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$143 Cheap Flights from Sacramento (SMF) to Raleigh (RDU)

View $143 flight on Tue, Nov 17, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Sacramento Intl. Airport (SMF) to Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)

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Cheap Flights from Sacramento to Raleigh (SMF-RDU)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $143 for one-way flights and $332 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Frontier Airlines
Tue, Nov 10 - Mon, Nov 16
SMF
Sacramento
RDU
Raleigh
$332 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$332
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Tue, Nov 10 from Sacramento to Raleigh, returning Mon, Nov 16, priced at $332 found 3 days ago
Frontier Airlines
Thu, Oct 22 - Wed, Oct 28
SMF
Sacramento
RDU
Raleigh
$339 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$339
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Thu, Oct 22 from Sacramento to Raleigh, returning Wed, Oct 28, priced at $339 found 1 day ago
Frontier Airlines
Tue, Oct 13 - Thu, Oct 22
SMF
Sacramento
RDU
Raleigh
$343 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$343
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Tue, Oct 13 from Sacramento to Raleigh, returning Thu, Oct 22, priced at $343 found 3 days ago
Frontier Airlines
Tue, Nov 3 - Mon, Nov 9
SMF
Sacramento
RDU
Raleigh
$345 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$345
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Tue, Nov 3 from Sacramento to Raleigh, returning Mon, Nov 9, priced at $345 found 1 day ago
Frontier Airlines
Fri, Oct 16 - Tue, Oct 20
SMF
Sacramento
RDU
Raleigh
$345 Roundtrip, found 2 days ago
$345
Roundtrip
found 2 days ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Fri, Oct 16 from Sacramento to Raleigh, returning Tue, Oct 20, priced at $345 found 2 days ago
Frontier Airlines
Fri, Oct 2 - Wed, Oct 7
SMF
Sacramento
RDU
Raleigh
$350 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$350
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select Frontier Airlines flight, departing Fri, Oct 2 from Sacramento to Raleigh, returning Wed, Oct 7, priced at $350 found 1 day ago
Alaska Airlines
Wed, Oct 28 - Mon, Nov 2
SMF
Sacramento
RDU
Raleigh
$354 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$354
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select Alaska Airlines flight, departing Wed, Oct 28 from Sacramento to Raleigh, returning Mon, Nov 2, priced at $354 found 3 days ago
American Airlines
Sat, Oct 17 - Tue, Oct 20
SMF
Sacramento
RDU
Raleigh
$367 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$367
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Sat, Oct 17 from Sacramento to Raleigh, returning Tue, Oct 20, priced at $367 found 1 day ago
Delta
Mon, Oct 26 - Mon, Nov 2
SMF
Sacramento
RDU
Raleigh
$369 Roundtrip, found 6 days ago
$369
Roundtrip
found 6 days ago
Select Delta flight, departing Mon, Oct 26 from Sacramento to Raleigh, returning Mon, Nov 2, priced at $369 found 6 days ago
Southwest Airlines
Wed, Oct 28 - Mon, Nov 2
SMF
Sacramento
RDU
Raleigh
$371 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$371
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Wed, Oct 28 from Sacramento to Raleigh, returning Mon, Nov 2, priced at $371 found 3 days ago

Alternative airports near Raleigh

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

Select flight to Raleigh - Durham Intl. RDU. Cheapest and Closest option available. Average driving time to city center is 20 minutes. Flights from $481
RDU
Raleigh - Durham Intl.
CheapestClosest
Average driving time to city center20 min
Flights from $481

What you need to know for your flight from Sacramento Intl. to Raleigh - Durham Intl.

Sacramento (SMF) to Raleigh (RDU) at a glance

Travel effortlessly between Sacramento (SMF) and Raleigh (RDU) with a range of airlines offering convenient one-way flights. You can compare options from both full-service and budget carriers to discover the best itinerary that aligns with your budget and travel plans. Gather essential information about flights from Sacramento International Airport to Raleigh-Durham International Airport as you prepare to explore the attractions and neighborhoods that Raleigh has to offer.

  • Fastest (typical) flight duration: around 6 hours in-flight, plus roughly 1h 15m layover with one stop
  • Route distance: roughly 2,300 miles (3,700 km)
  • Flights per week: around 15+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $130–$485, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Sacramento International Airport (SMF) to Raleigh - Durham International Airport (RDU)

Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines preferred for flights from Sacramento to Raleigh, particularly for one-stop and multi-stop itineraries. Popular layover airports include Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) with about a 1 hour and 15 minute layover, Denver International Airport (DEN) also around 1 hour and 15 minutes, and Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) with a layover of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. This variety allows you to balance price, total travel time, and cabin class for an optimal travel experience.

  • American Airlines: This full-service airline provides both one-stop and multi-stop options, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $130 and $530. It operates about 35% of flights on this route, offering a typical airborne duration of 6 hours and an overall travel time of approximately 7 hours and 15 minutes.
  • Southwest Airlines: Known for its budget-friendly fares, this low-cost carrier offers one-stop and multi-stop services, with one-way rates typically ranging from $130 to $460. Southwest accounts for around 23% of departures on this route, with a standard flight duration of 6 hours and total travel time nearing 7 hours and 15 minutes.
  • Delta: As a prominent full-service airline, Delta offers one-stop and multi-stop flight options, with one-way fares usually between $150 and $555. This airline makes up about 22% of departures on this route, featuring an in-flight time of 6 hours and a total journey duration of roughly 7 hours and 15 minutes.
  • United: This full-service carrier specializes in one-stop service, with one-way fares typically ranging from $130 to $555. United operates around 17% of departures on this route, with a flight duration of 6 hours and an overall journey time of approximately 7 hours and 15 minutes, including layover time.
  • Frontier Airlines: A low-cost option, Frontier offers one-stop service with one-way fares generally ranging from $130 to $330. It accounts for about 2% of departures on this route, featuring an in-flight time of 6 hours and a total journey time of around 7 hours and 15 minutes, including any layover.

Travelers flying from Sacramento to Raleigh have the option to upgrade their flight experience. American Airlines, Delta, and United all provide first-class service, while Delta also offers premium economy for a more comfortable journey.

Best time to fly from Sacramento (SMF) to Raleigh (RDU)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Sacramento to Raleigh are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Raleigh reach up to 61°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider August, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 78.3°F. For better deals, May usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $236. Flight availability peaks in October, with approximately 23 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. February and March have the fewest flights, with approximately 13 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: May usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $236, roughly 12% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: August and September typically offer average one-way fares of around $250.
  • Most flight options: October has the highest number of flights from Sacramento to Raleigh, with approximately 23 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January41.5°F (5.3°C)Slightly High16$268
February45.1°F (7.3°C)Average13$281
March51.4°F (10.8°C)Slightly High13$287
April61.0°F (16.1°C)Slightly High16$290
May69.1°F (20.6°C)Average20$236
June76.6°F (24.8°C)Average19$261
July79.9°F (26.6°C)Average21$260
August78.3°F (25.7°C)Slightly Low18$248
September73.0°F (22.8°C)Slightly Low18$251
October62.8°F (17.1°C)Average23$279
November51.8°F (11.0°C)Average20$282
December46.0°F (7.8°C)Slightly Low19$291

*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 Raleigh (RDU)

  • Sacramento to Greensboro (SMF-GSO): Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO) is approximately 66 miles from Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU). One-way fares in economy class typically fall between $155 and $455, influenced by the season and how early you make your reservation. Travelers can choose from both one-stop and multi-stop flights, with common layover points including Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT). Major airlines operating this route are American Airlines and Delta, and first-class service is also offered.

How to find the best prices for flights from Sacramento (SMF) to Raleigh (RDU)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Sacramento to Raleigh 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. Morning departures (5 a.m. to 12 p.m.) often provide lower prices and are also the most preferred flight times. Additionally, flying on Saturday typically results in cheaper rates, while Thursday 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 Raleigh - Durham International Airport from Sacramento International Airport

Raleigh welcomes travelers from Sacramento with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Raleigh city center is approximately a 20-minute drive (covering about 15 miles) from Raleigh - Durham International Airport, depending on traffic. Here's how to reach Raleigh efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Raleigh, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Raleigh - Durham International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Raleigh - Durham 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 Raleigh-Durham International Airport, Cary Station, a train station, is about 6 miles away, providing convenient access for travelers heading to the area.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $143 and cheap return flights from $332 Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $192 to $964, and return flights typically cost between $386 and $1282. 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from SMF to RDU is November 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
Enter SMF to RDU 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
Spirit Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Sacramento, CA (SMF) to Raleigh, NC (RDU), with round-trip tickets starting from around $241 with a layover in Harry Reid Intl. (LAS). 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham 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 Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Sacramento Intl. (SMF) to Raleigh - Durham Intl. (RDU) typically departs at around 12:15 AM local time, operated by American Airlines. This is a seasonal service active in February and March, allowing you to start your journey early and make the most of your time in Raleigh. 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
When flying from Sacramento (SMF) to Raleigh (RDU), the most popular departure times are also in the early morning, between 6am and 9am. This time window accounts for about 32% of total traffic, with airlines like Southwest and American Airlines operating during this period. This timing works well for travelers looking to maximize their time in Raleigh.
How long does it take to fly from Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
Flying from SMF to RDU with a connection usually takes about 7 hours 20 minutes, traveling roughly 2,340 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
First class is available on flights from SMF to RDU. First class cabins are available on:

  • Delta Air Lines
  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines

How do I earn miles on a Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham 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 Raleigh from Sacramento Intl. (SMF)?
If you're planning to travel to Raleigh from Sacramento Intl. (SMF), you can fly into Raleigh - Durham Intl. (RDU) Some flights may connect through major hubs like San Diego Intl. (SAN), Harry Reid Intl. (LAS), Denver Intl. (DEN) before reaching Raleigh. 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.) Raleigh 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 Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
If you booked your Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham 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.
Destination airport
Raleigh - Durham Intl.
Airlines serving
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$331
Distance
2339 mi

Book with confidence

Sacramento to Raleigh Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Sacramento to Raleigh

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

 

The best time to book a flight from Sacramento to Raleigh

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

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 Raleigh in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $143 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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