Bakersfield to San Francisco: Road Trip Guide & Distance

251.2 miles 404.3 km · straight line
282.7 miles actual route 455 km · driving distance
5h 18min estimated drive time
$27 - $33 estimated fuel cost
~1h 0min flight time
312° NW bearing direction

How far is Bakersfield from San Francisco?

The distance from Bakersfield to San Francisco is 251.2 miles (404.3 km) as the crow flies. San Francisco is located NW of Bakersfield. By car, the driving distance is approximately 282.7 miles, taking about 5h 18min. A direct flight would take roughly 1h 0min. Both are located in United States.

For a drive of this length, it's recommended to plan at least one quick rest stop to stretch your legs and grab a coffee. Since you'll be heading mostly West, pack a good pair of sunglasses if you plan to drive during the late afternoon to avoid the harsh sun glare.

Coordinates come from public place data for Bakersfield and San Francisco. The driving distance uses an OSRM road-route result when route data is available. Fuel, flight, bus, and train values are planning estimates and can change by date, provider, road closures, and border rules.

How to Get from Bakersfield to San Francisco

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 5h 18min $27 - $33 Flexible stops
Fly ~1h 0min $80–200* Speed
Bus ~6h 22min $23–$42* Budget
Train ~5h 2min $34–$99* Comfort

Suggested Stops Between Bakersfield & San Francisco

Quick Facts

Bakersfield
35.37°N, 119.02°W
America/Los_Angeles
124m elevation
San Francisco
37.77°N, 122.42°W
America/Los_Angeles
16m elevation
Explore more routes from San Francisco

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 84 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 21 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 99.1 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · OSRM