How much does a train ticket from Chicago to San Diego cost?

The average train ticket price from Chicago to San Diego is $258. The best way to find train tickets from Chicago to San Diego is to book your tickets as early as possible. Prices tend to rise as your travel date approaches, so book in advance to secure the best prices!

How long is the train trip from Chicago to San Diego?

A train trip between Chicago and San Diego is around 2d , although the fastest train will take about 2d . This is the time it takes to travel the 1729 miles that separates the two cities.

How many daily trains are there between Chicago and San Diego?

The number of trains from Chicago to San Diego can differ depending on the day of the week. On average, there are 3. Some trains are direct while others have layovers. Simplify your train trip from Chicago to San Diego by comparing and selecting the train that fits your travel style and budget on Busbud.

Which train companies travel from Chicago to San Diego?

When taking the train from Chicago to San Diego, you can travel comfortably and safely with Amtrak.

What are the best sights and things to do in San Diego?

Once in San Diego, you can explore the city. The top sights and things to do are Boat Tours in San Diego, San Diego Zoo, Coronado, Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, USS Midway Museum.

Train Chicago to San Diego from $178 | Refundable Tickets

Previously seen trips

Next departures for Chicago to San Diego on November 17
Vehicle type	Departure time	Departure location	Trip duration	Arrival time	Arrival location	Recommended
Train	1:52pm	Chicago (Union Station), IL	2d 22h	10:04am	Santa Fe Depot	No tags
Train	1:52pm	Chicago (Union Station), IL	2d 21h	9:50am	Old Town San Diego	No tags
Train	2:25pm	Chicago (Union Station), IL	2d	12:53pm	Old Town San Diego	No tags
Train	2:25pm	Chicago (Union Station), IL	2d	1:07pm	Santa Fe Depot	No tags
Train	1:52pm	Chicago (Union Station), IL	2d 22h	10:04am	Santa Fe Depot	No tags

Compare 2 ways to go from Chicago to San Diego

We recommend taking the train

Among the sustainable travel choices, the train stands out as the good way to reach San Diego. The journey takes about 2 days, 42 minutes and with fares starting at just $186, it presents an excellent value for a comfortable ride.

3train per day

2d Average Duration

1728 milesDistance

254kgCO₂ emissions

	Average Price	Average Duration	CO₂ emissions	Actions
Bus	Average Price$125 - $582	Average Duration2d 7h	CO₂ emissions 69kg CO₂e
Train	Average Price$186 - $1,547	Average Duration2d	CO₂ emissions 254kg CO₂e

Train Companies

Amtrak

4/55,590 reviews

Staff4.7

Timeliness3.8

Cleanliness4.6

Wifi3.6

Based on 5590 reviews, the company was rated 4.1 stars on Busbud. Travelers were especially satisfied with the seats and the ticket access but often complained with the wifi. Amtrak ticket prices on this trip start at $186

Train and bus companies in US:Amtrak, Trenitalia, Renfe, VIA Rail Canada, Amtrak Acela, NS Nederlandse Spoorwegen, Iryo

Frequently asked questions about traveling from Chicago to San Diego, CA, US by train

How much does a train ticket from Chicago to San Diego cost?
How long is the train trip from Chicago to San Diego?
How many daily trains are there between Chicago and San Diego?
Which train companies travel from Chicago to San Diego?
What are the best sights and things to do in San Diego?

Find cheapest prices for trains

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

Best price found

11/14

$205

11/15

No data

Today

$334

11/17

$178

11/18

$243

11/19

No data

11/20

$243

11/21

$285

The cheapest trip from Chicago to San Diego, CA, US was searched and found on Nov 17, 2025 with a price of $178

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

You can expect to pay from $178 to $1,493 for a train ticket from Chicago to San Diego, CA, US based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at $178 which is on 2025-11-17.