13 Affordable Places to Fly From Phoenix for Your Next Trip

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Finding flight deals from Phoenix has become my weird obsession lately, and I’ve got zero regrets about it. After countless late-night searches (and maybe too much iced tea), I’ve discovered some seriously amazing destinations that won’t destroy your savings. Last month, I scored a ticket to Mexico City that cost less than my monthly AC bill and spent mornings wandering through the tree-lined streets of Roma Norte.

I’ve tracked down some of the best places to fly from Phoenix that’ll actually leave you with money to spend when you land. From San Diego, where I lost track of time exploring the food scene in Little Italy between beach sessions, to quick flights up to Portland, these 13 destinations prove you don’t need to drive to LA for incredible travel deals. Trust me, your wallet will thank you later.

#1 tip for finding cheap flights from Phoenix

Looking for cheap places to fly from Phoenix? 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. JFK, LGA, or EWR) and where you want to go, and they’ll send you mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals.

In 2025 alone, I saved thousands of dollars thanks to their email alerts. This includes most recently, a $225 roundtrip fare from Boston to Barcelona. On average, I save about $300 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%!

Top Cheap Flight Destinations from Phoenix

Looking for cheap flight destinations from Phoenix? Soak up the coastal vibes in Santa Ana, where beaches, arts, and culture await. Head to Denver for breathtaking mountain views, outdoor adventures, and a vibrant craft beer scene. Experience the energy of Dallas, known for its rich history, bustling nightlife, and world-class dining. Visit Los Angeles to explore iconic landmarks, sandy beaches, and endless entertainment. Whether you’re craving adventure, relaxation, or city life, these destinations offer budget-friendly escapes from Phoenix.

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1. Phoenix to Santa Ana ($45–$110 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: American Airlines, Southwest, Frontier
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May 🌷 for sunny days and smaller crowds, August ☀️ for festivals and energy
• 🏆 Perfect for: Art enthusiasts 🎨, history buffs 🏛️, family travelers 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Santa Ana is the artsy, underrated side of Orange County. It’s got murals, museums, and a whole lot of culture packed into a walkable downtown. You’re also just a quick drive from beaches and amusement parks, so it’s a great base if you want options.

The Bowers Museum is one of the top spots to check out, with rotating exhibits and impressive collections. Discovery Cube is fun if you’ve got kids with you, and the Santa Ana Zoo is small but charming, complete with a train ride and lots of monkeys. Grab lunch at 4th Street Market, a local favorite for creative street food and dessert stalls.

Frontier tends to offer the lowest fares out of Phoenix, especially if you book three to four weeks ahead. Flights often dip below $60 roundtrip, and May is ideal if you want decent weather without the crowds. August is livelier and still budget-friendly if you plan early. Hotels in the area start around $100 per night.

• Read Next: Best Things to Do in Northern California

2. Phoenix to Denver ($52–$130 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes​
• 🛫 Airlines: American Airlines, Southwest, Frontier, United
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to May 🌷 for mild weather and blooming landscapes, September to October 🍂 for vibrant fall colors and cooler temperatures​
• 🏆 Perfect for: Outdoor enthusiasts 🏞️, craft beer lovers 🍺, art aficionados 🎨​

Denver is that rare city where you can grab tacos downtown and hit a mountain trail an hour later. It’s got a chill vibe, tons of local spots to explore, and views that pretty much never quit.

LoDo (Lower Downtown) is a solid starting point with breweries, old brick buildings, and rooftop patios everywhere. The Denver Art Museum is a cool stop even if you’re not usually into museums, and the Botanic Gardens are great if you want a quiet walk surrounded by actual greenery. Sports fans can catch a game at Coors Field, or just rent a bike and cruise along one of the city’s riverside trails.

Frontier and Southwest tend to have the best prices from Phoenix, especially if you book three to five weeks ahead. You can usually find roundtrip fares under $90 if you fly mid-week. April and September are ideal for better weather and fewer tourists. 

• Read Next: Cheapest Places to Fly from Denver

3. Phoenix to Dallas ($97-$160 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 55 minutes​
• 🛫 Airlines: American Airlines, Southwest, Frontier, Spirit​
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to May 🌷 for mild weather and spring festivals, September to October 🍂 for cooler temperatures and cultural events​
• 🏆 Perfect for: Foodies 🍽️, sports fans 🏀, history buffs 🏛️​

Dallas is a vibrant mix of modern skyscrapers and rich history, offering a dynamic food scene, passionate sports culture, and numerous museums. Whether you’re indulging in world-famous barbecue, catching a game, or exploring art galleries, Dallas has something for everyone.​

Start your visit in the Bishop Arts District, known for its eclectic boutiques, art galleries, and diverse dining options. Sports enthusiasts can experience the energy of a live game at the American Airlines Center, home to the Mavericks and Stars. For a dose of history, the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza offers an insightful look into the life and legacy of President John F. Kennedy. Don’t miss the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, especially beautiful during the spring bloom.​

Frontier and Spirit often provide the most affordable flights from Phoenix, with roundtrip fares sometimes dipping below $100 when booked about a month in advance. Mid-week flights tend to be cheaper, and traveling during the shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October not only offers pleasant weather but also fewer tourists. 

• Read Next: Cheapest Places to Fly from Dallas

4. Phoenix to Los Angeles ($67-$140 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Spirit, American Airlines, Southwest (15+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌸 and September to November 🍂 for mild weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, entertainment seekers 🎬, food enthusiasts 🌮

Los Angeles packs more vibes into one city than should be possible. The sprawling metropolis has perfect beaches, iconic landmarks, and food scenes representing pretty much every culture on the planet.

Venice Beach boardwalk delivers prime people-watching with street performers, skaters, and bodybuilders doing their thing. Griffith Observatory gives you those postcard views of the city and up-close shots of the Hollywood sign. Grand Central Market downtown has amazing food stalls where you can sample everything from gourmet PB&J to the best tacos north of the Mexican border.

Spirit regularly drops fares below $70 roundtrip if you can travel with just a personal item. American and Southwest run tons of daily flights with better service but higher prices. Spring brings perfect beach weather without summer crowds, while fall offers warm days and way shorter lines at attractions. 

• Read Next: Cheapest Places to Fly from LAX

5. Phoenix to Ontario ($59-$120 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: American Airlines, Southwest, United (6+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌸 and September to November 🍂 for mild weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: SoCal explorers 🏙️, theme park visitors 🎢, shoppers 🛍️

Ontario is your secret backdoor to Southern California. This Inland Empire city has a way less stressful airport than LAX, puts you closer to mountain adventures, and still keeps those famous beaches within easy reach.

Victoria Gardens offers outdoor shopping in a pedestrian-friendly setting that feels more like a small town than a mall. The historic Route 66 runs nearby with classic diners and roadside attractions worth checking out. Most visitors use Ontario as their base for exploring nearby attractions like Disneyland, Joshua Tree National Park, or Big Bear Lake for mountain escapes.

Southwest runs the most convenient direct flights from Phoenix, though rarely the cheapest options. Look for midweek travel to save $40-60 compared to weekend departures. Hit this destination in March or April for perfect theme park weather without the crowds, or plan a fall getaway when temperatures cool down but outdoor activities remain ideal.

6. Phoenix to Las Vegas ($51–$120 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Frontier, Spirit, Southwest (10+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌸 and September to November 🍂 for milder temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Entertainment seekers 🎭, pool partiers 🍹, weekend warriors 🎰

Las Vegas is Phoenix’s favorite playground. This desert oasis has non-stop entertainment, world-class restaurants from celebrity chefs, and a vibe that makes a weekend feel like a full vacation.

The Strip delivers sensory overload with mega-resorts featuring their own attractions, from the dancing fountains at Bellagio to the replica Eiffel Tower at Paris. For a different scene, Fremont Street in downtown offers cheaper gambling, a zipline overhead, and a more old-school Vegas feel. Beyond casinos, shows like Cirque du Soleil redefine what’s humanly possible, while the nightclub scene draws world-famous DJs to massive venues like Hakkasan and Omnia.

Frontier and Spirit regularly drop fares below $60 roundtrip if you can travel with just a personal item. The quick flight makes weekend trips totally doable, with more time at the blackjack table and less in transit. Visit in fall when pool parties are still happening but without summer’s brutal 110-degree heat that makes walking the Strip feel like crossing the Sahara.

• Read next: Best Airports in Las Vegas
• You may also like: Beautiful Places to Visit in North America

7. Phoenix to San Diego ($77–$150 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Southwest, American Airlines, Frontier (8+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May 🌸 and September to November 🍂 for perfect weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, family travelers 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, outdoor enthusiasts 🌅

San Diego is honestly the perfect escape from Phoenix heat. Just a quick flight and suddenly you’re in this coastal paradise with perfect weather and chill vibes that’ll make you wonder why you don’t visit more often.

La Jolla Cove is ridiculously gorgeous. You can literally see bright orange fish and sea lions just chilling on rocks while you snorkel around. Balboa Park is huge and has everything from the amazing San Diego Zoo to museums and gardens where you could spend days exploring. The food scene is insane too. Little Italy has some of the best restaurants I’ve tried anywhere in California.

Frontier usually has the cheapest flights if you pack super light, but honestly, Southwest is worth the extra few bucks for those two free checked bags and better flight times. Visiting during the shoulder seasons of April to May and September to October not only ensures pleasant weather but also fewer tourists and more affordable accommodations.

8. Phoenix to San Francisco ($94–$170 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours
• 🛫 Airlines: Frontier, United, Southwest (8+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September to November 🍂 and March to May 🌸 for mild weather
• 🏆 Perfect for: Urban explorers 🏙️, foodies 🍽️, fog enthusiasts 🌁

San Francisco is a city of iconic landmarks, diverse neighborhoods, and a rich cultural tapestry. Whether you’re riding a cable car, exploring tech hubs, or indulging in the culinary scene, there’s always something to discover.

Golden Gate Bridge looks even more incredible in person, especially viewed from Baker Beach or the hiking trails in Marin Headlands. Mission District has the best burritos you’ll ever eat and tons of colorful murals covering buildings everywhere. Alcatraz is touristy but actually worth it, just book tickets way ahead because they sell out super fast.

Frontier regularly drops fares below $100 roundtrip if you pack super light, while Southwest costs more but includes two free checked bags. Fall is actually the best time to visit since that’s when SF gets its real summer weather with less fog.

9. Phoenix to Seattle ($155–$230 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 3 hours
• 🛫 Airlines: Alaska Airlines, Delta, American Airlines (6+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: July to September ☀️ for dry season and May to June 🌸 for fewer crowds
• 🏆 Perfect for: Coffee addicts ☕, outdoor enthusiasts 🌲, ferry hoppers 🚢

Seattle is the perfect escape when Phoenix feels like living in an oven. The city has gorgeous water views everywhere, incredible seafood, and enough coffee shops to keep you caffeinated for a year.

Pike Place Market is obviously famous but actually lives up to the hype with flying fish, the original Starbucks, and local vendors selling everything from fresh seafood to handmade crafts. Kerry Park gives you those postcard views of the skyline with Mount Rainier in the background on clear days. For a quick nature fix, Discovery Park offers beaches and forest trails without leaving the city.

Alaska Airlines dominates this route with the most flight options and typically the best service. Look for their frequent sales when fares can drop below $160 roundtrip. Visit in May for spring blooms and fewer tourists, but bring a rain jacket just in case. 

• Read next: Most Beautiful Places in the Pacific Northwest
• You may also like: Cheapest Places to Fly from Seattle

10. Phoenix to Salt Lake City ($111–$180 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Delta, Southwest, Frontier (6+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to October 🏔️ and December to March ❄️ for seasonal activities
• 🏆 Perfect for: Outdoor adventurers 🏂, nature photographers 📸, road trippers 🚗

Salt Lake City is the perfect mountain escape from Phoenix heat. The city has incredible access to outdoor adventures, world-class ski resorts just minutes away, and that crisp mountain air that feels amazing after months in the desert.

Temple Square sits in the heart of downtown with impressive architecture and gardens, while nearby shopping at City Creek Center keeps you entertained on bad weather days. For outdoor enthusiasts, Big Cottonwood Canyon offers stunning alpine scenery and hiking trails just 20 minutes from downtown. Foodies will be surprised by the growing food and brewery scene that defies Utah’s conservative reputation.

Delta runs their hub from SLC with the most flight options, though Frontier occasionally offers deals below $120 roundtrip if you pack light. Summer brings perfect hiking and mountain biking weather without the intense Phoenix heat, while winter transforms the nearby Wasatch Mountains into a powder paradise for skiing and snowboarding. 

• Read Next: Amazingly Beautiful Places in Utah

11. Phoenix to Guatemala City ($179–$320 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Volaris, American Airlines, United (connecting flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April 🌞 for dry season and January to February 🎭 for festivals
• 🏆 Perfect for: Culture seekers 🏛️, adventure travelers 🌋, budget explorers 💰

Guatemala City is your gateway to Central American adventure. The country packs in colonial cities, ancient Mayan ruins, smoking volcanoes, and colorful textile markets all within driving distance of the capital.

Antigua Guatemala is just an hour from the airport with cobblestone streets, colonial churches, and three volcanoes framing perfect photos at every turn. For natural wonders, Lake Atitlán offers what many travelers call the most beautiful lake in the world, surrounded by traditional Mayan villages and volcanic peaks. Adventure seekers shouldn’t miss Acatenango Volcano where you can hike up and camp overnight watching the nearby Fuego Volcano erupt with lava fireworks against the night sky.

Volaris typically offers the cheapest fares, sometimes below $200 roundtrip if you book during their frequent sales. Most flights require a quick connection through Mexico City. Visit during November or February for ideal weather after the rainy season ends but before prices spike during Easter week. Your money stretches incredibly far in Guatemala, with nice hotels under $60 and amazing meals for less than $10, making it one of the best budget adventures from Phoenix.

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to Guatemala
• You may also like: Cheap Caribbean Vacations

12. Phoenix to El Paso ($96–$150 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: American Airlines, Southwest, Frontier (5+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to April 🌵 for mild temperatures
• 🏆 Perfect for: Border explorers 🌮, desert adventurers 🏜️, budget travelers 💰

El Paso is that cool border city that most people totally overlook. This place sits right where Texas, New Mexico, and Mexico all meet up, creating a unique blend of cultures, amazing food, and desert landscapes that look straight out of a western movie.

Franklin Mountains State Park has killer hiking trails with views of three states and two countries from the peaks. Downtown El Paso is going through a serious revival with cool bars and restaurants opening in historic buildings. Foodies shouldn’t miss trying authentic Tex-Mex that’s actually different from Arizona-style Mexican food, with local specialties like stacked red enchiladas you won’t find in Phoenix.

American Airlines runs the most direct flights from their mini-hub in Phoenix, while Southwest offers free checked bags for just a bit more. October and November bring perfect desert temperatures without summer’s intense heat. The best part? El Paso is surprisingly affordable compared to other weekend getaways, with hotel rooms often 30-40% cheaper than similar spots in Arizona, leaving you extra cash for that second round of margaritas.

• Read Next: Unique Places to Visit in the US

13. Phoenix to Portland ($137–$210 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• 🛫 Airlines: Alaska Airlines, Southwest, American Airlines (5+ daily flights)
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: July to September ☀️ for perfect weather and June to August 🌷 for festivals
• 🏆 Perfect for: Food lovers 🍩, craft beer enthusiasts 🍺, nature explorers 🌲

Portland is like Phoenix’s opposite twin. The city has incredible green spaces everywhere, a legit craft beer scene, and that cool Pacific Northwest vibe where nobody seems to stress about anything.

Powell’s Books takes up an entire city block with new and used books that’ll make you want to max out your credit card. Washington Park packs the stunning Japanese Garden and Rose Test Garden into one massive green space that feels worlds away from Phoenix desert. For food lovers, Pine Street Market and food cart pods around the city offer everything from gourmet donuts to authentic Thai food at prices that’ll make you want to eat out for every meal.

Alaska Airlines and Southwest compete for the best fares on this route, with prices sometimes dipping below $140 roundtrip during sales. Summer brings perfect sunny days with low humidity and temperatures that feel like paradise compared to Phoenix heat. 

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

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

What are the cheapest destinations from Phoenix?

There are several budget-friendly destinations from Phoenix, including Santa Ana, Denver, Dallas, Los Angeles, Ontario, Las Vegas, San Diego, Seattle, El Paso, Albuquerque, Salt Lake City, and Tucson, among others.

Which airlines offer the cheapest flights from Phoenix?

Airlines such as Southwest, American Airlines, and Delta often offer competitive prices for flights departing from Phoenix.

When is the best time to book cheap flights from Phoenix?

While it varies by destination, booking a few months in advance and being flexible with your travel dates can often secure the best deals. Additionally, off-peak seasons for your destination can offer significant savings.

Are there any nearby airports that might offer cheaper flights than Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX)?

While Phoenix Sky Harbor is the primary airport, you might also consider checking flights from Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA) or Deer Valley Airport (DVT) for potential deals.

How can I stay updated on the cheapest flights from Phoenix?

Consider setting up fare alerts on travel booking websites, joining airline mailing lists, or using flight comparison tools to monitor prices.

Do budget airlines fly out of Phoenix?

Yes, several budget airlines, including Southwest and Frontier, operate out of Phoenix, offering competitive rates to various destinations.

Is it cheaper to book round-trip flights or one-way flights from Phoenix?

It often depends on the airline and destination. While some airlines offer discounts on round-trip tickets, others might have promotional one-way fares. It’s always a good idea to compare both options.

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

Apart from booking in advance and being flexible with dates, consider traveling on weekdays, avoiding major holidays, and using incognito mode when searching to ensure you’re seeing the freshest prices.

Are last-minute flights from Phoenix more expensive?

Typically, last-minute flights can be pricier. However, there are occasional last-minute deals, especially if airlines have unsold seats they’re looking to fill.

Which destinations are popular for weekend getaways due to their proximity and cheap flights from Phoenix?

Destinations like Tucson, San Diego, and Las Vegas are popular for short weekend trips given their relatively short flight durations and frequent affordable fare options.