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$145 Cheap Flights from Sacramento (SMF) to Detroit (DTW)

View $145 flight on Mon, Sep 28, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Sacramento Intl. Airport (SMF) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)

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Cheap Flights from Sacramento to Detroit (SMF-DTW)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $145 for one-way flights and $290 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Frontier Airlines
Tue, Sep 15 - Sat, Sep 19
SMF
Sacramento
DTW
Detroit
$290 Roundtrip, found 2 hours ago
$290
Roundtrip
found 2 hours ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Tue, Sep 15 from Sacramento to Detroit, returning Sat, Sep 19, priced at $290 found 2 hours ago
Frontier Airlines
Sat, Aug 29 - Tue, Sep 1
SMF
Sacramento
DTW
Detroit
$295 Roundtrip, found 5 hours ago
$295
Roundtrip
found 5 hours ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Sat, Aug 29 from Sacramento to Detroit, returning Tue, Sep 1, priced at $295 found 5 hours ago
United
Fri, Aug 28 - Sun, Aug 30
SMF
Sacramento
DTW
Detroit
$299 Roundtrip, found 3 hours ago
$299
Roundtrip
found 3 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Fri, Aug 28 from Sacramento to Detroit, returning Sun, Aug 30, priced at $299 found 3 hours ago
Southwest Airlines
Fri, Aug 28 - Sun, Aug 30
SMF
Sacramento
DTW
Detroit
$299 Roundtrip, found 3 hours ago
$299
Roundtrip
found 3 hours ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Fri, Aug 28 from Sacramento to Detroit, returning Sun, Aug 30, priced at $299 found 3 hours ago
Delta
Fri, Aug 28 - Sun, Aug 30
SMF
Sacramento
DTW
Detroit
$299 Roundtrip, found 3 hours ago
$299
Roundtrip
found 3 hours ago
Select Delta flight, departing Fri, Aug 28 from Sacramento to Detroit, returning Sun, Aug 30, priced at $299 found 3 hours ago
American Airlines
Fri, Aug 28 - Sun, Aug 30
SMF
Sacramento
DTW
Detroit
$299 Roundtrip, found 3 hours ago
$299
Roundtrip
found 3 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Fri, Aug 28 from Sacramento to Detroit, returning Sun, Aug 30, priced at $299 found 3 hours ago
Delta
Sat, Aug 29 - Wed, Sep 16
SMF
Sacramento
DTW
Detroit
$300 Roundtrip, found 13 hours ago
$300
Roundtrip
found 13 hours ago
Select Delta flight, departing Sat, Aug 29 from Sacramento to Detroit, returning Wed, Sep 16, priced at $300 found 13 hours ago
Frontier Airlines
Sat, Aug 29 - Tue, Sep 1
SMF
Sacramento
DTW
Detroit
$300 Roundtrip, found 5 hours ago
$300
Roundtrip
found 5 hours ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Sat, Aug 29 from Sacramento to Detroit, returning Tue, Sep 1, priced at $300 found 5 hours ago
United
Fri, Aug 28 - Sun, Aug 30
SMF
Sacramento
DTW
Detroit
$304 Roundtrip, found 3 hours ago
$304
Roundtrip
found 3 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Fri, Aug 28 from Sacramento to Detroit, returning Sun, Aug 30, priced at $304 found 3 hours ago
Frontier Airlines
Thu, Oct 15 - Tue, Oct 20
SMF
Sacramento
DTW
Detroit
$314 Roundtrip, found 1 hour ago
$314
Roundtrip
found 1 hour ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Thu, Oct 15 from Sacramento to Detroit, returning Tue, Oct 20, priced at $314 found 1 hour ago

Alternative airports near Detroit

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

Select flight to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County DTW. Cheapest option available. Average driving time to city center is 26 minutes. Flights from $394
DTW
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County
Cheapest
Average driving time to city center26 min
Flights from $394

Find the cheapest month to fly from Sacramento (SMF) to Detroit (DTW)

February is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $242 - $868 per traveler.

What you need to know for your flight from Sacramento Intl. to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County

Sacramento (SMF) to Detroit (DTW) at a glance

Explore a range of airlines offering routes from Sacramento International Airport (SMF) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) on this domestic short-haul journey. You can easily compare options from both full-service and low-cost carriers to secure the best itinerary that aligns with your budget and schedule. Whether you’re looking for cheap flights from Sacramento or simply planning your next flight, discover key details for your travel adventure in Detroit, known for its iconic sights and vibrant neighborhoods.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 4h 15m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 2,000 miles (3,220 km)
  • Flights per week: around 15+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $145–$490, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Sacramento International Airport (SMF) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)

According to recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines connecting Sacramento to Detroit, featuring both non-stop and one-stop flights. Popular layover options include Denver International Airport (DEN) with approximately a 1h 15m layover, O'Hare International Airport (ORD) also around 1h 15m, and Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) with about a 1h 30m layover. This variety allows you to mix and match price, total travel time, and cabin class to discover the best itinerary for your journey.

  • Delta: As a full-service airline, Delta provides both non-stop and one-stop flights, capturing around 33% of departures on this route. One-way fares generally fall between $200 and $655, with a typical non-stop flight duration of 4 hours and 15 minutes.
  • Southwest Airlines: This low-cost airline offers one-stop services and comprises about 28% of departures on the route. One-way fares usually range from $180 to $470, with an in-flight duration of 5 hours and 30 minutes, leading to a total travel time of approximately 6 hours and 45 minutes, including layover time.
  • United: United is another full-service airline providing both non-stop and one-stop options, representing about 21% of flights on this route. One-way tickets typically range from $160 to $485, with a standard one-stop flight time of 5 hours and 30 minutes and an overall journey duration of around 6 hours and 45 minutes.
  • American Airlines: This full-service carrier offers one-stop flights and accounts for roughly 11% of departures. One-way fares generally range from $145 to $590, with an in-flight duration of 5 hours and 30 minutes, resulting in a total travel time of about 6 hours and 45 minutes, including layovers.
  • Frontier Airlines: As a low-cost option, Frontier provides one-stop service and makes up about 4% of the departures on this route. One-way fares typically range from $145 to $300, with an expected in-flight time of 5 hours and 30 minutes, leading to a total journey time of around 6 hours and 45 minutes, including layovers.

Travelers flying from Sacramento to Detroit have the option to upgrade their experience. Delta offers first class and premium economy service, while American Airlines provides first class seating.

Best time to fly from Sacramento (SMF) to Detroit (DTW)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Sacramento to Detroit are April, June, and July, when peak temperatures in Detroit reach up to 74.1°F in July. If you prefer quieter travel, consider January, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 25.3°F. For better deals, August usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $284. Flight availability peaks in July and December, with approximately 19 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 $284, roughly 11% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: June, October, and January typically offer average one-way fares of around $303.
  • Most flight options: July and December have the highest number of flights from Sacramento to Detroit, with approximately 19 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January25.3°F (-3.7°C)Slightly Low12$304
February26.2°F (-3.2°C)Average13$337
March36.3°F (2.4°C)Average14$339
April46.8°F (8.2°C)Slightly High16$320
May59.4°F (15.2°C)Average18$312
June68.9°F (20.5°C)Slightly High18$302
July74.1°F (23.4°C)Slightly High19$304
August72.9°F (22.7°C)Average18$284
September66.6°F (19.2°C)Average17$308
October54.5°F (12.5°C)Average18$303
November41.9°F (5.5°C)Slightly Low15$369
December32.9°F (0.5°C)Slightly Low19$361

*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 Sacramento (SMF) to Detroit (DTW)

  • Sacramento to Flint (SMF-FNT): Bishop International Airport (FNT) is approximately 56 miles from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW). One-way economy prices for this route generally fall between $145 and $440, influenced by the season and how early you make your reservation. Travelers can choose from both one-stop and multi-stop options, with O'Hare International Airport (ORD) often serving as the main connection hub. Major airlines operating on this route include United and American Airlines.

How to find the best prices for flights from Sacramento (SMF) to Detroit (DTW)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Sacramento to Detroit 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 2-8 weeks in advance, which coincides with when most travelers make their reservations. Afternoon departures from 12 PM to 6 PM often offer lower prices, while morning flights from 5 AM to 12 PM are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Wednesday generally yields cheaper rates, although Thursday 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 Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport from Sacramento International Airport

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

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Detroit, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County 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 Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, Dearborn Station, a train station, is located approximately 8.3 miles away.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $145 and cheap return flights from $290 Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $274 and $1190, and roundtrip flights usually range from $484 to $1346. 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 Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) 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 Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
The cheapest month to fly from SMF to DTW 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 Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
Delta offers around 8 weekly direct flights from SMF to DTW.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
Delta is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop flights from Sacramento, CA (SMF) to Detroit, MI (DTW) with round-trip tickets starting from around $369. 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 Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
To find a cheap flight from Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County), 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 Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
The best airline to fly with from Sacramento, CA (SMF) to Detroit, MI (DTW) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, Delta offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, Delta typically offers the lowest fares. Alaska Airlines offers the most daily flights from SMF to DTW, 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 Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
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 Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
You can find approximately 1 nonstop flights per day from Sacramento Intl. (SMF) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County (DTW). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
The earliest flight from Sacramento, CA (SMF) to Detroit, MI (DTW) usually departs at around 12:15 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is active in February and March, making it a great option for early risers looking to reach their destination promptly. 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 Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
For flights from Sacramento (SMF) to Detroit (DTW), the most popular departure times are also in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. Many travelers choose this time because it helps them maximize their day upon arrival. This accounts for around 32% of total traffic.
How long does it take to fly from Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
Flying nonstop from SMF to DTW takes around 4 hours 20 minutes, with the route covering approximately 2,008 miles. Flights with a layover typically take 2 hours 40 minutes longer than direct options. 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 Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
You can fly first class between SMF and DTW. First class cabins are available on:

  • American Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines
  • United Airlines

How do I earn miles on a Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) 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 Detroit from Sacramento Intl. (SMF)?
If you're planning to travel to Detroit from Sacramento Intl. (SMF), you can fly into Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County (DTW) Some flights may connect through major hubs like Denver Intl. (DEN), Portland Intl. (PDX), Los Angeles Intl. (LAX) before reaching Detroit. 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 Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) 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 Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) Detroit 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 Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County)?
If you booked your Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Detroit, MI (DTW-Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County) 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
Sacramento Intl.
Destination airport
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County
Airlines serving
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$290
Distance
2008 mi

Book with confidence

Sacramento to Detroit Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Sacramento to Detroit

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 Sacramento to Detroit are during the month of September. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Sacramento to Detroit with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.

 

The best time to book a flight from Sacramento to Detroit

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Sacramento to Detroit: 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 Sacramento to Detroit

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 Sacramento to Detroit in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $145 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 Sacramento to Detroit 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 Sacramento to Detroit 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.

 

Sacramento to Detroit Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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