$28 Cheap Flights from Los Angeles (LAX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Popular airlines from Los Angeles Intl. (LAX) to San Francisco Intl. Airport (SFO)

Cheap Flights from Los Angeles to San Francisco (LAX-SFO)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $28 for one-way flights and $56 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
Southwest Airlines
American Airlines
United
Delta

Alternative airports near San Francisco

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

What you need to know for your flight from Los Angeles Intl. to San Francisco Intl.

Los Angeles (LAX) to San Francisco (SFO) at a glance

Travel between Los Angeles (LAX) and San Francisco (SFO) with a range of airlines catering to this popular domestic route. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly options or full-service experiences, you can compare flights from Los Angeles to find an itinerary that suits your budget and schedule. Enjoy the flight time as you prepare to explore the iconic sights and vibrant neighborhoods of San Francisco upon arrival. Here are the essential details for your journey from Los Angeles International Airport to San Francisco International Airport.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 1h 30m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 350 miles (565 km)
  • Flights per week: around 200+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $45–$210, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to San Francisco International Airport (SFO)

Based on recent travel trends, here are the most popular airlines flying from Los Angeles to San Francisco, favored for both non-stop and one-stop flights. Travelers often choose layovers at Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) with a brief 50-minute stop, Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) for about 2 hours and 15 minutes, or Denver International Airport (DEN) with a layover of approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. These options provide the flexibility to balance price, total travel time, and cabin class for the ideal itinerary.

  • United: This full-service airline provides non-stop flights, with one-way ticket prices generally falling between $60 and $240. It represents around 27% of the departures on this route, with a total travel duration of 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  • Delta: Another full-service carrier, Delta offers non-stop flights with one-way fares usually ranging from $50 to $220. It constitutes about 22% of the departures along this route, with a total journey time of 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  • Alaska Airlines: As a full-service airline, Alaska Airlines offers both non-stop and one-stop options, with one-way fares typically between $60 and $215. It accounts for roughly 22% of departures on this route, with a standard non-stop travel time of 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  • American Airlines: This full-service carrier provides both non-stop and one-stop service, with one-way fares generally ranging from $55 to $215. It makes up about 14% of the departures on this route, featuring a typical non-stop journey duration of 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  • Frontier Airlines: As a low-cost carrier, Frontier Airlines offers both non-stop and one-stop services, with one-way fares usually ranging from $45 to $150. It represents approximately 4% of the departures on this route, with a usual non-stop travel time of 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Travelers flying from Los Angeles to San Francisco have the option to enhance their experience with upgraded flight services. Delta offers first class and premium economy class, while Alaska Airlines provides first class and business class. United features first class, business class, and premium economy class for added comfort.

Best time to fly from Los Angeles (LAX) to San Francisco (SFO)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Los Angeles to San Francisco are February, March, and April, when peak temperatures in San Francisco reach up to 55.8°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 64.9°F. For better deals, May and August usually offer the lowest average one-way fares around $113. Flight availability peaks in October, with approximately 216 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January has the fewest flights, with approximately 168 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: May and August usually offer good deals with average one-way fares around $113, roughly 5% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: September and June typically offer average one-way fares of around $118.
  • Most flight options: October has the highest number of flights from Los Angeles to San Francisco, with approximately 216 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January51.4°F (10.8°C)Average168$119
February52.2°F (11.2°C)Moderately High191$119
March53.4°F (11.9°C)Moderately High211$118
April55.8°F (13.2°C)Moderately High201$125
May58.1°F (14.5°C)Average205$113
June62.1°F (16.7°C)Moderately Low208$118
July63.1°F (17.3°C)Average206$119
August64.2°F (17.9°C)Average204$113
September64.9°F (18.3°C)Moderately Low208$117
October62.6°F (17.0°C)Moderately Low216$121
November56.1°F (13.4°C)Average211$126
December51.3°F (10.7°C)Average204$127

*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 Los Angeles (LAX) to San Francisco (SFO)

  • Los Angeles to Oakland (LAX-OAK): Located approximately 12 miles from San Francisco International Airport (SFO), Oakland International Airport (OAK) offers one-way economy fares typically ranging from $85 to $285, influenced by the season and timing of your booking. Flights on this route generally include both non-stop and one-stop options. Major airlines servicing this route comprise Southwest Airlines, known for its low fares, and Alaska Airlines.
  • Burbank to San Francisco (BUR-SFO): Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) lies about 18 miles from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). On this route, one-way economy fares usually fall between $30 and $250, depending on factors like the season and how early you purchase your ticket. Travelers can choose from both non-stop and one-stop flights. Prominent airlines on this route include United and Alaska Airlines, with business and first-class service also offered.

How to find the best prices for flights from Los Angeles (LAX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Los Angeles to San Francisco 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 available when booking at least two months in advance, although most travelers tend to book within two weeks. Morning departures from 5 a.m. to 12 p.m. generally offer lower prices and are also the most popular times to fly. Additionally, flying on Wednesday typically results in cheaper fares, while Friday 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 San Francisco International Airport from Los Angeles International Airport

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

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in San Francisco, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from San Francisco International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at San Francisco 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 San Francisco International Airport, San Francisco Intl. Airport Station (a metro station) is located just 0.2 miles away on foot, while San Bruno Station (a train station) is situated about 2.4 miles from the airport and typically reached by car.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $28 and cheap return flights from $56 Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights generally range between $50 and $598, and roundtrip flights usually range from $168 to $1215. 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 Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco 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 Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
March is the cheapest month to fly from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.), with average return fares around $172. This fare is about 12% lower than the average price throughout the year, as March often experiences lower travel demand. Other budget-friendly months for this route include February and May.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
8 airlines operate nonstop service from LAX to SFO:

  • United operates around 97 direct flights from LAX to SFO every week
  • Delta operates around 57 direct flights from LAX to SFO every week
  • American Airlines operates around 39 direct flights from LAX to SFO every week
  • Hawaiian Airlines operates around 28 direct flights from LAX to SFO every week
  • Frontier Airlines operates around 8 direct flights from LAX to SFO every week

What is the cheapest airline that flies from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
JetBlue Airways is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Los Angeles (LAX) to San Francisco (SFO), starting from around $348 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 Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco 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 airline to fly with from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Los Angeles, CA (LAX) to San Francisco, CA (SFO) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, WN offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, Frontier Airlines typically offers the lowest fares. American Airlines offers the most daily flights from Los Angeles to San Francisco, which is great if flexibility is what you value most. The best carrier for this journey could also be the one you have a loyalty membership with, as flying with that airline or another airline within the same alliance could help you collect points or enjoy lounge access.
What is the best time to fly from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
For flights from Los Angeles (LAX) to San Francisco (SFO), March and May are the best months to travel. Return flights during these months average around $172, making them the most affordable options. March offers mild weather, while May is known for beautiful spring blooms, enhancing your travel experience.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How many flights per day from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
You can find approximately 33 nonstop flights per day from Los Angeles Intl. (LAX) to San Francisco Intl. (SFO). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to San Francisco International Airport (SFO) usually departs at around 12:20 AM, operated by JetBlue Airways. This early flight can help you make the most of your time in San Francisco. 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 Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Los Angeles (LAX) to San Francisco (SFO) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 22% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Delta, United, and Alaska Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to arrive in San Francisco early and make the most of your day.
How long does it take to fly from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
Flying nonstop from LAX to SFO takes around 1 hour 30 minutes, with the route covering approximately 338 miles. Flights with a layover typically take 5 hours 20 minutes longer than direct options. 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 Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
You can fly business class between LAX and SFO. Airlines that offer business class service on this route include:

  • JetBlue Airways
  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines

First class cabins are available on:

  • Delta Air Lines
  • United Airlines
  • American Airlines
  • Hawaiian Airlines

How much is a business class flight from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
A direct, return business class ticket from Los Angeles, CA (LAX) to San Francisco, CA (SFO) typically costs between $604 - $998. A non-stop, one-way business class flight is usually around $268 - $459 per adult. Prices often fluctuate based on seasonality and how early you book. You may also be able to find a cheaper business class journey between Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.) if you opt for a connecting flight.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I earn miles on a Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco 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 San Francisco from Los Angeles Intl. (LAX)?
If you're planning to travel to San Francisco from Los Angeles Intl. (LAX), you can fly into San Francisco Intl. (SFO) Some flights may connect through major hubs like Sky Harbor Intl. (PHX), Harry Reid Intl. (LAS), Oakland Intl. (OAK) before reaching San Francisco. 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 Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco 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 Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.) San Francisco 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 Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)?
If you booked your Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.) to San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco 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
Los Angeles Intl.
Destination airport
San Francisco Intl.
Airlines serving
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$56
Distance
337 mi
Average flight time
1 hour 19 mins

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*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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