Los Angeles International Airport to Los Angeles by Bus — Costs, Times & Tips (2026)
The bus is the most affordable way to travel between LAX and Los Angeles city — with fares starting at just $1.25 and journey times as short as 30 minutes on the direct FlyAway service. This guide covers every option, costs, step-by-step boarding instructions, and insider tips for 2026.
From
$1.25
Fastest
30 min
Routes
4 options
Best value
Big Blue Bus
Bus Options from LAX at a Glance
| Option | Journey Time | Cost (USD) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| LAX FlyAway Bus | 30–45 min | $9.75 | Direct to Union Station, Hollywood, Van Nuys & Westwood. No transfers needed. |
| Metro Bus (Line 111/222) | 40–70 min | $1.75 | Budget option. Free LAX Shuttle A/G to bus stops. Connects to Metro Rail. |
| Big Blue Bus (Line 3) | 35–55 min | $1.25 | Cheapest option. Runs to Santa Monica. TAP card accepted. |
| Commuter Express (438) | 50–65 min | $2.50 | Express service to Downtown LA. Limited stops, faster peak-hour option. |
* Prices correct as of 2026. Always verify current fares on the official operator website before travel.
How to Take the Bus from LAX — Step by Step
Follow these 6 steps to get from your terminal to central Los Angeles smoothly.
Collect your luggage & follow signs to LAX Transit
After baggage claim, follow the blue 'LAX Shuttles' signs to the lower/arrivals level of your terminal. All bus connections originate outside the airport proper.
Board the free LAX Shuttle A or G
Shuttle A loops all terminals. Shuttle G connects to the Metro C Line (Green Line). Both are free, run every 12–20 minutes, and are wheelchair accessible. For LAX FlyAway, take Shuttle A to the LAX City Bus Center.
Get a TAP Card (or cash ready)
TAP cards are accepted on Metro Bus, Big Blue Bus, and Commuter Express. You can buy one at any Metro Rail station ($2 + fare load) or at ticket machines in the LAX City Bus Center. LAX FlyAway requires a separate purchase online or at kiosks.
Choose your bus route
For Union Station & Downtown: LAX FlyAway ($9.75, fastest, no transfers) or Metro Line 111 → Metro Rail ($1.75). For Santa Monica & West LA: Big Blue Bus Line 3 ($1.25). For express Downtown service: Commuter Express 438 ($2.50).
Board & tap/pay
Tap your TAP card on the reader as you board, or pay cash (exact change only on Metro/Big Blue Bus). LAX FlyAway does not require a TAP card — show your e-ticket or receipt.
Arrive & connect onward
LAX FlyAway drops at Union Station (Metro A, B, D, E lines), Hollywood (Metro B line), Van Nuys, and Westwood. From Union Station you can reach most of Greater LA by Metro Rail within 30–60 minutes.
Insider Tips for 2026
Avoid rush hour if possible
LAX traffic is notorious. Buses on the I-405 and I-105 can stall for 30+ extra minutes between 4–7 pm on weekdays. If flexibility exists, arrive mid-morning or after 8 pm.
Load your TAP card before you land
The LA Metro app lets you buy and load a digital TAP card before arrival. This saves time at kiosks and gets you on the next bus immediately.
FlyAway is worth it for heavy luggage
If you have large bags, the LAX FlyAway at $9.75 is significantly easier — it's non-stop, has luggage storage under the bus, and drops at Union Station where you can connect to all Metro lines.
Big Blue Bus doesn't serve all of LA
Line 3 is great for Santa Monica and West LA but doesn't go to Downtown or Hollywood. Don't rely on it if you're heading east of Culver City.
Useful Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the bus from LAX to Downtown Los Angeles take?
The LAX FlyAway bus reaches Union Station (Downtown LA) in approximately 30–45 minutes off-peak, and up to 60 minutes during rush hour (7–9 am and 4–7 pm). Metro Bus Line 111 takes 50–70 minutes with a transfer at Aviation/LAX Metro Station. Budget extra time if travelling on a weekday afternoon.
Is there a 24-hour bus service from LAX?
Yes. Metro Bus runs 24 hours on select lines including Line 111 from the LAX City Bus Center. LAX FlyAway to Union Station also operates 24/7 with departures roughly every 30 minutes overnight. Big Blue Bus Line 3 runs from approximately 5 am to midnight. Always check real-time schedules on the LA Metro app.
Do I need to book a bus ticket from LAX in advance?
For Metro Bus, Big Blue Bus, and Commuter Express — no booking required, just pay on boarding or tap a TAP card. LAX FlyAway allows both walk-up purchase at kiosks and online pre-booking at flyaway.lawa.org. Pre-booking is recommended during holidays or peak travel seasons to guarantee a seat.
Planning a longer stay?
Explore our full Los Angeles destination guide — top neighbourhoods, the best times to visit, hotels for every budget, and hidden gems beyond Hollywood.
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