Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA bus

Wed, Apr 01
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2,000+ travel companies
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Costa Verde
Rede Expressos
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA

Showing times and prices for Apr 02

Cheapest price

$591

Average price

$591

Fastest journey

1 d 23 h 44 m

Average duration

1 d 23 h 44 m

Buses per day

1

Distance

2970 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Oakland, 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 Oakland, CA will cost around $591 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $591.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA without transferring at least 2 times.

  • Greyhound USA
    12:01 PM47h44
    Chicago, IL
    11:45 AMOakland, CA
    $5911One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $258. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 21h 17m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $258, and a train costs an average of $238.

Distance: 1845 miles (2970 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Flight

$347

Average price

Cheapest

$578

Average price

$419

Average price

55h 24m

Average total duration

54h 54m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

57h 33m

Average total duration

57h 3m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

24h 17m

Average total duration

Fastest

21h 17m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA bus times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA buses for today, Wednesday, April 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
greyhound12:01 PM Chicago, IL
47h44
11:45 AM Oakland, CA2 transfers

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Oakland, 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.

Thu
Apr 02
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Apr 03
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Apr 04
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Apr 08

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of bus

Buses from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA run on average 4 times per day, taking around 54h 54m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $258 (€209) but you can travel from only $238 (€193) by train.

The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 1845 miles (2970 km) distance in 49h 44m.

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
Train from $238 (€193)
Distance
1845 miles (2970 km)
Average bus duration
54h 54m
Cheapest ticket price
$258 (€209)
Buses per day
4
Fastest bus
49h 44m
First bus
12:15 AM
Last bus
11:50 PM
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
Train from $238 (€193)

FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Oakland, 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 Oakland, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA can start from as little as $258 (€209) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA is $347 (€281) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA is 49h 44m to travel the 1845 miles (2970 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA leaves at 11:50 PM.
A trip to Oakland, CA from Chicago, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 49h 44m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA is December.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Oakland, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
No, the bus from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Oakland, CA are:
  • Lake Merritt, a large tidal lagoon offering scenic walking paths and boating activities
  • Oakland Museum of California, a museum dedicated to the art, history, and natural sciences of California
  • Jack London Square, a waterfront area with dining, shopping, and entertainment options
  • Redwood Regional Park, a vast park with hiking trails through towering redwood trees
  • Chabot Space and Science Center, an interactive museum with planetarium shows and telescopes for stargazing.
The best things to do in Oakland, CA include:
  • Visit the vibrant Temescal Alley, known for its unique shops and eateries
  • Explore the historic USS Potomac, Franklin D. Roosevelt's "Floating White House"
  • Enjoy a performance at the Fox Theater, a beautifully restored 1920s movie palace
  • Discover the diverse flavors at the Oakland First Fridays street festival
  • Take a scenic bike ride along the Bay Trail, offering stunning views of the San Francisco Bay.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA.
No, luggage for the bus from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Oakland, CA are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Oakland, CA, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, including pickpocketing and car break-ins, especially in crowded areas and public transportation hubs. Avoid displaying valuables openly and park in well-lit, secure areas. Scams such as fake ticket sellers or overcharging by unlicensed taxi or rideshare drivers have been reported. Staying alert, using official transportation services, and verifying ticket purchases online can help ensure a safer experience.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular bus stations

Popular bus stations from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA

Chicago
Oakland
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 Oakland.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
information
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
information

More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Return journeys for buses from Oakland, CA to Chicago, IL
Flights from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA
Tickets and more information for coaches to Chicago, IL
Tickets and more information for coaches to Oakland, CA

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