The Cost of Driving From Brookfield, WI to Chicago, IL

If you're planning a road trip from Brookfield, WI to Chicago, IL, you might be wondering how much it will cost to get there. Fortunately, we've done the research for you. In this post, we'll go over the cost of driving from Brookfield to Chicago using different routes, including the distance, time, and cost of each option.

Route 1: I-94 E

The most direct and popular route to Chicago is via I-94 E, which is approximately 95 miles long. This route takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes without traffic and 2 hours during peak hours. As of May 2021, gas prices in Brookfield, WI, range from $2.99 to $3.19 per gallon. Using an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, the total gas cost for this trip would be around $11.40 to $12.76. Additionally, there are several tolls along this route, which can range from $3.50 to $9.90, depending on the time of day.

Route 2: I-94 E and I-294 S

Another potential option is to take I-94 E, and then switch onto I-294 S, which is a tollway. This route is slightly longer than the first option, at approximately 102 miles long. However, it may save you time during peak hours. This route takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes without traffic and 2 hours 20 minutes during peak hours. With the same fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon and current gas prices, the total gas cost for this trip would be around $13.24 to $14.82. However, the tolls for this route will cost between $5.10 to $11.60, depending on the time of day.

Route 3: US 41 S and I-94 W

If you'd like to avoid tolls altogether, you can take US 41 S, and then hop onto I-94 W towards Chicago. This route is approximately 112 miles long, making it the longest option. However, it offers some scenic viewpoints and takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes without traffic and 3 hours 15 minutes during peak hours. With the same fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon and current gas prices, the total gas cost for this trip would be around $14.28 to $16.02.

Conclusion

Overall, the cost of driving from Brookfield, WI to Chicago, IL varies depending on the route you take, current gas prices and tolls. The quickest and most direct route via I-94 also comes with tolls, which can add to the cost significantly. However, if you would like to take a longer route without toll roads, it may end up costing you more in gas. Ultimately, choose what is most important to you - time or savings.