1map logoGo to main page

Houston, TX, USA to San Diego, CA, USA from $189: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Houston, United States
to
San Diego, United States

How to Get from Houston to San Diego: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$189 by busBest price
2107 kmDistance
5h 41m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Houston to San Diego with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  43m
Estimated price
$67-426
Recommended
route map
Distance: 2107 km
Duration: 5h 41m

See more options

Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
40h  34m
Estimated price
$73-529
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  41m
Estimated price
$173-557
Company
Greyhound USA
Bus
Average Duration
38h  57m
Estimated price
$189-351
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
43h  24m
Estimated price
$235-670
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
22h  26m
Estimated price
$671-672

Houston - San Diego operators

Explore transport companies operating between Houston and San Diego, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane
Website
spirit.com

Plane from Houston (IAH) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
5h 43m
Estimated price
$67-426
Website
united.com

Plane from Houston (IAH) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
5h 41m
Estimated price
$173-557
Bus
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Houston Bus Station to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
38h 57m
Estimated price
$189-351

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to San Diego

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
$1738-5578
Contact phone
+1 888-358-6762
Website
tornadobus.com

Bus from Tornado Bus Co - Houston Airline Dr to El Paso

Average Duration
14h 35m
Estimated price
$5579-1890
Contact phone
+52 800 890 6821
Website
greyhound.com.mx

Bus from Ciudad Juárez to Tijuana

Average Duration
22h 15m
Estimated price
$1894-55760
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Houston to Los Angeles

Average Duration
36h 40m
Estimated price
$673-4268

Train from Los Angeles to San Diego

Average Duration
2h 54m
Estimated price
$1735-1736

Houston to San Diego: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Houston and San Diego offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on an exciting road trip from bustling Houston to the laid-back coastal vibes of San Diego covering a distance of 1478 miles. 🌟 💸 Travel costs range between $260 to $390 by car, offering flexibility for different budget preferences. Enjoy the scenic drive through diverse landscapes as you make your way to the sunny shores of San Diego. ☀️ 🌴 Experience the freedom of the open road and the thrill of adventure during the approximately 22-hour journey to reach the vibrant city of San Diego, where stunning beaches and endless possibilities await. 🚙
Average price
$260 - $390
🌄 Enjoy approximately 40 hours and 34 minutes of travel time, including transfers, as you make your way from Houston to sunny San Diego. Experience the comfort and convenience of Amtrak's services along the route. 💰 Ticket prices for the train ride from Houston to San Diego range from $73 to $529, offering budget-friendly options for different travel preferences. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the countryside as you venture towards your destination in San Diego.
Departure Point
Houston station
Arrival Point
San Diego station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for your train trip from Houston to San Diego will vary depending on the operator. Amtrak, the primary operator for this route, offers a café car where you can purchase snacks, beverages, and light meals. Amtrak also provides meal service in the dining car for First-Class passengers, featuring regional dishes. Be sure to check Amtrak's 'Onboard' section on their website for current menus and meal options.
• You will find several seating options on this route. Amtrak’s Texas Eagle, which operates part of this journey, offers three classes: Coach Class, Business Class, and First Class. Coach Class has spacious reclining seats, while Business Class features extra legroom, complimentary drinks, and more attentive service. First Class includes meal service in the dining car and larger, more comfortable seating. For more details, visit Amtrak's seating options page at amtrak.com
• To maximize your trip, consider the following operators: Amtrak (amtrak.com), and check if there are any other regional trains or services. Useful links include the Amtrak service schedule (amtrak.com), and you might find local transportation information for San Diego at (sdmts.com) Upon arrival, San Diego's Amtrak station provides luggage storage services, and restrooms are available for your convenience.
• Upon arriving at San Diego's Santa Fe Depot, expect a well-organized transit center. You can leave your luggage at the station with a luggage storage service for a nominal fee. Restrooms are available; however, showing is not. The fastest way to get to the city center is via the San Diego Trolley. You can take the Blue Line towards Downtown and the Midway Station. This tram runs frequently, and you can catch it just steps from the station.
🛫 Flying from Houston to San Diego is a convenient option, especially with direct flights taking approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes. Spirit Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines operate flights on this route. 🌴 Once you land in San Diego, you can expect a travel time of around 5 hours and 43 minutes from Houston. Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, the city offers a variety of activities and attractions to explore. 💰 Flight prices between San Diego and Houston can range from $67 to $426, making it possible to find a suitable option within your budget for this journey across the country. Travelers can enjoy a comfortable and efficient trip between these vibrant cities.
Departure Point
Houston Airport
Arrival Point
San Diego Airport
🚌 The journey from Houston to San Diego by bus involves transfers and takes approximately 38 hours and 57 minutes. There is no direct bus service between the two cities. 🛣️ The route from Houston to San Diego spans a distance of 1,628 miles and includes two transfers along the way. Passengers will travel through cities like El Paso, Tucson, Phoenix, and Los Angeles on their way to San Diego. 💰 The prices for bus tickets between San Diego and Houston can range from $189 to $351. Travelers can enjoy the scenic views and convenience of bus travel while making their way from Texas to California.
Departure Point
Houston Bus Station
Arrival Point
San Diego station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Houston to San Diego.

Or choose the category:
The cheapest way to travel from Houston to San Diego is by flying. Depending on the airline and time of booking, flight prices can range from $65 to $400. The flight duration is approximately 5 hours and 52 minutes.
The fastest way to travel from Houston to San Diego is by taking a flight. It typically takes around 5 hours and 47 minutes to reach San Diego by air. There are several airlines that offer direct flights between these cities, and the cost of the ticket usually ranges from $110 to $430 depending on the airline and time of booking.
The distance from Houston to San Diego is approximately 2107 kilometers. When driving, the road distance is about 2379 kilometers.
One of the most affordable options to travel from Houston to San Diego without a car is by taking a bus. This journey usually takes around 37 hours and 25 minutes, with prices ranging from $180 to $350 depending on the bus company and the type of ticket you choose.
The quickest way to travel from Houston to San Diego is by flying. The cost of flights can vary between $65 to $400 depending on the airline and time of booking. The journey typically takes around 5 hours and 52 minutes, including any layovers or transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Houston to San Diego is to take a bus, which costs $180-$350 and takes approximately 37 hours and 25 minutes. Another option is to take a train, which costs $70-$550 and has a travel time of around 40 hours and 34 minutes. However, the quickest way is to fly, which takes 5 hours and 47 minutes and costs $110-$430.
There are numerous options for accommodation in San Diego, with over 1163 hotels available. Prices for hotels start at $53 per night, offering a range of budget-friendly and luxury options to suit every traveler's needs. Some popular areas to consider staying in include downtown San Diego and La Jolla, which offer convenient access to attractions, restaurants, and beaches.
Yes, you can certainly drive from Houston to San Diego. The driving distance is approximately 2379 km. However, it is important to note that the journey will take around 22 hours and 26 minutes, so it is a long drive.
No, there is no direct bus between Houston and San Diego. However, there are bus services available that require transfers. The journey typically takes around 37 hours and 25 minutes, including the transfers. These services involve departing from Houston Bus Station and arriving at San Diego via Los Angeles Union Station.
You can catch the bus from Houston to San Diego at the Houston Bus Station. The bus service is operated by Greyhound USA, which provides transportation between these two cities. The Houston Bus Station is a popular departure point for various bus routes, including the route to San Diego.
The bus from Houston to San Diego arrives at the San Diego station. This is the main bus terminal in San Diego and is conveniently located for travelers. The Greyhound Mexico bus company operates this route and provides reliable transportation options for those traveling between the two cities.
Southwest Airlines is the primary airline that offers flights between Houston and San Diego. They operate flights from Houston Hobby Apt Airport to San Diego Airport. Other airlines that may offer flights on this route include American Airlines and United Airlines, although availability and schedules may vary.
The fastest way to travel from Houston to San Diego is by taking a direct flight. Southwest Airlines offers direct flights from Houston Hobby Apt Airport to San Diego Airport, with a flight duration of 3 hours and 20 minutes. However, the total travel time may vary depending on factors such as layovers and airport procedures. Flight prices for this route range from $113 to $428, so it's important to check for the best deals in advance.
The flight from Houston to San Diego can take approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes on a direct flight.
Trains from Houston to San Diego arrive at the San Diego station. Amtrak operates train services between these two cities, offering a convenient and comfortable travel option. The San Diego station is centrally located and provides easy access to various attractions and accommodations in the city. It is recommended to check the Amtrak schedule and book your tickets in advance for a smooth and hassle-free journey.
No, there is no direct train between Houston and San Diego. However, there are train services available with transfers. The journey typically involves departing from Houston and arriving at San Diego via Los Angeles. The total travel time can take approximately 40 hours and 34 minutes.
To catch the train from Houston to San Diego you will need to go to the Houston Amtrak station. Amtrak operates the train services between these two cities. The train journey from Houston to San Diego is quite long, taking approximately 35 to 40 hours. It is recommended to check the Amtrak website or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date information regarding schedules and fares.
The cost of a flight from Houston to San Diego can vary depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and travel dates. On average, prices range from $113 to $428.
The cost of a train from Houston to San Diego ranges from $73 to $529, depending on factors such as the departure date, train class, and availability. Amtrak offers various trains that connect these two cities, providing a comfortable and scenic journey through multiple states. It's advised to check the Amtrak website or consult with a travel agent for the most up-to-date prices and availability for your desired travel dates.
The cost of a bus ticket from Houston to San Diego is typically between $186 and $350.
The cost to drive from Houston to San Diego can range from $260 to $390 depending on factors such as fuel prices, tolls, and vehicle efficiency. This estimate is based on the average distance of approximately 1530 miles and a rough estimate of the average fuel cost per mile.