Chicago, IL, USA to Oakland, CA, USA from $78: 10 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Chicago to Oakland: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$78 - Plane, TrainBest price

2989 kmDistance

6h 46m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Oakland 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 Oakland

Traveling from Chicago to Oakland offers a striking contrast between the bustling Midwestern backdrop of skyscrapers and deep-dish pizza and the laid-back, coastal vibe of California's Bay Area characterized by its rich culture and scenic beauty.

Best Neighbourhoods in Oakland

Oakland features diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm.

Jack London Square

• Waterfront dining and entertainment options.

• Iconic historical significance and scenic views.

Temescal

• Vibrant street art and local shops.

• Popular food scene with diverse cuisines.

Lake Merritt

• Expansive park offers walking and jogging trails.

• Central hub for cultural events and festivals.

Best Times To Visit Oakland's Attractions

Timing your visits to Oakland's attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

Oakland Zoo

Visit on weekdays during the morning for smaller crowds and cooler weather.

Jack London Square

Evenings are delightful with live music and fewer tourists.

Lake Merritt

Early mornings provide serene views and a peaceful atmosphere.

Oakland Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Oakland enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it a pleasant destination year-round. Late spring and early fall offer the best weather for outdoor activities, while the mild winters allow for comfortable exploration of the city.

Dining Recommendation in Oakland

For a true taste of Oakland, try the fried catfish at Brown Sugar Kitchen, where Southern comfort meets local flair in a lively, welcoming atmosphere. This dish contrasts with Chicago's hearty deep-dish, offering a fresh, flavorful experience that showcases California's focus on local ingredients and vibrant flavors.

Chicago - Oakland operators

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

Plane Show flights

Website

southwest.com

Plane from Chicago Midway to San Francisco

Average Duration

4h 35m

Estimated price

$4871-4875

Plane from Chicago Midway to Oakland

Average Duration

4h 41m

Estimated price

$4876-4876

Plane from Chicago Midway to San Francisco via Las Vegas

Average Duration

Estimated price

$4871-4875

Plane from Chicago Midway to San Francisco via Denver

Average Duration

7h 33m

Estimated price

$4871-4875

Website

flyfrontier.com

Plane from Chicago Midway to San Francisco

Average Duration

4h 39m

Estimated price

$1125-4872

Website

united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to San Francisco

Average Duration

4h 50m

Estimated price

$4879-1128

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to San Jose

Average Duration

4h 43m

Estimated price

$785-786

Website

aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to San Francisco

Average Duration

4h 51m

Estimated price

$780-4875

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from Chicago Union Station to Emeryville

Average Duration

48h 4m

Estimated price

$1125-1126

Train from Sacramento to Oakland

Average Duration

1h 57m

Estimated price

$6844-1129

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

greyhound.com

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to St Louis Bus Station

Average Duration

6h 20m

Estimated price

$68445-68435

Bus from Bus from St Louis Bus Station to Las Vegas S Strip Transit Terminal

Average Duration

34h 30m

Estimated price

$788-684420

Bus from Bakersfield Train Station to Oakland

Average Duration

Estimated price

$68440-68430

Chicago to Oakland: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Chicago and Oakland 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 cross-country road trip from the bustling city of Chicago to the vibrant city of Oakland covering a distance of 2137 miles. Take in the changing landscapes and experience the freedom of the open road during the approximately 32 hours and 29 minutes journey. 💵 The cost of this road trip adventure varies between $380 to $600, offering budget flexibility to travelers planning this excursion. Along the way, stop at charming roadside diners, quirky attractions, and picturesque viewpoints to make memories that will last a lifetime.

Average price

$380 - $600

🚆 Traveling from Chicago to Oakland by train is a scenic journey that takes approximately 2 days and 4 hours. The route covers a distance of 2,412 miles and involves a direct train from Chicago Union Station to Emeryville operated by Amtrak. 🏞️ For a longer but diverse route, travelers can consider taking the Southwest Chief train to Union Station in Los Angeles, followed by the Coast Starlight train to Oakland. This route spans 2,693 miles and offers a mix of landscapes and experiences on the way to the West Coast.

Departure Point

Chicago Union Station

Arrival Point

Emeryville station

🛫 Flying from Chicago to Oakland offers a quick and convenient travel option, with direct flights from Chicago Midway Airport to San Francisco Airport taking just 4 hours and 35 minutes. 🛄 Frontier Airlines and Southwest Airlines are popular choices for this route, providing options for travelers looking to reach the Bay Area efficiently. The journey from Chicago to Oakland by plane typically takes around 6 hours and 52 minutes. 💸 Depending on the time of booking and airline chosen, prices for flights between Oakland and Chicago can range from $112 to $487, making it essential to plan ahead to secure the best deal for your trip.

Departure Point

Chicago Midway Airport

Arrival Point

San Francisco Airport

🌉 The total travel time from Chicago to Oakland by bus, including transfers, is approximately 2 days and 8 hours. Although there is no direct route, the trip offers a unique way to experience the diverse landscapes and cities along the way.

Departure Point

Chicago Bus Station

Arrival Point

Oakland station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Oakland.

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The cheapest way to travel from Chicago to Oakland is to combine a flight and a train journey. You can book a flight from Chicago to nearby Oakland International Airport, and then take a train from the airport to downtown Oakland. The cost of this combination can range from $75 to $650, depending on the airline and chosen train service. The total travel time for this option is around 9 hours and 14 minutes.

The fastest way to travel from Chicago to Oakland is by taking a direct flight. With a flight duration of 6 hours and 35 minutes, it offers the quickest travel time. The cost for a one-way flight can range from $150 to $430. Several airlines provide non-stop flights between Chicago and Oakland, ensuring a convenient and efficient travel experience.

It is approximately 1857 miles from Chicago to Oakland. This distance is measured by air. If you were to drive, the road distance is approximately 2136.6 miles. The actual travel time may vary depending on various factors such as traffic and route chosen.

The best way to travel from Chicago to Oakland without a car is by taking a train. Amtrak offers a route called the California Zephyr that operates between Chicago and Emeryville, which is located close to Oakland. The journey takes approximately 2 days and 4 hours, and ticket prices range from $100 to $650, depending on the ticket type and availability. This scenic train ride allows you to relax and enjoy the beautiful landscapes along the way.

The travel time from Chicago to Oakland varies depending on the mode of transportation. If you choose to fly, the duration is usually around 4 to 5 hours. However, if you prefer taking a train, the journey takes approximately 48 to 52 hours. Driving by car without any stops can take around 36 to 40 hours, depending on traffic conditions and breaks. Remember to consider these factors when planning your trip.

The cheapest way to travel from Chicago to Oakland is to fly, with ticket prices ranging from $110 to $450. The flight duration is approximately 6 hours and 46 minutes. However, if you prefer a more scenic route, you can also take a train, which costs between $100 and $650 and takes around 2 days and 4 hours. Another option is to take a bus, which costs between $260 and $600 and takes approximately 2 days and 9 hours. These alternative methods may take longer but can offer a unique travel experience.

There are plenty of options for accommodation in Oakland. There are over 826 hotels available, catering to a range of budgets and preferences. Prices start at $74 per night, but can vary depending on the location and amenities. It is recommended to check online booking platforms or contact local travel agencies for the best deals and options that suit your needs.

Yes, you can drive from Chicago to Oakland. The driving distance is approximately 2137 miles, which would take around 32 hours and 29 minutes. However, keep in mind that this option would require a significant amount of time and effort, including planning for stops, rest, and potential accommodation along the way. Additionally, consider the cost of fuel and any toll roads that may be encountered.

Yes, there is a bus route from Chicago to Oakland but it is not a direct route. The bus journey involves transfers at St Louis Bus Station and Los Angeles Downtown before reaching Oakland. The total travel time for this route is approximately 2 days and 9 hours. Please note that the duration may vary depending on the specific bus schedules and connections.

You can catch the bus from Chicago to Oakland at the Chicago Bus Station. The bus services are operated by Greyhound USA. Make sure to check the bus schedule and arrive at the station ahead of time to ensure a smooth journey.

The bus from Chicago to Oakland arrives at the Oakland station. The bus services are operated by Flixbus USA, ensuring a comfortable and convenient journey. Upon arrival at the Oakland station, passengers can explore the vibrant city and its various attractions.

To get to Oakland from the airport, you can take the BART train. From Oakland International Airport, you can take the AirBART shuttle to the Coliseum BART station, and then take the BART train to downtown Oakland. The journey takes about 25 minutes and the fare is around $10. Alternatively, you can also take a taxi, Uber, or Lyft from the airport to downtown Oakland, which would cost around $25-$40 depending on traffic. Lastly, there are also rental car options available at the airport if you prefer to drive yourself to your destination in Oakland.

Frontier Airlines and Southwest Airlines both offer flights from Chicago Midway Airport to San Francisco Airport, which is the closest major airport to Oakland. Both airlines provide multiple daily flights between the two cities, offering travelers flexibility in choosing their departure and arrival times. It is recommended to compare prices and schedules on the airlines' websites or through travel booking platforms to find the most convenient and affordable option for your trip.

The fastest way to get from Chicago to Oakland is by taking a direct flight from Chicago Midway Airport to San Francisco Airport. This flight takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes. Airlines such as Frontier Airlines and Southwest Airlines offer flights from Chicago Midway Airport to San Francisco Airport. From San Francisco, it takes about 6 hours and 46 minutes to reach Oakland. The prices for flights between Oakland and Chicago can range from $112 to $447.

The flight from Chicago to Oakland typically takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes. However, this can vary depending on factors such as the airline, route, and weather conditions. It's important to check the specific flight schedules and durations when planning your travel. Some flights may have layovers or connections, which can affect the overall duration of the journey.

Trains from Chicago to Oakland arrive at Emeryville station. Emeryville is located just across the bay from Oakland and is a convenient transportation hub for accessing Oakland and other nearby cities. From Emeryville, travelers can easily connect to various transportation options to reach their final destination in Oakland. Additionally, Emeryville station offers amenities such as parking, ticketing facilities, and assistance for passengers.

Yes, there is a direct train between Chicago and Oakland. The train departs from Chicago Union Station and arrives at Emeryville. The train service operates once daily and runs every day. The journey on the direct train takes approximately 2 days and 4 hours.

To catch the train from Chicago to Oakland you will need to go to Chicago Union Station. This is where the train services, operated by Amtrak, depart from. Make sure to check the train schedule in advance and arrive at the station on time to avoid missing your departure.

The cost of a flight from Chicago to Oakland can vary depending on several factors such as the airline, time of booking, and time of travel. On average, the prices range between $112 to $447 for a one-way flight. However, it is recommended to book in advance and compare prices from different airlines to get the best deal. Additionally, prices may fluctuate during peak travel seasons, so it is advisable to be flexible with travel dates to find cheaper options.

The cost of a train ticket from Chicago to Oakland is approximately $100 - $650. However, prices can vary depending on factors such as the class of ticket, the time of travel, and the availability of discounts or promotions. It is advisable to check with the relevant train company or online booking platforms for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.

The cost of a bus ticket from Chicago to Oakland can range from $265 to $572. Prices can vary depending on factors such as the time of year, the bus company, and the type of ticket purchased. It is advisable to check with multiple bus companies and compare prices to find the best deal for your specific travel dates. Additionally, it's important to consider the duration of the bus journey, as it can take around 2-3 days to travel by bus from Chicago to Oakland.

The cost of driving from Chicago to Oakland can vary depending on several factors. On average, the expenses for a road trip can range from $380 to $600, considering the cost of fuel, tolls, and accommodation if needed. The distance between the two cities is approximately 2,000 miles, which equates to around 30 hours of driving time. It's important to consider additional costs such as food and potential maintenance or repairs for the vehicle.

Chicago, IL, USA to Oakland, CA, USA from $78: 10 ways by bus, train, flight or car

How to Get from Chicago to Oakland: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From Chicago to Oakland

Best Neighbourhoods in Oakland

Best Times To Visit Oakland's Attractions

Oakland Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation in Oakland

Chicago - Oakland operators

Chicago to Oakland: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Frequently asked questions

Trips from Chicago

Trips to Oakland

Popular routes