How to Get to New York From Chicago [2026 Guide]
Travel from Chicago to New York City in 2 hrs by flight ($150–$400), 12–14 hrs by car (~790 miles, $80–$120 fuel/tolls), or 19–21 hrs by bus/train ($120–$250). Compare travel times, costs, and routes for 2026.
The fastest way to get from Chicago to New York City is by flight (~2 hrs, $150–$400). Driving takes 12–14 hrs (~790 miles, $80–$120). Bus/train takes 19–21 hrs ($120–$250).
New York City, home to Times Square, Central Park, Wall Street, and Broadway, attracts millions of travelers every year. Visitors from Chicago can reach NYC via air, car, or bus/train, depending on convenience, budget, and travel style.
- Distance: ~790 miles (1,270 km)
- Fastest: Flight (~2 hrs)
- Scenic/flexible: Drive (12–14 hrs)
- Budget: Bus/train (19–21 hrs)
✈️ Flight from Chicago to New York (Fastest Option)
Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Chicago to New York, offering direct routes between major hubs.
Nonstop flights depart frequently from both Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW), landing at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), or Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). With an average flight time of just two to two and a half hours, air travel significantly cuts down transit time compared to driving or taking the train.
Round-trip airfare generally ranges between $150 and $400 depending on seasonality and advance booking, served by major carriers including American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue, and Spirit Airlines. Because dozens of nonstop flights run daily, this route provides maximum flexibility for business travelers, weekend getaways, and vacationers looking to bypass road fatigue and maximize their time in the city.
🚗 Driving from Chicago to New York (Flexible Option)
Driving allows flexibility to explore cities and towns along the way, including Cleveland, Pittsburgh, and Philadelphia.
- Distance: ~790 miles
- Duration: 12–14 hrs depending on traffic
- Cost: $80–$120 fuel/tolls
- Route: Chicago → I-90 East → I-80 East → New York City
Advantages:
- Flexible stops for sightseeing or meals
- Ideal for road trips or groups
- Direct access to NYC neighborhoods without transfers
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🚌 Bus and Train from Chicago to New York (Budget Option)
Traveling by bus or train from Chicago to New York is one of the most budget-friendly alternatives to flying, making it an ideal choice for cost-conscious travelers. Ground transportation routes connect major hubs directly, running from Chicago Union Station to New York’s Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station via Amtrak (most notably on the direct Lake Shore Limited line), alongside intercity bus services operated by Greyhound and Megabus.
Total travel time typically ranges from 19 to 21 hours, with ticket prices generally falling between $120 and $250 depending on how early you book and the carrier you choose.
While slower than air travel, these overland routes offer significant advantages: they eliminate airport security lines, provide comfortable seating with onboard amenities such as Wi-Fi and power outlets, and deliver scenic overland views across the Midwest and East Coast along the journey.
Best Way to Travel
- Fastest: Flight (~2 hrs, $150–$400)
- Flexible & scenic: Drive (12–14 hrs, $80–$120)
- Budget-friendly: Bus/train (19–21 hrs, $120–$250)
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Chicago to New York Travel Cost Summary
| Mode | Duration | Cost (USD) | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Flight | ~2 hrs | $150–$400 | Fastest travelers | Multiple daily flights from ORD/MDW → JFK/LGA/EWR |
| 🚗 Car | 12–14 hrs | $80–$120 | Flexible travelers | I-90 East → I-80 East → NYC |
| 🚌 Bus/Train | 19–21 hrs | $120–$250 | Budget travelers | Greyhound/Megabus/Amtrak → Penn Station |
FAQs About How to Get to New York From Chicago in 2026
Q1: What is the fastest way to get from Chicago to New York City?
Flying — approximately 2 hrs.
Q2: How far is New York from Chicago?
Approximately 790 miles (1,270 km).
Q3: Can I drive from Chicago to New York?
Yes — about 12–14 hrs via I-90 East → I-80 East.
Q4: Is bus or train travel a good option?
Yes — Greyhound, Megabus, or Amtrak (~19–21 hrs), good for budget-conscious travelers.
Q5: Which airports in NYC are closest to Manhattan?
JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark all offer connections to Manhattan via public transit, taxi, or rideshare.