The Cost of a Trip between Charleston, Illinois and Cincinnati, Ohio

Are you planning a trip from Charleston, Illinois to Cincinnati, Ohio? Before you hit the road, it's important to factor in the cost of the journey. Gas prices fluctuate regularly, and knowing the approximate cost of fuel for the trip can help you budget and make informed decisions. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes between Charleston and Cincinnati, highlighting the cost and distance of each. Based on current gas prices, we will recommend the best route for your journey.

Routes and Costs

Route 1: I-57 and I-74 (Approximately 425 miles)

The most straightforward route between Charleston, Illinois and Cincinnati, Ohio is to take Interstate 57 and then switch onto Interstate 74. This route will take you through the heartland of America, providing scenic views of the countryside. The total distance for this route is approximately 425 miles.

Cost Calculation:

To calculate the cost, we need to consider the average gas mileage of your vehicle and the current gas prices. Let's assume your vehicle has an average gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon (MPG) and the current gas price is $3.00 per gallon.

Total Gallons Required: 425 miles / 25 MPG = 17 gallons Total Cost: 17 gallons * $3.00 per gallon = $51.00

Route 2: IL-1, US-50, and I-71 (Approximately 415 miles)

For a change of scenery and potentially shorter travel time, you can take a slightly different route. Departing from Charleston, Illinois, you can head east on IL-1, then switch to US-50, and finally merge onto I-71 to reach Cincinnati, Ohio. This route covers approximately 415 miles.

Cost Calculation:

Using the same assumptions as before, let's calculate the cost for this route.

Total Gallons Required: 415 miles / 25 MPG = 16.6 gallons (rounded to 17 gallons) Total Cost: 17 gallons * $3.00 per gallon = $51.00

Route 3: US-45 and I-64 (Approximately 445 miles)

For those looking to take a longer but scenic route, you can consider traveling via US-45 and later merging onto I-64. This route offers a chance to explore smaller towns and countryside views. The total distance for this route is approximately 445 miles.

Cost Calculation:

Let's calculate the cost for this alternative route using the same assumptions.

Total Gallons Required: 445 miles / 25 MPG = 17.8 gallons (rounded to 18 gallons) Total Cost: 18 gallons * $3.00 per gallon = $54.00

Recommended Route

Considering the cost and distance, Route 2, which includes IL-1, US-50, and I-71, is the recommended route. It covers approximately 415 miles and has the same cost as Route 1, which includes Interstate 57 and Interstate 74. Additionally, Route 2 offers a change of scenery and potentially shorter travel time, making it an attractive option for travelers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when planning a trip from Charleston, Illinois to Cincinnati, Ohio, it's essential to consider the cost of the journey based on current gas prices. By calculating the cost using the average gas mileage of your vehicle and the price of fuel, you can effectively budget and make informed decisions. After evaluating the different routes, Route 2, which includes IL-1, US-50, and I-71, is recommended. It covers approximately 415 miles and has the same cost as the more straightforward Route 1. Keep in mind that travel times may vary depending on traffic and other external factors, so plan accordingly. Safe travels!