Chicago, IL CHI to Santa Barbara, CA SBA Flights

Wed, Jul 15
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Journey information

Overview: Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA flight

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Flights from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA depart on average 42 times per day, taking around 7h 39m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $210 (€173) but you can travel from only $188 (€155) by train.

The earliest flight runs at 05:00, the last at 22:10. The fastest flight covers the 1803 miles (2903 km) distance in 6h 32m. April is the cheapest month to fly.

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
Train from $188 (€155)
Distance
1803 miles (2903 km)
Average flight duration
7h 39m
Cheapest ticket price
$210 (€173)
Flights per day
42
Fastest flight
6h 32m
First flight
5:00 AM
Last flight
10:10 PM
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Best time to book
3 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
Train from $188 (€155)

The cheapest and fastest flights from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA

Showing times and prices for Jul 15

Cheapest price

$230

Average price

$230

Fastest journey

7 h 15 m

Average duration

7 h 15 m

Flights per day

1

Distance

2903 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, 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 Santa Barbara, CA will cost around $230 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $230.

Fast flights

Of the 1 flights that leave Chicago, IL for Santa Barbara, CA onWed, Jul 15, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Jul 15 the direct flights cover the 2903 km distance in an average of 7 h 15 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 7 h 15 m .

On Wed, Jul 15 the longest flights will take 7 h 15 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.

  • American Airlines
    11:57 AM7h15
    Chicago, IL
    7:12 PMSanta Barbara, CA
    $2301One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $232. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 7h 39m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $232, and a train costs an average of $188.

Distance: 1803 miles (2903 km)

Compare flight with

Flight
Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$301

Average price

$474

Average price

$264

Average price

Cheapest

$419

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

10h 39m

Average total duration

Fastest

7h 39m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

46h 10m

Average total duration

45h 40m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

66h 40m

Average total duration

66h 10m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

30h 29m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA is a bus with an average price of $264 (€218).

This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA:

A bus is $38 (€31) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $301 (€248).

A bus is $211 (€174) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA costing on average $474 (€391).

The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 7h 39m.

Other travel options to Santa Barbara, CA take longer:

Train takes on average 45h 40m.

Bus takes on average 66h 10m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Santa Barbara, 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 Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users.

Live departures

Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA flight times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA flights for today, Tuesday, July 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
UnitedUA2806 · UA6716:00 AM O'Hare International Airport
9h02
1:02 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA246 · UA15786:10 AM O'Hare International Airport
7h42
11:52 AM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1217 · UA6717:05 AM O'Hare International Airport
7h57
1:02 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA769+envoy airAA37847:25 AM O'Hare International Airport
6h21
11:46 AM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1304 · UA2823 · UA59628:40 AM O'Hare International Airport
13h03
7:43 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA526 · UA6718:40 AM O'Hare International Airport
6h22
1:02 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA10088:45 AM O'Hare International Airport
4h40
11:25 AM Santa Barbara Airport0 transfersDirect
UnitedUA2610 · UA54648:50 AM O'Hare International Airport
8h27
3:17 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
skywest airlinesAA4927 · AA5007 · AA647310:00 AM O'Hare International Airport
10h17
6:17 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA2486 · AA2495+skywest airlinesAA492710:00 AM O'Hare International Airport
10h17
6:17 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA441 · UA454 · UA596210:25 AM O'Hare International Airport
11h18
7:43 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA2822 · UA1427 · UA586210:25 AM O'Hare International Airport
9h12
5:37 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA543 · UA546410:25 AM O'Hare International Airport
6h52
3:17 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2653 · UA2095 · UA479610:51 AM O'Hare International Airport
14h53
11:44 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA2222 · AA2108+skywest airlinesAA492711:00 AM O'Hare International Airport
9h17
6:17 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA2222 · AA554+skywest airlinesAA492711:00 AM O'Hare International Airport
9h17
6:17 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA888+skywest airlinesAA4927+envoy airAA343711:22 AM O'Hare International Airport
8h55
6:17 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA3233+skywest airlinesAA4927+envoy airAA384811:45 AM O'Hare International Airport
8h32
6:17 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA1750+envoy airAA3375+skywest airlinesAA492711:47 AM O'Hare International Airport
8h30
6:17 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA3264 · AA554+skywest airlinesAA492712:05 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h12
6:17 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
skywest airlinesAA6273 · AA6517 · AA492712:18 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h59
6:17 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA3179+skywest airlinesAA4927+envoy airAA381512:30 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h47
6:17 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA1120 · AA1648 · AA17311:25 PM O'Hare International Airport
10h33
9:58 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA1120 · AA818 · AA17311:25 PM O'Hare International Airport
10h33
9:58 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA455 · UA4722 · UA47961:30 PM O'Hare International Airport
12h14
11:44 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA2877 · AA3186 · AA17311:41 PM O'Hare International Airport
10h17
9:58 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA2451 · UA483 · UA47962:15 PM O'Hare International Airport
11h29
11:44 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA2451 · UA2095 · UA47962:15 PM O'Hare International Airport
11h29
11:44 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA2451 · UA2755 · UA47962:15 PM O'Hare International Airport
11h29
11:44 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA1384 · AA17312:25 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h33
9:58 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA1384+skywest airlinesAA49272:25 PM O'Hare International Airport
5h52
6:17 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1577 · UA59622:30 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h13
7:43 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2803 · UA24792:33 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h26
8:59 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2257 · AA818 · AA17313:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h58
9:58 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA2624 · AA17313:22 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h36
9:58 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA1725 · AA1731+envoy airAA39503:23 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h35
9:58 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA2754 · AA818 · AA17313:49 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h09
9:58 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA1875 · UA2282 · UA47963:54 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h50
11:44 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA2053 · UA4722 · UA47964:02 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h42
11:44 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA714 · UA483 · UA47964:05 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h39
11:44 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA714 · UA2095 · UA47964:05 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h39
11:44 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
skywest airlinesAA4959+American AirlinesAA1731+Republic AirlinesAA47244:05 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h53
9:58 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA2769 · UA24794:12 PM O'Hare International Airport
6h47
8:59 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1215 · UA2282 · UA47964:30 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h14
11:44 PM Santa Barbara Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA511 · UA28664:30 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h15
10:45 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA600 · UA47964:45 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h59
11:44 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA3261 · AA17315:19 PM O'Hare International Airport
6h39
9:58 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1967 · UA47966:10 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h34
11:44 PM Santa Barbara Airport1 transfer

This is the last flight of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, 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.

Wed
Jul 15
Thu
Jul 16
Fri
Jul 17
Sat
Jul 18
Sun
Jul 19
Mon
Jul 20
Tue
Jul 21

Complete guide to Santa Barbara

Things to do in Santa Barbara

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

  • Must visit

Santa Barbara Museum of Art

Leading regional art museum with American, Asian, and contemporary works in a refined downtown setting with strong rotating exhibitions.

  • Must visit

Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History

Natural history museum in Mission Canyon with exhibits on wildlife, geology, and Chumash heritage, plus a popular butterfly pavilion seasonally.

  • Recommended

Santa Barbara Maritime Museum

Waterfront maritime museum covering Channel history, shipwrecks, navigation, and regional seafaring culture in a polished harbor location.

US Dollar ($)

Santa Barbara is pricier than many US beach cities, with higher hotel rates, dining, and parking; transit is affordable but limited for tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
$12-20 for fast food or casual lunch.
Mid-range
$25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
$75+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
$4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis and rideshares, and $1-2 at cafes for counter service or drinks.

FAQs: Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA Flight

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA by flight. 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 flight, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Santa Barbara, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap plane tickets from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA can start from as little as $210 (€173) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA is $301 (€248) ; 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 plane from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA is 6h 32m to travel the 1803 miles (2903 km) long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest flight from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 5:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA leaves at 10:10 PM.
Flights from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA generally leave from O'Hare International Airport and arrive in Santa Barbara Airport.O'Hare International Airport is 1 miles (3 km) away from Chicago, IL city centre and Santa Barbara Airport is 0 miles (1 km) from Santa Barbara, CA city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA is April.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Santa Barbara, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Santa Barbara, 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.
There is a time difference of 2 h between Chicago, IL and Santa Barbara, CA all year round.
The best events to attend in Santa Barbara, CA include:
  • Santa Barbara International Film Festival, a prestigious event showcasing independent films and attracting filmmakers from around the world
  • Old Spanish Days Fiesta, a vibrant celebration of Santa Barbara's rich cultural heritage with parades, music, and traditional food
  • Santa Barbara Harbor & Seafood Festival, an annual festival celebrating the local fishing industry with fresh seafood tastings and family-friendly activities.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Santa Barbara, CA are:
  • Santa Barbara Mission, a historic Spanish mission known for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens
  • Stearns Wharf, a popular pier offering shops, restaurants, and scenic ocean views
  • Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, a 78-acre garden showcasing California native plants and picturesque landscapes
  • Santa Barbara Zoo, a family-friendly attraction featuring diverse animal exhibits and interactive experiences
  • Lotusland, a unique botanical garden with exotic plants and themed gardens.
The best holidays to experience in Santa Barbara, CA include:
  • Independence Day, vibrant fireworks and festive celebrations along the coast
  • Labor Day, pleasant weather perfect for beach activities and local events
  • Memorial Day, a great time for outdoor adventures with fewer crowds.
The best things to do in Santa Barbara, CA include:
  • State Street, a vibrant downtown area filled with shopping, dining, and entertainment options
  • Explore the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, featuring a diverse collection of artwork from around the world
  • Take a wine tasting tour in the Santa Ynez Valley, known for its beautiful vineyards and excellent wines
  • Enjoy a scenic hike in the Santa Ynez Mountains, offering breathtaking views of the coastline and city
  • Visit the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, which highlights the region's rich maritime history.
The best season to visit Santa Barbara, CA is Spring or Fall. The best weather to explore Santa Barbara, CA is during April-October.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users.
For domestic flights we recommend to arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before departure. Please check the website of your departure airport if in doubt. Some airports may offer booking time slots for security checks or offer additional information on when to get there based on time of day.
Most airlines permit carry-on bags that fit within specific dimensions (e.g., 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. Bags must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
Many airlines impose weight limits, commonly ranging between 7 kg (15 lbs) and 12 kg (26 lbs). Typically, passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (for example a purse, laptop bag, or backpack). Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you. Budget Airlines (like Ryanair or Wizz Air) have stricter size and weight limits, often requiring fees for larger carry-ons. Full-Service Airlines have more lenient policies, sometimes including more spacious dimensions or higher weight limits depending on your ticket class.
The list of items prohibited on an airplane varies by country and airline, but in general, the following items are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage: Weapons and self-defence items, sharp objects, flammable materials, explosives, toxic substances, or liquids over 100ml (except for medications and baby essentials). In checked baggage, firearms (without authorization), explosives, large lithium batteries, and hazardous chemicals are prohibited. Electronic cigarettes must be in carry-on bags, while alcohol and dry ice have restrictions. Always check with your airline for specific regulations.
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 Santa Barbara, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and popular tourist spots like State Street and the waterfront. Common scams include overcharging by some taxi or ride-share drivers and unofficial street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It is advisable to use authorized transportation services and keep personal belongings secure to avoid these 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 airports

Popular airports from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA

Most Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA flights use the O'Hare International Airport to Santa Barbara Airport airport pair. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Santa Barbara, CA airports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like airport facilities and services.

Departure airports in Chicago
Arrival airports in Santa Barbara

Which Chicago, IL airport do flights to Santa Barbara, CA leave from?

Flights from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA depart from O'Hare International Airport. The airport is 2 miles (4 km) from Chicago, IL city centre at 10000 W O'Hare Ave, Chicago, IL 60666, USA.
O'Hare International Airport (ORD)10000 W O'Hare Ave, Chicago, IL 60666, USAWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to O'Hare International Airport from Chicago city centre

O'Hare International Airport is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:

SubwayBlue Line · 1h 7m · $6 · every ~23 min

O'Hare International Airport airport facilities and services

O'Hare International Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurants are located in all terminals, offering a variety of cuisines including American and intertiol. Top options include Tortas Frontera and Publican Tavern.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located throughout all terminals.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at O'Hare International Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at O'Hare International Airport: Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at O'Hare International Airport: Elevators, ramps, toilets.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotels such as Hilton Chicago O'Hare are located on airport grounds, with others like the Hyatt Regency nearby..

Most popular flights to and from Santa Barbara, CA and Chicago, IL

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