Quick Flights from San Diego (SAN) to Los Angeles (LAX): Route Guide
Cheapest flight found
$204
Last updated Mar 13, 2026
Prices by Month
Price History
Tracking the May 7, 2026 departure — the cheapest date we found.
Price Behavior: SAN → LAX
Based on 6 months of fare data collected by Trip Manta.
Lowest Fare
$204
Highest Fare
$260
Median Fare
$204
Price Spread
$56
Prices fluctuate moderately — tracking can help you catch dips.
Cheapest month to fly: May 2026 (from $204)
Most expensive month: April 2026 (from $260)
Biggest price drop caught: $56 between consecutive checks
Most frequent cheapest airline: Southwest
What This Means for You
Flights from San Diego to Los Angeles range from $204 to $260, a $56 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 $56 between hourly checks on this route.
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From
San Diego (SAN)
To
Los Angeles (LAX)
Airport Information
San Diego (SAN)
San Diego International Airport (SAN) is conveniently located just three miles northwest of downtown San Diego, making it one of the most accessible major airports in the country. Known for its single-runway efficiency and stunning approach over the city skyline, SAN offers travelers a modern experience with plenty of local dining options, including craft breweries and fresh seafood spots that reflect the city's vibrant culinary culture.
Los Angeles (LAX)
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) serves as the primary gateway to Southern California and is one of the busiest airports in the world, featuring nine passenger terminals connected in a U-shape. Navigating LAX can be daunting due to its size, but recent infrastructure improvements, including the automated people mover and renovated terminals, are designed to streamline the experience for domestic arrivals from San Diego, providing easier access to ride-sharing zones and car rentals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the actual flight from SAN to LAX?
The actual time spent in the air is typically between 25 to 45 minutes, though the total scheduled gate-to-gate time is usually around one hour.
Which airlines fly directly between San Diego and Los Angeles?
United Airlines and American Airlines are the primary carriers offering frequent daily non-stop service between these two Southern California hubs.
Is it faster to fly or drive from San Diego to Los Angeles?
While the flight is only 30 minutes, when you factor in airport security and transit, driving can be similar in time; however, flying is much more predictable and avoids the infamous Southern California traffic jams.
What is the best way to get from LAX to downtown Los Angeles?
Travelers can use the FlyAway bus service, take a ride-share like Uber or Lyft from the LAX-it lot, or utilize the 'C' Green Line light rail via a shuttle bus connection.
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