- Must visit
Art Institute Of Chicago
One of the world’s leading art museums, famous for Impressionist masterpieces, American art, and major special exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Jul 08
Cheapest price
$409
Average price
$476
Fastest journey
2 d 55 m
Average duration
2 d 12 h 29 m
Buses per day
6
Distance
2983 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from San Francisco, 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 San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL will cost around $476 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $409.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL without transferring at least 2 times.
· · 1:30 PM48h55San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 294:25 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$4091One-way2 transfers
FlixBus+ · · 7:30 AM54h55San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA4:25 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$4291One-way3 transfers- · · · 1:30 PM64h30San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 298:00 AMChicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL$4581One-way4 transfers
- · +FlixBus10:30 PM63h35San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 294:05 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$4811One-way2 transfers
- FlixBus+ · · 7:30 AM70h30San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA8:00 AMChicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL$4851One-way4 transfers
- · · 1:30 PM48h55San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 294:25 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$4091One-way2 transfers
- FlixBus+ · · 7:30 AM54h55San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA4:25 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$4291One-way3 transfers
- · +FlixBus10:30 PM63h35San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 294:05 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$4811One-way2 transfers
- · · · 1:30 PM64h30San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 298:00 AMChicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL$4581One-way4 transfers
- FlixBus+ · · 7:30 AM70h30San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA8:00 AMChicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL$4851One-way4 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $101. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 49m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.9 - 2.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $101, and a train costs an average of $131.
Distance: 1853 miles (2983 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$365 Average price | $447 Average price | $257 Average price Cheapest | $444 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
54h 14m Average total duration 53h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 54h 30m Average total duration 54h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 49m Average total duration Fastest 4h 49m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 30h 53m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
3.0 - 7.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.9 - 2.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 8.9 - 17.9kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  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 San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL is a flight with an average price of $257 (€211).
This is compared to other travel options from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL:
A flight is $108 (€89) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL costing on average $365 (€300).
A flight is $190 (€156) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL costing on average $447 (€368).
The fastest way to travel from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 49m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 53h 44m.
Train takes on average 54h 0m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Francisco, CA and Chicago, IL including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL 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.
San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:40AM | Arrival Time 09:25PM | Duration 63h45 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $306 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:40AM | Arrival Time 02:00PM | Duration 79h20 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $173 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 54h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $181 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 64h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $160 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 09:25PM | Duration 48h55 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $264 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 02:00PM | Duration 64h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $279 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:30PM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 63h35 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $201 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:25PM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 63h00 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $219 |
Live departures
San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL buses for today, Tuesday, July 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| · +FlixBus | 10:30 PM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 63h35 | 4:05 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
| · · · | 10:30 PM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 79h30 | 8:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 3 transfers | |
| Wednesday, July 8 | |||||
| FlixBus+ · · | 7:30 AM San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA | 54h55 | 4:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 3 transfers | |
| FlixBus+ · · | 7:30 AM San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA | 70h30 | 8:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 4 transfers | |
| · · | 1:30 PM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 48h55 | 4:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
| · · · | 1:30 PM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 64h30 | 8:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 4 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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.
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Why should you book San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL buses with Omio?
Greyhound operates all buses services from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL.
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?
- 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Buses from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL run on average 9 times per day, taking around 53h 44m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $133 (€110) but you can travel from only $101 (€83) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 1853 miles (2983 km) distance in 48h 55m.
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 $101 (€83)
Distance 1853 miles (2983 km) |
Average bus duration 53h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price $133 (€110) |
Buses per day 9 |
Fastest bus 48h 55m |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 42 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 $101 (€83)
Bus providers: Greyhound from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL with Greyhound for as low as $101 (€83). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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
48h 55m
Cheapest Price
$133 (€110)
Greyhound frequency
1 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 Chicago
Things to do in Chicago
Discover the best of Chicago — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago trip today.
- Must visit
Field Museum
A top natural history museum known for Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, fossils, and broad science collections.
- Must visit
Museum Of Science And Industry
A large hands-on science museum with a German submarine, space exhibits, and interactive engineering displays.
- Must visit
Millennium Park
Chicago’s signature downtown park, home to Cloud Gate, gardens, public art, and major seasonal events.
- Must visit
The Magnificent Mile
The city’s best-known avenue for architecture, shopping, and bustling urban energy along North Michigan Avenue.
- Must visit
Chicago Riverwalk
A popular pedestrian waterfront with excellent skyline views, bridges, and easy access to boat architecture tours.
Chicago-Style Deep-Dish Pizza
A thick, buttery crust pizza baked in a deep pan with layers of cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce. It is one of Chicago’s most iconic and debated local specialties.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
An all-beef hot dog on a poppy seed bun topped with yellow mustard, relish, onions, tomato, pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt. It is a classic local street food served without ketchup.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Thinly sliced seasoned roast beef piled onto an Italian roll, often dipped in its juices and topped with sweet peppers or giardiniera. It is a defining working-class Chicago sandwich.
Alinea
Chicago’s world-famous fine-dining restaurant known for highly creative tasting menus and theatrical presentation. It offers one of the city’s most celebrated upscale dining experiences.
Ricobene's
A beloved casual institution best known for breaded steak sandwiches and hearty Italian-American comfort food. It has a loyal local following and an old-school atmosphere.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
A legendary Chicago chain celebrated for buttery-crust deep-dish pizza and a classic casual atmosphere. One of the city’s best-known places to try this signature dish.
United States Dollar
Chicago is pricey for hotels and dining, but budget eats and public transit help keep daily costs manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 90+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular coffee or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 15-20% for taxis and rideshares; USD 1-2 per drink at bars; USD 1-2 per bag for bellhops; USD 2-5 per night for housekeeping.
FAQs: Bus from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Francisco, 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.
Cheap bus tickets from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $133 (€110) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL is $365 (€300) ; 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 San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL is 48h 55m to travel the 1853 miles (2983 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 San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:50 PM.
There are 9 buses a day from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL which require at least one change with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL, you can count on Greyhound for the best way to get you to Chicago, IL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between San Francisco, CA and Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Chicago, IL from San Francisco, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 48h 55m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Francisco, CA and Chicago, IL including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL for bus company Greyhound.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Chicago, IL are:
- 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.
The best things to do in Chicago, IL include:
- 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.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound.
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 San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Since neither San Francisco, CA nor Chicago, IL 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 San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and purse snatching, especially in crowded areas like public transit and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity solicitations and distraction thefts. It is advisable to stay alert in neighborhoods outside downtown after dark and use authorized transportation services to avoid unlicensed taxi scams. Keeping valuables secure and being aware of surroundings helps mitigate these risks.
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 San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL
Most San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL buses use the San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 to Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) station pair, with some services arriving at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station. Use this guide to compare San Francisco, CA and Chicago, IL bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in San Francisco
Arrival bus stations in Chicago
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29
City-centre transport
Getting to San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 from San Francisco city centre
Bus397 · 8m · $2
14, 14R · 13m · $2 · every ~30 min
101, 120 · 14m · $6 · every ~9 min
7 · 21m · $2 · every ~10 min
SubwayYellow-N, Green-N, Red-N, Blue-N · 10m · $2 · every ~27 min
San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th StreetSan Francisco Bus Station,401 Townsend St,94107
City-centre transport
Getting to San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street from San Francisco city centre
BusEast, West · 20m · every ~4 min
Nbus, Nowl · 24m · $2 · every ~2 min
TramN · 23m · $2 · every ~11 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
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station from Chicago city centre
Bus7 · 8m · $4 · every ~6 min
Most popular bus connections from San Francisco, CA
More options for your journey from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chicago, IL and San Francisco, CA
Most popular bus connections to Chicago, IL
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