$30 Find Cheap Flights to California

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a KAYAK user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from the United States to California departing on 1/25. Fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. Click the price to replicate the search for this deal.
1 adult
1 adult, Economy, 0 bags

KAYAK searches hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to California

 
These are the airlines KAYAK users have selected most often from within our search results for flights to California
These are the airlines KAYAK users have selected most often from within our search results for flights to California
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Flight Deals

Cheap Flights to California

Cheapest round-trip prices found by our users on KAYAK in the last 72 hours
Los Angeles
Los Angelesnonstop$73
San Francisco
San Franciscononstop$83
San Diego
San Diego1 stop$106
San Jose
San Josenonstop$69
Palm Springs
Palm Springs1 stop$119
Fresno
Fresno1 stop$143
San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispononstop$116
Bakersfield
Bakersfieldnonstop$169
Arcata
Arcata1 stop$139
Redding
Reddingnonstop$77
Santa Maria
Santa Maria1 stop$275
Imperial
Imperialnonstop$158
Mammoth Lakes
Mammoth Lakes2 stops$948
Merced
Mercednonstop$134
Reno
Reno1 stop$102
Sacramento
Sacramentononstop$59
Los Angeles
Los Angelesnonstop$73
San Francisco
San Franciscononstop$83
San Diego
San Diego1 stop$106
San Jose
San Josenonstop$69
Palm Springs
Palm Springs1 stop$119
Fresno
Fresno1 stop$143
San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispononstop$116
Bakersfield
Bakersfieldnonstop$169
Arcata
Arcata1 stop$139
Redding
Reddingnonstop$77
Santa Maria
Santa Maria1 stop$275
Imperial
Imperialnonstop$158
Mammoth Lakes
Mammoth Lakes2 stops$948
Merced
Mercednonstop$134
Reno
Reno1 stop$102
Sacramento
Sacramentononstop$59

Book Cheap California Plane Tickets

 
Here are some of the best deals found on KAYAK recently from the most popular airlines for round-trip flights to California that are departing in the next months. While these flights were available on KAYAK in the last 72 hours, prices and availability are subject to change and deals may expire.
Discover the best prices for you by selecting your travel dates on KAYAK.

Recent round-trip flight deals to California

Sat, Jan 31 - Tue, Feb 3
Spirit Airlines Logo
5:40 pm - 6:47 pm
DFW
-
LAS
3h 07mnonstop
Spirit Airlines Logo
11:51 am - 4:35 pm
LAS
-
DFW
2h 44mnonstop
$69Spirit Airlines
Tue, Feb 10 - Wed, Feb 11
Spirit Airlines Logo
5:40 pm - 6:47 pm
DFW
-
LAS
3h 07mnonstop
Spirit Airlines Logo
11:51 am - 4:35 pm
LAS
-
DFW
2h 44mnonstop
$70Spirit Airlines
Sun, Feb 22 - Mon, Feb 23
Frontier Logo
9:23 pm - 11:57 pm
SEA
-
LAS
2h 34mnonstop
Frontier Logo
6:00 am - 8:51 am
LAS
-
SEA
2h 51mnonstop
$71Frontier
Wed, Jan 21 - Fri, Jan 30
Multiple Airlines Logo
2:13 pm - 3:20 pm
DFW
-
LAS
3h 07mnonstop
Multiple Airlines Logo
11:51 am - 4:35 pm
LAS
-
DFW
2h 44mnonstop
$71Multiple Airlines
Sun, Mar 8 - Tue, Mar 10
Frontier Logo
10:36 pm - 11:49 pm
DFW
-
LAS
3h 13mnonstop
Frontier Logo
12:59 am - 5:47 am
LAS
-
DFW
2h 48mnonstop
$72Frontier
Wed, Jan 28 - Wed, Jan 28
Alaska Airlines Logo
8:38 am - 11:11 am
SEA
-
LAS
2h 33mnonstop
Alaska Airlines Logo
1:43 pm - 4:36 pm
LAS
-
SEA
2h 53mnonstop
$72Alaska Airlines
Wed, Feb 4 - Sat, Feb 7
Alaska Airlines Logo
6:28 pm - 9:00 pm
SEA
-
LAS
2h 32mnonstop
Alaska Airlines Logo
7:00 am - 9:53 am
LAS
-
SEA
2h 53mnonstop
$76Alaska Airlines
Thu, Jan 29 - Mon, Feb 2
Southwest Logo
5:30 am - 7:00 am
SFO
-
LAS
1h 30mnonstop
Southwest Logo
5:10 pm - 9:50 pm
LAS
-
SFO
4h 40m1 stop
$91Southwest
Wed, Feb 4 - Sat, Feb 7
United Airlines Logo
5:20 pm - 8:12 pm
EWR
-
LAS
5h 52mnonstop
United Airlines Logo
12:30 am - 10:26 am
LAS
-
EWR
6h 56m1 stop
$203United Airlines
Tue, Feb 10 - Fri, Feb 13
United Airlines Logo
7:00 pm - 9:51 pm
EWR
-
LAS
5h 51mnonstop
United Airlines Logo
3:06 pm - 10:54 pm
LAS
-
EWR
4h 48mnonstop
$205United Airlines
Booking Insights

KAYAK's insights & trends for flights to California

Get data-powered insights and trends for flights to California to help you find the cheapest flights, the best time to fly and much more.

What is the cheapest flight to California?

These are the best round-trip prices found by users searching on KAYAK in the last 72 hours.

The cheapest ticket to California from the United States found in the last 72 hours was to Ontario, at $40 round-trip. The most popular route is Atlanta (ATL) to Los Angeles (LAX) and the cheapest round-trip airline ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was $58.

How much is a flight to California?

The average and cheapest price for all round-trip flights to California from each origin found by users searching on KAYAK in the last month.

A flight to California costs $352 on average. The cheapest price found on KAYAK in the last 2 weeks was $25 for the route Phoenix Sky Harbor Intl Airport (PHX) to Burbank (BUR). The most popular routes on KAYAK are Denver to Burbank which costs $370 on average, and San Francisco to Burbank, which costs $272 on average.

See prices from:

What is the cheapest month to fly from the United States to California?

To calculate monthly average prices, KAYAK takes all prices for each month over the last year for flights from the United States to California, removes the top 0.1% to account for outliers, and then takes the median of all values for each month.

The cheapest month for flights from the United States to California is October, when tickets cost $198 (return) on average. On the other hand, the most expensive months are December and March, when the average cost of round-trip tickets is $342 and $327 respectively.

How far in advance should I book a flight from the United States to California?

To calculate weekly average prices, KAYAK takes all prices for each week before departure over the last year for round-trip flights to California, removes the top 0.1% to account for outliers, and then takes the average of all the values for each week.

To get a below average price on the flight from the United States to California, you should book around 3 weeks before departure, which saves you about 39% compared to booking last minute. For the absolute cheapest price, our data suggests you should book 14 weeks before departure.

Which is the cheapest airport to fly into in California?

Prices will differ depending on the departure airport, but generally, the cheapest airport to fly to in California is Santa Maria Public Airport (SMX), with an average flight price of $73.

Good to know

Low seasonJanuary
Cheapest flight$30
Best time to beat the crowds with an average 5% drop in price.
Most popular time to fly with an average 2% increase in price.
Flight from San Francisco to Las Vegas

Flights to California: the best tips from KAYAK users' own experiences

Insights shared by verified travelers who flew to California 
JamesFlew with Alaska Airlines
MCO
-
SAN
Jan 2026
My advise is to pack lightly to avoid paying for the cost of one bag in the amount of 35 dollars. The amount isn't the worst I've paid, for my traveling bag but so many individuals used the overhead luggage rack as well as a back pack that didn't pay for transporting a large suitcase that I intend to do the same in the future.
GregFlew with Alaska Airlines
SFO
-
BUR
Jan 2026
Upgrade to first class for free checked bags, priority boarding and half off the SFO lounge for not that much extra
MatthewFlew with Southwest
DAL
-
SAN
Jan 2026
If you have Pre-Check don't even worry about getting to the airport early.
BeverlyFlew with JetBlue
JFK
-
SFO
Dec 2025
Wear support socks which helps when you sit for a long time.
GreggFlew with Hawaiian Airlines
HNL
-
OAK
Dec 2025
Be sure to pack food for your flight of 5+ hours.
LindseyFlew with SWISS
SAN
-
SFO
Dec 2025
Ready for weather delays of wind in SFO, which happens often. Keep that in consideration when planning an additional leg of a trip after it from SFO.
AnjaliFlew with Spirit Airlines
EWR
-
LAX
Dec 2025
look out for landing in the new terminal that is then a bus ride away from your luggage
ChristineFlew with Hawaiian Airlines
SEA
-
PSP
Dec 2025
Arrive early to go through security unless you have TSA pre check and/or CLEAR
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
EWR
-
SFO
Dec 2025
Bring your own food and in flight activity since they don’t supply any.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
OGG
-
LAX
Dec 2025
Make sure you check on your flight before going to the airport
Verified travelerFlew with Spirit Airlines
ATL
-
LAX
Jan 2026
Take an inflatable seat cushion, as the seats are uncomfortable, and take a patience pill as the staff are rude and mean.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
KOA
-
LAX
Nov 2025
Pay to reserve your seat and bring airbuds for the free movies!
AngeliqueFlew with Spirit Airlines
DTW
-
LAX
Nov 2025
Know there is a shuttle to exit or get baggage
MikeFlew with Alaska Airlines
KOA
-
SJC
Jul 2025
Be prepared for your flight by purchasing a meal before departure, and by all means spend the eight bucks for inflight WiFi.
KeithFlew with Hawaiian Airlines
OGG
-
LAX
Jul 2025
Check your seating assignment thoroughly when you check in to ensure it's the seat you paid for. Flights number, planes, seat assignment, departure times can change at moment's notice, so make sure your confirmed flight assignment in 100% correct!!!
LeoFlew with American Airlines
HNL
-
LAX
Jul 2025
Avoid LAX if you can fly into other CA airport. LAX is very confusing. Our gate was adjacent to another that was boarding at the same time. We could not hear our boarding announcements. Almost missed our boarding group. Terminal 4 has multiple floors, the signs were okay, but a 3-D map is needed to fully comprehend your path. Very limited food options and super expensive restaurants with mediocre food (CrownLAX). Avoid LAX if your want a pleasant layover/transfer process.
GeraldFlew with Delta
BOS
-
SFO
Mar 2025
Book a flight early in the morning. The plane & crew will have arrived the previous night
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
PDX
-
SFO
May 2025
My mom told me prior to boarding an airplane I should empty my bladder. As I age, that advice becomes more sage.
LuisFlew with Delta
JFK
-
SFO
Mar 2025
It’s a long flight, come prepared to either watch movies, read or sleep.
HowardFlew with Alaska Airlines
JFK
-
SAN
May 2025
Must have a tablet to watch videos. Bring a seat cushion.
RobertFlew with United Airlines
SEA
-
SFO
Mar 2025
If you’re picking up a rental car it’s not very clear that you have to take the train. Signage can be improved at SFO.
Verified travelerFlew with American Airlines
PHX
-
LAX
Jan 2025
Southwest seems to board and unload about as smooth as any airline - carry on items seem to work as smooth as any airline I have used. Southwest also does not charge to check bags which seems to encourage people to check bags instead of bring an enormous carry on item that does not fit well in the cabin.
SarahFlew with Alaska Airlines
SFO
-
BUR
Feb 2025
Go early in the day so if your flight is canceled, you might have better alternatives than I did when my 12:30 flight was canceled.
PiperFlew with American Airlines
DFW
-
PSP
Dec 2024
Dress according to comfort on plane rather than either destination! Know that Palm Springs airport is outdoors (and NOT cold) so prepare for that too
AracelyFlew with Spirit Airlines
EWR
-
LAX
Dec 2024
Bring snacks and your own water bottle to stay hydrated.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
EWR
-
SAN
Feb 2025
My flight was not delayed, but my family had a flight earlier in the week that was, by 5 hours. My daughter says she'll never book a late afternoon flight as they seem most likely to be delayed. I personally like the timing and usually they cost less. Also, get on the plan with fully charged devices or a non-electronic form on entertainment.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
SEA
-
PSP
Dec 2024
Be courteous of your fellow travelers. Remember the carry on baggage rules. Keep your jackets out of the storage bin on full flights. Don't move other people's luggage from one bin to another. Step out of the isle as quickly as you can. Be sure you're in the seat(s) assigned to you.
AmyFlew with Spirit Airlines
SAN
-
OAK
Dec 2024
Make sure you download your movies in advance and try not to bring more luggage than you need. And keep in mind that the gate at San Diego airport is terribly small.
Verified travelerFlew with American Airlines
DFW
-
SAN
Dec 2024
Bring a neck pillow and if your over 6 ft tall spend the money for exit row. Other customers are not curteous
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
LAX
-
SFO
Jan 2025
Bring water and snacks with shorter flights as some routes will not offer it.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
DCA
-
SFO
Jan 2025
Reserve your plane seat & bring something to eat in the plane.
Verified travelerFlew with American Airlines
MIA
-
LAX
Jan 2025
Be ready to walk a long way through the terminal.
DavianFlew with Southwest
LAX
-
OAK
Sep 2024
Don't rent a car or Uber. Add Clipper Card to your digital phone wallet and use it to take the Bart! It was super easy and very clean with spectacular views along the way
MikeFlew with American Airlines
ORD
-
LAX
Sep 2024
Arrive early, grab a bottle of soda before getting on the plane and open it in the terminal. If you wait until flying the pressure will decarbonize the drink.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
MCO
-
SFO
Nov 2024
Use their app, it’s great & they notify boarding, etc
Verified travelerFlew with Spirit Airlines
LAS
-
OAK
Sep 2024
Make sure you know the baggage rules, don’t bring more than you need, and if you get a rental car, know that people target them for break-ins. Never leave anything in your car. Going in for a snack? Take your bags. Basically, drive to your hotel, take the bags out immediately and put them in your room, and try to leave nothing in the car ever. It’s not always this bad, but they spot rentals from a mile away. Be smart, be safe.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
TPA
-
SAN
Sep 2024
Alaska airline has great food but small portions and sometimes isn’t aware of your pre-order, so bring your own just in case!
CongFlew with United Airlines
SNA
-
SFO
Nov 2024
Nothing really, being clothes that are easily taken off like shoes at the security will always save time
PhallyFlew with Alaska Airlines
IAD
-
SFO
Oct 2024
Don't take too much stuff. Make sure to have the necessary documents or boarding pass ready.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
JFK
-
SAN
Oct 2024
Landing in La Guardia or Newark (New Jersey) is more convenient for commuting to Manhattan.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
PDX
-
LAX
Oct 2024
LAX is a large airport with long walking distances to exit in terminal 6.
Verified travelerFlew with Qantas Airways
DEN
-
LAX
Sep 2024
You don’t have to arrive two hours early since it is a domestic flight
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
OGG
-
SAN
Jun 2024
The exiting gates and boarding connecting flights are very close, always bring an empty water container that you can fill in the airport filtered water dispensers bring your own favorite food
LisaFlew with Alaska Airlines
BOI
-
BUR
Jul 2024
If they ask you to check your bag at the gate because the flight is full, you get to board sooner even if you don't check ALL of your bags.
KimberlyFlew with Alaska Airlines
SEA
-
SNA
Jul 2024
When going to Disneyland fly to this airport. Only 8 miles from Disneyland and super quick to check in and check out. Highly recommend this airport!
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
PDX
-
SAN
Jul 2024
Definitely arrive the 2 hours before your flight or you will have no extra time before boarding. Wear comfortable walking shoes.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
EWR
-
LAX
Jun 2024
Make sure to get food before you get to the airport. Bring chargers for ur phone or your technological device.
PaulaFlew with Alaska Airlines
BOS
-
SFO
Jul 2024
Get your boarding pass online and save it to your wallet App on the iPhone. Makes it so easy
HeatherFlew with Hawaiian Airlines
HNL
-
LGB
Aug 2024
Easy entry and exit. Easy to get to rental car. Extremely fast exit from airport itself.
IreneFlew with Southwest
SFO
-
LAX
Jun 2024
Arrive a least 1 hour before boarding if you’re checking bags. Light layers due weather variation
CarolFlew with Alaska Airlines
BOS
-
SAN
Jul 2024
Bring your own entertainment (book, puzzles, devices). T mobile offers free internet with Alaska!
RaquelFlew with Hawaiian Airlines
OGG
-
LAX
Jun 2024
Sit last row so no one is behind you and buy cancel noise headphones!
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
PDX
-
LAX
Jun 2024
Los Angeles airport has convenient entry & exit without long walks to & from the gates.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
JFK
-
SFO
Jun 2024
SFO is one of the most convenient and pleasant airports. When flying Alaska Air make sure to bring your food and a larger water bottle that usual (you get only two drink services (one small cup each) for a 6 hour flight.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
SFO
-
PSP
Jun 2024
SFO ~ most convenient People should prepare themselves for cold temperature inside the cabin, bring coat/jacket and food in case flight is delayed.
VyomaFlew with Alaska Airlines
SAN
-
SFO
Jun 2024
Be sure to read the signs, i have heard it's confusing for connecting flights if you don't follow the directions.
NoamFlew with Alaska Airlines
IAD
-
SFO
Aug 2024
Flying to the Ronald Reagan airport is closer and faster to D.C. than the Dulles airport.
KathyFlew with United Airlines
RDD
-
SFO
Jun 2024
Realize it’s a smaller plane and you will probably have to green tag any carry on.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
LAX
-
SFO
Jul 2024
Bring a sweater, just incase other people's ac makes you cool.
SusanFlew with Hawaiian Airlines
LIH
-
OAK
Aug 2024
That they willlet you check your carry ons the gate sometimes
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
PDX
-
SNA
Jul 2024
Bring your own food and coffee. No hot bevarages available.
FatimaFlew with Frontier
SFO
-
LAX
Jun 2024
Frontier requires 3hr preflight check in even on domestic flights
BerniceFlew with Alaska Airlines
EWR
-
SAN
Jun 2024
Give yourself plenty of time to get through security.
Joo YoungFlew with Alaska Airlines
SMF
-
SAN
Jul 2024
Make sure your seat can recline when you board!
Verified travelerFlew with British Airways
SMF
-
LAX
Jul 2024
Understand that you were going to land in the middle of the airport somewhere way far away from the terminal then you walk down a ramp then you walk to a terminal you get on a bus what you have to wait in the line for the bus to come and get you the bus goes very slowly to the terminal you get out and then you walk 2700 steps I walked to get to where I was supposed to go And then find it because I didn’t have a boarding pass was not easy so don’t try to go there and make a quick connection you can’t do it
JulieFlew with Southwest
SFO
-
LAX
Jun 2024
Avoid flying into LAX. It’s a nightmare. Baggage claim took 40 minutes. And then the shuttle to the car rental place took an hour because there are two shuttles. The first is a local bus that makes a stop at every seven terminals and then it takes you to another place where you have to wait for your smaller shuttle to the car rental place.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
SEA
-
SNA
Aug 2024
Flight was delayed 9-1/2 hours. Make sure you have somewhere to go in you have to check out of your hotel.
Verified travelerFlew with American Airlines
LAS
-
LAX
Aug 2024
Do not check a bag if you can help it. Will set you back $40
LauraFlew with Alaska Airlines
SEA
-
LAX
Jul 2024
LAX is a bit of a mess. Very long walk between terminals.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
JFK
-
PSP
Mar 2024
Bring an iPad with lots of shows downloaded. The terminal at jfk is nice and small, easy to go thru security. Palm Springs airport is amazing. You step out and feel like you’re on vacation.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
HNL
-
SAN
May 2024
Don't use a small water bottle. Get a big one and fill it prior to boarding so you can keep hydrated better.
JustinFlew with Southwest
AUS
-
SAN
May 2024
GET TSA - PRECHECK AND CLEAR. IT'S CHEAPER WITH THE AMEX GREEN OR AMEX PLAT.
Verified travelerFlew with United Airlines
AUS
-
LAX
Apr 2024
Use the apps so you know gates before you transfer.
Verified travelerFlew with Southwest
SLC
-
OAK
May 2024
Rental car counters close by 1030 (Hertz) and 111PM (Avis/Fox). If you arrive at Dollar/Thrifty/Hertz after 1030 you WILL NOT have a car! We were able to rent for a day with Avis but beware - it’s a firm closing time.
LisaFlew with Alaska Airlines
EUG
-
SAN
May 2024
Be sure your carry on fits in the bins before getting on- big rollers are difficult to get into small Horizon Air bins
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
EWR
-
LAX
Apr 2024
There are buses from Time Square Bus Terminal to Newark for $18 direct no stops you are there in 30 minutes.
Dr. SherrieFlew with United Airlines
HNL
-
LAX
Apr 2024
Pack your own snacks and download your movies and shows in case the WiFi doesn’t work.
BillFlew with Alaska Airlines
SAN
-
SMF
May 2024
Security at Sacramento can take longer than you think it might for a small airport.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
BOS
-
SAN
Mar 2024
Be prepared to wait in long line for shuttle to car rental complex.
AntonellaFlew with Southwest
HNL
-
SMF
Apr 2024
Bring a charge / battery for your phone and your own food.
FranciscoFlew with Alaska Airlines
MCO
-
SAN
May 2024
Make sure to read all the disclaimer disclosures before booking.
Verified travelerFlew with Hawaiian Airlines
LIH
-
OAK
May 2024
Bring some food and be prepared for seat changes.
DeniseFlew with Alaska Airlines
IAD
-
SFO
May 2024
Bring your own device. No screens on the seatbacks.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
LAX
-
SFO
May 2024
Please be prepared to check in your luggage even if there is available space in the overhead bins. Despite the availability of space, Alaska Airlines employees refused to allow us to bring our bags onto the plane and insisted that we check them in.
LaurenFlew with Delta
SEA
-
LAX
Feb 2024
If you have kids, bring your own screens. We were counting on the inflight entertainment and it was a definite letdown. Also, TSA Pre-check is only available at station 2, but wait times are posted at each station so you can see if it’s worth the walk.
JosephFlew with Delta
LAS
-
SAN
Feb 2024
Your seat selection may be changed at check-in and you may not be able to change your seat to what you originally selected while booking so be aware of this possible issue.
Verified travelerFlew with Delta
ATL
-
LAX
Jan 2024
Ride with full belly and the bare minimum. Also I did not know a fanny pack that is staying on my hip was considered a carry on
SridharFlew with Spirit Airlines
EWR
-
OAK
Dec 2023
Fly light. Get seats in front. Make sure you get here before 10 - rental car place closes prior.
RalphFlew with Southwest
DEN
-
PSP
Feb 2024
If you really want a better seat make sure you upgrade.
Verified travelerFlew with Alaska Airlines
STS
-
SNA
Feb 2024
Book directly from the airline and/or get refundable tickets.
LaurenFlew with JetBlue
JFK
-
LAX
Dec 2023
Be very careful that you don’t misplace anything. If you have to go through TSA multiple times, be sure to retrieve ALL your things even if it means you have to hold up the line unfortunately. Otherwise, there will be zero help to retrieve your things afterwards even though there are so many cameras.
Verified travelerFlew with Spirit Airlines
LAS
-
OAK
Feb 2024
There will be additional charges :- select seats, checkin or carry on luggages, food or drinks. Not suitable for big size passengers unless you pay extra to sit on the front two rows

FAQs - booking California flights

  • How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights from the United States to California?

    KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights from the United States to California.

  • How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket from the United States to California?

    KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight from the United States to California is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

  • What is the Hacker Fare option on flights from the United States to California?

    Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly from the United States to California with an airline and back with another airline.

  • What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight from the United States to California?

    Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying from the United States to California up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

  • What is the cheapest day to fly to California?

    Based on KAYAK data, the cheapest day to fly to California is Friday where round-trip tickets can be as cheap as $334. On the other hand, the most expensive day to fly is Sunday, where round-trip prices are $512 on average.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to California

  • Looking for cheap airfare to California? 25% of our users found round-trip tickets to California for the following prices or less: From Denver $354, from Boston $787, from Newark $879
  • Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest California flight deals.

Reviews of the top 5 airlines flying to California

 
See real verified KAYAK customer reviews for airlines flying to California. Airline scores are aggregated from all reviews left by passengers on KAYAK after flying with an airline from the United States to California. KAYAK doesn’t show reviews that are older than 5 years. Learn how KAYAK collects reviews.
Need help choosing which airline to fly with from the United States to California? KAYAK airline reviews give an overall score for each airline based on loads of factors, including comfort, boarding, in-flight entertainment and more, to make your decision easier. See airline scores according to verified KAYAK customer reviews.
8.0
SouthwestOverall score based on 4250 reviews
8.1Boarding
8.0Comfort
7.0Food
8.6Crew
7.5Entertainment
Airline reviews

The flight crew was extremely rude and especially not helpful when our flight was delayed.

2.0 MediocreMatthew, Jan 2026
DAL - SAN
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The flight crew was extremely rude and especially not helpful when our flight was delayed.

The boarding and seat assignment system no longer works for me, but I know it is being replaced. Otherwise, I am good with the overall experience.

The lead steward kept singing about "San Francisco" and hotel California---more annoying than humorous....needs work. Flight was smooth and on time.

Still a fan of open seating. Flight was on schedule and arrived on time. The 737 MAX is very comfortable.

San Diego airport is brand new, spacious, airy and very smooth checkin at SW baggage drop.

Ever since Southwest starting charging for bags, passengers don't want to pay to check their bags, so the gate agents have to beg people to check their roller bags now because there's "not enough space". This was a terrible business move by Southwest.

Delays delays delays. Late taking off, late landing, wait for a gate, etc.

Connecting flight is on time and boarding was a breeze!

Very smooth checking in our luggage with a super pleasant SW agent. I enjoyed a fun entertaining movie.

First time traveling on Southwest since bag fees were implemented. Usual good service. Just more expensive now.

I really liked the legroom. I am 6’4”.a at For some reason our seats were not together and using the app to fix it didn’t work. Passengers were nice enough to move for us but you should absolutely ensure a parent sits with their child.

Staff were friendly and happy. Delta could make sure passengers that don't have the app know of changes. Without Kayak I would not have known about the change of gate or the delay. Kayak was faster to notify me.

They changed planes and the new plane couldn’t carry enough fuel to fly across the country so we had to stop in Kansas City to refuel. Flight was delayed .

Flight was too crowded and seats are too small, especially since passengrs are getting larger. Having a middle seat is ALWAYS tough! Woman on my left was large & kept creeping in to my space. Flight personnel were great! Have more savory rather than sweet snacks please.

The crew took good care of us. The flight from ATL to SFO is a longer one, and there were multiple beverage offerings. I like the 757's that Delta uses. Good airplane that is comfortable. I do wish Delta would separate Priority boarding from the better seats. I would gladly take a smaller seat in an open row than be jammed into Comfort just to get priority boarding, just to make sure I don't have to check a bag.

The crew was not very visible. This might be a good thing for people who wanted to sleep but seemed odd when compared to the Atlantic crossing where they are more present in the cabin. The Food (beef) was not good. Tough and tasteless. Would love to see more choices on a long flight like that.

Gate agent rushed to fill hot jetway with crowd so it took over 12 minutes to go from gate to plane. Just like a discount airline Pooly prepared cabin and third time that claim of rough air prevented any cabin service. Friends on a Southwest flight at similar time had service.

The flight crew was friendly. I tried to adjust my seat online ahead of time but no option existed without additional fees. My friend asked at the gate about a seat change and was able to make it happen. That was great! The flight crew moved a very tall gentleman and his companion which allowed us to have more space which was nice. Overall, good experience. Appreciated the blanket and pillow.

I was uncomfortably cold on the plane. Other than that it was uneventful and therefore as enjoyable as a plane ride can be.

Food was surprisingly good but the WiFi was not great

Unbelievably poor service from flight attendants. They didn’t even do water service on a four hour flight. Just disrespectful.

Flight was late - I was downgraded from first class to coach

United needs to step up their game. Delayed flight leaving Seattle, San Francisco. Older aircraft, not very comfortable.

Plane boarded early a quickly, was mostly full. We left close to on time. And landed early.

7 hours delayed due to operational issues on United’s end. Basically laziness.

Flight was timely, relatively comfortable, with decent entertainment and food served. Only problem encountered was with the free messaging which I highly appreciate, but it did not work from iphone to non-iphones.

The internet service I paid for didn’t work at all and the flight crew was not very friendly.

Subject: Formal Complaint: Discriminatory and Unprofessional Conduct – Request for Immediate Action & Compensation Dear [Airline Customer Relations Team], I am writing to file a formal complaint regarding my recent travel experience with [Airline], which was by far the worst I have ever encountered. What occurred was not only unprofessional, but in several instances discriminatory, unsafe, and unacceptable. On the first leg of my trip, I arrived only four minutes past check-in. Instead of making any attempt to resolve the matter, your representative flatly denied me boarding and made me wait while she attended to passengers who arrived after me. By the time a manager intervened, it was too late to board, costing me time, money, and unnecessary frustration. The second leg of my trip (Chicago–San Francisco) raised even more serious concerns. From the outset, it was apparent that the staff—particularly two attendants—prioritized Caucasian passengers while dismissing African American and minority passengers. • When a Caucasian passenger in the exit row refused to comply with federal safety requirements, I, as a first responder, immediately offered to switch seats and assume the responsibility. My offer was blatantly ignored, and instead, a Caucasian passenger seated further up was chosen. This was discriminatory and deeply insulting, especially as I was actively de-escalating the situation that could have delayed the flight further. • During a lengthy tarmac delay of over 90 minutes, passengers were given conflicting and unreasonable instructions that created unnecessary distress and tension. • Throughout the flight, a visibly intoxicated passenger directly in front of me was disruptive, rude to others, failed to comply with seatbelt and electronic device rules, and yet faced no enforcement from the crew. In stark contrast, I was singled out for repeated compliance checks even though I was following every rule. This unequal treatment was so obvious that multiple passengers around me spoke up in my defense. This pattern of behavior demonstrated a clear lack of professionalism, disregard for passenger safety, and discriminatory treatment. I expect far better from an airline of your stature. As a paying customer subjected to this unacceptable treatment, I am formally requesting: 1. A full investigation into the conduct of the staff on both flights. 2. A written apology acknowledging the discriminatory and unprofessional behavior I endured. 3. Appropriate compensation for the distress, inconvenience, and mishandling of my travel. If this matter is not addressed promptly and thoroughly, I will have no choice but to escalate my complaint further, including filing with the U.S. Department of Transportation and sharing my experience through other channels. I trust [Airline] will take this complaint seriously and provide a timely resolution.

Check in was quick and easy during early hours. Flight was on time, and customer services was a plus.

The flight was comfortable with the exit row and great service

Everything about the flight was lovely. My only suggestion would be to offer a few more options of tv series from Apple TV or HBO.

After the door had been closed, the cockpit makes an announcement that catering is running late and it is not the airline's fault. It is their fault in the sense that we had to sit for 2 hours or more when we could have stayed in the terminal. Poor communications between catering and airline. This caused a young man to lose his temper and he went storming out hitting objects. He had complained to the gate agent that he had already waited at the gate 7 hours and when can the airplane leave? Airilnes do a poor job of explaining delays, maintenance issues, etc. whereas being truthful may gain more sympathy or understanding.

We were told the flight was delayed 5 times, then it was moved to the next day.

The experience with American Airlines was good, although the Philippines Airlines flight was much better (better seats, better food, better entertainment options, overall better). Again, the MIA to LAX flight was fine, but nothing in comparison to the comfort and accommodations of the Philippines Airlines flight from LAX to MNL.

Loved the crew . Absolutely no complaints. Except for luggage lost

Wish some foods provided rather than just biscuit/cookie for flight more than 2 hours

We are too tired and frustrated to comment politely at this point

The flight crew was rude. We were in first class and no one even offered water until an hour after we were in the air. Horrible experience

Great. Quick and quiet and east. The breakfast choices were a welcome surprise!

The stewardess hit me with the food kart twice on the head and didn't say I'm sorry once. The same stewardess gave me a warm Apple Juice with No ice. The Flight was delayed for Departure 6 times, starting from 2:36pm, finally taking off 7:50pm. I was late picking up my child from the sitter by 3 hours.

It was ok. It was expensive to check 2 bags ($75.00 per bag), and then it took a long time to wait for shuttle to take us from one terminal to the terminal where the plane was taking off at LAX. And all of this for a flight where we had to pay for any food or drink that was not water.

It didn’t happen. I booked it and then was told it wasn’t available and then forced to pay far higher prices for a worse option

A 630departure flight Delayed 6hours! They changed my gate, I moved to the new gate. Had our flight on the screen for 12noon departure. I go get above to eat, check screen again and the flight was gone, no notice no announcement, nothing!! They sent my bag on the flight I wasn’t on, got it back to me 3days later. Thank goodness they did refund my money but I will NEVER fly them again.

Due to weather, my flight was delayed, further delayed, then canceled. I eventually got through to a support person who helped me find a different route out of MSP, but to get to DIA, they didn't want to, but eventually did help with the connection ticket purchase. But even this replacement flight was delayed time and time again, and I would have missed my connecting flights and I didn't want to get stuck in a layover city, so after 12 hours at the airport with two young boys who were very tired, we just cancelled our plans and spent the week at home, instead of Nana's.

Plane and crew on board were fine. Everything else was terrible.

The third party booking with cheapflightsfares was awful. Kayak should NOT partner with them. They sold me a bundle including seat selection and carry-on, but did not book the carry-ons with Frontier, so I’m out of pocket for $414 more while I await resolution.

This company socks. It's fraud. They canceled our flight yesterday, and today we were late because of a really long line at the check in bag. At the rebook station, there was ton of people. The workers were all rude. I am gonna make a report to FTC.

One of the worst travel experiences I've had. Had a flight scheduled with CVG to RSW on VLSWQX this morning departing at 5:30. Two individuals at the gate and one was in training. Not her fault but she didn't have the ability to check people in resulting in at least 15 families that didn't make it on the plane because they weren't checked into the system in time. When arriving at the airport to drop off our prepaid checked bags, the bag drop off agent asked if we could check our bags at the gate because of the long line. We said no problem so arrived at the gate by 5:00. They told those people that had previously paid for checked bags to stand off to the side while they let others that either didn't have a checked bag or their bag was already on the plan through. Realizing the gate workers had an issue, they either called for help or this lady showed up late for work as she didn't arrive until 5:15. The worker who had been there training the other individual and working diligently to make sure all passengers got on board. He even said that at one point all people that are currently in line are fine but asked the person in training to stand outside the ticketing area around 5:15 to notify any late travels that the flight was in boarding process and they arrrived too late. At that point, we're sill standing off to the side with our pre-paid checked bags patiently waiting. When the new lady arrived she couldn't have been more rude. It was an awful seen. Essentially they had asked for those without an assigned seat to board last, those with pre-paid checked bag stand off to the site and any traveling with a larger items that needed to be checked at the gate (such as a stroller), wait on the side. They realized that the flight needed to leave on time so the gate attendant shut the gate. So anyone without a seat assignment, those that had pre-checked bags, and the worst one I saw was a mother with two infant children was in line with use because she was asked to stand to the side because her stroller. When they shut the door to the plan they told her she could no longer get on. Her checked bags were already on the plane with her car keys in them, and the lady told her we couldn't accept anyone else on because the door was shut. She didn't even have a way to get home from the airport. Truely evil behavior. I've flown Frontier enough to know customer service is not a top priority in the company's mission, but this was an all-time low. I'm sending this after an 18 hour drive that our family just completed to Bonita Springs . I felt really bad for the lady being trained and the other individual trying to help, but when the new lady came to the gate she was truly one of the rudest individuals I've ever met. One lady had been there since 4am but because she didn't have an assigned seat they wouldn't let her on the plan.

I loved the staff on the plane. So friendly and helpful! However, there was an argument and misunderstanding by the staff and a customer at the gate, and the staff member was being unprofessional. When we arrived in Atlanta, we waited 1.5 hrs for our luggage to arrive. When I asked the airport attendant, they said Frontier had the longest wait for luggage out of any airlines, and that they could not be held responsible for the delay.

Not clean and was told I would get a great seat and it was not great at all

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