Cheap Flights from San Francisco to Chicago

San Francisco (SFO) → Chicago (ORD) · Flight time about 4 hr 15 min nonstop (eastbound)

San Francisco to Chicago is one of the busiest cross-country routes in the US, popular with business travellers, families and anyone connecting onward through Chicago. Nonstop flights take a little over four hours eastbound.

Search My Trip compares fares across airlines in one search, so you can quickly see nonstop and one-stop options and pick the best price and schedule.

Route at a glance

Departure airport: San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
Arrival airport: Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
Flight time: about 4 hr 15 min nonstop (eastbound)
Support: 24/7 phone help from Search My Trip

Tips for cheap San Francisco to Chicago flights

Midweek flights are usually cheaper than Friday and Sunday departures.
Compare O'Hare (ORD) and Midway (MDW) - one may be cheaper or closer to where you are going.
Early-morning flights from SFO are less likely to be affected by afternoon delays in Chicago.
Book a few weeks ahead for big Chicago events and the summer season.

Getting from O'Hare to downtown Chicago

The CTA Blue Line runs from O'Hare straight into the Loop in downtown Chicago in about 45 minutes, and it operates around the clock. Taxis and rideshare are available outside the terminals but can be slow in rush-hour traffic.

If your plans are on the South Side or near Midway, compare fares into Chicago Midway (MDW) as well.

Time zone and winter travel tips

Chicago is on Central Time, two hours ahead of San Francisco. Morning flights from SFO land in the afternoon, so plan meetings and hotel check-in accordingly.

Chicago winters can bring snow and delays. In December to February, choose earlier flights where possible and keep an eye on your flight status on the day of travel.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the flight from San Francisco to Chicago?

A nonstop SFO to O'Hare flight takes about 4 hours 15 minutes eastbound. The return flight is usually a little longer.

Which Chicago airport should I fly into?

O'Hare (ORD) has the most flights, while Midway (MDW) is closer to downtown and the South Side. Compare both on Search My Trip.

Can Search My Trip help me after booking?

Yes. Our travel experts are available 24/7 by phone for changes and cancellations according to the airline fare rules.

What is the time difference between San Francisco and Chicago?

Chicago is two hours ahead of San Francisco.

How do I get from O'Hare to downtown Chicago?

The CTA Blue Line runs from O'Hare to the Loop in about 45 minutes. Taxis and rideshare are also available.

Popular routes

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