- Must visit
Air Force Flight Test Museum
Large aviation museum near Edwards with military aircraft, indoor exhibits, and strong regional aerospace significance.
Cheapest price
$99
Average price
$99
Fastest journey
7 h 32 m
Average duration
7 h 32 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
494 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from San Francisco, CA to California City, CA 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 California City, CA will cost around $99 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $99.
Of the 1 trains that leave San Francisco, CA for California City, CA on Sun, Aug 23, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Aug 23 the direct trains cover the 494 km distance in an average of 7 h 32 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 32 m .
On Sun, Aug 23 the slowest trains will take 7 h 32 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.


Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from San Francisco, CA to California City, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $84. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 33m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $84, and a flight costs an average of $141.
Distance: 306 miles (494 km)
| Train | Most popular Flight |
|---|---|
$86 Average price Cheapest | $161 Average price |
7h 50m Average total duration 7h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 33m Average total duration Fastest 1h 33m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from San Francisco, CA to California City, CA:
A train is $75 (€60) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Francisco, CA to California City, CA costing on average $161 (€130).
Other travel options to California City, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 20m.
Compare 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.
Trains from San Francisco, CA to California City, CA run on average 2 times per day, taking around 7h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $84 (€68) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 09:25, the last at 14:15. The fastest train covers the 306 miles (494 km) distance in 7h 32m.
Distance 306 miles (494 km) |
Average train duration 7h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $84 (€68) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 7h 32m |
First train 9:25 AM |
Last train 2:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Discover the best of California City, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect California City, CA trip today.
Large aviation museum near Edwards with military aircraft, indoor exhibits, and strong regional aerospace significance.
Small local museum preserving California City history, development plans, and desert community artifacts.
Acclaimed aerospace museum in nearby Rosamond with aircraft displays and rare test-flight history from the Antelope Valley.
Desert reserve near California City known for Joshua trees, spring wildflowers, and peaceful walking opportunities.
Large central park with a lake, picnic areas, and open desert views, making it a top everyday recreation spot.
Open desert recreation area popular for off-highway driving, photography, and expansive Mojave landscapes.
Tri-tip barbecue is a Central California specialty: beef sirloin roast seasoned and grilled over red oak, prized across the region for its smoky crust and juicy center.
Date shakes are a classic Mojave and Antelope Valley treat, blending local dates with ice cream or milk into a rich dessert drink popular on desert road trips.
Carne asada tacos are a regional staple in Southern California, with grilled beef, salsa, onion, and cilantro in tortillas reflecting the area's Mexican food culture.
Casual Mexican restaurant known locally for tacos, burritos, and hearty plates in a relaxed neighborhood setting.
Popular local Chinese restaurant serving generous portions, classic comfort dishes, and quick service in an informal atmosphere.
Established American diner and grill offering burgers, breakfast, and homestyle meals for residents and highway travelers.
Moderate for California road trips. Lodging and dining are usually lower than Los Angeles, but car travel is essential and transit options are limited.
Tip 15-20% in restaurants, 18-20% for great service. Taxis usually 10-15%. Cafes: round up or tip $1-2 for barista drinks.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Francisco, CA to California City, 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 California City, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most San Francisco, CA to California City, CA trains use the Emeryville Station to Mojave, Greyhound Bus Stop station pair. Use this guide to compare San Francisco, CA and California City, CA train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) is 2 km from San Francisco city centre. Public transport options include:
San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Restaurants are accessible in the vicinity.
WiFi available at surrounding public areas. ATMs are aTMs available in nearby buildings.
Ticket office support is available at San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank).
Available at San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at San Francisco, Mission Street (Chase Bank): Station is accessible to individuals with disabilities.
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