Chicago, IL, USA to Los Angeles, CA, USA from $78: 11 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Chicago to Los Angeles: 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.
$78 - PlaneBest price
2825 kmDistance
7h 20m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Los Angeles 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 Chicago to Los Angeles
Traveling from Chicago to Los Angeles offers a striking contrast between the vibrant urban atmosphere of the Windy City and the sun-soaked beaches and laid-back lifestyle of the West Coast.
Best Neighbourhoods in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is known for its diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct vibes and attractions.
Santa Monica
• Beautiful beaches and ocean views
• Lively pier with dining and entertainment
Hollywood
• Iconic sights like the Walk of Fame
• Thriving nightlife and historic theaters
Silver Lake
• Hip cafes and unique shops
• Vibrant arts and music scene
Best Times To Visit Los Angeles's Attractions
Timing your visits can enhance your LA experience and help avoid crowds.
Griffith Observatory
Visit early mornings or weekdays for fewer crowds and stunning views.
Universal Studios Hollywood
Mid-week visits in the off-season ensure shorter wait times for rides.
The Getty Center
Arrive late afternoon on weekdays for a quieter, peaceful atmosphere.
Los Angeles Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
Los Angeles boasts a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers, making it a year-round destination. The best times to visit are spring and fall when temperatures are pleasant, ensuring a comfortable travel experience whether you're exploring outdoor attractions or enjoying the city’s vibrant culture.
Dining Recommendation
Try the famous California fish tacos at La Taqueria in Los Angeles for a vibrant contrast to Chicago's hearty deep-dish pizza. The fresh ingredients and beachy atmosphere provide a refreshing experience that showcases LA’s focus on local produce and innovative flavors.
Chicago - Los Angeles operators
Explore transport companies operating between Chicago and Los Angeles, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Website
southwest.com
Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to Los Angeles (LAX)
Average Duration
4h 36mEstimated price
$140-460Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to Los Angeles (LAX) via Denver
Average Duration
6h 23mEstimated price
$140-460Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to Los Angeles (LAX) via Phoenix
Average Duration
6h 15mEstimated price
$140-460Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to Los Angeles (LAX) via Kansas City
Average Duration
6h 26mEstimated price
$140-460Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to Los Angeles (LAX) via Las Vegas
Average Duration
6h 45mEstimated price
$140-460Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to Los Angeles (LAX) via Albuquerque
Average Duration
6h 50mEstimated price
$140-460Website
united.com
Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Los Angeles (LAX)
Average Duration
4h 37mEstimated price
$110-420Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Los Angeles (LAX) via Denver
Average Duration
6h 11mEstimated price
$110-420Website
aa.com
Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Los Angeles (LAX)
Average Duration
4h 40mEstimated price
$130-450Website
spirit.com
Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Los Angeles (LAX)
Average Duration
4h 45mEstimated price
$65-330Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
amtrak.com
Train from Chicago Union Station to Los Angeles
Average Duration
49h 17mEstimated price
$110-750Train from San Diego Old Town Transportation Center to Los Angeles
Average Duration
2h 47mEstimated price
$5-85Contact phone
(800) 371-LINK (5465)Website
metrolinktrains.com
Train from Rancho Cucamonga station to L. A. Union Station station
Average Duration
1h 17mEstimated price
$9-26Train from Tustin station to L. A. Union Station station
Average Duration
1h 8mEstimated price
$9-25Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100Website
greyhound.com
Bus from Chicago Bus Station to St Louis Bus Station
Average Duration
6h 20mEstimated price
$35-85Bus from St Louis Bus Station to Amarillo Bus Station
Average Duration
14h 45mEstimated price
$80-170Bus from Amarillo Bus Station to Los Angeles Union Station
Average Duration
22h 55mEstimated price
$120-240Chicago to Los Angeles: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Chicago and Los Angeles 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 epic road trip from the bustling city of Chicago to the sunny shores of Los Angeles. Covering a distance of 2027 miles, the journey promises breathtaking scenery and diverse landscapes.
⛽️ Travelers can expect to spend around 31 hours and 17 minutes on the road, with plenty of opportunities to explore charming towns and iconic landmarks along the way. From the picturesque Midwest to the vast deserts of the Southwest, each mile brings new adventures and memories.
💸 While the cost of the road trip varies between $360 and $550, the priceless experiences and unforgettable moments make the journey from Chicago to Los Angeles an unforgettable expedition. Pack your bags, fuel up your car, and get ready for an unforgettable cross-country drive.
Average price
$360 - $550
🚆 Embark on a scenic journey from Chicago to Los Angeles by train, departing from Chicago Union Station and arriving at Los Angeles. Services run three times a week on Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday, with the trip lasting approximately 2 days and 17 hours.
🌄 The route from Chicago to Los Angeles covers a distance of 2,888 miles, with a total of 2 transfers along the way. The first leg includes a train towards Aurora, followed by a journey on the BNSF Railway to Naperville, and then a ride on the California Zephyr to Emeryville.
🎟️ Ticket prices for the Chicago to Los Angeles train vary between $110 and $750, offering travelers a comfortable and leisurely way to experience the diverse landscapes and cities between the two iconic destinations. With relaxing onboard amenities and beautiful views, this train adventure promises a memorable cross-country experience.
Departure Point
Chicago Union Station
Arrival Point
Los Angeles station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services vary by operator. Amtrak's Southwest Chief provides a café car with snack options and drinks. For a more extensive meal, consider upgrading to a sleeping car, where dining is more inclusive and offers a full menu. Be sure to check Amtrak's menu online before departure.
• The train from Chicago to Los Angeles usually has three seating options: Coach Class (Economy), Business Class, and Roomettes or Bedrooms (First Class). Business Class offers larger seats and additional legroom, while Roomettes and Bedrooms provide more privacy and access to exclusive amenities, including complimentary meals.
• The primary operator for this route is Amtrak. You can find more information on their services and schedule at amtrak.com If you’re looking for alternative travel options, consider checking Greyhound (greyhound.com) and Megabus (megabus.com) for bus connections for certain segments.
🛫 Experience a seamless journey from Chicago to Los Angeles with a quick 4-hour and 30-minute direct flight offered by Southwest Airlines departing from Chicago Midway Airport.
🌴 Arrive in the vibrant city of Los Angeles after a comfortable 7-hour and 20-minute flight, ready to explore its iconic landmarks, beautiful beaches, and diverse cultural offerings.
💸 Enjoy flexibility in choosing your flight with prices ranging from $98 to $615, ensuring options that suit your budget and travel preferences for your trip from Chicago to Los Angeles.
Departure Point
Chicago Midway Airport
Arrival Point
Los Angeles Airport
🚌 Embark on an adventurous bus journey from Chicago to Los Angeles with transfers at St Louis and Amarillo. Enjoy the scenic ride that takes approximately 46 hours to reach your destination.
🛣️ Route options vary in duration, with distances ranging from 2,232 to 2,364 miles, offering unique experiences along the way. Choose the one that fits your schedule and preferences, whether it's a quicker trip with more transfers or a longer, more leisurely ride.
💰 Prices for the bus tickets fluctuate between $235 to $493, providing budget-friendly travel options for your Chicago to Los Angeles adventure. Sit back, relax, and take in the diverse landscapes as you make your way across the country by bus.
Departure Point
Chicago Bus Station
Arrival Point
Los Angeles Union Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Be prepared for long layovers, especially in St. Louis and Phoenix, and take the opportunity to explore local dining options such as Pappy's Smokehouse in St. Louis or the local dining district in Phoenix during your wait times.
• Keep your boarding passes and identification accessible and organized, as you'll need to show them multiple times during the journey; consider using a travel wallet to store these important documents.
• Upon arriving at Los Angeles Union Station, familiarize yourself with the station layout and transportation options, including the Metro and buses, to efficiently navigate your way to your final destination; you can find a map of the station and transit schedules here: lazoom.com
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Chicago to Los Angeles.
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The distance between Chicago and Los Angeles is approximately 1753 miles or 2027 miles by road. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes around 8 hours and 38 minutes to reach Los Angeles from Chicago by flying from Chicago Midway to Ontario/San Bernardino and then taking a train. The quickest option is to fly, which takes approximately 7 hours and 5 minutes. If driving, the journey from Los Angeles to Chicago takes approximately 31 hours and 17 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Chicago to Los Angeles is to fly and take a train. This option costs around $130-$390 and takes approximately 9 hours and 47 minutes. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option is to fly directly from Chicago to Los Angeles, which costs around $90-$650 and takes around 7 hours and 5 minutes. Both options offer a convenient and efficient way to travel between these two cities.
The prices for train travel between Chicago and Los Angeles vary depending on the type of ticket and the class of service. Prices can range from $110 for a basic ticket to as high as $750 for a luxury or first-class ticket. It is recommended to check with the specific train service for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
To get from Chicago to Los Angeles without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The road distance between the two cities is approximately 2027 miles, and the typical travel time is around 31 hours and 17 minutes. The prices for this drive can range from $360 to $550, depending on factors such as fuel consumption and accommodation.
To travel from Chicago to Los Angeles without a car, the best option is to take a train and bus. This journey typically takes around 41 hours and 40 minutes and costs between $150 and $550. There are various train and bus routes available which allow you to comfortably make your way from Chicago to Los Angeles without the need for a car.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Chicago and Los Angeles. The train service is operated by Amtrak and departs from Chicago Union Station. The journey takes approximately 2 days and 17 hours, with services departing three times a week on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. The train arrives at Los Angeles station in California.
The flight between Chicago and Los Angeles typically takes around 4 hours and 20 minutes. However, it is important to note that flight duration can vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and airline scheduling. In terms of cost, the prices for a flight between Los Angeles and Chicago can range from $92 to $619, depending on factors such as airline, class of service, and time of booking.
There are plenty of accommodation options available in Los Angeles, with over 1604 hotels to choose from. Prices start at $87 per night, offering a range of choices to suit different budgets. Whether you prefer luxurious hotels, budget-friendly motels, or cozy bed and breakfasts, you will find a suitable place to stay near Los Angeles.
Trips from Chicago
- Chicago to Peoria
- Chicago to Toronto
- Chicago to Grand Rapids
- Chicago to South Bend
- Chicago to Madison
- Chicago to Kalamazoo
- Chicago to Fort Wayne
- Chicago to Phoenix
- Chicago to Milwaukee
- Chicago to Knoxville
- Chicago to Gary
- Chicago to Detroit
- Chicago to Traverse City
- Chicago to Indianapolis
- Chicago to New York City
- Chicago to Minneapolis
- Chicago to Iowa City
- Chicago to Cleveland
- Chicago to Ann Arbor
- Chicago to Springfield
- Chicago to Charlotte
- Chicago to Kansas City
- Chicago to Naperville
- Chicago to Denver
- Chicago to New Orleans
- Chicago to San Francisco
- Chicago to Tulum
- Chicago to Cabo San Lucas
- Chicago to Morelia
- Chicago to Puerto Vallarta
- Chicago to Mackinac Island
- Chicago to Saint Louis
- Chicago to Aruba
- Chicago to TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS
- Chicago to Atlanta
- Chicago to Athens
- Chicago to Istanbul
- Chicago to Champaign
- Chicago to Sydney
- Chicago to Aventura
Trips to Los Angeles
- Anaheim to Los Angeles
- Temecula to Los Angeles
- Rancho Cucamonga to Los Angeles
- Salt Lake City to Los Angeles
- San Francisco to Los Angeles
- Santa Clara to Los Angeles
- San Diego to Los Angeles
- San Jose to Los Angeles
- Newport Beach to Los Angeles
- Portland to Los Angeles
- Sacramento to Los Angeles
- Oakland to Los Angeles
- Houston to Los Angeles
- Santa Cruz to Los Angeles
- Bakersfield to Los Angeles
- Atlanta to Los Angeles
- New York City to Los Angeles
- Seattle to Los Angeles
- San Antonio to Los Angeles
- Memphis to Los Angeles
- Fresno to Los Angeles
- Flagstaff to Los Angeles
- Pittsburgh to Los Angeles
- Mexico City to Los Angeles
- Nashville to Los Angeles
- Santa Barbara to Los Angeles
- Long Beach to Los Angeles
- Las Vegas to Los Angeles
- Santa Monica to Los Angeles
- Riverside to Los Angeles
- Palm Springs to Los Angeles
- San Luis Obispo to Los Angeles
- Santa Ana to Los Angeles
- Charlotte to Los Angeles
- Phoenix to Los Angeles
- San Bernardino to Los Angeles
- Ontario to Los Angeles
- Irvine to Los Angeles
- Oxnard to Los Angeles
- Burbank to Los Angeles