Daly City
Daly City
Oakland
Oakland
Train Driving

Daly City to Oakland

Updated: 28 May 2026

Connecting Daly City to Oakland is best achieved via the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) system. You can board at the Daly City BART station and take a direct train through San Francisco and under the Bay to Oakland. The journey covers roughly 30 kilometers and takes about 45 minutes. Driving is an alternative, but it requires crossing the Bay Bridge, which is subject to heavy toll-based congestion. This route is a primary artery for the East Bay workforce.

Total Distance: 30 km driving, 25 km air distance.
Fastest Way
BART is consistently faster than driving during peak commute hours.
Cheapest Way
BART is the cheapest option, costing less than 8 dollars per trip.
Compare Daly City to Oakland Routes
Train
Direct
Driving
Direct
Duration 45 mins 40 mins
Avg Price 5-8 USD 10-15 USD in fuel and tolls
Operator BART Personal Vehicle
Route Daly City Station to 12th St/Oakland City Center. I-280 North to I-80 East across the Bay Bridge.
Tip BART is the most reliable way to cross the Bay during rush hour. The Bay Bridge toll is collected electronically via FasTrak.
Travel Tips
  • FasTrak
    If driving, ensure you have a FasTrak transponder to pay bridge tolls automatically.
  • BART Schedule
    Download the BART app to track train arrivals in real-time.
  • Station Safety
    Stay in well-populated areas of the station platforms while waiting.
  • Parking
    Daly City BART station has a large parking garage, but it fills up early on weekdays.
  • Transferring
    If your destination is not downtown, use AC Transit buses to connect from BART stations.
Safety Tips
  • Bridge Traffic
    Be prepared for sudden stops on the Bay Bridge during heavy traffic.
  • Personal Belongings
    Keep your bag in front of you while riding public transit.
  • Night Travel
    Use ride-sharing services if traveling late at night in Oakland.
  • Emergency Help
    Use the emergency intercoms located on every BART train car if needed.
People Also Ask
  • Is BART safe at night?
    BART is generally safe, but it is recommended to stay in the first car near the operator.
  • How much is the bridge toll?
    The Bay Bridge toll varies by time of day and is collected via FasTrak.
  • Can I bring a bike on BART?
    Yes, bikes are allowed on BART, but check for blackout hours during peak times.
  • Is there a direct bus?
    There is no direct bus from Daly City to Oakland; BART is the standard choice.
  • How far is the airport?
    Oakland International Airport is about 15 kilometers from downtown Oakland.
Quick Info
  • From Daly City, California, United States
  • To Oakland, California, United States
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

Mid-morning or mid-afternoon to avoid peak bridge traffic.

Things to Do in Oakland
1
Jack London Square
Enjoy waterfront dining and shopping at this historic port area. It features the famous Heinold's First and Last Chance Saloon.
2
Lake Merritt
Walk or jog around this large tidal lagoon in the center of the city. It is a popular spot for local recreation.
3
Oakland Museum of California
Explore art, history, and natural science exhibits. The museum offers a deep dive into the state's culture.
4
Chinatown
Experience authentic cuisine and vibrant markets. It is one of the oldest Chinatowns in the United States.
Tags
Daly City to Oakland BART BART Daly City to Oakland driving Daly City to Oakland Bay Bridge traffic Oakland transit Daly City commute East Bay travel San Francisco Bay Area