ORD to SFO Flights: Your Gateway to the Golden Gate
Cheapest flight found
$178
Last updated Mar 13, 2026
Prices by Month
Price History
Tracking the May 7, 2026 departure — the cheapest date we found.
Price Behavior: ORD → SFO
Based on 6 months of fare data collected by Trip Manta.
Lowest Fare
$178
Highest Fare
$266
Median Fare
$210
Price Spread
$88
Prices fluctuate moderately — tracking can help you catch dips.
Cheapest month to fly: May 2026 (from $178)
Most expensive month: April 2026 (from $266)
Biggest price drop caught: $83 between consecutive checks
Most frequent cheapest airline: United
What This Means for You
Flights from Chicago to San Francisco range from $178 to $266, a $88 spread across the months we track. If your dates are flexible, May 2026 tends to have the lowest fares. Prices move enough that tracking can save you money — drops often last only a few hours before the algorithm adjusts back up. We have caught drops as large as $83 between hourly checks on this route.
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From
Chicago (ORD)
To
San Francisco (SFO)
Airport Information
Chicago (ORD)
Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is a primary global gateway known for its massive scale and four distinct terminals. As a major hub for both United and American Airlines, it offers extensive lounge options and high-end dining across its concourses. Navigating O'Hare is made easier by the automated people mover system, but travelers should still arrive at least two hours early due to the sheer volume of passengers moving through security checkpoints daily.
San Francisco (SFO)
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is located about 13 miles south of downtown and serves as a premier international terminal. It is famous for its 'Wag Brigade' of therapy animals and the SFO Museum, which features rotating art exhibitions throughout the terminals. SFO is highly committed to sustainability, featuring LEED-certified buildings and plenty of hydration stations, making it one of the most modern and eco-friendly airports in the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the flight from ORD to SFO?
A direct flight typically takes between 4 hours and 15 minutes to 4 hours and 45 minutes depending on wind speeds and air traffic.
Which airlines offer direct flights on this route?
United Airlines, American Airlines, and Alaska Airlines frequently operate non-stop services between Chicago O'Hare and San Francisco International.
Is there a time difference between Chicago and San Francisco?
Yes, San Francisco is in the Pacific Time Zone, which is two hours behind Chicago's Central Time Zone.
What is the best way to get to downtown San Francisco from SFO?
The BART train is the most efficient and eco-friendly method, though rideshare services and airport shuttles are also widely available at the arrivals level.
Does ORD have a lounge for United passengers?
Yes, United operates several United Club locations across Terminals 1 and 2, plus a dedicated Polaris Lounge for long-haul business class travelers.
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