1,000+ travel companies
1,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Nov 20
Cheapest price
$562
Average price
$668
Fastest journey
2 d 1 h 45 m
Average duration
2 d 12 h 28 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 $668 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $562.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL without transferring at least 2 times.
undefined · undefined · undefined · undefined01:30PM64h20
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 2907:50AMChicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
$5621One-way
4 transfers
undefined · undefined · undefined01:30PM49h45
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 2905:15PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$5771One-way
2 transfers
FlixBus+undefined · undefined · undefined08:20AM54h55
San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA05:15PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$6731One-way
3 transfers
FlixBus+undefined · undefined · undefined08:20AM69h30
San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA07:50AMChicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
$6861One-way
4 transfers
undefined · undefined+FlixBus10:40PM63h50
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 2904:30PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$7521One-way
2 transfers
undefined · undefined · undefined01:30PM49h45
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 2905:15PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$5771One-way
2 transfers
FlixBus+undefined · undefined · undefined08:20AM54h55
San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA05:15PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$6731One-way
3 transfers
undefined · undefined+FlixBus10:40PM63h50
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 2904:30PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$7521One-way
2 transfers
undefined · undefined · undefined · undefined01:30PM64h20
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 2907:50AMChicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
$5621One-way
4 transfers
FlixBus+undefined · undefined · undefined08:20AM69h30
San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA07:50AMChicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
$6861One-way
4 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 €71. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 37m. 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 €71, and a bus costs an average of €97.
Distance: 1853 miles (2983 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€249 Average price | €235 Average price | €221 Average price Cheapest |
54h 27m Average total duration 53h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 54h 24m Average total duration 53h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 37m Average total duration Fastest 4h 37m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
3.0 - 7.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.9 - 2.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 8.9 - 17.9kg 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.
San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:20AM | Arrival Time 07:50AM | Duration 69h30 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $482 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:05PM | Arrival Time 04:10AM | Duration 62h05 | Departure days Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $366 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 05:15PM | Duration 49h45 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $337 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:40PM | Arrival Time 07:50AM | Duration 79h10 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $398 |
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, Wednesday, November 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at 1:40 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus+undefined · undefined · undefined | 4:20 PM San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA | 54h55 | 11:15 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 3 transfers | |
| FlixBus+undefined · undefined · undefined | 4:20 PM San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA | 69h30 | 1:50 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 4 transfers | |
| undefined · undefined · undefined | 9:30 PM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 49h45 | 11:15 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
| undefined · undefined · undefined · undefined | 9:30 PM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 64h20 | 1:50 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 4 transfers | |
| Thursday, November 20 | |||||
| undefined · undefined+FlixBus | 6:40 AM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 63h50 | 10:30 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
| undefined · undefined · undefined · undefined | 6:40 AM San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 | 79h10 | 1:50 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 3 transfers | |
| 1:30 PM San Francisco, CA | 67h10 | 8:40 AM Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
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.
Thu
Nov 20
Nov 20
Fri
Nov 21
Nov 21
Sat
Nov 22
Nov 22
Sun
Nov 23
Nov 23
Mon
Nov 24
Nov 24
Tue
Nov 25
Nov 25
Wed
Nov 26
Nov 26
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 57m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $120 (€97) but you can travel from only $88 (€71) 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 49h 45m.
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 $88 (€71)
Distance 1853 miles (2983 km) |
Average bus duration 53h 57m |
Cheapest ticket price $120 (€97) |
Buses per day 9 |
Fastest bus 49h 45m |
First bus 00:15 |
Last bus 23:50 |
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 $88 (€71)
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $88 (€71). 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
74h 35m
Cheapest Price
$939 (€761)
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
60h 30m
Cheapest Price
$120 (€97)
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.
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 $185 (€150) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL is $379 (€307); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL bus travel time is 60 h 30 min for the 1849 mile (2983 km) long trip, but the duration can vary if you travel on weekends and holidays.
The first bus from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 2: 30PM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The last bus from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 7: 35PM.
There are 10 buses a day from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL which require at least one change with Greyhound or FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
For the best San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL bus to buy, you can travel safely and comfortably with Greyhound or FlixBus. However, it's always good to check all possible bus providers with services between San Francisco, CA and Chicago, IL to compare what amenities they may offer.
The cheapest month for a bus from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL is February.
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 or 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.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL for bus companies Greyhound and FlixBus.
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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus providers Greyhound and FlixBus.
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.
- 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 San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL, 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 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).
- 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 San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- Guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL with the following bus companies: Greyhound and FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL with the following bus companies: Greyhound and FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL with the following bus providers: Greyhound and FlixBus.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL
San Francisco
Chicago
The major bus station for departures in San Francisco is San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street for your trip from San Francisco to Chicago.
San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street
information
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29
information
The major bus station for arrivals 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 to Chicago from San Francisco.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
information
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
information
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
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
