Train from San Jose, US to Chicago: Tickets & Timetables

Next train departures

Next departures from San Jose to Chicago on 13 December
Operated byVehicle typeDeparture timeDeparture locationTrip durationArrival timeArrival locationRecommendedPrice and booking link
AmtrakTrain
Diridon Station
Chicago (Union Station), ILCheapestFastest
AmtrakTrain
Diridon Station
Chicago (Union Station), ILNo tags

Last refresh of the prices: Last Tuesday at 7:09 PM PST.

Compare 2 ways to travel from San Jose to Chicago

We recommend taking the bus

Among the sustainable travel choices, the bus stands out as a good way to reach Chicago. The journey takes about 2 days, 13 hours 25 minutes and with fares starting at just R 1 861, it presents an excellent value for a comfortable ride.

4bus per day
2d 13hAverage duration
2961 kmDistance
74kgCO₂ emissions
Average priceR 1 861 - R 12 631Average duration2d 13h
74kg CO₂e
Average priceR 2 920 - R 33 373Average duration2d 18h
269kg CO₂e

Frequently asked questions about travelling from San Jose, US to Chicago 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 San Jose to Chicago?

    The cheapest train tickets from San Jose to Chicago start from R 2 920. The average price for this train route is around R 7 357. 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 San Jose to Chicago?

    The average train journey time from San Jose to Chicago is 2d 18h, covering a distance of 2959 km. The quickest train can get you there in 2d 6h and is operated by Amtrak.

  3. Which train operators serve the San Jose to Chicago route?

    Several major train operators run on this route, with 2 trains available per day.

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

    The earliest train from San Jose to Chicago departs at 06:18. And the latest train departs at 19:58.

Find cheapest prices for trains

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

Best price found
10/12
R 3 959
11/12
R 54 491
Today
R 7 676
13/12
R 8 385
14/12
R 5 411
15/12
R 3 268
16/12
No data
17/12
R 5 550
busbud logoThe cheapest trip from San Jose, US to Chicago was searched and found on 15 Dec 2025 with a price of R 3 268

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

You can expect to pay from R 3 268 to R 54 491 for a train ticket from San Jose, US to Chicago based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at R 3 268, which is on 2025-12-15.

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