Is the train an option?

Amtrak's Coast Starlight is available but takes over 10 hours; it is scenic but slow.

How much is parking at LAX?

Parking rates vary; use off-site lots for cheaper daily rates.

Yes, it is mostly agricultural land, but it is the fastest driving route.

Yes, FlixBus and Greyhound offer service, but it takes longer than driving.

What is the best airport in LA?

LAX is the largest, but Burbank (BUR) is often more convenient for certain areas.

Daly City

Los Angeles

Flight Driving

Daly City to Los Angeles

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Daly City to Los Angeles covers approximately 600 kilometers. The most efficient way to travel is by flying from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), which takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes in the air. Alternatively, driving via I-5 South is a common choice, taking roughly 6 hours without stops. This route is the primary corridor connecting Northern and Southern California.

Total Distance: 600 km driving, 550 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Flying is the fastest, with a total travel time of about 3 hours including airport procedures.

Cheapest Way

Driving is often cheaper for groups, while flights can be competitive for solo travelers.

Compare Daly City to Los Angeles Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	1 hour 15 mins	6 hours
Avg Price	80-200 USD	60-90 USD in fuel
Operator	United Airlines, Southwest	Personal Vehicle
Route	SFO to LAX.	I-280 to US-101 to I-5 South.
Tip	Book at least three weeks in advance for the best fares.	Stop in Kettleman City for a break; it has many food options.

Travel Tips

Airport Transit
Use BART to reach SFO from Daly City easily.
Traffic Warning
LA traffic is notorious; avoid driving during rush hours (7-10 AM and 3-7 PM).
Car Rental
If flying, renting a car at LAX is highly recommended for getting around LA.
Packing
LA is generally warmer than Daly City; pack lighter clothing.
Flight Booking
Use flight comparison sites to find the best deals on SFO-LAX routes.

Safety Tips

Highway Vigilance
I-5 has long stretches with limited services; keep your gas tank full.
Airport Security
Arrive at SFO at least 2 hours before your flight.
Urban Safety
Stay aware of your surroundings in crowded tourist areas like Hollywood.
Vehicle Safety
Do not leave luggage in your car while parked in public areas.