Is there a direct train?

No, there is no direct passenger rail service between Long Beach and Austin.

What is the best month to visit?

April offers the most pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 20 to 22 hours of actual road time.

Are there tolls on I-10?

There are minimal tolls on the main I-10 route, but some bypasses in Texas may have fees.

Can I fly from LAX instead?

Yes, LAX offers more frequent flights, but LGB is significantly more convenient for Long Beach residents.

Long Beach

Austin

Flight Driving

Long Beach to Austin

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Long Beach to Austin covers approximately 2,200 kilometers. Most travelers prefer flying from Long Beach Airport (LGB) to Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) for efficiency. Driving via Interstate 10 East takes roughly 20 hours of pure transit time. You will cross through the Sonoran Desert and the vast landscapes of West Texas. This route connects the Pacific Coast directly to the heart of the Texas Hill Country. Plan for significant temperature shifts between the coastal climate and the humid subtropical Austin environment.

Total Distance: 2,200 km driving, 1,950 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Direct flight from LGB to AUS, taking just over 3 hours.

Cheapest Way

Flight via Southwest Airlines, often priced under $200 if booked early.

Compare Long Beach to Austin Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	3 hours 15 mins	21 hours
Avg Price	$150 - $400	$250 - $400 in fuel
Operator	Southwest Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	LGB to AUS	I-10 East through Phoenix, El Paso, and San Antonio
Tip	Book at least three weeks in advance to secure the lowest fares on Southwest.	Ensure your vehicle cooling system is serviced before crossing the desert heat.

Travel Tips

Airport Choice
Use Long Beach Airport (LGB) instead of LAX to save hours in security lines and traffic.
Hydration
If driving, carry at least two gallons of water per person for the desert stretches.
Time Zone
Remember that Austin is in the Central Time Zone, two hours ahead of California.
Traffic
Avoid driving through downtown Austin during the 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM rush hour.
Booking
Use flight comparison tools to track price drops for the LGB-AUS route.

Safety Tips

Desert Driving
Check your tire pressure before leaving, as heat causes expansion and potential blowouts.
Emergency Kit
Keep a basic first aid kit and jumper cables in your trunk for the long I-10 stretch.
Night Driving
Avoid driving through West Texas at night due to limited lighting and potential wildlife on the road.
Connectivity
Download offline maps, as cell service can be spotty in remote parts of New Mexico and West Texas.