New York, NY to San Francisco, CA train with Amtrak

Thu, Apr 02
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Amtrak
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Deutsche Bahn
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Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from New York, NY to San Francisco, CA

Showing times and prices for Apr 02

Cheapest price

$1932

Average price

$1932

Fastest journey

3 d 5 h 5 m

Average duration

3 d 5 h 5 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

4129 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from New York, NY to San Francisco, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from New York, NY to San Francisco, CA will cost around $1932 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $1932.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from New York, NY to San Francisco, CA without transferring at least 2 times.

  • Amtrak49 Lake Shore Limited · 5 California Zephyr · 5005 AMTRAK
    3:40 PM77h05
    Penn Station, New York, NY
    5:45 PMSan Francisco, CA
    $19321One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for New York, NY to San Francisco, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from New York, NY to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $122. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 6h 50m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 1.2 - 3.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $122, and a train costs an average of $355.

Distance: 2565 miles (4129 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus

$1484

Average price

$354

Average price

Cheapest

$520

Average price

75h 9m

Average total duration

74h 39m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 50m

Average total duration

Fastest

6h 50m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

71h 52m

Average total duration

71h 22m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1.2 - 3.7kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

12.4 - 24.8kg

CO2 emissions

4.1 - 10.3kg

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Alaska Airlines

Most popular airline

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

New York, NY to San Francisco, CA train times

The table below shows live departures for New York, NY to San Francisco, CA trains for today, Wednesday, April 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak49 Lake Shore Limited · 5 California Zephyr · 5005 AMTRAK7:40 PM Penn Station, New York, NY
77h05
12:45 AM San Francisco, CA2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets New York, NY to San Francisco, CA by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, train, 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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How far in advance should I book train tickets from New York, NY to San Francisco, CA?

The best time to book your train from New York, NY to San Francisco, CA is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the New York, NY to San Francisco, CA route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from New York, NY to San Francisco, CA per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from New York, NY to San Francisco, CA.

Journey information

Overview: Train from New York, NY to San Francisco, CA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from New York, NY to San Francisco, CA run on average 5 times per day, taking around 74h 39m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $355 (€288) but you can travel from only $122 (€99) by flight.

The earliest train runs at 06:40, the last at 22:16. The fastest train covers the 2565 miles (4129 km) distance in 77h 5m.

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 $122 (€99)
Distance
2565 miles (4129 km)
Average train duration
74h 39m
Cheapest ticket price
$355 (€288)
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
77h 5m
First train
6:40 AM
Last train
10:16 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
Flight from $122 (€99)

Train companies: Amtrak from New York, NY to San Francisco, CA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between New York, NY and San Francisco, CA from $122 (€99). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Amtrak

About
Amtrak is the main passenger train operator in the United States, providing medium- and long-distance intercity services across 46 states and three Canadian provinces. Operating over 300 trains daily and serving more than 500 destinations, Amtrak connects cities and regions nationwide through routes such as the high-speed Acela in the Northeast Corridor, the scenic Coast Starlight along the West Coast, and the Empire Builder linking Chicago to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. Other notable services include the Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, and the unique Auto Train, which allows passengers to bring their cars onboard. Amtrak offers a variety of classes to suit different budgets and travel needs, including Coach, Business, First Class, and Sleeper Class with options like Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Bedroom Suites for overnight journeys. Ticket types include Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and Premium. Onboard amenities vary by service but may include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, dining options, and lounge access on select trains. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–Boston, San Diego–San Luis Obispo, San Jose–Sacramento, and Chicago–Seattle.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
77h 5m
Cheapest Price
$355 (€288)
Amtrak frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
2 personal items and 2 carry-on bags included free
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at end of cars
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type and timing
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Amtrak
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. Long-distance trains have full-service dining cars
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for Business and First Class. Optional fee for Coach Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, Red Cap assistance service, accessible platforms and stations
Pets
Small pets under 20 pounds allowed for $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone

FAQs: Trains from New York, NY to San Francisco, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from New York, NY to San Francisco, CA by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at San Francisco, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from New York, NY to San Francisco, CA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $355 (€288), while the average price is around $1484 (€1204).
The train from New York, NY to San Francisco, CA takes 77h 5m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from New York, NY to San Francisco, CA is 2565 miles (4129 km).
The first train from New York, NY to San Francisco, CA leaves at 6:40 AM.
The last train from New York, NY to San Francisco, CA leaves at 10:16 PM.
There is no high speed train available from New York, NY to San Francisco, CA.
There is no direct train service currently available from New York, NY to San Francisco, CA.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from New York, NY to San Francisco, CA.
The train station in New York, NY that goes to San Francisco, CA is Penn Station, New York, NY, which connects to Emeryville station, Emeryville, CA.
The cheapest way to get from New York, NY to San Francisco, CA is by flight, with a cost of around $122 (€99).
The train journey from New York, NY to San Francisco, CA offers scenic views, including the picturesque landscapes of the Hudson River Valley, the expansive plains of the Midwest, and the breathtaking Rocky Mountains, providing travelers with a diverse and visually appealing experience across different terrains.
A day trip from New York, NY to San Francisco, CA is not feasible as the journey takes 77h 5m and covers 2565 miles (4129 km). The frequency for trains is 5 per day.
In San Francisco, CA, you can ride a cable car through steep streets, explore vibrant murals in the Mission District, and visit the Exploratorium, an interactive science museum. Take a scenic walk along the Embarcadero for views of the Bay Bridge and access to the Ferry Building Marketplace. Enjoy a wine tasting tour in nearby Napa Valley. Key sights include the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Fisherman's Wharf, Golden Gate Park, and Chinatown, each offering unique experiences from panoramic views to vibrant culture and cuisine.
Three to four days in San Francisco, CA, allows you to explore major attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Fisherman's Wharf, and neighborhoods like Chinatown and Haight-Ashbury, while also enjoying some of the city's renowned dining and cultural experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from New York, NY to San Francisco, CA.
Since neither New York, NY nor San Francisco, 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.
Popular day trips by train from San Francisco, CA include Davis, CA, San Jose, CA, Stockton, CA, Santa Clara, CA, West Sacramento, CA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from New York, NY to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
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 San Francisco, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like Fisherman's Wharf and Union Square. Common scams include distraction techniques used by groups to steal wallets and fake charity solicitations. It's advisable to avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night and be wary of unofficial taxi services to ensure safety.
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 train stations

Popular train stations from New York, NY to San Francisco, CA

New York
San Francisco
The major train station for departures in New York is Penn Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Penn Station for your trip from New York to San Francisco.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
HotelHotel
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Sun: 05:00-22:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
4 km
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi available in Moynihan Train Hall.
Lockers
Lockers
  • Baggage assistance is provided by Red Caps, open 24/7 at Penn and open from 05:00 to 23:00 at Moynihan Train Hall.
Dining
Dining
  • Blue Bottle Coffee
  • Magnolia Bakery
  • Starbucks
  • The Pennsy Food Hall
  • Nick + Stef's Steakhouse
  • Penn & Sushi
  • Krispy Kreme Donuts
  • T.G.I. Friday's
  • NY Pizza Suprema
  • Blarney Stone
  • & many more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Accessible facilities including restroom, parking, elevators, and ramps. Additional assistance available at ticket counters or by asking uniformed employees.
Hotel
Hotel
  • The New Yorker at Wyndham Hotel
  • Courtyard by Marriott New York Manhattan/Chelsea
  • Hilton Garden Inn West 35th Street
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Sun: 05:00-22:00
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located on the connecting concourse near Tracks 18-19.
Public transit options for Penn Station
  • Subway lines: 1, 2, 3, A, C, E
  • Bus lines: M7, M20
  • Train lines: Acela, Adirondack, Cardinal, Carolinian, Crescent, Empire Service, Ethan Allen Express, Keystone Service, Lake Shore Limited, Maple Leaf, Northeast Regional, Pennsylvanian, Silver Service/Palmetto, Vermonter, PATH, New Jersey Transit, Long Island Railroad, AirTrain Newark, AirTrain JFK

Most popular trains to and from San Francisco, CA and New York, NY

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to San Francisco, CANew York, NY to San Francisco, CA train

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