Chicago, IL to Austin, TX bus with Greyhound

Sat, Jun 20
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX

Showing times and prices for Jun 20

Cheapest price

$242

Average price

$285

Fastest journey

23 h 35 m

Average duration

1 d 4 h 8 m

Buses per day

12

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 $285 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $242.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX without transferring at least 2 times.

  • Greyhound · ·
    10:30 PM23h35
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    10:05 PMAustin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza), TX
    $2421One-way
    2 transfers
  • Greyhound · · ·
    11:10 PM35h50
    Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
    11:00 AMAustin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza), TX
    $2441One-way
    4 transfers
  • Greyhound · +FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound
    11:10 PM41h45
    Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
    4:55 PMAustin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd, TX
    $2481One-way
    5 transfers
  • Greyhound · · ·
    10:30 PM35h05
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    9:35 AMAustin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd, TX
    $2591One-way
    4 transfers
  • Greyhound · · ·
    10:30 PM34h45
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    9:15 AMAustin, South Congress Transit Center, TX
    $2591One-way
    4 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 $111. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 3m. 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 $111, and a flight costs an average of $102.

Distance: 977 miles (1573 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Flight
Driving

$239

Average price

Cheapest

$270

Average price

$307

Average price

$236

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

23h 38m

Average total duration

23h 8m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

29h 4m

Average total duration

28h 34m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 3m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 3m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

16h 52m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

1.6 - 3.9kg

CO2 emissions

0.5 - 1.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

4.7 - 9.4kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

Amtrak

Most popular train company

United

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX is a bus with an average price of $239 (€196).

This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX:

A bus is $30 (€25) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX costing on average $270 (€221).

A bus is $68 (€55) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX costing on average $307 (€251).

The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 3m.

Other travel options to Austin, TX take longer:

Bus takes on average 23h 8m.

Train takes on average 28h 34m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Austin, TX including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.

You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.

Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.

Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.

Chicago, IL to Austin, TX Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
12:45AM
Arrival Time
12:55AM
Duration
24h10
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$268
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
03:30AM
Arrival Time
01:30PM
Duration
34h00
Departure days
Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$197
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
04:10AM
Arrival Time
04:00PM
Duration
35h50
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$363
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
04:10AM
Arrival Time
10:35PM
Duration
42h25
Departure days
Tue, Fri
Cheapest price
$211
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
04:30AM
Arrival Time
02:30PM
Duration
34h00
Departure days
Tue, Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$143
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
05:10AM
Arrival Time
11:35PM
Duration
42h25
Departure days
Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$310
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
09:45AM
Arrival Time
11:00AM
Duration
25h15
Departure days
Tue, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$212
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
09:55AM
Arrival Time
04:25PM
Duration
30h30
Departure days
Tue, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$202
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
10:15AM
Arrival Time
04:25PM
Duration
30h10
Departure days
Tue, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$202
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
11:10AM
Arrival Time
04:00PM
Duration
28h50
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$320
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
12:10PM
Arrival Time
05:00PM
Duration
28h50
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$295
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
02:40PM
Arrival Time
08:50PM
Duration
30h10
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$143
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
02:45PM
Arrival Time
04:00PM
Duration
25h15
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$385
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
03:00PM
Arrival Time
01:55AM
Duration
34h55
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$146
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
03:15PM
Arrival Time
04:25AM
Duration
37h10
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$268
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
03:40PM
Arrival Time
09:50PM
Duration
30h10
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$296
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
03:45PM
Arrival Time
11:35PM
Duration
31h50
Departure days
Mon, Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$118
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
04:00PM
Arrival Time
05:25AM
Duration
37h25
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$293
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
10:15PM
Arrival Time
12:55AM
Duration
26h40
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$260
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
10:30PM
Arrival Time
08:30AM
Duration
34h00
Departure days
Tue, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$216
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
11:10PM
Arrival Time
07:15PM
Duration
44h05
Departure days
Tue, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$183

Live departures

Chicago, IL to Austin, TX bus times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Austin, TX buses for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Greyhound4:30 AM Chicago, IL
34h00
2:30 PM Austin, TX0 transfersDirect
FlixBus2:45 PM Chicago, IL
25h15
4:00 PM Austin, TX0 transfersDirect
FlixBus3:45 PM Chicago, IL
31h50
11:35 PM Austin, TX0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

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.

Sat
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26

Why should you book Chicago, IL to Austin, TX buses with Omio?

Greyhound as well as FlixBus or Chicago Transit (CTA) offer buses services from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX.

Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Greyhound, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus or Chicago Transit (CTA) to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Greyhound with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus or Chicago Transit (CTA) to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of bus

Buses from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX run on average 10 times per day, taking around 23h 8m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $111 (€91) but you can travel from only $102 (€83) by flight.

The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 977 miles (1573 km) distance in 23h 35m.

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 $102 (€83)
Distance
977 miles (1573 km)
Average bus duration
23h 8m
Cheapest ticket price
$111 (€91)
Buses per day
10
Fastest bus
23h 35m
First bus
12:15 AM
Last bus
11:50 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
28 days
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 $102 (€83)

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 $102 (€83). 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
$111 (€91)
FlixBus frequency
3 a day
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
23h 35m
Cheapest Price
$111 (€91)
Greyhound frequency
8 a day
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 45m
Cheapest Price
$313 (€256)
Chicago Transit (CTA) frequency
1 a day

Complete guide to Austin

Things to do in Austin

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

  • Must visit

Blanton Museum of Art

Major university art museum with strong European, Latin American, and contemporary collections, plus Ellsworth Kelly’s Austin installation.

  • Recommended

Bullock Texas State History Museum

Flagship state history museum covering Texas culture, politics, and identity through large-scale exhibits and films.

  • Recommended

The Contemporary Austin - Jones Center

Downtown contemporary art museum known for rotating exhibitions, modern programming, and a rooftop installation space.

United States Dollar

Moderate by U.S. standards. Food and coffee are reasonable, but hotels and nightlife can raise daily costs.

Average meal costs

Budget
USD 10-15 for tacos, food trucks, or fast casual.
Mid-range
USD 20-40 per person at a casual sit-down restaurant.
Fine dining
USD 75-150+ per person before drinks and tip.
Coffee
USD 4-6 for a latte or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff and delivery drivers.

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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX can start from as little as $111 (€91) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to Austin, TX is $239 (€196) ; 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 bus from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX is 23h 35m to travel the 977 miles (1573 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX leaves at 11:50 PM.
There are 10 buses a day from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX which require at least one change with Greyhound, FlixBus, Chicago Transit (CTA). Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus, Chicago Transit (CTA) for the best way to get you to Austin, TX. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chicago, IL and Austin, TX and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Austin, TX from Chicago, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 23h 35m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Austin, TX including taking a train, bus, and 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 company Greyhound, 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.
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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
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 company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Austin, TX 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.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX among Omio's users.
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 Austin, TX, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and car break-ins, especially in crowded areas and popular nightlife districts. Ride-share scams sometimes occur, so always verify the driver's identity and vehicle details before entering. Avoid unlicensed taxis and be wary of street vendors offering suspicious deals or unauthorized tickets. Staying aware of surroundings and securing personal belongings can help prevent common safety issues.
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 bus stations

Popular bus stations from Chicago, IL to Austin, TX

Most Chicago, IL to Austin, TX buses use the Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station to Austin, Shady Lane (Eastside Bus Plaza) station pair, with some services arriving at Austin, E 9th St / S I-35 Frontage Rd. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Austin, TX bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Chicago
Arrival bus stations in Austin
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
City-centre transport

Getting to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station from Chicago city centre

Bus7 · 8m · $4 · every ~6 min
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
City-centre transport

Getting to Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) from Chicago city centre

Bus28, 151 · 7m · $4 · every ~13 min

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