How to Get to Los Angeles From San Francisco [2025–2026 Guide]
Travel from San Francisco to Los Angeles in 1.5 hrs by flight ($80–$200), 6–7 hrs by car (380 miles, $40–$70 fuel/tolls), or 8–9 hrs by bus/train ($40–$80) in 2025–2026.
The fastest way to reach Los Angeles from San Francisco is by flight (1.5 hrs, $80–$200). Driving takes 6–7 hrs (380 miles, $40–$70 fuel/tolls), while buses or trains take 8–9 hrs ($40–$80).
✈️ Flying from San Francisco to Los Angeles
Flying is the most time-efficient option. Multiple airlines, including United, Delta, Southwest, and Alaska, operate nonstop flights between San Francisco International Airport (SFO), Oakland (OAK), or San Jose (SJC) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Burbank (BUR), or Long Beach (LGB).
Flight time is just 1.5 hours, but when you add security, boarding, and airport transfers, the total trip usually takes 3–4 hours. Tickets typically cost $80–$200 round trip, depending on season and how early you book.
- Duration: 1.5 hrs flight (3–4 hrs total)
- Cost: $80–$200 round trip
- Best for: Speed and convenience
🚗 Driving from San Francisco to Los Angeles
If you prefer the freedom of a road trip, driving is a fantastic option. The distance is around 380 miles, and the drive takes 6–7 hours without heavy traffic.
The two most common routes are:
- I-5 South (fastest, ~6 hrs): A direct, efficient drive through California’s Central Valley.
- Highway 101 / Pacific Coast Highway (PCH, ~8–9 hrs): Scenic coastal views, ideal if you want to stop in Monterey, Big Sur, and Santa Barbara.
Fuel and tolls cost around $40–$70, making driving cost-effective for groups or families.
- Duration: 6–7 hrs (I-5) / 8–9 hrs (PCH)
- Cost: $40–$70 fuel/tolls
- Best for: Flexibility and scenic stops
🚌 Bus from San Francisco to Los Angeles
Buses are a budget-friendly but slower option. Companies like Greyhound, FlixBus, and Megabus operate daily routes between San Francisco and Los Angeles.
The journey takes 8–9 hours, depending on traffic and stops. Fares usually range from $40–$70 one way, with occasional sales as low as $25. Buses provide Wi-Fi, reclining seats, and rest stops, making the trip more comfortable than expected.
- Duration: 8–9 hrs
- Cost: $40–$70 one way
- Best for: Budget travelers
🚆 Train from San Francisco to Los Angeles
Amtrak offers a scenic alternative via the Coast Starlight and San Joaquins routes. While not the fastest, it’s one of the most beautiful train rides in the U.S.
- Option 1 (Coast Starlight): Leaves from Oakland/Emeryville and travels along California’s coast to Los Angeles in about 11–12 hrs.
- Option 2 (San Joaquins + Thruway Bus): Train from Emeryville to Bakersfield (~6 hrs) + Amtrak bus transfer to LA (~2 hrs). Total travel time: 8–9 hrs.
Tickets cost $50–$80 one way, with discounts for early booking.
- Duration: 8–12 hrs (depending on route)
- Cost: $50–$80 one way
- Best for: Scenic travelers and train lovers
🌸 Best Time to Travel to Los Angeles
- Spring (Mar–May): Comfortable weather, fewer crowds, and cheaper hotel rates.
- Summer (Jun–Aug): Peak season with festivals, beach trips, and theme parks, but also higher costs.
- Fall (Sep–Nov): Warm weather, lighter traffic, and better deals on accommodations.
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Mild climate, fewer tourists, and good for indoor attractions.
🗺️ Travel Summary Table
| Travel Mode | Duration | Cost Estimate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight (SFO → LAX) | 1.5 hrs (3–4 total) | $80–$200 round trip | Fastest, multiple daily flights |
| Car (I-5 / PCH) | 6–7 hrs / 8–9 hrs | $40–$70 fuel/tolls | Flexible, road trip options |
| Bus | 8–9 hrs | $40–$70 | Budget-friendly, slower than driving or flying |
| Train (Amtrak) | 8–12 hrs | $50–$80 | Scenic but slowest option |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the fastest way to get to Los Angeles from San Francisco?
Flying is fastest, taking just 1.5 hrs in the air and about 3–4 hrs total.
Q2: How long is the drive from San Francisco to Los Angeles?
It takes about 6–7 hrs via I-5 or 8–9 hrs via the coastal route (PCH).
Q3: What is the cheapest way to travel between San Francisco and Los Angeles?
Buses are the cheapest, starting from $25–$40 one way.
Q4: Can you take a train directly from San Francisco to Los Angeles?
Yes, via Amtrak’s Coast Starlight or San Joaquins + bus transfer.
Q5: When is the best season to visit Los Angeles?
Spring and fall offer the best balance of weather, crowds, and prices.