheap return flights from $316 Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $178 to $1096, and return flights typically cost between $364 and $1252. 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 Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego 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 Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from SDF to SAN is October 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 Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
Enter SDF to SAN and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
Spirit Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Louisville Intl. (SDF) to San Diego Intl. (SAN), with round-trip tickets starting from around $526. 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 Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego 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 time to fly from Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego 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.
What is the earliest flight from Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Louisville International (SDF) to San Diego International (SAN) typically departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is available in March and April, allowing you to start your day early and make the most of your time in sunny San Diego. 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 Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 37% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing is favored as it lets you maximize your time in San Diego upon arrival.
How long does it take to fly from Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
Flying from SDF to SAN with a connection usually takes about 7 hours 20 minutes, traveling roughly 1,801 miles. 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 Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
You can fly first class between SDF and SAN. First class cabins are available on:

  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines

How do I earn miles on a Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego 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 San Diego from Louisville Intl. (SDF)?
From Louisville Intl. (SDF), you can fly into San Diego Intl. (SAN) to reach San Diego. Some flights may connect through major hubs like O'Hare Intl. (ORD), Midway Intl. (MDW), Denver Intl. (DEN) before reaching San Diego. 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 Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego 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 Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) San Diego 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 Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
If you booked your Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego 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
Louisville Intl.
Destination airport
San Diego Intl.
Airlines serving
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$316
Distance
1800 mi

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*Flight schedules are subject to change.

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