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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX
Showing times and prices for Nov 06
Cheapest price
$181
Average price
$249
Fastest journey
1 d 1 h 15 m
Average duration
1 d 3 h 33 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
1573 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX will cost around $249 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $181.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave Chicago, IL for Austin, TX on Thu, Nov 06, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Nov 06 the direct buses cover the 1573 km distance in an average of 1 d 3 h 33 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 d 1 h 15 m .
On Thu, Nov 06 the slowest buses will take 1 d 5 h 50 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
03:00PM29h50
Chicago, IL08:50PMAustin, TX
$1811One-way
0 transfers
02:45PM25h15
Chicago, IL04:00PMAustin, TX
$3181One-way
0 transfers
02:45PM25h15
Chicago, IL04:00PMAustin, TX
$3181One-way
0 transfers
03:00PM29h50
Chicago, IL08:50PMAustin, TX
$1811One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to Austin, TX
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €97. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 58m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.5 - 1.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €97, and a flight costs an average of €80.
Distance: 977 miles (1573 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€152 Average price Cheapest | €206 Average price | €225 Average price |
25h 15m Average total duration 24h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 28h 59m Average total duration 28h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 58m Average total duration Fastest 3h 58m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
1.6 - 3.9kg CO2 emissions | 0.5 - 1.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 4.7 - 9.4kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Chicago, IL to Austin, TX Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:45AM | Arrival Time 05:15PM | Duration 31h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $201 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 03:50PM | Duration 29h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $258 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:00PM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 43h35 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $203 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:30PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 23h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $204 |
Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Austin, TX by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, 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.
Thu
Nov 06
Nov 06
Fri
Nov 07
Nov 07
Sat
Nov 08
Nov 08
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Nov 09
Nov 09
Mon
Nov 10
Nov 10
Tue
Nov 11
Nov 11
Wed
Nov 12
Nov 12
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX
USAUSA
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $98 (€80)
Distance 977 miles (1573 km) |
Average bus duration 24h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price $118 (€97) |
Buses per day 10 |
Fastest bus 25h 15m |
First bus 00:15 |
Last bus 23:50 |
Key Takeaways
Train Ticket Prices
- Budget Options: Train tickets from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX start from as low as $118 (€97) if booked well in advance.
- Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $186 (€152) depending on the train type and class.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $98 (€80)
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus, Chicago Transit (CTA) from Chicago, IL to Austin, TXYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to Austin, TX with Greyhound, FlixBus, Chicago Transit (CTA) for as low as $98 (€80). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
25h 15m
Cheapest Price
$143 (€117)
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Greyhound
About
Greyhound Lines, Inc. is a prominent American intercity bus transportation provider, established in 1914. It operates the largest intercity bus network in the United States, also extending services to Canada and Mexico. Greyhound is known for offering affordable and reliable long-distance travel, connecting major cities and rural communities across North America. The company's buses are equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and extra legroom to enhance passenger comfort. Greyhound is a subsidiary of Flix SE, which also owns FlixBus, and together they offer an extensive network of over 1,600 destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
27h 0m
Cheapest Price
$124 (€101)
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Additional luggage
$15 per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed.
Chicago Transit (CTA)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
22h 9m
Cheapest Price
$496 (€406)
Chicago Transit (CTA) frequency
1 a day
FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX by bus. 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 bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Austin, TX, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX can start from as little as $127 (€103) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to Austin, TX is $243 (€198); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Chicago, IL to Austin, TX bus travel time is 28 h 50 min for the 975 mile (1572 km) long journey, but the duration can vary if you travel on weekends and holidays.
The first bus from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX leaves at 12: 10PM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The last bus from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX leaves at 7: 00PM.
There are 11 buses a day from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX which require at least one change with Greyhound, FlixBus or Chicago Transit (CTA). Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
Take the Chicago, IL to Austin, TX bus with Greyhound, FlixBus or Chicago Transit (CTA). However, it's always good to check out all possible bus companies for the journey to Austin, TX from Chicago, IL as there might be differences in the amenities they offer.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX is September.
You have options as you can travel between Chicago, IL and Austin, TX 3 different ways: train, bus or flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX for bus companies Greyhound and FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Austin, TX are:
- Texas State Capitol, a historic building with stunning architecture and informative tours
- Barton Springs Pool, a natural spring-fed pool offering year-round swimming
- Lady Bird Lake, a scenic reservoir with trails for walking and biking
- Zilker Park, a large urban park hosting events and offering recreational activities
- The Bullock Texas State History Museum, an interactive museum exploring the state's rich history.
The best things to do in Austin, TX include:
- Discover the vibrant music scene on Sixth Street, featuring live performances in numerous bars and venues
- Stroll through the Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail, a scenic path perfect for outdoor activities and city views
- Experience the Blanton Museum of Art, home to an extensive collection of European, American, and Latin American art
- Enjoy a live performance at the Paramount Theatre, a historic venue hosting concerts, films, and cultural events
- Savor the diverse culinary scene at the Austin Food Truck Park, offering a variety of local and international cuisines.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus companies Greyhound and FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX depends on the bus companies:
- Greyhound
- You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX, follow these tips:
Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- Guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX with the following bus companies: Greyhound and FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX with the following bus providers: Greyhound and FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX with the following bus providers: Greyhound and FlixBus.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX
Chicago
Austin
The major bus station for departures in Chicago is Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station for your trip from Chicago to Austin.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
information
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Austin is Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza) for your trip to Austin from Chicago.
Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza)
information
Austin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd
information
Most popular bus connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Austin, TX and Chicago, IL
Most popular bus connections to Austin, TX
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