The cheapest and fastest trains from Philadelphia, PA to Los Angeles, CA
Cheapest price
$413
Average price
$576
Fastest journey
2 d 22 h 15 m
Average duration
3 d 2 h 15 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
3844 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Philadelphia, PA to Los Angeles, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Philadelphia, PA to Los Angeles, CA will cost around $576 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $413.
Of the 6 trains that leave Philadelphia, PA for Los Angeles, CA on Mon, May 18, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, May 18 the direct trains cover the 3844 km distance in an average of 3 d 2 h 15 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 d 22 h 15 m .
On Mon, May 18 the slowest trains will take 3 d 16 h 57 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.
5:42 PM70h15Philadelphia, PA3:57 PMLos Angeles, CA$4131One-way0 transfers
4:27 PM71h30Philadelphia, PA3:57 PMLos Angeles, CA$4941One-way0 transfers
8:38 PM88h57Philadelphia, PA1:35 PMLos Angeles, CA$4971One-way0 transfers
4:41 PM70h16Philadelphia, PA2:57 PMLos Angeles, CA$5221One-way0 transfers
4:42 PM70h15Philadelphia, PA2:57 PMLos Angeles, CA$6351One-way0 transfers
5:42 PM70h15Philadelphia, PA3:57 PMLos Angeles, CA$4131One-way0 transfers
4:42 PM70h15Philadelphia, PA2:57 PMLos Angeles, CA$6351One-way0 transfers
4:41 PM70h16Philadelphia, PA2:57 PMLos Angeles, CA$5221One-way0 transfers
4:27 PM71h30Philadelphia, PA3:57 PMLos Angeles, CA$4941One-way0 transfers
8:38 PM88h57Philadelphia, PA1:35 PMLos Angeles, CA$4971One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Philadelphia, PA to Los Angeles, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Philadelphia, PA to Los Angeles, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $144. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 6h 39m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 1.2 - 3.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $144, and a train costs an average of $275.
Distance: 2388 miles (3844 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$781 Average price | $451 Average price | $368 Average price Cheapest | $631 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
62h 49m Average total duration 62h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 70h 25m Average total duration 69h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 39m Average total duration Fastest 6h 39m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 40h 17m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
1.2 - 3.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 3.8 - 9.6kg CO2 emissions | 11.5 - 23.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Philadelphia, PA to Los Angeles, CA:
A flight is $84 (€68) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Philadelphia, PA to Los Angeles, CA costing on average $451 (€365).
A flight is $413 (€334) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Philadelphia, PA to Los Angeles, CA costing on average $781 (€631).
Other travel options to Los Angeles, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 62h 19m.
Bus takes on average 69h 55m.
Tickets start at around $781 (€631) compared to roughly $631 (€510) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-150.02 (€-121.15). The journey takes 62h 19m versus 40h 17m 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.
Live departures
Philadelphia, PA to Los Angeles, CA train times
The table below shows live departures for Philadelphia, PA to Los Angeles, CA trains for today, Sunday, May 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 12:15 PM Philadelphia, PA | 74h42 | 2:57 PM Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 1:15 PM Philadelphia, PA | 74h42 | 3:57 PM Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 3:20 PM Philadelphia, PA | 71h37 | 2:57 PM Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 3:22 PM Philadelphia, PA | 71h35 | 2:57 PM Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 4:00 PM Philadelphia, PA | 70h57 | 2:57 PM Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 4:41 PM Philadelphia, PA | 70h16 | 2:57 PM Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 5:41 PM Philadelphia, PA | 70h16 | 3:57 PM Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 5:42 PM Philadelphia, PA | 70h15 | 3:57 PM Los Angeles, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Philadelphia, PA to Los Angeles, CA 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.
May 18
May 19
May 20
May 21
May 22
May 23
May 24
Journey information
Overview: Train from Philadelphia, PA to Los Angeles, CA
Trains from Philadelphia, PA to Los Angeles, CA run on average 5 times per day, taking around 62h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $275 (€222) but you can travel from only $144 (€116) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 08:15, the last at 22:00. The fastest train covers the 2388 miles (3844 km) distance in 69h 54m.
Distance 2388 miles (3844 km) |
Average train duration 62h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price $275 (€222) |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 69h 54m |
First train 8:15 AM |
Last train 10:00 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 14 days |
Train companies: Amtrak from Philadelphia, PA to Los Angeles, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Philadelphia, PA and Los Angeles, CA from $144 (€116). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
Traveling by train from Philadelphia, PA to Los Angeles, CA
Traveling between Philadelphia, PA and Los Angeles, 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 service options. While there are no direct trains covering this long distance in one go, travelers can enjoy connecting routes that showcase diverse landscapes along the way. Whether you're looking to explore historical sites or soak up California's sun-soaked culture upon arrival, taking the train adds an adventurous twist to your travel plans!
Train Connection: Philadelphia to Los Angeles
The train journey from Philadelphia, PA to Los Angeles, CA takes approximately 69 hours and 59 minutes. There are no direct connections available for this route; travelers will need to make at least one transfer during their trip. On average, there is 1 connection per day between these two cities.
Philadelphia, PA to Los Angeles, CA
The first daily train journey departs from Philadelphia at 12:15 PM and arrives in Los Angeles at 7:55 PM. This connection offers travelers a convenient option for crossing the country while enjoying scenic views along the way.
Train Tickets Price for Philadelphia to Los Angeles
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Philadelphia and Los Angeles is $273 (245.7€). This fare offers travelers an economical option to experience the scenic journey across the country, while average prices tend to be higher at around $453 (407.7€).
Exploring the Icons of Los Angeles
The Hollywood Sign, originally erected in 1923 as an advertisement for a real estate development called "Hollywoodland," has become an iconic symbol of the entertainment industry and dreams of stardom. Its towering letters, standing at 45 feet tall and spanning 350 feet long, attract millions of visitors each year who seek to capture that perfect photo against the backdrop of Los Angeles. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the sign represents a rich history intertwined with film culture and serves as a reminder of how far Hollywood has come since its humble beginnings.
Perched atop Griffith Park, Griffith Observatory opened in 1935 and quickly became one of Southern California's most beloved landmarks for both locals and tourists alike. This stunning facility not only offers breathtaking views of the city skyline but also provides free public access to exhibits about space science—making it a hub for education and inspiration. The observatory’s unique architecture blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings while housing powerful telescopes that allow visitors to gaze upon celestial wonders like never before.
The Getty Center stands out not just for its impressive collection of art but also for its striking modern architecture designed by Richard Meier amidst beautifully landscaped gardens overlooking Los Angeles. Opened in 1997, this cultural institution is dedicated to promoting knowledge through visual arts while offering guests immersive experiences ranging from guided tours to educational programs—all set within serene surroundings filled with sculptures and fountains. With no admission fee required, The Getty Center invites everyone to explore masterpieces from ancient times through contemporary works without any barriers or costs involved.
FAQs: Trains from Philadelphia, PA to Los Angeles, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Philadelphia, PA to Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Philadelphia, PA to Los Angeles, CA
- 5:15 AM - 10:30 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via 30th Street and Market Street.
- Bridgewater's Pub
- The Porch at 30th Street Station
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
- $1
- The Inn at Penn, a Hilton Hotel
- Sheraton Philadelphia University City Hotel
- The Study at University City
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- Enterprise
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Main Hall: entrance, ticketing, and waiting area
- Upper Level: Amtrak platforms
- Lower Level: SEPTA Regional Rail platforms
- SEPTA: Market-Frankford Line
- Trolley: Routes 10, 11, 13, 34, 36
- Bus: Several lines available
- 4:30 AM - 1:00 AM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 24/7. Access via Vignes Street and Cesar Chavez Avenue.
- Traxx Restaurant
- Union Station Cafe
- Philippe The Original
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, restrooms.
- $1
- DoubleTree by Hilton Los Angeles Downtown
- Miyako Hotel Los Angeles
- Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza
- Cost $10
- Located in the main hall
- Located in the main hall
- Avis
- Enterprise
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: Main entrance, platforms for Amtrak and Metrolink
- Hall 2: Metro Rail connections
- Hall 3: Bus terminal
- Metro: Red Line, Purple Line, Gold Line
- Bus: Several lines available including DASH and Metro Bus
Most popular train connections from Philadelphia, PA
More options for your journey from Philadelphia, PA to Los Angeles, CA
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