Raleigh, NC RDU to San Diego, CA SAN flight with United

Sat, Sep 19
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Journey information

Overview: Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA flight

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Flights from Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA depart on average 59 times per day, taking around 7h 15m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at €147 if you book in advance.

There are 1 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 05:00, the last at 22:49. The fastest flight covers the 2195 miles (3534 km) distance in 5h 18m. April is the cheapest month to fly.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance
2195 miles (3534 km)
Average flight duration
7h 15m
Cheapest ticket price
€147
Flights per day
59
Direct flights
1
Fastest flight
5h 18m
First flight
5:00 AM
Last flight
10:49 PM
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Best time to book
2 days
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information

The cheapest and fastest flights from Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19

Cheapest price on Sep 19

€137

Average ticket price on Sep 19

€270

Fastest journey on Sep 19

6 h 41 m

Average journey duration on Sep 19

7 h 10 m

Flights on Sep 19

54

Distance

3534 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA will cost around €270 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €137.

Fast flights

It's difficult to get from Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA without transferring at least once.

  • American AirlinesAA2693 · AA1243
    2:18 PM8h43
    Raleigh-Durham International Airport
    8:01 PMSan Diego International Airport
    1371One-way
    1 transfer
  • American AirlinesAA1749 · AA562
    1:56 PM8h21
    Raleigh-Durham International Airport
    7:17 PMSan Diego International Airport
    1371One-way
    1 transfer
  • American AirlinesAA2693 · AA1789
    2:18 PM7h33
    Raleigh-Durham International Airport
    6:51 PMSan Diego International Airport
    1371One-way
    1 transfer
  • American AirlinesAA2091 · AA1511
    4:57 PM7h51
    Raleigh-Durham International Airport
    9:48 PMSan Diego International Airport
    1371One-way
    1 transfer
  • American AirlinesAA2704 · AA562
    3:36 PM6h41
    Raleigh-Durham International Airport
    7:17 PMSan Diego International Airport
    1371One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €277 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 9h 15m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €277, while a flight costs an average of €331.

Distance: 2195 miles (3534 km)

Compare flight with

Flight
Most popular
Bus
Train
Driving

€331

Average price

€277

Average price

Cheapest

€420

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

9h 15m

Average total duration

Fastest

7h 15m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

60h 44m

Average total duration

60h 14m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

36h 43m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA is a bus with an average price of €277.

This is compared to other travel options from Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA:

A bus is €55 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA costing on average €331.

The fastest way to travel from Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 7h 15m.

Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:

Bus takes on average 60h 14m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Raleigh, NC and San Diego, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA among Omio's users.

Live departures

Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA flight times

The table below shows live departures for Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA flights for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
American AirlinesAA2123 · AA15439:40 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
10h49
5:29 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1448 · UA1363 · UA58210:05 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
10h21
5:26 PM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA1448 · UA1097 · UA550810:05 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
13h40
8:45 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA1535 · UA1786 · UA550810:36 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
13h09
8:45 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA1535 · UA1434 · UA156110:36 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
10h59
6:35 PM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA1535 · UA216310:36 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
7h21
2:57 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1535 · UA1434 · UA550810:36 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
13h09
8:45 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA1535 · UA1689 · UA58210:36 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
9h50
5:26 PM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA1535 · UA1498 · UA107910:36 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
12h17
7:53 PM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA3624 · UA213811:29 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
10h01
6:30 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA3624 · UA1577 · UA550811:29 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
12h16
8:45 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA2683 · AA226611:42 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
9h05
5:47 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2659 · UA2328 · UA550811:53 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
11h52
8:45 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA2688 · AA1711 · AA48012:06 PM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
9h10
6:16 PM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA1749 · AA5621:56 PM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
8h21
7:17 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2693 · AA12432:18 PM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
8h43
8:01 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2693 · AA17892:18 PM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
7h33
6:51 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2732 · AA18612:43 PM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
9h47
9:30 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA3245+psa airlinesAA56633:02 PM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
8h49
8:51 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA3538 · UA2497 · UA20223:05 PM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
10h05
10:10 PM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA676 · UA28253:19 PM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
10h30
10:49 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2704 · AA2815 · AA15113:36 PM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
9h12
9:48 PM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA2704 · AA5623:36 PM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
6h41
7:17 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
Republic AirlinesAA4420+American AirlinesAA18614:11 PM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
8h19
9:30 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
Republic AirlinesAA4420+American AirlinesAA29944:11 PM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
10h14
11:25 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2288 · UA5404:23 PM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
7h11
8:34 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2288 · UA55294:23 PM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
7h29
8:52 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2288 · UA23954:23 PM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
9h05
10:28 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA3281 · AA30104:50 PM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
8h35
10:25 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2091 · AA15114:57 PM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
7h51
9:48 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1495 · UA20225:00 PM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
8h10
10:10 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2816 · UA28255:04 PM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
8h45
10:49 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2407 · UA19115:05 PM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
7h19
9:24 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1769 · UA4425:33 PM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
8h14
10:47 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2949 · AA29946:23 PM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
8h02
11:25 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA1088 · AA20346:00 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
7h25
10:25 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1789 · UA19306:00 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
8h25
11:25 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2781 · AA16216:00 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
8h07
11:07 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2849 · AA21316:00 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
9h15
12:15 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1789 · UA1147 · UA12576:00 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
10h44
1:44 PM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA1088 · AA31096:00 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
9h03
12:03 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA1903 · AA4666:12 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
9h48
1:00 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA1903 · AA1678 · AA21226:12 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
8h51
12:03 PM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA2638 · UA6606:15 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
8h10
11:25 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1604 · UA12576:20 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
10h24
1:44 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1604 · UA55106:20 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
8h44
12:04 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1604 · UA21776:20 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
8h58
12:18 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1383 · UA24916:30 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
7h28
10:58 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1383 · UA23996:30 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
9h47
1:17 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1646 · UA16267:00 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
8h50
12:50 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2601 · AA21227:20 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
7h43
12:03 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA1217 · AA31097:48 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
7h15
12:03 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA1217 · AA17697:48 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
9h23
2:11 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2826 · UA536 · UA13028:00 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
9h50
2:50 PM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA1753 · AA4668:11 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
7h49
1:00 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2383 · UA13028:15 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
9h35
2:50 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2383 · UA19408:15 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
7h46
1:01 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2383 · UA55078:15 AM Raleigh-Durham International Airport
7h49
1:04 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport1 transfer

This is the last flight of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, train, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

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Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
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Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
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Sep 24
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Sep 25

Complete guide to San Diego, CA

Things to do in San Diego, CA

Discover the best of San Diego, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego, CA trip today.

  • Must visit

San Diego Museum of Art

Major Balboa Park museum with works from Spanish old masters to modern art, plus strong regional and international exhibitions.

  • Must visit

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

Acclaimed contemporary art museum in La Jolla featuring oceanfront settings, modern works, and rotating global exhibitions.

  • Must visit

USS Midway Museum

Museum aboard a historic aircraft carrier with restored aircraft, naval exhibits, and immersive views of life at sea.

US Dollar ($)

San Diego is pricey for US travel, with higher hotel rates, dining, and parking than many cities, though casual food and buses stay manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
Mid-range
$25-45 per person for a mid-range meal.
Fine dining
$75+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
$4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 for coffee drinks or small cafe orders.

FAQs: Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA Flight

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA by flight. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest flight, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at San Diego, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap plane tickets from Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA can start from as little as €147 when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA is €331 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by plane from Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA is 5h 18m to travel the 2195 miles (3534 km) long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest flight from Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA leaves at 5:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA leaves at 10:49 PM.
Flights from Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA generally leave from Raleigh-Durham International Airport and arrive in San Diego International Airport.Raleigh-Durham International Airport is 3 miles (6 km) away from Raleigh, NC city centre and San Diego International Airport is 2 miles (4 km) from San Diego, CA city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA is April.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Raleigh, NC and San Diego, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Since neither Raleigh, NC nor San Diego, CA are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
There is a time difference of 3 h between Raleigh, NC and San Diego, CA all year round.
The best events to attend in San Diego, CA include:
  • Comic-Con International, the largest comic book and popular arts convention in the world
  • San Diego County Fair, a month-long fair featuring rides, games, and local food
  • San Diego Beer Week, a celebration of craft beer with tastings and events across the county
  • La Jolla Music Festival, an annual event showcasing classical music performances in a picturesque coastal setting.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in San Diego, CA are:
  • Balboa Park, a sprawling urban park with museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo
  • USS Midway Museum, a historic naval aircraft carrier museum offering interactive exhibits and tours
  • La Jolla Cove, a picturesque coastal area known for its stunning views and marine life
  • Gaslamp Quarter, a lively historic district with Victorian architecture, dining, and entertainment options
  • Coronado Beach, a beautiful sandy beach known for its gentle waves and iconic hotel.
The best holidays to experience in San Diego, CA include:
  • Memorial Day, ideal weather for beach activities and outdoor events
  • Independence Day, spectacular fireworks and patriotic celebrations
  • Labor Day, perfect for enjoying the last days of summer at the beach
  • Thanksgiving, a time for family gatherings with pleasant fall weather.
The best things to do in San Diego, CA include:
  • Explore the vibrant art scene at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
  • enjoy a harbor cruise for stunning views of the skyline and naval ships
  • hike the scenic trails at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
  • visit the Birch Aquarium to learn about marine life and ocean conservation
  • experience the thrill of a whale watching tour off the coast.
The best season to visit San Diego, CA is Spring or Fall. The best weather to explore San Diego, CA is during April-June or September-November.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA among Omio's users.
For domestic flights we recommend to arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before departure. Please check the website of your departure airport if in doubt. Some airports may offer booking time slots for security checks or offer additional information on when to get there based on time of day.
Most airlines permit carry-on bags that fit within specific dimensions (e.g., 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. Bags must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
Many airlines impose weight limits, commonly ranging between 7 kg (15 lbs) and 12 kg (26 lbs). Typically, passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (for example a purse, laptop bag, or backpack). Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you. Budget Airlines (like Ryanair or Wizz Air) have stricter size and weight limits, often requiring fees for larger carry-ons. Full-Service Airlines have more lenient policies, sometimes including more spacious dimensions or higher weight limits depending on your ticket class.
The list of items prohibited on an airplane varies by country and airline, but in general, the following items are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage: Weapons and self-defence items, sharp objects, flammable materials, explosives, toxic substances, or liquids over 100ml (except for medications and baby essentials). In checked baggage, firearms (without authorization), explosives, large lithium batteries, and hazardous chemicals are prohibited. Electronic cigarettes must be in carry-on bags, while alcohol and dry ice have restrictions. Always check with your airline for specific regulations.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In San Diego, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like beaches, public transportation, and popular tourist spots such as the Gaslamp Quarter and Old Town. Common scams include overpriced parking fees and unauthorized ticket sellers near attractions. Staying aware of surroundings, securing belongings, and using official transportation services help reduce risks. Additionally, travelers should avoid isolated areas at night and be mindful of local traffic laws when using scooters or bikes.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular airports

Popular airports from Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA

Most Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA flights use the Raleigh-Durham International Airport to San Diego International Airport airport pair, with some services landing at McClellan-Palomar Airport. Use this guide to compare Raleigh, NC and San Diego, CA airports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like airport facilities and services.

Departure airports in Raleigh
Arrival airports in San Diego

Which Raleigh, NC airport do flights to San Diego, CA leave from?

Flights from Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA depart from Raleigh-Durham International Airport. The airport is 4 miles (7 km) from Raleigh, NC city centre at 2400 John Brantley Blvd, Morrisville, NC 27560, USA.
Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)2400 John Brantley Blvd, Morrisville, NC 27560, USAWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Raleigh-Durham International Airport from Raleigh city centre

Raleigh-Durham International Airport is 6 km from Raleigh city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus100 · 31m
100 · 32m
100 · 1h 11m · €1 · every ~6 min

Raleigh-Durham International Airport airport facilities and services

Raleigh-Durham International Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurants available in both terminals, including fast food and sit-down options like 42nd Street Oyster Bar and La Tapede.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located in both terminals, near baggage claim and ticketingas.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Raleigh-Durham International Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Raleigh-Durham International Airport: Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Raleigh-Durham International Airport: Elevators, ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotels nearby, such as the Hyatt Place and Fairfield Inn & Suites, within a short drive..

More options for your journey from Raleigh, NC to San Diego, CA

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Most popular flights to and from San Diego, CA and Raleigh, NC

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