Train from Chicago to Effingham: Tickets & Timetables

Next departures

Next departures from Chicago to Effingham on 16 December
Operated byVehicle typeDeparture timeDeparture locationTrip durationArrival timeArrival locationRecommendedPrice and booking link
Amtrak
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Effingham, ILCheapest
Amtrak
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Effingham, ILFastest
Amtrak
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Effingham, ILNo tags
Amtrak
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Effingham, ILNo tags
Amtrak
Chicago (Union Station), IL
Effingham, ILNo tags

Last refresh of the prices: Yesterday at 1:09 PM CST.

Compare 2 ways to travel from Chicago to Effingham

We recommend taking the train

Among the sustainable travel choices, the train stands out as a good way to reach Effingham. The journey takes about 3 hours 42 minutes and with fares starting at just R 345, it presents an excellent value for a comfortable ride.

4train per day
3h 42mAverage duration
317 kmDistance
29kgCO₂ emissions
Average priceR 379 - R 2 895Average duration3h 42m
8kg CO₂e
Average priceR 345 - R 3 742Average duration3h 42m
29kg CO₂e

Frequently asked questions about travelling from Chicago to Effingham by train

Please note that timetables, routes, or operator details shown here may be updated or differ at the time of your trip.

  1. How much is the train ticket from Chicago to Effingham?

    The cheapest train tickets from Chicago to Effingham start from R 345. The average price for this train route is around R 645. Busbud recommends booking your tickets in advance for a better chance to secure the lowest possible price.

  2. How long is the train journey from Chicago to Effingham?

    The average train journey time from Chicago to Effingham is 3h 42m, covering a distance of 317 km. The quickest train can get you there in 3h 31m and is operated by Amtrak.

  3. Which train operators serve the Chicago to Effingham route?

    Several major train operators run on this route, with 4 trains available per day.

  4. What are the earliest and latest departure times for the train from Chicago to Effingham?

    The earliest train from Chicago to Effingham departs at 08:15. And the latest train departs at 20:05.

Find cheapest prices for trains

Price is for a one-way ticket for one passenger and based on past searches.

Best price found
13/12
R 603
14/12
R 603
Today
R 603
16/12
R 465
17/12
R 413
18/12
R 310
19/12
R 499
20/12
R 740
busbud logoThe cheapest trip from Chicago to Effingham was searched and found on 18 Dec 2025 with a price of R 310

To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your train tickets from Chicago to Effingham as early as possible.

You can expect to pay from R 310 to R 3 596 for a train ticket from Chicago to Effingham based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at R 310, which is on 2025-12-18.

What's the cheapest way to go from Chicago to Effingham?

busbud logoThe train is the cheapest travel choice for this destination

The best way to travel between Chicago and Effingham is by train. By choosing the train, you'll get to save some money as you travel to your destination, as ticket prices cost R 645 on average. If you're on a budget, you'll find cheap tickets from R 345. If you're looking for the fastest way to get to Effingham, choose the train, as it will take you from Chicago to Effingham in about 3h 42m – that's the fastest way to get there!

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