13 CHEAP Places to Fly from Oakland This Year

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Flying from Oakland Airport gets a bad rap, but I’ve become weirdly good at finding deals that’ll make your San Francisco friends jealous. After spending way too much time hunting for flights (and learning from some expensive mistakes), I’ve discovered some incredible routes that won’t force you to battle SFO traffic.

These are the best places in Northern California to score affordable flights, and I’m pumped to share my finds. Last week, I grabbed an amazing deal to Puerto Vallarta and spent my days between the boutiques of Zona Romantica and the beach clubs of Playa Los Muertos, all for less than a weekend in Napa. Here are 13 destinations that prove flying from Oakland can actually save you serious cash.

#1 tip for finding cheap flights from Oakland

Looking for cheap places to fly from Oakland? Before jumping into all the coolest cities and airports to fly into, I want to share a quick tip to save money on airfare.

For the past 5 years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to find cheap flight deals. It’s free and super easy to use. All you have to do is enter in your home airport (i.e. OAK) and where you want to go, and they’ll send you mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals.

In 2024 alone, I saved thousands of dollars thanks to their email alerts. This includes most recently, a $695 roundtrip fare from Oakland to Tokyo. On average, I save about $400 roundtrip on selected flight routes. So, I’m a huge fan and couldn’t recommend them more!

If you’re a frequent flier, consider getting their premium version. It costs $49 per year, but it will easily save you hundreds (or thousands) of dollars if you fly just 1-2 times. I recommend signing up for the free trial (which you can cancel at any time) to test it out for yourself. And if you like it, use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!

Best Destinations with Cheap Flights from Oakland

Looking for cheap getaways from Oakland? Visit Las Vegas for world-class entertainment and nightlife, Los Angeles for iconic attractions and sunny beaches, Santa Ana for cultural hotspots and vibrant arts, San Diego for stunning coastal views and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or cuisine, these destinations offer budget-friendly getaways from Oakland.

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Looking to save BIG on airfare? I recommend signing up for Dollar Flight Club. Thanks to DFC, I’ve saved $5,000+ on travel in 2024…so I couldn’t recommend it more!

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1. Oakland to Las Vegas ($89-$180 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Spirit, Southwest, Frontier (multiple direct flights daily)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌵 and September to November 🎰 for bearable desert temps
• 🏆 Perfect for: Nightlife enthusiasts 🍸, pool party lovers 👙, desert adventurers 🏜️

Las Vegas is that perfect weekend escape when Oakland life gets too predictable. This desert playground offers incredible themed hotels, 24/7 entertainment, and surprisingly affordable luxury if you know where to look.

The Strip is Vegas’ famous 4-mile stretch where you can see the Bellagio fountains dance to music, ride a roller coaster at New York-New York, and take photos with the Eiffel Tower replica all within walking distance. But for better deals, head to Fremont Street in downtown Vegas which gives you the full Sin City experience. Drinks cost about half what you’d pay at fancy casino bars, and spots like The D and El Cortez still have $5 blackjack tables. 

You can also trade slot machines for sunshine with a trip to Red Rock Canyon, just 20 minutes from the Strip, or explore surreal installations at Omega Mart and the Neon Museum.

Spirit and Frontier offer the lowest fares, sometimes under $100 roundtrip, but pack light to dodge fees. Southwest costs more but includes bags and better flight times. 

• Read next: Cheapest Places to Fly from Las Vegas

2. Oakland to Los Angeles ($76–$160 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Southwest, Spirit, Alaska (multiple direct flights daily)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌴 and September to November 🌊 for perfect weather without tourist crowds
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach hoppers 🏖️, food adventurers 🍽️, celebrity spotters 👓

Los Angeles is basically several different cities smashed together along miles of coastline. This sprawling SoCal playground offers everything from perfect beaches to Hollywood glamour, all just a quick flight from Oakland that costs less than the gas to drive there.

Venice Beach boardwalk gives you that classic LA experience with street performers, skaters, and the kind of people-watching that’s better than any reality TV show. But for beaches without the circus atmosphere, locals head to Manhattan Beach or El Matador in Malibu where the coastline looks straight out of a movie (because it probably was). For food that’ll make you question why you ever eat at chain restaurants, Grand Central Market downtown has everything from the best tacos at Tacos Tumbras a Tomas to legit ramen all under one historic roof.

Southwest usually has the most flexible flights, but Spirit sometimes drops fares under $80 if you pack light. Visit in October for sunny skies and fewer crowds.

3. Oakland to Santa Ana ($91–$175 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Southwest, Spirit (multiple direct flights daily)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌸 and September to October 🍂 for perfect SoCal weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Theme park enthusiasts 🎢, beach lovers 🏖️, foodie explorers 🍴

Santa Ana is your shortcut to Orange County without the chaos of LAX. This underrated SoCal destination puts you within easy reach of world-class beaches, major attractions, and surprisingly awesome food scenes that most Northern Californians completely sleep on.

Downtown Santa Ana has transformed from sketchy to hip in recent years, with the 4th Street Market food hall serving everything from craft donuts to fusion tacos in a space that would fit right into Oakland’s trendiest neighborhoods. The Anaheim Packing District nearby follows the same vibe, housed in a renovated citrus packing warehouse where you can sample local craft beers and artisanal ice cream. And yes, Disneyland is just 15 minutes away, but you already knew that.

Southwest runs the most direct flights to John Wayne Airport, which is calmer, faster, and far less stressful than flying into LA. Book midweek to score fares under $100.

• Read next: Affordable Places to Fly from Santa Ana

4. Oakland to San Diego ($85–$190 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Southwest, Alaska, Spirit (multiple direct flights daily)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to October 🌞 for perfect beach weather with fewer tourists in shoulder seasons
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach enthusiasts 🏖️, craft beer lovers 🍺, laid-back vacationers 🌴

San Diego is basically what happens when perfect weather meets chill vibes. This SoCal gem offers the state’s best beaches, an incredible craft beer scene, and a laid-back atmosphere that makes Oakland feel hectic by comparison.

North Park neighborhood is San Diego’s hipster haven, packed with craft breweries like Modern Times and North Park Beer Co where you can sample award-winning IPAs. For beaches that’ll make you question why you live in Northern California, head to Torrey Pines State Beach where dramatic cliffs and fewer crowds create the perfect California coast experience. Animal lovers can hit San Diego Zoo (actually worth the hype) or take the budget approach and check out the seal colony at La Jolla Cove for free.

Southwest offers the most direct flights, but flash sales can drop roundtrip fares below $100. Flying Tuesday or Wednesday often saves $30–$40.

Don’t be surprised if your “quick weekend trip” turns into browsing San Diego apartment listings on your flight back to Oakland.

• Read next: Cheap Places to Fly from San Diego

5. Oakland to Eugene ($94–$200 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Alaska, United (direct flights available most days)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: July to September 🌲 for outdoor activities and May to June 🌼 for fewer tourists
• 🏆 Perfect for: Outdoor enthusiasts 🥾, craft beer lovers 🍺, college town explorers 🎓

Eugene is part college town, part nature haven — and it flies under the radar in all the right ways.

The Whiteaker neighborhood (locals call it “The Whit”) is where you’ll find the best breweries like Ninkasi and Hop Valley plus food trucks and hippie vibes. The Saturday Market downtown is packed with local vendors selling everything from tie-dye to handmade jewelry, plus killer food carts and live music. For hiking that actually delivers views worth the effort, hit up Spencer Butte, a moderate 2-mile trail that gives you panoramic views of the entire valley from the top.

For a uniquely Eugene experience, rent bikes and cruise the Ruth Bascom Riverbank Path System that follows the Willamette River through the heart of the city, with plenty of spots to stop for local beer and food.

Alaska Airlines runs frequent nonstop flights from Oakland, often under $150 if booked early. The sweet spot for visiting is September for perfect weather and fewer crowds.

• Read next: Dreamy Oregon Destinations
• You may also like: Beautiful Places to Visit in the Pacific Northwest

6. Oakland to Bellingham ($113–$220 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Alaska (direct flights available several days a week)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: July to September 🌄 for outdoor activities and fewer rainy days
• 🏆 Perfect for: Nature lovers 🏔️, craft beer enthusiasts 🍺, outdoor adventurers 🚵‍♀️

Bellingham is a college town near the Canadian border that offers incredible access to mountains, gorgeous waterfront views, and a legit beer scene without the Seattle crowds or prices.

Fairhaven is Bellingham’s historic district with brick buildings, indie bookstores, and spots like Stones Throw Brewery where you can sip local beers on their outdoor patio. For outdoor adventures without needing serious gear, Whatcom Falls Park has multiple waterfalls and swimming holes just minutes from downtown, while Larrabee State Park offers killer sunset views over the San Juan Islands.

Alaska Airlines is pretty much your only option for direct flights from Oakland, but they run sales a few times a year where fares drop below $150 roundtrip. Visit in August for warm days and fewer clouds.

7. Oakland to Philadelphia ($244–$370 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: American, United, Frontier (usually requires one connection)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June 🌸 and September to November 🍂 for mild weather and fewer tourists
• 🏆 Perfect for: History buffs 🏛️, food adventurers 🥪, art lovers 🎨

Philadelphia is so much more than cheesesteaks and the Liberty Bell. This walkable East Coast city serves up world-class art, iconic landmarks, and a laid-back energy that feels refreshingly real.

Fishtown is Philly’s Brooklyn-style neighborhood, packed with breweries, vintage shops, and spots like Pizzeria Beddia that food critics call the best pizza in America. For a culture fix that won’t bore you to tears, the Philadelphia Museum of Art has those famous “Rocky steps” plus amazing collections inside, while the Barnes Foundation houses billions worth of impressionist art displayed in a totally unique way. Obviously you need to try a cheesesteak, so head to John’s Roast Pork or Jim’s where locals actually eat.

American and United typically offer the best one-stop options from Oakland, but set fare alerts for random sales where prices occasionally drop below $300 roundtrip.

• Read next: Cheap Flights from Philadelphia

8. Oakland to Portland ($127–$240 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Alaska, Southwest (multiple direct flights daily)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: July to September 🌲 for perfect outdoor weather and June 🌹 for the Rose Festival
• 🏆 Perfect for: Food cart enthusiasts 🌮, coffee snobs ☕, outdoor explorers 🌉

Portland is a Pacific Northwest hotspot that offers incredible food, amazing coffee, and easy access to nature, all just a quick flight from Oakland that won’t empty your bank account.

Alberta Arts District is where you’ll find Portland’s creative side, with colorful murals, indie boutiques, and spots like Salt & Straw serving ice cream flavors so weird they somehow circle back to delicious. For food that’s worth the flight alone, Portland Mercado food cart pod features Latin American street food that makes Oakland taco trucks look basic, while Pine Street Market houses mini-versions of the city’s best restaurants under one roof. 

Alaska Airlines and Southwest regularly compete on fares from Oakland, often dropping below $150 roundtrip. The best time to visit is definitely summer when the notoriously rainy city shows off its sunny side, but September offers perfect weather with smaller crowds and lower prices.

9. Oakland to Seattle ($105–$215 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Alaska, Delta, Spirit (multiple direct flights daily)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: July to September ☀️ for reliable sunshine and outdoor festivals
• 🏆 Perfect for: Coffee enthusiasts ☕, market explorers 🐟, outdoor adventurers 🏔️

Seattle is basically the Oakland of the Pacific Northwest but with more trees and coffee. This rainy city transforms completely during summer months, offering incredible waterfront views, amazing food, and outdoor adventures that make the trip totally worth it.

Pike Place Market is touristy but worth it to watch the fish-throwing guys and sample local food from dozens of vendors. Capitol Hill is where the cool locals hang with indie shops, vinyl stores, and the best coffee shops you’ll find anywhere. Kerry Park gives you that postcard skyline view with Mount Rainier in the background on clear days.

The spring months bring the first cherry blossoms to the University of Washington campus and comfortably cool 50°F days. Book with Alaska Airlines about 4-6 weeks ahead for nonstop flights around $130 roundtrip, or check Southwest for deals with free checked bags.

• Read next: Affordable Places to Fly from Seattle

10. Oakland to Missoula ($155–$270 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Alaska, United (direct flights available seasonally)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September 🏞️ for outdoor activities and March 🏂 for winter sports
• 🏆 Perfect for: Outdoor enthusiasts 🥾, fly fishing fans 🎣, craft beer lovers 🍺

Missoula is seriously underrated and cheap to fly to from Oakland. This Montana town is perfect when you need to escape city life without blowing your budget.

The Clark Fork River literally runs through downtown, with a legit standing wave where locals actually surf in the middle of a landlocked state. Pretty wild to see people catching waves hundreds of miles from the ocean! Mount Sentinel’s “M” Trail will make your calves burn but rewards you with ridiculous panoramic views that’ll blow up your social media. Don’t miss Kettlehouse Brewing where you can sample local beers on their riverside deck after a day of adventure.

Alaska Airlines runs seasonal direct flights from Oakland, but most of the year you’ll need to connect through Seattle. Fares sometimes drop below $200 roundtrip during late spring and early fall. 

July and August have perfect weather but higher prices, while September gives you almost the same conditions with way fewer tourists.

11. Oakland to Crescent City ($101–$180 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Contour Airlines (daily flights with connections in Eureka)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October 🌲 for redwood exploration and July to August 🐋 for whale watching
• 🏆 Perfect for: Nature lovers 🌿, coastal explorers 🌊, redwood enthusiasts 🌲

Crescent City is California’s hidden coastal gem that most tourists completely overlook. This northwestern outpost offers incredible access to breathtaking redwood forests and rugged Pacific coastlines without the crowds or prices you’ll find in more famous California destinations.

The Redwood National and State Parks are just minutes away, where you can walk among ancient giants that make you feel absolutely tiny. Some trees here are over 2,000 years old and reach heights that’ll strain your neck. Battery Point Lighthouse becomes an island during high tide, creating one of the coolest lighthouse experiences anywhere on the coast. For wildlife viewing, Point St. George offers incredible opportunities to spot sea lions, harbor seals, and migrating whales without the tour boats and crowds of tourist hotspots.

Contour Airlines offers the best connection from Oakland with a quick stop in Eureka, Book at least 6 weeks ahead for the best rates, especially for summer travel. 

• Read next: Affordable Places to Fly from California

12. Oakland to Idaho Falls ($150–$260 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Delta, United (connections through Salt Lake City or Denver)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September 🏔️ for Yellowstone access and December to March ❄️ for budget-friendly ski trips
• 🏆 Perfect for: National park explorers 🏞️, budget skiers 🎿, outdoor photographers 📸

Idaho Falls is the cheapest backdoor to Yellowstone that nobody’s talking about. This city has a massive 600-foot waterfall right downtown and costs way less than flying into touristy Jackson Hole.

The Greenbelt downtown is where you’ll find locals hanging out along the Snake River with actually decent coffee shops and breweries nearby. Yellowstone is just 90 minutes away, so you can see all those Instagram-famous geysers and hot springs without dropping $400+ a night on park lodging. If you’re into winter stuff, Kelly Canyon does night skiing for $46 compared to the ridiculous $200+ day passes at fancy resorts.

Fly Delta through Salt Lake City for the most reliable flights, but check Tuesday deals that sometimes drop to $180 roundtrip. 

13. Oakland to Stockholm ($527–$790 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 11 hours 30 minutes
• 🛫 Best Airlines: Scandinavian Airlines, Lufthansa, United (all require connections)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to August 🌞 for midnight sun and December 🎄 for Christmas markets
• 🏆 Perfect for: Design lovers 🏙️, coffee culture enthusiasts ☕, island hoppers 🏝️

Stockholm is Europe’s coolest capital that somehow stays under the radar despite being absolutely gorgeous. This city is basically built on 14 islands connected by bridges, so you get water views practically everywhere you turn.

Gamla Stan (the Old Town) looks straight out of a fairytale with narrow cobblestone streets and buildings painted in those iconic Swedish yellows and reds. The Vasa Museum houses a massive warship that sank in 1628 and was preserved almost perfectly in the harbor mud for over 300 years. For chill vibes, Södermalm is where the locals actually hang out, with vintage shops, third-wave coffee spots, and rooftop bars with ridiculous views.

Fly Scandinavian Airlines with a connection through Copenhagen for the most direct route, but set price alerts 5-6 months out since fares can randomly drop below $600 during off-season promotions.

If you want a city that feels fresh, photogenic, and way less played out than London or Paris, Stockholm checks all of the boxes.

• Read next: Cheap Places to Fly from Stockholm

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Cheapest Flights from Oakland

Looking to expand your knowledge about the cheapest destinations from Oakland? Here are some common questions I get a lot about cheap flights from Oakland to anywhere.

What are the cheapest destinations from Oakland?

From the bustling streets of Las Vegas to the sunny vibes of Los Angeles and the laid-back charm of Santa Ana, Oakland offers a gateway to a variety of affordable destinations. San Diego, with its beaches and vibrant nightlife, is another top pick. To snag the best deals, it’s wise to keep an eye on flight comparison sites and be on the lookout for seasonal promotions.

Is it cheaper to fly out of Oakland or San Francisco?

Ah, the age-old Bay Area conundrum: Oakland or San Francisco? When it comes to air travel, both airports have their pros and cons, but if you’re looking to save some bucks, Oakland International Airport (OAK) often comes out on top as the more budget-friendly option.

Why, you ask? Well, Oakland Airport is a hub for several low-cost carriers, including Southwest Airlines, which often means cheaper flights. The airport itself is smaller and less busy than San Francisco International Airport (SFO), which can translate to lower landing fees and, consequently, lower ticket prices.

That said, don’t rule out San Francisco just yet. SFO is a major international hub with more airlines and routes, which sometimes means more competitive pricing, especially for international flights. Plus, if you’re racking up those frequent flyer miles with a specific airline that only operates out of SFO, it might make more financial sense in the long run to stick with San Francisco.

Another factor to consider is location. Depending on where you’re coming from or going to in the Bay Area, one airport may be more convenient than the other, and you’ll need to factor in the cost and time of getting to and from the airport.

So, the bottom line? While Oakland is generally considered the cheaper option, especially for domestic flights, it’s always a good idea to compare prices for both airports before booking. You never know—you might just snag a killer deal out of SFO that makes the extra commute worth it.

How can I find the cheapest flights from Oakland to anywhere?

To secure the best deals, turn to flight comparison websites like Skyscanner or Kayak. Setting up fare alerts can notify you of price drops. Being flexible with your travel dates can also unlock better rates. If you’re open to traveling during off-peak seasons or flying mid-week, you might find some unbeatable deals.

Which airlines offer the best cheap flights from Oakland?

Several airlines, including Southwest, Spirit, and Delta, frequently offer competitive rates from Oakland. But remember, the best approach is to shop around. Comparing prices across multiple airlines can lead to unexpected savings.

Is it cheaper to book flights from Oakland well in advance?

In many cases, securing your flight a few months ahead can lead to savings. That said, airlines occasionally release last-minute deals, especially if they have unsold seats. So, while planning ahead is smart, don’t rule out spontaneous adventures!

When is the best time to visit popular destinations for the cheapest flights from Oakland?

Traveling during off-peak seasons, such as spring and fall, can often result in cheaper fares. Moreover, mid-week flights tend to be more budget-friendly, especially on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Are international destinations also cheap to fly to from Oakland?

Absolutely! Oakland serves as a launchpad to several international destinations, particularly within North America and Europe. Regular promotions and seasonal deals can make international travel surprisingly affordable.

Do prices for flights from Oakland fluctuate a lot?

Yes, flight prices can be influenced by factors like demand, time of year, and special promotions. To stay ahead of the game, monitor prices regularly and consider setting up fare alerts on travel websites.

Are there any nearby airports to Oakland that might offer cheaper flights?

While Oakland boasts competitive flight rates, nearby San Francisco International Airport and San Jose International Airport can sometimes offer alternative deals. It’s worth comparing prices across these airports when planning your trip.

How can I ensure I’m getting the best deal on my flight from Oakland?

Beyond comparison sites, consider enrolling in airline loyalty programs for perks and discounts. Fare calendars can give you a monthly view of prices, and sometimes, opting for flights with layovers can lead to significant savings.

Where is the cheapest place to fly from Oakland for a weekend getaway?

For a quick and affordable escape, consider destinations like Las Vegas, known for its entertainment scene, Los Angeles with its blend of urban and beach vibes, or Santa Ana, offering a more relaxed Southern California experience. These spots are perfect for a short, rejuvenating break without breaking the bank.