Is Sacramento a good city to visit?

Yes, it offers rich history and proximity to wine country.

How far is the airport from downtown?

Sacramento International Airport is about 15 minutes from downtown.

Yes, Amtrak connects to Sacramento, but it is a very long journey from MS.

What is the best time to visit?

Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures.

There are minimal tolls on this route compared to the East Coast.

Sacramento

Flight Driving

University to Sacramento

Updated: 30 May 2026

The journey from University, Mississippi to Sacramento, California spans roughly 3,200 kilometers. Flying from Memphis International Airport to Sacramento International Airport is the most practical method. Driving involves taking I-55 North to I-40 West, eventually connecting to I-80 West. You will pass through the Great Plains and the Sierra Nevada mountains. This route offers a transition from the humid South to the Mediterranean climate of California.

Total Distance: Driving distance 3,250 km, straight-line air distance 2,780 km.

Fastest Way

Flight from Memphis (MEM) to Sacramento (SMF) is the fastest, taking under 8 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective option for groups of three or more.

Compare University to Sacramento Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	7 hours 30 mins	31 hours
Avg Price	$400 - $650	$550 - $900 in fuel
Operator	United Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	MEM to DEN to SMF	I-40 W to I-80 W
Tip	Denver is a common and efficient connection point for this route.	Be prepared for steep grades when crossing the Sierra Nevada.

Travel Tips

Airport Shuttle
Use the Yolobus service to get from Sacramento International Airport to downtown.
Mountain Driving
Check for chain requirements on I-80 during winter months.
Booking
Use flight aggregators to compare prices between major carriers.
Packing
Layer your clothing as temperatures fluctuate significantly between the desert and mountains.
Rest Stops
Plan your overnight stays in major cities like Oklahoma City or Salt Lake City.

Safety Tips

Mountain Safety
Maintain a safe distance from trucks on steep mountain descents.
Hydration
Drink plenty of water to combat dehydration in high-altitude areas.
Communication
Ensure your phone has roaming or service in rural Nevada.
Vehicle Prep
Check your brakes before driving through the Sierra Nevada range.