Direct Flights from DCA to SFO: Your Coast-to-Coast Travel Guide
Cheapest flight found
$184
Last updated Mar 13, 2026
Prices by Month
Price History
Tracking the May 7, 2026 departure — the cheapest date we found.
Price Behavior: DCA → SFO
Based on 6 months of fare data collected by Trip Manta.
Lowest Fare
$184
Highest Fare
$249
Median Fare
$249
Price Spread
$65
Prices fluctuate moderately — tracking can help you catch dips.
Cheapest month to fly: May 2026 (from $184)
Most expensive month: July 2026 (from $249)
Biggest price drop caught: $164 between consecutive checks
Most frequent cheapest airline: Frontier
What This Means for You
Flights from Washington DC to San Francisco range from $184 to $249, a $65 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 $164 between hourly checks on this route.
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From
Washington DC (DCA)
To
San Francisco (SFO)
Airport Information
Washington DC (DCA)
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) is the most convenient gateway for those staying in downtown D.C. or Northern Virginia. Located just across the Potomac River, it offers unparalleled access via the Metrorail Blue and Yellow lines. The airport is known for its stunning views of the capital’s monuments during takeoff and landing, and its compact layout makes navigating security a breeze compared to larger hubs like Dulles.
San Francisco (SFO)
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) serves as a major international gateway and a primary hub for United Airlines. Located approximately 13 miles south of downtown San Francisco, it is easily accessible via the BART rapid transit system. SFO is renowned for its high-quality amenities, including an accredited art museum, a dedicated yoga room, and exceptional dining options that reflect the local Bay Area food culture and commitment to sustainability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which airlines fly non-stop from DCA to SFO?
Currently, United Airlines and Alaska Airlines are the primary carriers providing direct, non-stop service between Reagan National and San Francisco.
How long is the flight from Washington DC to San Francisco?
The average flight time heading west from DCA to SFO is approximately 6 hours and 15 minutes, while the return flight is usually about 5 hours and 30 minutes due to tailwinds.
Is it better to fly out of DCA or IAD for this route?
DCA is closer to the D.C. city center and easier to access via Metro, but IAD (Dulles) typically offers a wider variety of flight times and sometimes lower prices because it is not restricted by the perimeter rule.
What is the time difference between Washington D.C. and San Francisco?
San Francisco is in the Pacific Time Zone, which is three hours behind the Eastern Time Zone used in Washington D.C.
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