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Journey information
Overview: San Francisco International Airport to Chicago, IL flight
USAUSA
Flights from San Francisco International Airport to Chicago, IL depart on average 40 times per day, taking around 4h 16m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $115 (€94) but you can travel from only $110 (€90) by bus.
There are 9 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 08:07, the last at 21:26. The fastest flight covers the 1856 miles (2987 km) distance in 4h 18m. May 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
Bus from $110 (€90)
Distance 1856 miles (2987 km) |
Average flight duration 4h 16m |
Cheapest ticket price $115 (€94) |
Flights per day 40 |
Direct flights 9 |
Fastest flight 4h 18m |
Cheapest month to travel May |
First flight 08:07 |
Last flight 21:26 |
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
Bus from $110 (€90)
The cheapest and fastest flights from San Francisco International Airport to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Nov 08
Cheapest price
$115
Average price
$115
Fastest journey
4 h 22 m
Average duration
4 h 22 m
Flights per day
1
Distance
2987 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from San Francisco International Airport 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 International Airport to Chicago, IL will cost around $115 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $115.
Fast flights
Of the 1 flights that leave San Francisco International Airport for Chicago, IL onSat, Nov 08, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Nov 08 the direct flights cover the 2987 km distance in an average of 4 h 22 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 4 h 22 m .
On Sat, Nov 08 the longest flights will take 4 h 22 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.
09:26PM4h22
San Francisco International Airport01:48AMChicago, IL
$1151One-way
0 transfers
09:26PM4h22
San Francisco International Airport01:48AMChicago, IL
$1151One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for San Francisco International Airport to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from San Francisco International Airport to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from €94. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 16m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of €94, and a train costs an average of €120.
Distance: 1856 miles (2987 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Train | Bus |
|---|---|---|
€110 Average price Cheapest | €177 Average price | €126 Average price |
7h 16m Average total duration Fastest 4h 16m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 53h 3m Average total duration 52h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 65h 20m Average total duration 64h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Compare prices and tickets San Francisco International Airport 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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Airlines: American Airlines, United, Alaska Airlines from San Francisco International Airport to Chicago, ILFind the best flights between San Francisco International Airport to Chicago, IL with Omio's travel partners American Airlines, United, Alaska Airlines from $110 (€90). We can find you the best deals, schedules and tickets when comparing and booking the best trip.
American Airlines
About
American Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the world, connecting travelers to hundreds of destinations across the United States, Latin America, Europe, Asia, and beyond. Operating from major hubs such as Dallas/Fort Worth, Miami, and Charlotte, American offers a wide range of travel options. Passengers can choose from Economy with affordable fares, Premium Economy with extra space, or Business and First Class featuring flat-bed seats, premium dining, and lounge access. With a modern fleet and membership in the oneworld alliance, American Airlines combines global reach with comfort and reliability.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 14m
Cheapest Price
$115 (€94)
American Airlines frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag (22 x 14 x 9 inches) and 1 personal item (18 x 14 x 8 inches) included in most fares
Additional luggage
Checked bags fees vary by route. First checked bag typically $30, second $40 on domestic flights
Cancellation Policy
Basic Economy tickets cannot be changed or refunded. Other fares allow changes with fee, refunds subject to fare rules.
Pregnant on board
Passengers can fly up to 36 weeks for single pregnancies, 32 weeks for multiple pregnancies. Medical certificate required within 7 days of departure if within 4 weeks of due date.
Unaccompagned minor
Children ages 5-14 can travel alone using American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Service. Service fee is $150 each way.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
USB plugs
Accessibility
American Airlines provides wheelchair assistance and special services for passengers with disabilities. Assistance must be requested at least 48 hours before departure.
Pets
Small dogs and cats allowed in cabin for $125 fee. Must be in approved carrier under seat. Service animals allowed.
Entertaiment on board
United
About
United Airlines is one of the USA’s leading carriers, operating both domestic and international routes. For your next trip, you can choose from Economy, Premium Economy, and Business Class fares.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 15m
Cheapest Price
$268 (€218)
United frequency
17 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag (9 x 14 x 22 inches) and one personal item (9 x 10 x 17 inches)
Additional luggage
Checked baggage fees vary by route and fare class. Most economy tickets allow purchase of up to 2 checked bags
Cancellation Policy
Basic Economy tickets are non-refundable, other fares allow changes/cancellations with fee depending on fare type and elite status
Pregnant on board
Passengers can fly through the end of their 36th week for single pregnancies, 32nd week for multiple pregnancies. Medical certificate required within 4 weeks of flight
Unaccompagned minor
Children ages 5-14 can travel as unaccompanied minors with mandatory service. Ages 15-17 optional service available
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
USB plugs
Accessibility
United provides assistance for passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair assistance and support for passengers with visual or hearing impairments
Pets
Small dogs and cats in cabin, service animals allowed. Pets must be in approved carriers and booked in advance
Entertaiment on board
Alaska Airlines
About
Alaska Airlines, headquartered in SeaTac, Washington, is a major U.S. airline and the fifth-largest in North America by scheduled passengers carried as of 2024. Along with its regional partners, Horizon Air and SkyWest Airlines, Alaska Airlines operates a route network primarily connecting cities along the West Coast of the United States, including Alaska and Hawaii, to over 100 destinations in the contiguous U.S., the Bahamas, Belize, Canada, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Mexico. The airline is a member of the Oneworld alliance, offering passengers access to a broad global network. Alaska Airlines is known for its customer service and loyalty program, Mileage Plan, and offers First Class, Premium Class, and Main Cabin seating options. The airline's primary hub is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. In 2024, its parent company, Alaska Air Group, acquired Hawaiian Airlines.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 26m
Cheapest Price
$342 (€278)
Alaska Airlines frequency
23 a day
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag (22 x 14 x 9) and 1 personal item included
Additional luggage
Checked bags fees start at $30 for first bag, $40 for second bag
Cancellation Policy
Saver fares are non-refundable. Main and First Class fares are refundable with fee, depending on fare type and elite status
Pregnant on board
Passengers can fly up to 36 weeks pregnant. After 28 weeks, medical certificate required
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minor service available for children ages 5-17. Service fee is $50 per direction on nonstop flights
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
USB plugs
Accessibility
Alaska Airlines provides wheelchair assistance and special services for passengers with disabilities, including meet-and-assist services and accessible seating
Pets
Pets allowed in cabin and cargo hold. Service animals welcome. Fees apply for pets in cabin ($100)
Entertaiment on board
FAQs: San Francisco International Airport to Chicago, IL Flight
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Francisco International Airport to Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap plane tickets from San Francisco International Airport, CA (SFO) to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $345 (€280) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for San Francisco International Airport, CA (SFO) to Chicago, IL is $345 (€280); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The flight time between San Francisco International Airport, CA (SFO) and Chicago, IL is on average 4 h 21 min for the 1852 mile (2987 km) long journey, but the time it takes to go between San Francisco International Airport, CA (SFO) and Chicago, IL by flight can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The flight from San Francisco International Airport, CA (SFO) to Chicago, IL leaves at 5: 27PM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
Yes, there are 14 direct flights a day from San Francisco International Airport, CA (SFO) to Chicago, IL with American Airlines or United. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct flights.
For the best San Francisco International Airport, CA (SFO) to Chicago, IL flight to book, you can travel safely and comfortably with American Airlines, United or Alaska Airlines. However, it's always good to check all possible airlines with services between San Francisco International Airport, CA (SFO) and Chicago, IL to compare what amenities they may offer.
The cheapest month to travel from San Francisco International Airport, CA (SFO) to Chicago, IL by plane is October.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel from San Francisco International Airport, CA (SFO) to Chicago, IL including taking a bus, train or flight.
Since neither San Francisco International Airport, CA (SFO) nor Chicago, IL are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of USA and USA. 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 San Francisco International Airport, CA (SFO) and Chicago, IL all year round.
The best events to attend in Chicago, IL include:
- Chicago Air and Water Show, an exhilarating display of military and civilian aircraft performing daring maneuvers over Lake Michigan
- Lollapalooza, a massive music festival featuring top artists across multiple genres in Grant Park
- Chicago Gourmet, a premier culinary event celebrating the city's vibrant food scene with tastings, cooking demonstrations, and wine pairings.
The best holidays to experience in Chicago, IL include:
- Memorial Day, the unofficial start of summer with vibrant outdoor activities and events
- Independence Day, spectacular fireworks and festive celebrations throughout the city
- Labor Day, a lively atmosphere with various festivals and pleasant weather.
The best seasons to visit Chicago, IL are Spring or Summer. The best weather to explore Chicago, IL is during May-September.
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.
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.
popular airports
Popular airports from San Francisco International Airport to Chicago, IL
San Francisco
Chicago
The major airport for departures in San Francisco is San Francisco International Airport. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at San Francisco International Airport for your trip from San Francisco to Chicago.
Amenities at airport
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Shower
Lounge
Lost and Found Officeinformation
Distance to city center
1 km
Car connection
US-101, exit 423AWifi
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
Shopping
- Shops are located in all terminals, including DFS Duty-Free and Burberry.
Parking
- Parking available in the Domestic and International Garages, approximately 1.9€ ($2) per 15 minutes.
Taxis
- Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, toilets.
WC
- Available throughout the airport.
Shower
- Yes
Lounge
- Lounges available, including the United Club and Delta Sky Club.
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall of the Domestic Terminal.
Public transit options for San Francisco International Airport
- Buses: SamTrans 292, 397, 398, KX
- Metro: BART Yellow Line
The major airport for arrivals in Chicago is O'Hare International Airport. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at O'Hare International Airport for your journey to Chicago from San Francisco.
Amenities at airport
WifiShoppingParking
DiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWC
HotelShowerLoungeLost and Found Office
Car Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmCar connection
I-190, Exit 1Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
Shopping
- Shops are located in all terminals, including duty-free and brands like Hudson and MAC Cosmetics.
Parking
- Parking available with options including hourly, daily, and economy lots, approximately 2.85€ ($3) per hour.
Dining
- Restaurants are located in all terminals, offering a variety of cuisines including American and intertiol. Top options include Tortas Frontera and Publican Tavern.
Taxis
- Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, toilets
WC
- Available throughout the airport.
Hotel
- Hotels such as Hilton Chicago O'Hare are located on airport grounds, with others like the Hyatt Regency nearby.
Shower
- Showers are available in some lounges, such as the United Club, but access may require a fee or membership.
Lounge
- Lounges available, including United Club and American Airlines Admirals Club.
Lost and Found Office
- Lost and Found located in terminal 1, near the baggage claim area.
Car Rental
- Car rental services are available at the Multi-Modal Facility, with companies like Hertz and Avis.
Public transit options for O'Hare International Airport
- CTA Blue Line, O'Hare Station, 45 minutes to city center
Most popular flights from San Francisco International Airport
More options for your journey from San Francisco International Airport to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular flights to and from Chicago, IL and San Francisco International Airport
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