A cityscape with a prominent domed building surrounded by modern skyscrapers and lush green areas.

$182 Cheap Flights from Knoxville (TYS) to Sacramento (SMF)

View $182 flight on Sat, Dec 5, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) to Sacramento Intl. Airport (SMF)

  • Be in the know

    Get alerts if flight prices drop or rise*

  • Book smarter

    Save up to 30% on select hotels after you book a flight*

  • Earn twice

    Earn your airline miles on top of our OneKeyCash
    Learn about One Key

Cheap Flights from Knoxville to Sacramento (TYS-SMF)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $182 for one-way flights and $363 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

American Airlines
Wed, Oct 28 - Wed, Nov 11
TYS
Knoxville
SMF
Sacramento
$363 Roundtrip, found 2 hours ago
$363
Roundtrip
found 2 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Wed, Oct 28 from Knoxville to Sacramento, returning Wed, Nov 11, priced at $363 found 2 hours ago
United
Wed, Oct 28 - Wed, Nov 11
TYS
Knoxville
SMF
Sacramento
$363 Roundtrip, found 2 hours ago
$363
Roundtrip
found 2 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Wed, Oct 28 from Knoxville to Sacramento, returning Wed, Nov 11, priced at $363 found 2 hours ago
Southwest Airlines
Wed, Oct 28 - Wed, Nov 11
TYS
Knoxville
SMF
Sacramento
$363 Roundtrip, found 2 hours ago
$363
Roundtrip
found 2 hours ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Wed, Oct 28 from Knoxville to Sacramento, returning Wed, Nov 11, priced at $363 found 2 hours ago
Southwest Airlines
Thu, Oct 8 - Mon, Oct 12
TYS
Knoxville
SMF
Sacramento
$368 Roundtrip, just found
$368
Roundtrip
just found
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Thu, Oct 8 from Knoxville to Sacramento, returning Mon, Oct 12, priced at $368 just found
Southwest Airlines
Thu, Oct 8 - Mon, Oct 12
TYS
Knoxville
SMF
Sacramento
$374 Roundtrip, just found
$374
Roundtrip
just found
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Thu, Oct 8 from Knoxville to Sacramento, returning Mon, Oct 12, priced at $374 just found
Southwest Airlines
Mon, Nov 16 - Tue, Nov 17
TYS
Knoxville
SMF
Sacramento
$379 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$379
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select Southwest Airlines flight, departing Mon, Nov 16 from Knoxville to Sacramento, returning Tue, Nov 17, priced at $379 found 1 day ago
American Airlines
Tue, Oct 6 - Mon, Oct 12
TYS
Knoxville
SMF
Sacramento
$379 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$379
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Tue, Oct 6 from Knoxville to Sacramento, returning Mon, Oct 12, priced at $379 found 1 day ago
United
Thu, Nov 12 - Mon, Nov 16
TYS
Knoxville
SMF
Sacramento
$383 Roundtrip, found 11 hours ago
$383
Roundtrip
found 11 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Thu, Nov 12 from Knoxville to Sacramento, returning Mon, Nov 16, priced at $383 found 11 hours ago
Delta
Wed, Oct 21 - Wed, Oct 28
TYS
Knoxville
SMF
Sacramento
$401 Roundtrip, found 2 hours ago
$401
Roundtrip
found 2 hours ago
Select Delta flight, departing Wed, Oct 21 from Knoxville to Sacramento, returning Wed, Oct 28, priced at $401 found 2 hours ago
Alaska Airlines
Thu, Oct 22 - Fri, Oct 23
TYS
Knoxville
SMF
Sacramento
$587 Roundtrip, found 11 hours ago
$587
Roundtrip
found 11 hours ago
Select Alaska Airlines flight, departing Thu, Oct 22 from Knoxville to Sacramento, returning Fri, Oct 23, priced at $587 found 11 hours ago

Alternative airports near Sacramento

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

Select flight to Sacramento Intl. SMF. Cheapest option available. Average driving time to city center is 15 minutes. Flights from $592
SMF
Sacramento Intl.
Cheapest
Average driving time to city center15 min
Flights from $592

Find the cheapest month to fly from Knoxville (TYS) to Sacramento (SMF)

November is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $298 - $637 per traveler.

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

Knoxville (TYS) to Sacramento (SMF) at a glance

Travel from Knoxville (TYS) to Sacramento (SMF) with a selection of airlines providing options for your journey. Whether you prefer a full-service carrier or a budget-friendly option, you can compare flights to find the best fit for your schedule and budget. As you plan your visit to explore the sights and neighborhoods that Sacramento has to offer, check out the key details for flights from McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) to Sacramento International Airport (SMF).

  • Fastest flight duration: around 7 hours non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 2,100 miles (3,380 km)
  • Flights per week: around 13 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $125–$485, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) to Sacramento International Airport (SMF)

According to recent travel bookings, here are the top airlines favored by travelers flying from Knoxville to Sacramento, often selecting either non-stop or one-stop flights. Common layover points include Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW, approximately 1h 15m layover), O'Hare International Airport (ORD, about 1h 15m layover), and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL, around 1h 45m layover). This variety allows you to tailor your itinerary by balancing price, total travel time, and cabin class for the best travel experience.

  • American Airlines: This full-service airline offers both non-stop and one-stop flights, with one-way ticket prices generally between $125 and $545. It represents about 47% of departures on this route, featuring a flight duration of 6 hours and 30 minutes, leading to an overall travel time of approximately 7 hours and 45 minutes, including layovers.
  • United: Another full-service option, United provides non-stop and one-stop services with one-way fares typically ranging from $125 to $600. It accounts for around 33% of the departures on this route, boasting a typical in-flight time of 6 hours and 30 minutes, culminating in a total journey duration of about 7 hours and 45 minutes.
  • Delta: Offering one-stop service, Delta is a full-service carrier with one-way fares usually between $150 and $535. This airline makes up roughly 20% of departures on this route, with an in-flight time of 6 hours and 30 minutes and an estimated total journey time of 7 hours and 45 minutes, including layovers.
  • Southwest Airlines: As a low-cost carrier, Southwest features one-stop service with one-way fares typically between $185 and $540. It represents about 1% of departures on this route, providing an in-flight duration of 6 hours and 30 minutes, leading to a total travel time of around 7 hours and 45 minutes, including layovers.

Travelers flying from Knoxville to Sacramento can elevate their experience by upgrading to first class, available through both American Airlines and United.

Best time to fly from Knoxville (TYS) to Sacramento (SMF)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Knoxville to Sacramento are March, April, and May, when peak temperatures in Sacramento reach up to 66.6°F in May. If you prefer quieter travel, consider August, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 76.8°F. For better deals, May usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $222. Flight availability peaks in May, with approximately 16 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January and February have the fewest flights, with approximately 10 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: May usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $222, roughly 20% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • Another budget-friendly time to fly: September typically offers an average one-way fare of around $248.
  • Most flight options: May has the highest number of flights from Knoxville to Sacramento, with approximately 16 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January48.6°F (9.2°C)Average10$289
February50.5°F (10.3°C)Moderately Low10$285
March53.6°F (12.0°C)Moderately High13$307
April59.7°F (15.4°C)Moderately High14$274
May66.6°F (19.2°C)Moderately High16$222
June74.5°F (23.6°C)Moderately Low13$295
July77.5°F (25.3°C)Average13$263
August76.8°F (24.9°C)Moderately Low12$254
September74.5°F (23.6°C)Average14$248
October66.4°F (19.1°C)Average13$275
November54.9°F (12.7°C)Average12$325
December48.4°F (9.1°C)Average14$335

*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 Knoxville (TYS) to Sacramento (SMF)

  • Knoxville to Sacramento (TYS-SAC): Sacramento Executive Airport (SAC) lies approximately 13 miles from Sacramento International Airport (SMF), providing convenient access to the city.
  • Gatlinburg to Sacramento (GKT-SMF): Gatlinburg - Pigeon Forge Airport (GKT) is located around 26 miles from McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS), facilitating travel to Sacramento.
  • Chattanooga to Sacramento (CHA-SAC): Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA) is roughly 86 miles from McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS), while Sacramento Executive Airport (SAC) is only about 13 miles from Sacramento International Airport (SMF).

How to find the best prices for flights from Knoxville (TYS) to Sacramento (SMF)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Knoxville to Sacramento 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 generally available when booking 2-8 weeks in advance, which coincides with when most travelers make their reservations. Departures in the afternoon (12 p.m.-6 p.m.) typically offer lower prices and are also the most popular flight times. Additionally, flying on Wednesday provides both more affordable rates and 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.*
  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 Sacramento International Airport from McGhee Tyson Airport

Sacramento welcomes travelers from Knoxville with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. For departures, McGhee Tyson Airport is roughly a 20-minute drive (covering about 15 miles) from central Knoxville. Here's how to reach Sacramento efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Sacramento, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Sacramento International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Sacramento 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 Sacramento International Airport, Sacramento Valley Station, a train station, is about 9 miles away, while 7th & Richards/Township 9 Station, a metro station, is approximately 8.6 miles from the airport, providing convenient access to regional transit options.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $182 and cheap return flights from $363 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $188 and $854, and return flights often range between $446 and $1441. 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from TYS to SMF 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
Enter TYS to SMF and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
American Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from McGhee Tyson (TYS) to Sacramento Intl. (SMF), with round-trip tickets starting from around $762 with a layover in Nashville Intl. (BNA). 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Knoxville, TN (TYS) to Sacramento, CA (SMF) usually departs at around 5:05 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is available in December, allowing you to start your day early and enjoy more time in Sacramento. 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Knoxville (TYS) to Sacramento (SMF) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 32% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including United Airlines, Delta Airlines, and American Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing is favored as it allows you to start your journey early and make the most of your day in Sacramento.
How long does it take to fly from Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
Flights from TYS to SMF with one stop typically take around 7 hours 30 minutes, covering approximately 2,063 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
First class is available on flights from TYS to SMF. First class cabins are available on:

  • Delta Air Lines
  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines

How do I earn miles on a Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento 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 Sacramento from McGhee Tyson (TYS)?
From McGhee Tyson (TYS), you can fly into Sacramento Intl. (SMF) to reach Sacramento. Some flights may connect through major hubs like O'Hare Intl. (ORD), Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Intl. (ATL), George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) before reaching Sacramento. 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.) Sacramento 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 Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento Intl.)?
If you booked your Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson) to Sacramento, CA (SMF-Sacramento 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
McGhee Tyson
Destination airport
Sacramento Intl.
Airlines serving
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$362
Distance
2063 mi

Book with confidence

Knoxville to Sacramento Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Knoxville to Sacramento

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

 

The best time to book a flight from Knoxville to Sacramento

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

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 Knoxville to Sacramento in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $182 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 Knoxville to Sacramento 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 Knoxville to Sacramento 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.

 

Knoxville to Sacramento Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

Explore a world of travel with Expedia