4.9
4.6The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA
Cheapest price
$577
Average price
$577
Fastest journey
2 d 11 h 25 m
Average duration
2 d 11 h 25 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
2903 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, 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 Santa Barbara, CA will cost around $577 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $577.
It's difficult to get from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA without transferring at least 2 times.
12:15 AM59h25Chicago, IL11:40 AMSanta Barbara, CA$5771One-way2 transfers
- 12:15 AM59h25Chicago, IL11:40 AMSanta Barbara, CA$5771One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $269. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 8h 13m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $269, and a flight costs an average of $273.
Distance: 1803 miles (2903 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$401 Average price | $390 Average price Cheapest | $414 Average price |
59h 52m Average total duration 59h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 46h 10m Average total duration 45h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 13m Average total duration Fastest 8h 13m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA buses for today, Friday, April 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 3:45 PM Chicago, IL | 52h05 | 7:50 PM Santa Barbara, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, April 4 | |||||
| 12:15 AM Chicago, IL | 59h25 | 11:40 AM Santa Barbara, CA | 2 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 Santa Barbara, 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 Santa Barbara, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA run on average 2 times per day, taking around 59h 22m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $258 (€210) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 06:00, the last at 23:10. The fastest bus covers the 1803 miles (2903 km) distance in 50h 20m.
Distance 1803 miles (2903 km) |
Average bus duration 59h 22m |
Cheapest ticket price $258 (€210) |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 50h 20m |
First bus 6:00 AM |
Last bus 11:10 PM |
FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, 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 Santa Barbara, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
- Santa Barbara Mission, a historic Spanish mission known for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens
- Stearns Wharf, a popular pier offering shops, restaurants, and scenic ocean views
- Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, a 78-acre garden showcasing California native plants and picturesque landscapes
- Santa Barbara Zoo, a family-friendly attraction featuring diverse animal exhibits and interactive experiences
- Lotusland, a unique botanical garden with exotic plants and themed gardens.
- State Street, a vibrant downtown area filled with shopping, dining, and entertainment options
- Explore the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, featuring a diverse collection of artwork from around the world
- Take a wine tasting tour in the Santa Ynez Valley, known for its beautiful vineyards and excellent wines
- Enjoy a scenic hike in the Santa Ynez Mountains, offering breathtaking views of the coastline and city
- Visit the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, which highlights the region's rich maritime history.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA
Most popular bus connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Santa Barbara, CA
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Most popular buses to and from Santa Barbara, CA and Chicago, IL
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