Raleigh, NC RDU to San Francisco, CA SFO Flights

Wed, Aug 05
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Journey information

Overview: Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA flight

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Flights from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA depart on average 64 times per day, taking around 15h 44m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $165 if you book in advance.

There are 2 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 00:21, the last at 23:58. The fastest flight covers the 2404 miles (3870 km) distance in 10h 43m. May 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
2404 miles (3870 km)
Average flight duration
15h 44m
Cheapest ticket price
$165
Flights per day
64
Direct flights
2
Fastest flight
10h 43m
First flight
12:21 AM
Last flight
11:58 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
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

Travel Information

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

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $165. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 15h 44m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $165, and a train costs an average of $291.

Distance: 2404 miles (3870 km)

Compare flight with

Flight
Most popular
Train
Bus

$301

Average price

Cheapest

$938

Average price

$434

Average price

18h 44m

Average total duration

Fastest

15h 44m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

79h 7m

Average total duration

78h 37m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

76h 49m

Average total duration

76h 19m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA is a flight with an average price of $301.

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

A flight is $133 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA costing on average $434.

A flight is $637 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA costing on average $938.

The fastest way to travel from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 15h 44m.

Other travel options to San Francisco, CA take longer:

Bus takes on average 76h 19m.

Train takes on average 78h 37m.

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

Compare prices and tickets Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, 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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Aug 05
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Complete guide to San Francisco, CA

Things to do in San Francisco, CA

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

  • Must visit

California Academy of Sciences

Renowned science museum with rainforest dome, aquarium, and planetarium. Interactive exhibits make it a standout for all ages.

  • Must visit

de Young Museum

Major fine arts museum in Golden Gate Park with American art, textiles, and a panoramic tower. A classic cultural highlight.

  • Must visit

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

Leading modern and contemporary art museum with landmark architecture and strong global collections. Essential for art-focused visitors.

US Dollar ($)

Very high hotel, dining, and transport costs make San Francisco pricier than most US cities and many major tourist destinations.

Average meal costs

Budget
$12-20 for fast food or casual takeout.
Mid-range
$25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
$90+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
$4-7 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis, and round up or tip $1 at cafes for good service.

FAQs: Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA Flight

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap plane tickets from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA can start from as little as $165 when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA is $301 ; 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 Francisco, CA is 10h 43m to travel the 2404 miles (3870 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 Francisco, CA leaves at 12:21 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA leaves at 11:58 PM.
Flights from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA generally leave from Raleigh-Durham International Airport and arrive in San Francisco International Airport.Raleigh-Durham International Airport is 3 miles (6 km) away from Raleigh, NC city centre and San Francisco International Airport is 0 miles (1 km) from San Francisco, CA city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Raleigh, NC and San Francisco, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Since neither Raleigh, NC nor San Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA all year round.
The best events to attend in San Francisco, CA include:
  • Fleet Week, a maritime celebration featuring the Blue Angels and naval ship tours
  • Outside Lands, a major music festival showcasing top artists and local food
  • Chinese New Year Parade, the largest Lunar New Year celebration outside Asia with colorful floats and performances
  • Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, a free music festival in Golden Gate Park featuring a diverse lineup of bluegrass and folk artists.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in San Francisco, CA are:
  • Golden Gate Bridge, an iconic suspension bridge offering panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay
  • Alcatraz Island, a historic site featuring the infamous former prison and informative audio tours
  • Fisherman's Wharf, a bustling waterfront area known for seafood, shops, and sea lions
  • Golden Gate Park, a large urban park with gardens, museums, and recreational activities
  • Chinatown, the oldest and one of the largest Chinatowns in North America, offering vibrant culture and cuisine.
The best holidays to experience in San Francisco, CA include:
  • Thanksgiving, mild weather and a festive atmosphere with family gatherings
  • Christmas, beautiful decorations and holiday spirit throughout the city
  • Memorial Day, the start of summer with outdoor activities and parades
  • Labor Day, a long weekend perfect for enjoying the city's parks and beaches.
The best things to do in San Francisco, CA include:
  • Ride a cable car through the steep streets of San Francisco for a classic city experience
  • Explore the vibrant murals and street art in the Mission District
  • Visit the Exploratorium, an interactive science museum perfect for all ages
  • Take a scenic walk along the Embarcadero, offering views of the Bay Bridge and access to the Ferry Building Marketplace
  • Enjoy a wine tasting tour in nearby Napa Valley, a short drive from the city.
The best season to visit San Francisco, CA is Spring or Fall. The best weather to explore San Francisco, CA is during April-June or September-November.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, 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 Francisco, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like Fisherman's Wharf and Union Square. Common scams include distraction techniques used by groups to steal wallets and fake charity solicitations. It's advisable to avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night and be wary of unofficial taxi services to ensure safety.
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 Francisco, CA

Most Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, CA flights use the Raleigh-Durham International Airport to San Francisco International Airport airport pair. Use this guide to compare Raleigh, NC and San Francisco, 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 Francisco

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

Flights from Raleigh, NC to San Francisco, 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 Francisco, CA

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

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

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