How much does a cheap train ticket from Chicago to Columbia cost?

The average train ticket price from Chicago to Columbia is $427. The best way to find cheap train tickets from Chicago to Columbia 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 trip from Chicago to Columbia?

A train trip between Chicago and Columbia is around 1d 4h, although the fastest train will take about 1d 4h. This is the time it takes to travel the 1049 km that separates the two cities.

How many daily trains are there between Chicago and Columbia?

The number of trains from Chicago to Columbia can differ depending on the day of the week. On average, there is 1. Some trains are direct while others have layovers. Simplify your train trip from Chicago to Columbia by comparing and selecting the train that fits your travel style and budget on Busbud.

Which train companies travel from Chicago to Columbia?

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

Train Chicago to Columbia from $195 | Refundable Tickets

Next train departures

Next departures for Chicago to Columbia on November 11
Operated by	Vehicle type	Departure time	Departure location	Trip duration	Arrival time	Arrival location	Recommended	Price and booking link
	Train	6:40pm	Chicago (Union Station), IL	1d 4h	12:25am	Columbia, SC	CheapestFastest

Next departures for Chicago to Columbia on November 12
Operated by	Vehicle type	Departure time	Departure location	Trip duration	Arrival time	Arrival location	Recommended	Price and booking link
	Train	6:40pm	Chicago (Union Station), IL	1d 4h	12:25am	Columbia, SC	CheapestFastest
	Train	6:40pm	Chicago (Union Station), IL	1d 4h	12:25am	Columbia, SC	No tags

Next departures for Chicago to Columbia on November 13
Operated by	Vehicle type	Departure time	Departure location	Trip duration	Arrival time	Arrival location	Recommended	Price and booking link
	Train	6:40pm	Chicago (Union Station), IL	1d 4h	12:25am	Columbia, SC	CheapestFastest
	Train	6:40pm	Chicago (Union Station), IL	1d 4h	12:25am	Columbia, SC	No tags

Last refresh of the prices: Yesterday at 6:27 PM CST.

Get from Chicago to Columbia

This route is served by train only

The journey takes about 1 day, 4 hours 45 minutes, and with fares starting at just $203, it presents an excellent value for a comfortable ride.

1train per day

1d 4hAverage Duration

1050 kmDistance

96kgCO₂ emissions

Train companies

Amtrak

4/55,576 reviews

Staff4.7

Timeliness3.8

Cleanliness4.6

Wifi3.6

Based on 5576 reviews, the company was rated 4.1 stars on Busbud. Travellers were especially satisfied with the seats and the ticket access but often complained with the WiFi. Amtrak ticket prices on this trip start at $203

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

Frequently asked questions on the trip Chicago - Columbia, SC

How much does a cheap train ticket from Chicago to Columbia cost?
The average train ticket price from Chicago to Columbia is $427. The best way to find cheap train tickets from Chicago to Columbia 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 trip from Chicago to Columbia?
A train trip between Chicago and Columbia is around 1d 4h, although the fastest train will take about 1d 4h. This is the time it takes to travel the 1049 km that separates the two cities.
How many daily trains are there between Chicago and Columbia?
The number of trains from Chicago to Columbia can differ depending on the day of the week. On average, there is 1. Some trains are direct while others have layovers. Simplify your train trip from Chicago to Columbia by comparing and selecting the train that fits your travel style and budget on Busbud.
Which train companies travel from Chicago to Columbia?
When taking the train from Chicago to Columbia, you can travel comfortably and safely with Amtrak.

Find cheapest prices for trains

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

Best price found

11-09

$630

11-10

$630

Today

$410

11-12

$341

11-13

$284

11-14

$284

11-15

$231

11-16

$284

The cheapest trip from Chicago to Columbia, SC was searched and found on Nov 15, 2025 with a price of $231

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

You can expect to pay from $231 to $1,508 for a train ticket from Chicago to Columbia, SC based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at $231 which is on 2025-11-15.