$138 Cheap Flights from Sacramento (SMF) to Milwaukee (MKE)
Popular airlines from Sacramento Intl. Airport (SMF) to General Mitchell Intl. Airport (MKE)
Alaska AirlinesAlaska Airlines
American AirlinesAmerican Airlines
Southwest AirlinesSouthwest Airlines
UnitedUnited
DeltaDelta
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Cheap Flights from Sacramento to Milwaukee (SMF-MKE)
Alternative airports near Milwaukee
Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.
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Sacramento (SMF) to Milwaukee (MKE) at a glance
Explore a variety of airlines offering convenient flights from Sacramento International Airport (SMF) to General Mitchell International Airport (MKE) on this domestic short-haul route. Whether you prefer full-service carriers or budget options, you can compare choices to find the itinerary that aligns with your travel plans, budget, and schedule. Get ready to discover Milwaukee's iconic attractions and vibrant neighborhoods as you plan your trip from Sacramento to Milwaukee.
- Fastest (typical) flight duration: around 5 hours in-flight, plus roughly 1h 15m layover with one stop
- Route distance: roughly 1,800 miles (2,900 km)
- Flights per week: around 14 flights with multiple daily departures on average
- Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $130–$465, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book
Flights from Sacramento International Airport (SMF) to General Mitchell International Airport (MKE)
Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines flying from Sacramento to Milwaukee, often chosen for their one-stop service. Common layover points include Denver International Airport (DEN) with an approximately 1 hour and 15-minute layover, O'Hare International Airport (ORD) with around a 1-hour layover, and Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) with about a 1-hour layover. This variety allows you to tailor your travel experience by balancing price, total travel time, and cabin class for the ideal itinerary.
- Southwest Airlines: This budget-friendly airline provides one-stop service with one-way fares usually between $140 and $495. It represents around 31% of departures on this route, featuring a flight duration of 5 hours and a total travel time of about 6 hours and 15 minutes, including layover time.
- American Airlines: A comprehensive service airline, American Airlines offers one-stop flights with one-way fares typically ranging from $130 to $480. It accounts for about 22% of the flights on this route, with an in-flight duration of 5 hours and an overall journey time of roughly 6 hours and 15 minutes, factoring in a layover.
- Delta: As another full-service airline providing one-stop service, Delta's one-way tickets generally fall between $140 and $470. This carrier also makes up around 22% of departures on this route, with a flying time of 5 hours and a total journey time close to 6 hours and 15 minutes, including layover.
- United: United Airlines is a full-service option offering one-stop routes, with one-way fares that typically range from $130 to $510. It holds roughly 22% of the departures on this route, featuring an in-flight time of 5 hours alongside a total travel duration of about 6 hours and 15 minutes, inclusive of layover.
- Alaska Airlines: This full-service carrier provides one-stop service with one-way fares generally between $160 and $430. Alaska Airlines accounts for approximately 2% of departures on this route, with a flight time of 5 hours and a total travel time of about 6 hours and 15 minutes, including layover periods.
Travelers flying from Sacramento to Milwaukee can opt for an upgrade, as United provides first class service on this route.
Best time to fly from Sacramento (SMF) to Milwaukee (MKE)
The most popular months for travelers flying from Sacramento to Milwaukee are March, April, and August, when peak temperatures in Milwaukee reach up to 70.7°F in August. If you prefer quieter travel, consider May, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 54.9°F. For better deals, August usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $214. Flight availability peaks in August, with approximately 18 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January has the fewest flights, with approximately 10 flights per week.
- Cheapest time to fly: August usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $214, roughly 14% cheaper than the yearly average.
- More budget-friendly months to fly: September and May typically offer average one-way fares of around $224.
- Most flight options: August has the highest number of flights from Sacramento to Milwaukee, with approximately 18 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
| Month | Temperature | Demand | Weekly Flights | Average one-way Fare |
| January | 22.1°F (-5.5°C) | Slightly Low | 10 | $256 |
| February | 23.5°F (-4.7°C) | Average | 11 | $277 |
| March | 34.7°F (1.5°C) | Slightly High | 13 | $274 |
| April | 43.7°F (6.5°C) | Slightly High | 13 | $262 |
| May | 54.9°F (12.7°C) | Slightly Low | 12 | $225 |
| June | 64.9°F (18.3°C) | Average | 15 | $247 |
| July | 71.4°F (21.9°C) | Average | 13 | $262 |
| August | 70.7°F (21.5°C) | Slightly High | 18 | $214 |
| September | 64.2°F (17.9°C) | Average | 16 | $222 |
| October | 52.0°F (11.1°C) | Average | 15 | $237 |
| November | 39.2°F (4.0°C) | Slightly Low | 15 | $252 |
| December | 29.7°F (-1.3°C) | Average | 13 | $263 |
*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 Sacramento (SMF) to Milwaukee (MKE)
- Sacramento to Milwaukee (SAC-MKE): Located approximately 13 miles from Sacramento International Airport (SMF), Sacramento Executive Airport (SAC) provides an alternative departure point.
- Marysville to Milwaukee (MYV-MKE): Yuba County Airport (MYV) is about 28 miles from Sacramento International Airport (SMF), serving as another option for travelers.
How to find the best prices for flights from Sacramento (SMF) to Milwaukee (MKE)
Getting some of the best deals on flights from Sacramento to Milwaukee is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:
- 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 between two to eight weeks ahead. Evening departures from 6 PM to 12 AM often have lower prices, while morning flights from 5 AM to 12 PM are the most popular. Additionally, flying on Saturday typically offers cheaper rates, even though Friday is the busiest travel day.
- Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
- Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
- 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.
- Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
- 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 General Mitchell International Airport from Sacramento International Airport
Milwaukee welcomes travelers from Sacramento with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Milwaukee efficiently:
- Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Milwaukee, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
- Car rental: Renting a car from General Mitchell International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at General Mitchell 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 General Mitchell International Airport, travelers will find the Milwaukee Airport Bus Station, a bus station, just about 0.1 miles away on foot. For those seeking rail travel, Milwaukee Airport Station, a train station, is approximately 1.8 miles from the airport by car, while the Michigan & Jackson Tram Stop, a metro station, is located around 7.8 miles away by car.
Sacramento to Milwaukee Flights
The cheapest times to fly from Sacramento to Milwaukee
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 Milwaukee are during the month of October. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Sacramento to Milwaukee with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.
The best time to book a flight from Sacramento to Milwaukee
Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Sacramento to Milwaukee: 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 Milwaukee
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 Milwaukee in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $138 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 Milwaukee 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 Milwaukee 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a flight from Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $138 and cheap return flights $277 Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $178 and $834, and return flights often range between $387 and $1063. 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 Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell 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 Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.)?
September is the cheapest month to fly from Sacramento to Milwaukee, with average return fares around $362. This price is about 19% lower than the average, likely due to reduced travel demand after the summer. Other budget-friendly months include January and February.
*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.)?
Enter SMF to MKE and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.)?
Spirit Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Sacramento (SMF) to Milwaukee (MKE) with a layover in Las Vegas (LAS), starting from around $500 for a round-trip ticket. 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 Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell 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 Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.)?
When flying from Sacramento (SMF) to Milwaukee (MKE), September and January are the best months to consider. September offers average prices around $362, making it a cost-effective option, while January is also popular for its good flight availability. These months provide a nice balance of price and travel experience, based on booking data from the past year.
*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
What is the earliest flight from Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Sacramento International Airport (SMF) to General Mitchell International Airport (MKE) in Milwaukee typically departs at around 12:30 AM, operated by American Airlines. An early departure allows you to maximize your time in Milwaukee. 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 Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.)?
When flying from Sacramento, CA (SMF) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE), the most popular departure times are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. This time window represents around 34% of total traffic, showing that many travelers prefer to start their journey early. Airlines like Southwest Airlines and American Airlines provide flights during this time, making it convenient for those with busy schedules.
How long does it take to fly from Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.)?
Flying from SMF to MKE with a connection usually takes about 6 hours, traveling roughly 1,774 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 Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.)?
First class seats are offered on the SMF to MKE route. 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 Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell 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 Milwaukee from Sacramento Intl. (SMF)?
From Sacramento Intl. (SMF), you can fly into General Mitchell Intl. (MKE) to reach Milwaukee. Some flights may connect through major hubs like San Diego Intl. (SAN), Denver Intl. (DEN), John Wayne (SNA) before reaching Milwaukee. 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 Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell 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 Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.) Milwaukee 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 Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell Intl.)?
If you booked your Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Milwaukee, WI (MKE-General Mitchell 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 | Sacramento Intl. Airport |
|---|---|
Destination airport | General Mitchell Intl. Airport |
Distance | 1,773 miles away |
Airlines serving | Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, United, Delta |
Popular airline | Alaska Airlines |
Roundtrip price | $277 |