Route guide
Cheap Flights from Phoenix to Sacramento: Book Airline Tickets
- Distance
- about 650 mi
- Typical flight time
- 1 h 30 min – 2 h 30 min
- Airports
- 1 × 1
- Time difference
- Varies by season
This page covers the practical side of flying between Phoenix and Sacramento: which airports to compare, how long the trip takes, and when it is busy. It works for either direction. For a price on your dates, ask a specialist.
Quick answer: Phoenix to Sacramento is about 650 miles (1,050 km) and a typical flight takes 1 h 30 min to 2 h 30 min. In winter, Sacramento is 1 hour behind Phoenix; in summer, no time difference. The gap changes because of daylight saving time. Phoenix has 1 airport to compare and Sacramento has 1.
Airport pairs to compare
Phoenix's main airport sits unusually close to the city center, which keeps the trip into town short. Sacramento has one main airport, northwest of downtown.
| Pair | Departure airport | Arrival airport |
|---|---|---|
| PHX to SMF | Phoenix Sky Harbor International | Sacramento International |
About the airports
- PHX · Phoenix Sky Harbor International
Located only a few miles from downtown, with an automated train to light rail. - SMF · Sacramento International
The main airport, northwest of downtown.
Airlines with a major base at either end
- At Phoenix: American Airlines, Southwest Airlines
Airlines with a base at one end often connect through their hub. A specialist can compare nonstop and connecting options on your dates.
When to go and what to expect
Phoenix
Winter and spring are the popular, milder seasons. Summer highs routinely top 100°F, which is why fares often soften then.
Sacramento
Spring and fall are the most comfortable seasons. Summers are hot and dry, and winters are cool and often foggy or rainy.
How long is Phoenix to Sacramento?
At about 650 miles, Phoenix to Sacramento is a short-to-medium flight. Fares on routes this length are sensitive to the day of the week and the time of day, so check a few departure times before you settle.
Time zones and timing
The clock difference between Phoenix and Sacramento changes with daylight saving time, so check the local arrival time for your travel dates. Always confirm the arrival date and time on any itinerary.
Getting between the airport and town
Phoenix: The PHX Sky Train connects the terminals and the light rail, and ride-hail and rental cars are widely used.
Sacramento: Rental cars, taxis and ride-hail are the most common ways into the city.
Planning ground transport too? See our car rental guide.
Good to know
- Spring training baseball in February and March lifts demand. Arizona does not observe daylight saving time, which affects time differences with other states.
- Winter fog can occasionally slow departures, so leave a little extra time on travel day.
- Compare the total with bags included, not just the base fare. See baggage fees and taxes and fees.
Flying Sacramento to Phoenix?
This route guide works in both directions. For other trips, see all flights from Phoenix or all flights from Sacramento.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Phoenix from Sacramento?
The straight-line distance between the main airports is about 650 miles (1,050 km). Routes can be longer in practice because of air traffic and weather.
How long is a flight from Phoenix to Sacramento?
A typical scheduled flight takes roughly 1 h 30 min to 2 h 30 min in the air, depending on winds, the aircraft and the airports. Connecting itineraries take longer, and nonstop availability depends on the airline and dates.
Which airports can I use?
At Phoenix: PHX (Phoenix Sky Harbor International). At Sacramento: SMF (Sacramento International). Ask for prices on more than one pairing.
Is there a time difference?
In winter, Sacramento is 1 hour behind Phoenix; in summer, no time difference. The gap changes because of daylight saving time.
When is the best time to fly from Phoenix to Sacramento?
In Phoenix: Winter and spring are the popular, milder seasons. Summer highs routinely top 100°F, which is why fares often soften then. In Sacramento: Spring and fall are the most comfortable seasons. Summers are hot and dry, and winters are cool and often foggy or rainy. Fares are usually highest in the busy periods described for each city, so flexible dates can help.
Which airlines should I compare for Phoenix to Sacramento?
Airlines with a major base at either end include American Airlines and Southwest Airlines. A specialist compares them with other carriers on your dates, since schedules and availability change.
Do you show fares on this page?
No. Fares change constantly, so we do not publish prices that might be out of date. A specialist checks live availability and confirms the full total, including taxes and bags, before you pay.
Route details updated October 18, 2026.