Train from Chicago to Oakland: Tickets & Schedules

Next departures

Next departures for Chicago to Oakland on February 9
Operated byVehicle typeDeparture timeDeparture locationTrip durationArrival timeArrival locationRecommendedPrice and booking link
Amtrak
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Emeryville StationCheapestFastest
Amtrak
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Emeryville StationNo tags
Amtrak
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Emeryville StationNo tags
Amtrak
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Emeryville StationNo tags
Amtrak
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Emeryville StationNo tags

Last refresh of the prices: Today at 8:58 AM CST.

Compare 2 ways to go from Chicago to Oakland

We recommend taking the bus

Among the sustainable travel choices, the Bus stands out as a good way to reach Oakland. The journey takes about 2 days, 8 hours 34 minutes, and with fares starting at just $173, it presents an excellent value for a comfortable ride.

15bus per day
2d 8hAverage Duration
2973 kmDistance
74kgCO₂ emissions
Average Price$173 - $624Average Duration2d 8h
74kg CO₂e
Average Price$175 - $2,618Average Duration2d 11h
270kg CO₂e

Frequently asked questions about travelling from Chicago to Oakland by train

Please note that schedules, routes, or operator details shown here may be updated or vary at the time of your trip.

  1. How much is the train ticket from Chicago to Oakland?

    The cheapest train tickets from Chicago to Oakland start at $175. The average price for this train route is around $310. Busbud recommends booking your tickets in advance to increase your chances of getting the lowest possible price.

  2. How long is the train ride from Chicago to Oakland?

    The average train trip from Chicago to Oakland takes 2d 11h and covers 2971 km. The quickest train gets you there in 2d 4h and is operated by Amtrak.

  3. Which train operators serve the Chicago to Oakland route?

    Several major train operators serve this route, with 10 trains available per day.

  4. What are the earliest and latest departure times for the train from Chicago to Oakland?

    The earliest train from Chicago to Oakland departs at 7:40am. The latest train departs at 3:05pm.

Find cheapest prices for trains

Price is for a one-way ticket for one passenger and based on past searches.

Best price found
02-06
$382
02-07
$354
Today
$295
02-09
$354
02-10
$295
02-11
$462
02-12
$246
02-13
$413
busbud logoThe cheapest trip from Chicago to Oakland was searched and found on Feb 12, 2026 with a price of $246

To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your train tickets from Chicago to Oakland, as early as possible.

You can expect to pay from $246 to $3,982 for a train ticket from Chicago to Oakland based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at $246 which is on 2026-02-12.

What's the cheapest way to go from Chicago to Oakland?

busbud logoThe Train is the cheapest travel choice for this destination

The best way to travel between Chicago and Oakland is by train. By choosing the train, you'll get to save some money as you travel to your destination, as ticket prices cost $310 on average. If you're on a budget, you'll find cheap tickets from $175. If you're looking for the fastest way to get to Oakland, choose the train, as it will take you from Chicago to Oakland in about 2d 8h —that's the fastest way to get there!

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