The cheapest and fastest trains from New York, NY to San Diego, CA
Cheapest price
$292
Average price
$299
Fastest journey
3 d 13 m
Average duration
3 d 13 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
3907 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from New York, NY to San Diego, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from New York, NY to San Diego, CA will cost around $299 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $292.
Of the 2 trains that leave New York, NY for San Diego, CA on Sat, May 23, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, May 23 the direct trains cover the 3907 km distance in an average of 3 d 13 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 d 13 m .
On Sat, May 23 the slowest trains will take 3 d 13 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.
8:40 PM72h13New York, NY8:53 PMSan Diego, CA$2921One-way0 transfers
7:40 PM72h13New York, NY7:53 PMSan Diego, CA$3071One-way0 transfers
8:40 PM72h13New York, NY8:53 PMSan Diego, CA$2921One-way0 transfers
7:40 PM72h13New York, NY7:53 PMSan Diego, CA$3071One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for New York, NY to San Diego, CA
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from New York, NY to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $139. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 6h 42m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $139, and a train costs an average of $291.
Distance: 2427 miles (3907 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$798 Average price | $416 Average price | $387 Average price Cheapest | $627 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
68h 4m Average total duration 67h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 42m Average total duration Fastest 6h 42m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 64h 58m Average total duration 64h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 41h 46m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | ![]() Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from New York, NY to San Diego, CA:
A bus is $29 (€24) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from New York, NY to San Diego, CA costing on average $416 (€337).
A bus is $411 (€333) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from New York, NY to San Diego, CA costing on average $798 (€646).
Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 64h 28m.
Train takes on average 67h 34m.
Tickets start at around $798 (€646) compared to roughly $627 (€507) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-171.28 (€-138.59). The journey takes 67h 34m versus 41h 46m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Compare prices and tickets New York, NY to San Diego, 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.
May 23
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Journey information
Overview: Train from New York, NY to San Diego, CA
Trains from New York, NY to San Diego, CA run on average 2 times per day, taking around 67h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $291 (€235) but you can travel from only $116 (€94) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 06:45, the last at 16:40. The fastest train covers the 2427 miles (3907 km) distance in 71h 13m.
Distance 2427 miles (3907 km) |
Average train duration 67h 34m |
Cheapest ticket price $291 (€235) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 71h 13m |
First train 6:45 AM |
Last train 4:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 21 days |
Train companies: Amtrak from New York, NY to San Diego, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between New York, NY and San Diego, CA from $116 (€94). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
Traveling by train from New York, NY to San Diego, CA
Traveling between New York, NY and San Diego, CA offers a unique opportunity to experience the scenic beauty of America by train. The primary provider for this journey is Amtrak, which connects these two cities with comfortable accommodations and stunning views along the way. While there may not be a direct route available due to the distance (approximately 2,800 miles), travelers can enjoy various connecting services that make their trip both enjoyable and memorable.
Train Connection: New York, NY to San Diego, CA
The train journey from New York to San Diego takes approximately 71 hours and 13 minutes. There are a total of 1 connection per day for this route, and the connections are not direct.
New York, NY to San Diego, CA Train Connection
The first daily train journey departs from New York at 10:45 AM, providing an early start for travelers. The last departure of the day is scheduled for 8:40 PM from San Diego, allowing passengers a late option to return or continue their travels.
Train Tickets Price for New York, NY to San Diego, CA
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between New York and San Diego is $289 (260.1€). The average ticket price tends to be around $449 (404.1€), making it a more economical option if you book in advance or look out for deals.
Exploring San Diego's Cultural Treasures
Welcome to Balboa Park, a stunning 1,200-acre urban oasis that dates back to the 1915 Panama-California Exposition. This cultural gem is significant not only for its beautiful gardens and Spanish-Renaissance architecture but also as home to world-class museums and the renowned San Diego Zoo. One of its unique features is the vibrant collection of over 16 museums, each offering diverse experiences from art and history to science and technology.
Next on our journey is the USS Midway Museum, housed in one of America’s longest-serving aircraft carriers which played a pivotal role during key conflicts such as World War II and Vietnam. The significance of this floating museum lies in its ability to provide visitors with an immersive experience into naval aviation history through interactive exhibits and restored aircraft. What sets it apart are guided tours led by veterans who share personal stories that bring this remarkable vessel's legacy alive.
Finally, we arrive at Cabrillo National Monument, where you can stand atop Point Loma overlooking San Diego Bay while learning about Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo’s historic landing here in 1542—the first European contact with California's coast. This site holds great significance as it commemorates both exploration and natural beauty; it's also a vital habitat for various marine life along tide pools nearby. Unique features include breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean coupled with well-preserved trails showcasing native flora—perfect for nature lovers!
FAQs: Trains from New York, NY to San Diego, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from New York, NY to San Diego, CA by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at San Diego, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from New York, NY to San Diego, CA
- Mon - Sun: 05:00-22:00
- Free Wi-Fi available in Moynihan Train Hall.
- Baggage assistance is provided by Red Caps, open 24/7 at Penn and open from 05:00 to 23:00 at Moynihan Train Hall.
- Blue Bottle Coffee
- Magnolia Bakery
- Starbucks
- The Pennsy Food Hall
- Nick + Stef's Steakhouse
- Penn & Sushi
- Krispy Kreme Donuts
- T.G.I. Friday's
- NY Pizza Suprema
- Blarney Stone
- & many more
- Accessible facilities including restroom, parking, elevators, and ramps. Additional assistance available at ticket counters or by asking uniformed employees.
- The New Yorker at Wyndham Hotel
- Courtyard by Marriott New York Manhattan/Chelsea
- Hilton Garden Inn West 35th Street
- Mon - Sun: 05:00-22:00
- Located on the connecting concourse near Tracks 18-19.
- Subway lines: 1, 2, 3, A, C, E
- Bus lines: M7, M20
- Train lines: Acela, Adirondack, Cardinal, Carolinian, Crescent, Empire Service, Ethan Allen Express, Keystone Service, Lake Shore Limited, Maple Leaf, Northeast Regional, Pennsylvanian, Silver Service/Palmetto, Vermonter, PATH, New Jersey Transit, Long Island Railroad, AirTrain Newark, AirTrain JFK
- 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- Parking is available with several spaces for commuters and visitors.
- Casa Guadalajara
- Old Town Mexican Cafe
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps.
- $0.25
- Old Town Inn
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott San Diego Old Town
- Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town
- Located in the main hall
- Enterprise
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms for Amtrak and Coaster trains
- Hall 2: Trolley connections
- Trolley: Green Line
- Bus: Several lines available including 8, 9, 10, 28, 30, 35, 44, 88, 105, 150, 923, 928
- 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- Parking is available nearby with various public and private options.
- The Fish Market
- Karl Strauss Brewing Company
- Outside the main entrance.
- Ramps.
- $1.25
- The Westin San Diego
- The Guild Hotel, San Diego, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
- Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown
- Located in the main hall
- Enterprise
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms for Amtrak and Coaster trains
- Hall 2: Trolley connections
- San Diego Trolley: Blue Line, Green Line
- Bus: Several lines available
- Amtrak: Pacific Surfliner
Most popular train connections from New York, NY
More options for your journey from New York, NY to San Diego, CA
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