only if there are no differences in airfare. Most smaller airports usually have higher fares due to lower demand.

e.g. currently, AA flies to both SAN and CLD (from PHX). A random November date shows $100-$115 one way to SAN and $267 to CLD. Both main cabin tix (not BE), with similar departure times (within 20 minutes)

if proximity is important, then CLD access may win out without the consideration of fare and associated costs.