The Cost of a Trip between Carol Stream and Minooka: Comparing Routes based on Gas Prices

Are you planning a trip from Carol Stream, Illinois to Minooka, Illinois? One of the most significant considerations is the cost of transportation, especially with the current gas prices. The distance between Carol Stream and Minooka is approximately 45 miles, and there are different routes to take. In this article, we will discuss each route's cost and distance, and recommend the best route for the budget-conscious traveler.

Route 1: Via I-355 South and I-80 West

This route is the most straightforward for those starting in Carol Stream. You will take North Avenue East to reach I-355 South, which will lead you to I-80 West towards Minooka. The distance between Carol Stream and Minooka on this route is approximately 46 miles.

The gas cost for this route will depend on the vehicle's fuel efficiency and current gas prices. The distance of 46 miles would consume approximately 1.5 gallons of gas for a car averaging 30 miles per gallon. With current gas prices averaging $3.05 per gallon, the total cost of gas for this route would be around $4.60.

Route 2: Via US-30 West

Another route from Carol Stream to Minooka is via US-30 West. This route is a bit longer, approximately 50 miles, and there may be more traffic along the way. The route takes you through West Chicago, through Aurora, Montgomery, and Oswego before getting on to US-30.

The gas cost for this route will also depend on the vehicle's fuel efficiency and the current gas prices. The distance of 50 miles would consume approximately 1.67 gallons of gas for a car averaging 30 miles per gallon. With the current gas prices averaging $3.05 per gallon, the total cost of gas for this route would be around $5.

Route 3: Via US-20 West

The third route option involves taking US-20 West. This route is shortest in terms of distance but is often slower due to traffic and stoplights. The route takes you through several small towns along the way, including Elgin, Marengo, and Hampshire, before ultimately arriving at Minooka. The distance between Carol Stream and Minooka on this route is approximately 44 miles.

The gas cost for this route will depend on the vehicle's fuel efficiency and the current gas prices. The distance of 44 miles would consume approximately 1.47 gallons of gas for a car averaging 30 miles per gallon. With the current gas prices averaging $3.05 per gallon, the total cost of gas for this route would be around $4.50.

Best Route Recommendation

After considering all three routes' cost and distance, we recommend Route 1, via I-355 South and I-80 West, as the best route for cost-conscious travelers. This route has the most direct path and the shortest distance, meaning you will save on gas and travel time. Additionally, the route avoids stoplights and small-town traffic congestion, which can help reduce the likelihood of arrival delays.

Conclusion

When planning a trip between Carol Stream, Illinois, and Minooka, Illinois, the cost of gas is an essential factor to consider, given the current gas prices. The recommended route to take is Route 1, via I-355 South and I-80 West, as it is the most direct path and shortest distance. The total gas cost for this route, based on current gas prices, would be approximately $4.60, making it the most cost-effective option. Happy travels!