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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA
Showing times and prices for Nov 05
Cheapest price
$379
Average price
$509
Fastest journey
1 d 22 h 55 m
Average duration
2 d 6 h 48 m
Buses per day
5
Distance
2802 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA will cost around $509 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $379.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA without transferring at least 2 times.
undefined · undefined · undefined · undefined10:00PM67h00
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL03:00PMLos Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes, CA
$3791One-way
4 transfers
undefined · undefined · undefined11:20AM46h55
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station08:15AMLos Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station), CA
$3911One-way
2 transfers
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FlixBus02:45PM50h15
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station03:00PMLos Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes, CA
$5781One-way
3 transfers
undefined · undefined · undefined+FlixBus10:00AM55h00
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL03:00PMLos Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes, CA
$5981One-way
3 transfers
undefined · undefined · undefined+FlixBus10:00AM54h50
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL02:50PMLos Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station), CA
$5981One-way
3 transfers
undefined · undefined · undefined11:20AM46h55
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station08:15AMLos Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station), CA
$3911One-way
2 transfers
undefined · undefined · undefined+FlixBus02:45PM50h15
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station03:00PMLos Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes, CA
$5781One-way
3 transfers
undefined · undefined · undefined+FlixBus10:00AM54h50
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL02:50PMLos Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station), CA
$5981One-way
3 transfers
undefined · undefined · undefined+FlixBus10:00AM55h00
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL03:00PMLos Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes, CA
$5981One-way
3 transfers
undefined · undefined · undefined · undefined10:00PM67h00
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL03:00PMLos Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes, CA
$3791One-way
4 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from €73. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 26m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.8 - 2.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of €73, and a bus costs an average of €132.
Distance: 1741 miles (2802 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€301 Average price | €257 Average price | €244 Average price Cheapest |
47h 58m Average total duration 47h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 49h 21m Average total duration 48h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 26m Average total duration Fastest 5h 26m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
2.8 - 7.0kg CO2 emissions | 0.8 - 2.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 8.4 - 16.8kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 03:00PM | Duration 55h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $590 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:20AM | Arrival Time 08:15AM | Duration 46h55 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $391 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 03:00PM | Duration 50h15 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $561 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:00PM | Arrival Time 03:00PM | Duration 67h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $379 |
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA buses for today, Tuesday, November 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at 5:57 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| undefined · undefined · undefined+FlixBus | 8:45 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 50h15 | 11:00 PM Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes, CA | 3 transfers | |
| Wednesday, November 5 | |||||
| undefined · undefined · undefined · undefined | 4:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 67h00 | 11:00 PM Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes, CA | 4 transfers | |
| undefined · undefined · undefined+FlixBus | 4:00 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 55h00 | 11:00 PM Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes, CA | 3 transfers | |
| undefined · undefined · undefined+FlixBus | 4:00 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 54h50 | 10:50 PM Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station), CA | 3 transfers | |
| undefined · undefined · undefined | 5:20 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 46h55 | 4:15 PM Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station), CA | 2 transfers | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA
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Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $90 (€73)
Distance 1741 miles (2802 km) |
Average bus duration 47h 28m |
Cheapest ticket price $162 (€132) |
Buses per day 16 |
Fastest bus 46h 45m |
First bus 00:15 |
Last bus 23:55 |
Key Takeaways
Train Ticket Prices
- Budget Options: Train tickets from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA start from as low as $162 (€132) if booked well in advance.
- Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $368 (€301) depending on the train type and class.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $90 (€73)
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CAYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $90 (€73). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
FlixBus frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Greyhound
About
Greyhound Lines, Inc. is a prominent American intercity bus transportation provider, established in 1914. It operates the largest intercity bus network in the United States, also extending services to Canada and Mexico. Greyhound is known for offering affordable and reliable long-distance travel, connecting major cities and rural communities across North America. The company's buses are equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and extra legroom to enhance passenger comfort. Greyhound is a subsidiary of Flix SE, which also owns FlixBus, and together they offer an extensive network of over 1,600 destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
46h 45m
Cheapest Price
$202 (€165)
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Additional luggage
$15 per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed.
FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA by bus. 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 bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Los Angeles, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA can start from as little as $250 (€204) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA is $337 (€275); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The bus time from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA is on average 48 h 30 min for the 1737 mile (2801 km) long journey, but the time it takes to go to Los Angeles, CA from Chicago, IL by bus can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first bus from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 12: 00PM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The last bus from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA leaves at 10: 45PM.
There are 19 buses a day from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA which require at least one change with Greyhound or FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
For the best Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA bus to buy, you can travel safely and comfortably with Greyhound or FlixBus. However, it's always good to check all possible bus providers with services from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA to compare what amenities they may offer.
The cheapest month to travel from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA by bus is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA including taking a train, bus or flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA for bus companies Greyhound and FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Los Angeles, CA are:
- Griffith Observatory, an iconic facility offering stunning views of Los Angeles and exhibits on astronomy
- The Getty Center, a renowned art museum with impressive architecture and beautiful gardens
- Santa Monica Pier, a historic landmark featuring an amusement park, aquarium, and scenic ocean views
- Hollywood Walk of Fame, a famous sidewalk celebrating entertainment industry icons with star plaques
- Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), the largest art museum in the western United States with diverse collections.
The best things to do in Los Angeles, CA include:
- Explore the vibrant Venice Beach Boardwalk, known for its eclectic shops, street performers, and skate park
- Visit the historic El Capitan Theatre for a classic movie experience
- Take a scenic hike in Runyon Canyon Park, offering panoramic views of the city
- Enjoy a live performance at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, known for its stunning architecture and acoustics
- Discover the unique exhibits at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus providers Greyhound and FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA depends on the bus providers:
- Greyhound
- You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA, follow these tips:
Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- Guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA with the following bus companies: Greyhound and FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA with the following bus companies: Greyhound and FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA with the following bus companies: Greyhound and FlixBus.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA
Chicago
Los Angeles
The major bus station for departures in Chicago is Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station for your trip from Chicago to Los Angeles.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
information
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Los Angeles is Los Angeles, Gayley / Strathmore. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Los Angeles, Gayley / Strathmore for your trip to Los Angeles from Chicago.
Los Angeles, Gayley / Strathmore
information
Los Angles, S Hope St. USC Parking
information
Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes
information
Los Angeles, Los Angeles Union STA (E)
information
Los Angeles, North Hollywood (W Magnolia Blvd / Klump Ave)
information
Los Angeles, N Orange Dr (The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf)
information
Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station)
information
Los Angeles, Exposition Blvd / South Sepulveda Blvd
information
Most popular bus connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Los Angeles, CA and Chicago, IL
Most popular bus connections to Los Angeles, CA
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