Santa Cruz, CA, USA to New York City, NY, USA from $99: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Santa Cruz to New York City: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$99 - Bus, Caltrain, PlaneBest price

4152 kmDistance

8h 43m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Cruz to New York City 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.

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Traveling From Santa Cruz to New York

Your journey from the laid-back beaches of Santa Cruz to the bustling streets of New York offers a vibrant contrast between California's coastal charm and the city's fast-paced urban energy.

Best Neighbourhoods in New York

New York's neighborhoods each offer distinct vibes and experiences.

Brooklyn

• Known for its trendy cafes and artisanal shops.

• Home to iconic views of the Manhattan skyline.

Greenwich Village

• Features charming streets lined with historic brownstones.

• Known for vibrant nightlife and live music venues.

Williamsburg

• A hub for hipsters and creative startups.

• Hosts a lively waterfront with parks and flea markets.

Best Times To Visit New York's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your New York experience.

Central Park

Visit early on weekdays for peaceful strolls and fewer crowds.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Late afternoons during weekdays offer quieter gallery exploration.

Times Square

Visit late at night for stunning lights and less congestion.

New York Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

New York experiences a humid continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters that shape your travel experience throughout the year. Spring and fall are often regarded as the best times to visit, offering milder temperatures and vibrant seasonal changes.

Dining Recommendation

For a taste of New York, try a classic New York-style slice of pizza at Joe’s Pizza in Greenwich Village, where the crispy crust and rich tomato sauce create a satisfying contrast to the fresh, farm-to-table dishes you find in Santa Cruz. The lively atmosphere and the opportunity to enjoy your slice while mingling with locals adds a vibrant energy that sets New York dining apart.

Santa Cruz - New York City operators

Explore transport companies operating between Santa Cruz and New York City, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus

Contact phone

+1 (831) 425-8600

Website

http://www.scmtd.com

Bus from Soquel Ave & Front to Diridon Station

Average Duration

Estimated price

0-0

Bus from Ocean & Water to Diridon Station

Average Duration

56m

Estimated price

0-0

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-660-4287

Website

http://www.caltrain.com

Train from San Jose Diridon Caltrain Northbound to Millbrae Caltrain Northbound

Average Duration

1h 12m

Estimated price

3419-1390

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from San Jose to Oakland Coliseum/Airport

Average Duration

55m

Estimated price

1393-1394

Train from 30th Street Station to New York Penn Station

Average Duration

1h 32m

Estimated price

1391-3418

Train from Emeryville to Galesburg Amtrak Station

Average Duration

48h

Estimated price

996-990

Train from San Jose to Emeryville

Average Duration

1h 15m

Estimated price

6333-34190

Train from Emeryville to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration

51h 3m

Estimated price

3862-3410

Train from Chicago Union Station to New York Penn Station

Average Duration

20h 12m

Estimated price

1397-63300

Plane

Website

http://delta.com

Plane from San Jose (SJC) to New York JFK (JFK)

Average Duration

5h 21m

Estimated price

3862-3863

Website

http://jetblue.com

Plane from San Jose (SJC) to New York JFK (JFK)

Average Duration

5h 21m

Estimated price

3862-3414

Website

http://united.com

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Newark (EWR)

Average Duration

5h 24m

Estimated price

996-997

Website

http://aa.com

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to New York JFK

Average Duration

5h 40m

Estimated price

999-1125

all-pages.other Show other routes

Website

https://www.gotobus.com/cgi-bin/ivyu.cgi?gid=657605&d=indiana-travel-express/

Other from Indianapolis, IN to New York

Average Duration

11h

Estimated price

3868-0

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santa Cruz to New York City.

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The distance between Santa Cruz and New York is approximately 2900 miles. If flying, travelers can expect a typical flight time of around 5 to 6 hours, not including layovers or airport wait times. Driving the distance can take about 43 to 48 hours, depending on traffic and route taken, while train travel could take significantly longer due to schedules and transfers. Bus services are also available but can take 3 days or more due to stops and layovers along the way.

For the most cost-effective and time-efficient option from Santa Cruz to New York, flying is generally the best choice, especially if booked in advance to secure lower fares. Budget airlines often offer competitive prices, and the flight time is around 5 to 6 hours. If flying isn't an option, taking a Greyhound bus can be a more affordable alternative, though it may take 3 days or more to reach the destination. Alternatively, carpooling or rideshare services can also provide economical travel, especially if sharing costs among multiple passengers.

Prices for traveling from Santa Cruz to New York can vary significantly based on the mode of transportation. A one-way flight typically ranges from $100 to $400, depending on the airline and how far in advance you book. Bus fares can be more economical, usually between $120 and $200, but the journey takes much longer. Additionally, driving costs will depend on fuel prices and vehicle efficiency, with estimates of around $300 to $500 for gas alone, not including food and lodging expenses if traveling over several days.

To travel from Santa Cruz to New York without using public transportation, you can opt to drive your own vehicle or rent a car for the journey. This route will take you through various states, allowing you to explore attractions along the way, but will require careful planning for accommodations, meals, and fuel stops. Alternatively, you could consider carpooling with a friend or family member who is also traveling to New York, which can make the trip more enjoyable and cost-effective. Another option is to hire a private driver or a car service for a more comfortable and personalized travel experience, though this can be significantly more expensive.

To travel from Santa Cruz to New York without a car, you can consider booking a flight to save time, as there are numerous airlines that connect these two cities. Once you arrive in New York, you can easily use rideshares, taxis, or public transportation to navigate the city. Alternatively, you could explore long-distance bus services like Greyhound or Megabus, which offer routes across the country, albeit with much longer travel times. Another option is to utilize train services, such as Amtrak, but keep in mind that this may also take significantly longer and may involve multiple transfers.

There is no direct flight from Santa Cruz to New York as Santa Cruz does not have its own major airport; the nearest is in San Jose. Travelers usually fly from San Jose International Airport to either JFK or LaGuardia Airport in New York, typically with a layover. Additionally, bus and train services do not offer direct routes, so transfers are often required when traveling overland. Overall, while direct links are limited, connecting options are readily available for those looking to make the journey.

The flight duration from San Jose International Airport, the closest major airport to Santa Cruz, to New York City typically ranges from 5 to 6 hours for a direct flight. However, most travelers may experience layovers, extending total travel time to 7 hours or more. Ticket prices can vary significantly based on the time of year and how far in advance you book, generally ranging from $150 to $600 for a one-way ticket. It's best to check multiple airlines and travel dates for the best deals.

In New York City, visitors have a wide range of accommodation options to choose from, including luxury hotels like The Plaza and The St. Regis, as well as more budget-friendly options like the Pod Hotel and HI NYC Hostel. For a unique experience, consider staying in neighborhoods like Williamsburg or the Lower East Side, which offer boutique hotels and charming bed-and-breakfasts. Many travelers also opt for vacation rentals through platforms like Airbnb, providing a home-like feel with the convenience of a kitchen. Whatever your budget or preference, there's something to suit everyone's needs in the city.

Santa Cruz, CA, USA to New York City, NY, USA from $99: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

How to Get from Santa Cruz to New York City: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From Santa Cruz to New York

Best Neighbourhoods in New York

Best Times To Visit New York's Attractions

New York Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation

Santa Cruz - New York City operators

Frequently asked questions

Trips from Santa Cruz

Trips to New York City

Popular routes