Train from Oakland to Chicago: Tickets & Schedules

Next available departures

Next departures for Oakland to Chicago on March 31
Operated byVehicle typeDeparture timeDeparture locationTrip durationArrival timeArrival locationRecommendedPrice and booking link
Amtrak
Emeryville Station
Chicago (Union Station), ILCheapest
Amtrak
Emeryville Station
Chicago (Union Station), ILFastest
Amtrak
Coliseum/Airport
Chicago (Union Station), ILNo tags
Amtrak
Coliseum/Airport
Chicago (Union Station), ILNo tags
Amtrak
Jack London Square
Chicago (Union Station), ILNo tags

Last refresh of the prices: Today at 2:18 AM PDT.

Compare 2 ways to go from Oakland to Chicago

We recommend taking the train

Among the sustainable travel choices, the Train stands out as a good way to reach Chicago. The journey takes about 2 days, 5 hours 19 minutes, and with fares starting at just $178, it presents an excellent value for a comfortable ride.

7train per day
2d 5hAverage Duration
2967 kmDistance
270kgCO₂ emissions
Average Price$171 - $770Average Duration2d 14h
74kg CO₂e
Average Price$178 - $1,972Average Duration2d 5h
270kg CO₂e

Frequently asked questions about travelling from Oakland to Chicago 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 Oakland to Chicago?

    The cheapest train tickets from Oakland to Chicago start at $178. The average price for this train route is around $323. 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 Oakland to Chicago?

    The average train trip from Oakland to Chicago takes 2d 5h and covers 2967 km. The quickest train gets you there in 2d 3h and is operated by Amtrak.

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

    Several major train operators serve this route, with 7 trains available per day.

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

    The earliest train from Oakland to Chicago departs at 7:13am. The latest train departs at 9:41pm.

Find cheapest prices for trains

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

Best price found
03-28
$1,811
03-29
$533
Today
$444
03-31
$473
04-01
$473
04-02
$657
04-03
$474
04-04
$431
busbud logoThe cheapest trip from Oakland to Chicago was searched and found on Apr 4, 2026 with a price of $431

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

You can expect to pay from $431 to $4,102 for a train ticket from Oakland to Chicago based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at $431 which is on 2026-04-04.

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

busbud logoThe Train is the cheapest travel choice for this destination

The best way to travel between Oakland and Chicago is by train. By choosing the train, you'll get to save some money as you travel to your destination, as ticket prices cost $323 on average. If you're on a budget, you'll find cheap tickets from $178. If you're looking for the fastest way to get to Chicago, choose the train, as it will take you from Oakland to Chicago in about 2d 5h —that's the fastest way to get there!

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