Train from Chicago to Bakersfield: Tickets & Timetables

Next departures

Next departures from Chicago to Bakersfield on 17 December
Operated byVehicle typeDeparture timeDeparture locationTrip durationArrival timeArrival locationRecommendedPrice and booking link
Amtrak
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Amtrak StationCheapest
Amtrak
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Amtrak StationFastest
Amtrak
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Amtrak StationNo tags
Amtrak
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Amtrak StationNo tags
Amtrak
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Amtrak StationNo tags

Last refresh of the prices: Last Sunday at 2:56 PM CST.

Compare 2 ways to travel from Chicago to Bakersfield

We recommend taking the bus

Among the sustainable travel choices, the bus stands out as a good way to reach Bakersfield. The journey takes about 2 days, 5 hours 35 minutes and with fares starting at just R 3 818, it presents an excellent value for a comfortable ride.

10bus per day
2d 5hAverage duration
2802 kmDistance
70kgCO₂ emissions
Average priceR 3 818 - R 12 031Average duration2d 5h
70kg CO₂e
Average priceR 4 636 - R 47 407Average duration2d 12h
255kg CO₂e

Frequently asked questions about travelling from Chicago to Bakersfield by train

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

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

    The cheapest train tickets from Chicago to Bakersfield start from R 4 636. The average price for this train route is around R 5 399. Busbud recommends booking your tickets in advance for a better chance to secure the lowest possible price.

  2. How long is the train journey from Chicago to Bakersfield?

    The average train journey time from Chicago to Bakersfield is 2d 12h, covering a distance of 2803 km. The quickest train can get you there in 1d 23h and is operated by Amtrak.

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

    Several major train operators run on this route, with 1 trains available per day.

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

    The earliest train from Chicago to Bakersfield departs at 14:00. And the latest train departs at 14:00.

Find cheapest prices for trains

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

Best price found
14/12
R 5 196
15/12
R 5 196
Today
R 6 053
17/12
R 6 053
18/12
R 18 640
19/12
R 10 340
20/12
R 9 226
21/12
R 9 226
busbud logoThe cheapest trip from Chicago to Bakersfield was searched and found on 14 Dec 2025 with a price of R 5 196

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

You can expect to pay from R 5 196 to R 49 076 for a train ticket from Chicago to Bakersfield based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at R 6 053, which is on 2025-12-17.

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

busbud logoThe train is the cheapest travel choice for this destination

The best way to travel between Chicago and Bakersfield is by train. By choosing the train, you'll get to save some money as you travel to your destination, as ticket prices cost R 5 399 on average. If you're on a budget, you'll find cheap tickets from R 4 636. If you're looking for the fastest way to get to Bakersfield, choose the train, as it will take you from Chicago to Bakersfield in about 2d 5h – that's the fastest way to get there!

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