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$129 Cheap Flights from Sacramento (SMF) to Tampa (TPA)

Popular airlines from Sacramento Intl. Airport (SMF) to Tampa Intl. Airport (TPA)

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Cheap Flights from Sacramento to Tampa (SMF-TPA)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $129 for one-way flights and $258 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines
Alaska Airlines
American Airlines
Southwest Airlines
United

What you need to know for your flight from Sacramento Intl. to Tampa Intl.

Sacramento (SMF) to Tampa (TPA) at a glance

Travel from Sacramento International Airport (SMF) to Tampa International Airport (TPA) with a range of airlines offering domestic long-haul flights. Explore different options, whether you prefer full-service or budget carriers, to find the best itinerary that aligns with your budget and schedule. As you plan your journey, consider the key details for flights from Sacramento to Tampa, ensuring you make the most of your visit to Tampa's renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 7h 15m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 2,400 miles (3,860 km)
  • Flights per week: around 20+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $125–$465, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Sacramento International Airport (SMF) to Tampa International Airport (TPA)

Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Sacramento to Tampa, which typically include both non-stop and one-stop options. Popular layover choices feature Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW, approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes), Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX, around 1 hour), and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL, also about 1 hour and 30 minutes). This variety allows you to balance price, total travel time, and cabin class to create the best itinerary for your journey.

  • American Airlines: This full-service airline provides convenient one-stop flights, representing about 35% of departures on this route. One-way ticket prices typically range from $125 to $485. Passengers can expect a flight duration of 6 hours, with an overall travel time of approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, including layovers.
  • Delta: Another full-service option on this route, Delta accounts for around 21% of departures, offering one-stop services. One-way fares generally fall between $130 and $535. Travelers will have about 6 hours of flying time, with a total journey duration of roughly 7 hours and 30 minutes, including any layovers.
  • Southwest Airlines: Known as a low-cost carrier, Southwest provides a range of services including non-stop, one-stop, and multi-stop flights. With one-way fares typically ranging from $125 to $490, it represents about 21% of departures. A typical one-stop journey features around 6 hours in the air, with a total travel time close to 7 hours and 30 minutes.
  • United: This full-service airline offers both non-stop and one-stop options, holding approximately 17% of flights on this route. One-way fares usually range from $130 to $545. Expect around 6 hours of in-flight time, with the overall journey taking about 7 hours and 30 minutes, factoring in layover times.
  • Alaska Airlines: Providing one-stop service, Alaska Airlines accounts for about 4% of departures on this route. One-way fares typically vary from $140 to $385. The in-flight duration is approximately 6 hours, with a total trip time of around 7 hours and 30 minutes, including any layovers.

Travelers flying from Sacramento to Tampa have the option to upgrade their experience. Delta and United provide both first class and premium economy service, while American Airlines features first class. Enjoy enhanced comfort and amenities on your journey with these top carriers.

Best time to fly from Sacramento (SMF) to Tampa (TPA)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Sacramento to Tampa are March, April, and May, when peak temperatures in Tampa reach up to 78.1°F in May. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 81.3°F. For better deals, July usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $199. Flight availability peaks in May, with approximately 34 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January has the fewest flights, with approximately 17 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: July usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $199, roughly 17% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • Another budget-friendly time to fly: September typically offers an average one-way fare of around $217.
  • Most flight options: May has the highest number of flights from Sacramento to Tampa, with approximately 34 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January60.8°F (16.0°C)Average17$237
February64.4°F (18.0°C)Average20$244
March67.6°F (19.8°C)Moderately High21$284
April73.4°F (23.0°C)Moderately High26$269
May78.1°F (25.6°C)Moderately High34$224
June82.0°F (27.8°C)Average28$222
July83.1°F (28.4°C)Average26$199
August83.5°F (28.6°C)Moderately Low23$225
September81.3°F (27.4°C)Moderately Low18$217
October76.1°F (24.5°C)Average23$244
November68.9°F (20.5°C)Moderately Low21$259
December64.9°F (18.3°C)Average23$269

*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 Tampa (TPA)

  • Sacramento to St. Petersburg (SMF-PIE): Located roughly 11 miles from Tampa International Airport (TPA), St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) serves as a convenient gateway.
  • Sacramento to Tampa (SAC-TPA): Sacramento Executive Airport (SAC) lies about 13 miles away from Sacramento International Airport (SMF), providing easy access to the area.
  • Sacramento to Tampa (MHR-TPA): Sacramento Mather Airport (MHR) is positioned approximately 18 miles from Sacramento International Airport (SMF), offering additional travel options.

How to find the best prices for flights from Sacramento (SMF) to Tampa (TPA)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Sacramento to Tampa 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 at least 2 months in advance, although most travelers book their flights 2-8 weeks ahead. Departures in the morning (from 5 a.m. to 12 p.m.) tend to be less expensive and are the most popular times to fly. Additionally, flying on Tuesday often results in lower prices, while 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 Tampa International Airport from Sacramento International Airport

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

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Tampa, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Tampa International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Tampa 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 Tampa International Airport, Tampa Seaport, a seaport, is located about 9 miles away by car, while Tampa Union Station, a train station, is approximately 9.2 miles from the airport, both easily accessible by car.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $129 and cheap return flights from $258 Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $185 and $947, and roundtrip flights usually range from $354 to $1266. 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from SMF to TPA 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
Enter SMF to TPA and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
How do I find cheap flights from Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Sacramento, CA (SMF) to Tampa, FL (TPA) typically departs at around 12:15 AM, operated by American Airlines. This early start can help you arrive in Tampa with a full day ahead of you. 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Sacramento International Airport (SMF) to Tampa International Airport (TPA) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 34% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Southwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and American Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to arrive in Tampa with plenty of time to enjoy the day ahead.
How long does it take to fly from Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
A flight from SMF to TPA with a layover takes around 7 hours 20 minutes, with the route covering approximately 2,353 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
First class seats are offered on the SMF to TPA 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa 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 Tampa from Sacramento Intl. (SMF)?
From Sacramento Intl. (SMF), you can fly into Tampa Intl. (TPA) to reach Tampa. Some flights may connect through major hubs like San Diego Intl. (SAN), Denver Intl. (DEN), Harry Reid Intl. (LAS) before reaching Tampa. 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.) Tampa 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 Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa Intl.)?
If you booked your Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) to Tampa, FL (TPA-Tampa 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
Tampa Intl.
Airlines serving
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$258
Distance
2352 mi

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