Distance from Oakland to San Francisco: 15 Miles, Multiple Ways to Cross the Bay

Neighbors Separated by Water, Connected by Bridges & Transit

Oakland and San Francisco are just 15 miles (24 km) apart as the crow flies, but the San Francisco Bay sits between them.

By Car – Bay Bridge (I‑80)

• Distance: ~15 miles
• Time: 20 minutes (no traffic); 45–75+ minutes during peak hours
• Toll: $7–$8 (westbound only, FasTrak or license‑plate billing)

Public Transit – BART (Best Value)

• Time: 15–20 minutes (Oakland stations to Embarcadero/Montgomery)
• Frequency: Every 10–20 minutes
• Cost: ~$4–$5 one way

Ferry – Scenic & Relaxing

• Terminals: Oakland (Jack London Square) → SF (Ferry Building or Pier 41)
• Time: 25–30 minutes
• Cost: ~$7–$10

Which to Choose?

BART for speed, reliability, and cost. Ferry for views and a pleasant ride. Drive only if you need a car in SF (parking is expensive and scarce).