How Far Is Sacramento From Los Angeles?

Are you planning a trip from Sacramento to Los Angeles? This article aims to provide you with all the information you need about the distance between these two cities and the different modes of transportation available. Sacramento and Los Angeles are two popular cities in California, and there are various ways to travel between them. Whether you prefer to drive, fly, or take the train, this article will guide you through the options available.

Distance Between Sacramento and Los Angeles

The distance between Sacramento, California, and Los Angeles, California, is approximately 386 miles (621 kilometers) by car, taking the most direct route on I-5 South.

The travel time between the two cities can vary depending on the mode of transportation and the route taken. By car, it usually takes around 6 hours to travel from Sacramento to Los Angeles. However, travel time can be affected by traffic, weather, and road conditions.

Other transportation options include flying, which takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from Sacramento International Airport (SMF) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The travel time for flying can also be affected by factors such as flight schedules, delays, and time spent getting to and from the airport.

Overall, the distance between Sacramento and Los Angeles can be covered within a day by car or within a few hours by air travel.

Driving from Sacramento to Los Angeles

Driving from Sacramento to Los Angeles is a popular option for those who want to explore California and enjoy the scenic views. There are two main routes that you can take when driving from Sacramento to Los Angeles: Interstate 5 South (I-5 S) and California State Route 99 South (CA-99 S).

1. Interstate 5 South (I-5 S)

The I-5 S is the most direct and popular route for driving from Sacramento to Los Angeles. This route covers a driving distance of approximately 383 miles or 616 kilometers.

The estimated travel time for driving the I-5 S is around 6 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the chosen route. Before arriving in Los Angeles, this route passes through several cities and towns, including Stockton, Modesto, and Bakersfield.

Some of the attractions along the way when driving the I-5 S include:

Lodi Wine Country: located in the city of Lodi, this region is home to over 85 wineries and vineyards.
Magic Mountain: located in Valencia, this amusement park features several roller coasters, thrill rides, and family-friendly attractions.
Six Flags Discovery Kingdom: located in Vallejo, this theme park features several roller coasters, animal exhibits, and live entertainment.

2 . California State Route 99 South (CA-99 S)

The CA-99 S is a longer but more scenic route for driving from Sacramento to Los Angeles. This route covers a distance of approximately 420 miles or 676 kilometers.

The estimated travel time for the CA-99 S is around 7 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the chosen route. Before arriving in Los Angeles, this route passes through several cities and towns, including Fresno and Bakersfield.

Some of the attractions along the way when driving the CA-99 S include:

Sequoia National Forest: located in the Sierra Nevada mountains, this forest has several giant sequoia trees and hiking trails.
Tehachapi Loop: located near Tehachapi, this railway loop allows trains to climb over 77 feet in elevation at a distance of 0.73 miles.
Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve: located near Lancaster, this reserve is home to several fields of California poppies, the state flower.

Driving from Sacramento to Los Angeles is an exciting way to explore California and enjoy the scenic views along the way. The I-5 S is the most direct and popular route, while the CA-99 S is longer but more scenic. Both routes offer several attractions and landmarks, and the estimated travel time and distance vary depending on the chosen route and traffic conditions.

Flying from Sacramento to Los Angeles

Flying from Sacramento to Los Angeles is a popular option for those who want to save time and avoid traffic. The flight distance from Sacramento to Los Angeles is 373 Miles. Several airlines operate flights between Sacramento and Los Angeles, including Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta Airlines.

1. Southwest Airlines: Southwest Airlines operates several flights between Sacramento International Airport (SMF) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) daily. The estimated travel time for a non-stop flight between the two cities is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

The cost of a one-way ticket on Southwest Airlines typically ranges from $59 to $149, depending on the travel date and time of booking.

2. American Airlines: American Airlines operates several flights between SMF and LAX daily. The estimated travel time for a non-stop flight between the two cities is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.

A one-way ticket on American Airlines typically ranges from $79 to $199, depending on the travel date and time of booking.

3. Delta Airlines: Delta Airlines operates several flights between SMF and LAX daily. The estimated travel time for a non-stop flight between the two cities is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.

The cost of a one-way ticket on Delta Airlines typically ranges from $79 to $199, depending on the travel date and time of booking.

When flying between Sacramento and Los Angeles, the most popular airports are Sacramento International Airport (SMF) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). SMF is located approximately 10 miles northwest of downtown Sacramento and serves several airlines, including Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta Airlines. LAX is located approximately 18 miles southwest of downtown Los Angeles and is one of the busiest airports in the United States.

Flying from Sacramento to Los Angeles is a quick and convenient option for those who want to save time and avoid traffic. Several airlines operate flights between the cities, including Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta Airlines.

The estimated travel time and cost vary depending on the chosen airline, travel date, and time of booking. The most popular airports in Sacramento and Los Angeles are SMF and LAX.

Taking the Train from Sacramento to Los Angeles

Taking the train from Sacramento to Los Angeles is a scenic and relaxing way to travel between the two cities. Two train services are available: Amtrak California’s Capitol Corridor and Pacific Surfliner.

1. Amtrak California’s Capitol Corridor

Amtrak California’s Capitol Corridor service runs between Sacramento and San Jose, with a connection to the Coast Starlight train service between San Jose and Los Angeles. The estimated travel time for the entire journey is approximately 11 hours and 45 minutes.

The cost of a one-way ticket on the Capitol Corridor service ranges from $28 to $64, depending on the travel date and time of booking. The cost of a one-way ticket on the Coast Starlight train service ranges from $54 to $138, depending on the travel date and time of booking.

2. Pacific Surfliner

The Pacific Surfliner service runs between San Luis Obispo and San Diego, with a connection to the Coast Starlight train service between San Jose and Los Angeles. The estimated travel time for the entire journey is approximately 13 hours and 15 minutes.

The cost of a one-way ticket on the Pacific Surfliner service ranges from $37 to $96, depending on the travel date and time of booking. The cost of a one-way ticket on the Coast Starlight train service ranges from $54 to $138, depending on the travel date and time of booking.

Some of the attractions along the way include scenic views of the California coast, the historic Old Sacramento district, the state capitol building in Sacramento, and the iconic Hollywood sign in Los Angeles.

Overall, taking the train from Sacramento to Los Angeles is scenic and comfortable for those who want to enjoy the journey and take in the sights along the way. Two train services are available: Amtrak California’s Capitol Corridor and Pacific Surfliner.

The estimated travel time and cost vary depending on the chosen service, travel date, and time of booking. Some of the attractions along the way include scenic views of the California coast and iconic landmarks in Sacramento and Los Angeles.

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How Far Is San Francisco From Los Angeles

In summary, the article provides a comprehensive guide on how far is Sacramento from LA and how to travel between Sacramento and Los Angeles. It covers the distance between the two cities, the different modes of transportation available, and some attractions along the way.

The Sacramento distance to Los Angeles by air line is approximately 385 km with a flight time of around 1 hour and 15 minutes, while the shortest distance by driving directions is approximately 612 km, taking around 6-7 hours at an average speed, with a time difference of about 1 hour due to the change in time zones.

For those who prefer to drive, multiple routes are available with different travel times and distances. Flying is faster, with multiple airlines operating flights between Sacramento and Los Angeles. Those who prefer a scenic and relaxing journey can take the train, with two services available.

When traveling between Sacramento and Los Angeles, CA, it’s important to consider travel time, cost, comfort, and convenience factors. It’s also important to plan, book tickets in advance, and check for travel restrictions or requirements.

In conclusion, regardless of the mode of transportation chosen, traveling between Sacramento and Los Angeles is a great way to experience the beauty and diversity of California. With a little planning and preparation, the journey can be as enjoyable as the destination.