Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA bus with Greyhound

Sun, May 24
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA

Showing times and prices for May 24

Cheapest price

$149

Average price

$288

Fastest journey

2 d 3 h 5 m

Average duration

2 d 7 h 40 m

Buses per day

7

Distance

2784 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA 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 San Diego, CA will cost around $288 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $149.

Fast buses

Of the 7 buses that leave Chicago, IL for San Diego, CA on Sun, May 24, 7 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, May 24 the direct buses cover the 2784 km distance in an average of 2 d 7 h 40 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 d 3 h 5 m .

On Sun, May 24 the slowest buses will take 2 d 11 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.

  • Greyhound
    9:30 PM55h45
    Chicago, IL
    5:15 AMSan Diego, CA
    $1491One-way
    0 transfers
  • Greyhound
    10:15 PM51h05
    Chicago, IL
    1:20 AMSan Diego, CA
    $1901One-way
    0 transfers
  • Greyhound
    6:15 AM59h50
    Chicago, IL
    6:05 PMSan Diego, CA
    $2091One-way
    0 transfers
  • Greyhound
    5:15 AM59h50
    Chicago, IL
    5:05 PMSan Diego, CA
    $2141One-way
    0 transfers
  • Greyhound
    5:10 AM73h05
    Chicago, IL
    6:15 AMSan Diego, CA
    $3401One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $59. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 53m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.8 - 2.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $59, and a train costs an average of $198.

Distance: 1729 miles (2784 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Flight
Driving

$307

Average price

$452

Average price

$305

Average price

Cheapest

$435

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

47h 19m

Average total duration

46h 49m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

50h 4m

Average total duration

49h 34m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 53m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 53m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

30h 9m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

2.8 - 7.0kg

CO2 emissions

0.8 - 2.5kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

8.4 - 16.7kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

Amtrak

Most popular train company

American Airlines

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 San Diego, CA is a flight with an average price of $305 (€246).

This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA:

A flight is $3 (€2) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA costing on average $307 (€249).

A flight is $147 (€119) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA costing on average $452 (€365).

The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 53m.

Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:

Bus takes on average 46h 49m.

Train takes on average 49h 34m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and San Diego, CA 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 San Diego, CA 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 San Diego, CA Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
04:10AM
Arrival Time
05:15AM
Duration
73h05
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$355
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
04:50AM
Arrival Time
05:05PM
Duration
60h15
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$154
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
05:10AM
Arrival Time
06:15AM
Duration
73h05
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$269
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
05:15AM
Arrival Time
05:05PM
Duration
59h50
Departure days
Thu, Sun
Cheapest price
$142
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
06:15AM
Arrival Time
06:05PM
Duration
59h50
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$209
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
03:15PM
Arrival Time
01:20AM
Duration
58h05
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$264
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
04:00PM
Arrival Time
06:15AM
Duration
62h15
Departure days
Tue, Sat
Cheapest price
$296
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
04:20PM
Arrival Time
09:40PM
Duration
53h20
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$131
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
05:01PM
Arrival Time
09:10PM
Duration
52h09
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$185
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
05:25PM
Arrival Time
09:40PM
Duration
52h15
Departure days
Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$207
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
06:01PM
Arrival Time
10:10PM
Duration
52h09
Departure days
Tue, Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$388
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
07:45PM
Arrival Time
05:15AM
Duration
57h30
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$403
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
08:45PM
Arrival Time
06:15AM
Duration
57h30
Departure days
Tue, Wed
Cheapest price
$346
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
09:30PM
Arrival Time
01:10AM
Duration
51h40
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$144
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
10:15PM
Arrival Time
05:15AM
Duration
55h00
Departure days
Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$163
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
10:30PM
Arrival Time
06:15AM
Duration
55h45
Departure days
Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$460

Live departures

Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA bus times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA buses for today, Saturday, May 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Greyhound3:15 PM Chicago, IL
58h05
1:20 AM San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Greyhound4:00 PM Chicago, IL
57h45
1:45 AM San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Greyhound6:01 PM Chicago, IL
51h09
9:10 PM San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Greyhound9:30 PM Chicago, IL
55h40
5:10 AM San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Greyhound10:15 PM Chicago, IL
51h05
1:20 AM San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Greyhound10:30 PM Chicago, IL
55h45
6:15 AM San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Sunday, May 24
Greyhound5:10 AM Chicago, IL
73h05
6:15 AM San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Greyhound5:15 AM Chicago, IL
59h50
5:05 PM San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Greyhound6:15 AM Chicago, IL
59h50
6:05 PM San Diego, CA0 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 San Diego, CA 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.

Sun
May 24
Mon
May 25
Tue
May 26
Wed
May 27
Thu
May 28
Fri
May 29
Sat
May 30

Why should you book Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA buses with Omio?

Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA.

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 to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA.
  • 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 San Diego, CA.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA.
  • 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 San Diego, CA.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of bus

Buses from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA run on average 14 times per day, taking around 46h 49m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $131 (€106) but you can travel from only $59 (€48) by flight.

The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:10. The fastest bus covers the 1729 miles (2784 km) distance in 50h 30m.

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 $59 (€48)
Distance
1729 miles (2784 km)
Average bus duration
46h 49m
Cheapest ticket price
$131 (€106)
Buses per day
14
Fastest bus
50h 30m
First bus
12:15 AM
Last bus
11:10 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
14 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 $59 (€48)

Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CAYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $59 (€48). 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
53h 10m
Cheapest Price
$618 (€500)
FlixBus frequency
1 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
50h 30m
Cheapest Price
$131 (€106)
Greyhound frequency
15 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.

Complete guide to San Diego

Things to do in San Diego

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

  • Must visit

USS Midway Museum

A large aircraft carrier museum on the waterfront with restored aircraft, flight deck views, and naval history exhibits. One of the city’s signature attractions.

  • Recommended

San Diego Museum of Art

Balboa Park’s major art museum, known for European old masters, Asian art, and rotating exhibitions in a landmark Spanish Colonial Revival building.

  • Recommended

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

Contemporary art museum with strong regional and international programming, especially noted for its oceanfront La Jolla location and modern exhibitions.

United States Dollar

San Diego is pricey by U.S. standards, especially for hotels and dining, though tacos, casual eats, and happy hours can help keep daily costs lower.

Average meal costs

Budget
USD 10-18 for tacos, fast food, or casual counter service.
Mid-range
USD 25-45 per person at a standard sit-down restaurant.
Fine dining
USD 80+ per person before drinks, tax, and tip.
Coffee
USD 4-7 for drip coffee or a latte.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up or 10-15% for taxis, and USD 2-5 nightly for hotel housekeeping.

FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA 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 San Diego, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA can start from as little as $131 (€106) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA is $307 (€249) ; 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 San Diego, CA is 50h 30m to travel the 1729 miles (2784 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 San Diego, CA leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA leaves at 11:10 PM.
There are 14 buses a day from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA which require at least one change with Greyhound, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to San Diego, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chicago, IL and San Diego, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to San Diego, CA from Chicago, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 50h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and San Diego, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA:
  • 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 San Diego, CA for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in San Diego, CA are:
  • Balboa Park, a sprawling urban park with museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo
  • USS Midway Museum, a historic naval aircraft carrier museum offering interactive exhibits and tours
  • La Jolla Cove, a picturesque coastal area known for its stunning views and marine life
  • Gaslamp Quarter, a lively historic district with Victorian architecture, dining, and entertainment options
  • Coronado Beach, a beautiful sandy beach known for its gentle waves and iconic hotel.
The best things to do in San Diego, CA include:
  • Explore the vibrant art scene at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
  • enjoy a harbor cruise for stunning views of the skyline and naval ships
  • hike the scenic trails at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
  • visit the Birch Aquarium to learn about marine life and ocean conservation
  • experience the thrill of a whale watching tour off the coast.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA 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 San Diego, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA:
  • 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 San Diego, CA:
  • 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 San Diego, CA. 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 San Diego, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor San Diego, CA 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 San Diego, CA 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 San Diego, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like beaches, public transportation, and popular tourist spots such as the Gaslamp Quarter and Old Town. Common scams include overpriced parking fees and unauthorized ticket sellers near attractions. Staying aware of surroundings, securing belongings, and using official transportation services help reduce risks. Additionally, travelers should avoid isolated areas at night and be mindful of local traffic laws when using scooters or bikes.
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 San Diego, CA

Chicago
San Diego
The major bus station for departures in Chicago is Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) for your trip from Chicago to San Diego.
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
information
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
information

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