Cheap bus tickets from Memphis to Chicago
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Bus from Memphis to Chicago: Journey Information
There are 11 intercity buses per day from Memphis to Chicago. Traveling by bus from Memphis to Chicago usually takes around 14 hours and 21 minutes, but the fastest Greyhound bus can make the trip in 9 hours and 40 minutes.
| Distance | 483 mi (777 km) |
| Shortest duration | 9h 40m |
| Cheapest price | $63.98 |
| Trips per day | 2 |
| Most frequent service | Greyhound |
| Bus lines | 3 |
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Memphis to Chicago Bus Schedule
There are several bus options that can take you from Memphis to Chicago:
- Greyhound: 7 daily buses from $64
- FlixBus US: 3 daily buses from $65
- Jefferson Lines: 1 daily buses from $188
How much is a bus ticket from Memphis to Chicago?
Bus tickets for a trip from Memphis to Chicago cost $80.90 on average. While it’s a bit pricey for a bus ticket, it’s still significantly more cost-effective than flying. If you book your trip ahead of time using Wanderu, you can easily find bus tickets at or below this price.
Average bus ticket prices from Memphis to Chicago by travel date
If you're planning to travel by bus from Memphis to Chicago in the next month, the average ticket price is expected to range from $69 to $115. The cheapest bus tickets available in the next few weeks are for trips departing on August 25, 2026. If you’re looking to travel to Chicago this week, bus tickets are available starting at $80.
Average bus ticket prices from Memphis to Chicago by month
Taking the bus from Memphis to Chicago is usually cheapest in September, when the average ticket price is only $93. If you're planning to take the bus from Memphis to Chicago during July, keep in mind that bus ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of $111. However, booking your trip in advance can help you score a ticket at a better price.
Prices as travel date approaches
Most bus companies charge higher ticket prices closer to the date of travel, so it’s a good idea to buy your bus tickets as early as possible. To find the cheapest bus tickets, book your trip at least 20 days in advance. This way, you can save up to $77.47 on your bus ticket compared to booking last-minute.
What bus companies travel from Memphis to Chicago?
There are multiple buses that travel from Memphis to Chicago, including Greyhound, FlixBus US, Jefferson Lines. Here is what you should know about the 3 most popular bus lines:
| BUS | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Greyhound | 7 | 14h 15m | $121.74 |
| FlixBus US | 3 | 13h 40m | $105.49 |
| Jefferson Lines | 1 | 21h 43m | $188.11 |
Greyhound is the largest nationwide bus carrier in the United States, offering cheap, safe and reliable service across the country. Greyhound has become a household name, serving over 16 million passengers per year with daily trips to over 2,400 destinations. Greyhound performs about 7 bus trips from Memphis to Chicago every day, with the average journey taking around 14 hours and 15 minutes to complete. Bus tickets for Greyhound trips to Chicago usually start from $63.98.
FlixBus US is the American branch of German bus company FlixBus, known for providing sustainable, affordable, and modern bus travel. The company offers cheap bus tickets to popular urban destinations throughout the United States. FlixBus US buses include many amenities, including comfortable seats, free WiFi, power outlets at every seat, and an online portal for free entertainment. On average, FlixBus US operates 3 trips per day from Memphis to Chicago, and the average ticket for this route costs only $105.49.
Book Jefferson Lines from Memphis to Chicago from $188. Typically there is one Jefferson Lines schedule per day from Memphis to Chicago and you can expect on average to pay $188.11 for a Jefferson Lines ticket to Chicago. In Memphis, Jefferson Lines departs to Chicago from Bus Terminal - 3033 Airway Blvd. In Chicago, Jefferson Lines arrives at Bus Station - 630 W Harrison St.
An average trip on Jefferson Lines from Memphis to Chicago takes 21 hours and 43 minutes, while the fastest available Jefferson Lines trip will get you to Chicago in 21 hours and 10 minutes.
On weekends, Jefferson Lines offers 1 trip per day and you could expect to pay $188 for a one way ticket for your weekend getaway trip to Chicago.
Frequently asked questions about traveling by bus from Memphis to Chicago
Bus tickets for a trip from Memphis to Chicago cost $80.90 on average. While it’s a bit pricey for a bus ticket, it’s still significantly more cost-effective than flying. If you book your trip ahead of time using Wanderu, you can easily find bus tickets at or below this price.
There are 11 scheduled buses that travel from Memphis to Chicago every day, so you have a decent number of options to choose from. This includes 2 direct buses, where you can stay on the same bus without having to transfer to a connecting bus at any point during your trip. Need more travel options? Consider taking the train from Memphis to Chicago; ticket prices start at $75.
TRIPS PER DAY
11
DIRECT TRIPS
2
The bus takes an average of 14 hours and 21 minutes to cover the 483 miles from Memphis to Chicago. However, the fastest bus only takes 9 hours and 40 minutes. It’s definitely on the longer side, so plan to get comfortable for a long road trip. Keep in mind that your actual bus may arrive earlier or later than scheduled, depending on whether there is more or less traffic than usual.
DISTANCE (MI)
483
DISTANCE (KM)
777
The first bus leaves at 12:30am and the last bus leaves at 9:20pm. To see the times for all buses from Memphis to Chicago, enter your specific travel dates in the search bar.
EARLIEST BUS
12:30am
LATEST BUS
9:20pm
Friday is the busiest travel day for buses as people head from Memphis to Chicago for the weekend. If you are planning to travel on a Friday, you should make sure to book tickets well in advance as they may sell out. On the other hand, Tuesday is typically the least busy day for bus travel on this route. If you’re looking for a little extra space, a Tuesday ticket is the way to go.
City Information
Memphis
Nestled on the bank of the Mississippi River, Memphis is a city that constantly vibes to the rhythm of the South. Audiophiles who have fallen in love with the voice of Elvis Presley will find Graceland a must-see destination during their trip. Let the voices of Johnny Cash and B. B. King guide you to the famous Sun Studio, considered the birthplace of rock ‘n roll itself. As the day comes to an end, unwind at the famous Beale Street, where top musicians started out their career, and enjoy live music at one of the local theaters. You'll meet all sorts of visitors, and see why Memphis is one of the best destinations for bachelorette parties. The street also features some of the best restaurants in town, so make sure to check those out.
Memphis is more than just a musical center of the South. It was the vibrant center of the civil rights movement, and it was here that Martin Luther King Jr. took his last breath. Travelers interested in the city’s history should definitely take a tour around the National Civil Rights Museum. The moving and surreal exhibitions will offer a wealth of new perspectives.
Memphis' principal train hub is the Memphis Central Station, which has been in service since 1914. From there, you can travel by train to cities such as Chicago, Jackson, and Baton Rouge. On the outskirts of town, you will find the Memphis International Airport, and not far from it is the main bus stop used by Greyhound and other carriers.
Chicago
Known for its innovative architecture, cultural contributions to jazz and house music, and of course that irresistible deep-dish pizza, the many sights and experiences in Chicago make it one of the best urban vacation destinations for millennials and a top destination in Illinois.
You can't beat the views of the city and Lake Michigan from the SkyDeck in the Willis Tower; at over 1,300 feet, this is the highest observation deck in the U.S. Snap that classic selfie with the Bean in Millennium Park, then wander the many museums in nearby Grant Park. Navy Pier is a popular tourist hotspot for its parks, restaurants, and attractions right on Lake Michigan, and baseball fans will find paradise in Wrigleyville, home to the Chicago Cubs' Wrigley Field and sports bars galore.
Chicago's enormous parks offer plentiful opportunities for outdoor activities in gorgeous urban settings. Many companies offer kayak rentals or boat tours on the Chicago River, with special tours running on Saint Patrick's Day, when the entire river is dyed green. When you’re ready to buy some souvenirs from your epic trip, hit the big brand stores on the Magnificent Mile, or shop local in neighborhoods like Andersonville and Wicker Park. And don't miss the chance to laugh until you cry at The Second City comedy theater, famous for launching the careers of comedians like Tina Fey and Stephen Colbert.
Chicago is one of the biggest transportation hubs in the Midwest, and provides easy access to nearby destinations ideal for day trips, as well as international travel from two airports. Thanks to plenty of bus and train stations throughout the city, getting to the Windy City is a breeze.
Station Information
Where does the bus leave from in Memphis?
Main departure station: Bus Terminal - 3033 Airway Blvd
As part of the Memphis International Airport complex, the bus terminal at 3033 Airway Blvd is an important travel hub for travelers in and out of Memphis. Jefferson Lines and Miller Transportation buses travel from this station to exciting cities such as Nashville, Chicago, Atlanta, and Houston. Restrooms, indoor seating, vending machines, and a 24-hour snack bar make this a comfortable stop along your journey. In the immediate vicinity, you can find several dining options for a quick bite, as well as some of the airport’s rental car agencies. Once you hop in a rental car, getting from the bus terminal to downtown Memphis is about a 15-minute drive.
All bus stations in Memphis:
- Bus Terminal - 3033 Airway Blvd
Where does the bus arrive in Chicago?
Main arrival station: Bus Station - 630 W Harrison St
Buses arrive in Chicago at 3 stations, depending on which bus line you are traveling with.
All bus stations in Chicago:
- Bus Station - 630 W Harrison St
- Dan Ryan Bus Station
- Chicago Train Station Bus Stop
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