Direct Flights from Houston (IAH) to San Diego (SAN): Your Ultimate Travel Guide
Cheapest flight found
$154
Last updated Mar 13, 2026
Prices by Month
Price History
Tracking the May 7, 2026 departure — the cheapest date we found.
Price Behavior: IAH → SAN
Based on 6 months of fare data collected by Trip Manta.
Lowest Fare
$154
Highest Fare
$283
Median Fare
$220
Price Spread
$129
Prices vary significantly — hourly tracking is especially valuable here.
Cheapest month to fly: May 2026 (from $154)
Most expensive month: July 2026 (from $283)
Biggest price drop caught: $75 between consecutive checks
Most frequent cheapest airline: Frontier
What This Means for You
Flights from Houston to San Diego range from $154 to $283, a $129 spread across the months we track. If your dates are flexible, May 2026 tends to have the lowest fares. Because prices on this route change significantly, setting up hourly price alerts gives you the best chance of catching a short-lived drop before it corrects. We have caught drops as large as $75 between hourly checks on this route.
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From
Houston (IAH)
To
San Diego (SAN)
Airport Information
Houston (IAH)
George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) serves as the primary international gateway for the Greater Houston area and is one of the busiest airports in the United States. It features five expansive terminals connected by an efficient underground train and an above-ground Skyway system. Travelers can enjoy a wide array of Tex-Mex dining options and high-end retail shops while waiting for their flight to San Diego.
San Diego (SAN)
San Diego International Airport (SAN), formerly known as Lindbergh Field, is conveniently located just three miles northwest of downtown San Diego. It is the busiest single-runway commercial airport in the country, famous among aviation enthusiasts for its stunning approach over the city's skyscrapers. The airport offers modern amenities, including outdoor pet relief areas and locally-sourced California cuisine, ensuring a warm welcome to the West Coast.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the flight from IAH to SAN?
A non-stop flight typically takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes to cover the 1,300-mile distance across the Southwest.
Which airlines offer direct flights on this route?
United Airlines and Southwest Airlines are the primary carriers offering consistent non-stop service between Houston and San Diego.
What is the time difference between Houston and San Diego?
San Diego is in the Pacific Time Zone, which is two hours behind Houston's Central Time Zone.
Is there a public transit link from SAN to downtown?
Yes, the San Diego Flyer is a free shuttle that connects the airport to the Old Town Transit Center, and Route 992 offers direct bus service to downtown.
When should I book my flight for the best price?
Travel experts generally recommend booking at least 21 to 45 days in advance to secure the most competitive rates for this specific route.
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