PDX to SAN: Direct Flights and San Diego Travel Guide
Cheapest flight found
$124
Last updated Mar 13, 2026
Prices by Month
Price History
Tracking the May 7, 2026 departure — the cheapest date we found.
Price Behavior: PDX → SAN
Based on 6 months of fare data collected by Trip Manta.
Lowest Fare
$124
Highest Fare
$184
Median Fare
$181
Price Spread
$60
Prices fluctuate moderately — tracking can help you catch dips.
Cheapest month to fly: May 2026 (from $124)
Most expensive month: April 2026 (from $184)
Biggest price drop caught: $33 between consecutive checks
Most frequent cheapest airline: Southwest
What This Means for You
Flights from Portland to San Diego range from $124 to $184, a $60 spread across the months we track. If your dates are flexible, May 2026 tends to have the lowest fares. Prices move enough that tracking can save you money — drops often last only a few hours before the algorithm adjusts back up. We have caught drops as large as $33 between hourly checks on this route.
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From
Portland (PDX)
To
San Diego (SAN)
Airport Information
Portland (PDX)
Portland International Airport (PDX) is consistently ranked as one of the best airports in the United States due to its efficient layout, friendly staff, and unique local character. Located just 12 miles northeast of downtown Portland, it offers a seamless travel experience with free Wi-Fi and diverse dining options ranging from gourmet food carts to the iconic Mo's Seafood. The airport is also well-connected to the city via the MAX Light Rail Red Line, making it incredibly accessible for budget-conscious travelers.
San Diego (SAN)
San Diego International Airport (SAN) boasts a uniquely convenient location just three miles northwest of the central business district, offering passengers dramatic views of the city skyline during their final descent. As the busiest single-runway commercial airport in the nation, it operates with impressive efficiency through its two main terminals. Travelers will find a wide array of local San Diego eateries inside the gates, and its proximity to major attractions like Balboa Park and the Gaslamp Quarter means you can transition from the tarmac to your hotel in minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the flight from PDX to SAN?
A typical nonstop flight from Portland to San Diego takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, though strong tailwinds can occasionally shorten the trip to 2.5 hours.
Which airlines offer direct flights from Portland to San Diego?
Alaska Airlines and Southwest Airlines are the primary carriers providing daily nonstop service between these two West Coast hubs.
Is there a time difference between Portland and San Diego?
No, both Portland and San Diego are located within the Pacific Time Zone, so you will not need to adjust your watch upon arrival.
What is the best way to get from SAN airport to downtown?
The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) Route 992 bus runs directly between the airport and downtown every 15 minutes, or you can take a quick 10-minute rideshare or taxi for roughly $15-$20.
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