The cheapest and fastest buses from Merced, CA to Chicago, IL
Cheapest price
$927
Average price
$927
Fastest journey
2 d 22 h 50 m
Average duration
2 d 22 h 50 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
2841 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Merced, CA to Chicago, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Merced, CA to Chicago, IL will cost around $927 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $927.
It's difficult to get from Merced, CA to Chicago, IL without transferring at least 2 times.


Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Merced, CA to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Merced, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from €512. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 65h 20m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €512, and a bus costs an average of €750.
Distance: 1765 miles (2841 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train |
|---|---|
€750 Average price | €512 Average price Cheapest |
71h 20m Average total duration 70h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 65h 50m Average total duration Fastest 65h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Merced, CA to Chicago, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Merced, CA to Chicago, IL buses for tomorrow, Sunday, December 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 4:05 PM Merced, CA | 70h50 | 2:55 PM Chicago, IL | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Merced, CA to Chicago, IL by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
Dec 21
Dec 22
Dec 23
Dec 24
Dec 25
Dec 26
Dec 27
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Merced, CA to Chicago, IL
Buses from Merced, CA to Chicago, IL run on average 7 times per day, taking around 70h 50m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $935 (€750) but you can travel from only $639 (€512) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 22:30. The fastest bus covers the 1765 miles (2841 km) distance in 70h 50m.
Distance 1765 miles (2841 km) |
Average bus duration 70h 50m |
Cheapest ticket price $935 (€750) |
Buses per day 7 |
Fastest bus 70h 50m |
First bus 00:15 |
Last bus 22:30 |
Bus providers: FlixBus from Merced, CA to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between Merced, CA to Chicago, IL with FlixBus for as low as $639 (€512). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
FAQs: Bus from Merced, CA to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Merced, CA to Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- Millennium Park, a public park known for its modern art installations and the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture
- Art Institute of Chicago, a renowned museum housing an extensive collection of art from around the world
- Navy Pier, a popular entertainment destination featuring rides, restaurants, and lakefront views
- Willis Tower Skydeck, an observation deck offering panoramic views of the city from one of the tallest buildings in the Western Hemisphere
- Field Museum, a natural history museum with vast exhibits including the famous T. Rex skeleton, Sue.
- Museum of Science and Industry, an interactive museum featuring exhibits on science, technology, and industry
- Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Chicago, such as Wicker Park and Lincoln Park, known for their unique shops and eateries
- Take a river cruise to see the city's iconic architecture from a different perspective
- Attend a live performance at the historic Chicago Theatre
- Enjoy a day at Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the U. S. Offering free admission.
- 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 Merced, CA to Chicago, IL, follow these tips:
Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- Guide dogs travel for free.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Merced, CA to Chicago, IL
Most popular bus connections from Merced, CA
More options for your journey from Merced, CA to Chicago, IL
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