Train from Chicago to Carbondale: Tickets & Schedules

Next departures

Next departures for Chicago to Carbondale on December 3
Operated byVehicle typeDeparture timeDeparture locationTrip durationArrival timeArrival locationRecommendedPrice and booking link
Amtrak
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Carbondale (Amtrak), ILCheapest
Amtrak
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Carbondale (Amtrak), ILFastest
Amtrak
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Carbondale (Amtrak), ILNo tags
Amtrak
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Carbondale (Amtrak), ILNo tags
Amtrak
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Carbondale (Amtrak), ILNo tags

Last refresh of the prices: Yesterday at 10:20 PM CST.

Compare 2 ways to go from Chicago to Carbondale

We recommend taking the train

Among the sustainable travel choices, the train stands out as a good way to reach Carbondale. The journey takes about 5 hours 30 minutes, and with fares starting at just $42, it presents an excellent value for a comfortable ride.

4train per day
5h 30mAverage Duration
482 kmDistance
44kgCO₂ emissions
Average Price$45 - $503Average Duration9h 5m
12kg CO₂e
Average Price$42 - $273Average Duration5h 30m
44kg CO₂e

Frequently asked questions about travelling from Chicago to Carbondale 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 Carbondale?

    The cheapest train tickets from Chicago to Carbondale start at $42. The average price for this train route is around $66. 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 Carbondale?

    The average train trip from Chicago to Carbondale takes 5h 30m and covers 482 km. The quickest train gets you there in 5h 16m and is operated by Amtrak.

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

    Several major train operators serve this route, with 4 trains available per day.

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

    The earliest train from Chicago to Carbondale departs at 8:15am. The latest train departs at 8:05pm.

Find cheapest prices for trains

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

Best price found
11-30
$152
12-01
$548
Today
$121
12-03
$92
12-04
$62
12-05
$74
12-06
$74
12-07
$75
busbud logoThe cheapest trip from Chicago to Carbondale was searched and found on Dec 4, 2025 with a price of $62

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

You can expect to pay from $62 to $548 for a train ticket from Chicago to Carbondale based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at $62 which is on 2025-12-04.

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

busbud logoThe train is the cheapest travel choice for this destination

The best way to travel between Chicago and Carbondale is by train. By choosing the train, you'll get to save some money as you travel to your destination, as ticket prices cost $66 on average. If you're on a budget, you'll find cheap tickets from $42. If you're looking for the fastest way to get to Carbondale, choose the train, as it will take you from Chicago to Carbondale in about 5h 30m —that's the fastest way to get there!

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