Estimating the Cost of Driving From Chicago, Illinois to Elmhurst, Illinois Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a road trip can be an exciting and adventurous endeavor. Whether you're heading out for a weekend getaway or visiting friends and family, it's important to take into account all the factors that go into calculating the cost of your journey. In this blog post, we'll take a look at the different routes you can take from Chicago, Illinois to Elmhurst, Illinois, highlighting the distance, time, and cost of each route based on current gas prices. So, buckle up and let's get started!
Route 1: Via I-290 W (19 miles)
The first route we'll explore is via I-290 W. This is the quickest and shortest route, covering a distance of 19 miles. The estimated driving time is approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
To calculate the cost of this route, we'll consider the average gas price in the Chicago area, which is currently $2.50 per gallon. Assuming your vehicle's average fuel efficiency is around 25 miles per gallon, you would need 0.76 gallons to complete this journey. Therefore, the total cost of gas for this route would be:
Cost: $2.50 x 0.76 = $1.90
Additionally, keep in mind that this route involves tolls. The cost of tolls may vary depending on the time of day, vehicle type, and whether you have an I-Pass or E-ZPass. Make sure to check the current toll rates before hitting the road.
Route 2: Via I-290 W and I-294 W (23 miles)
The second route we'll explore is slightly longer, but it may be a better option depending on your destination within Elmhurst. This route takes you via I-290 W and I-294 W, covering a distance of 23 miles. The estimated driving time is approximately 35 minutes.
Using the same gas price and average fuel efficiency as mentioned before, this route would require 0.92 gallons of gas, resulting in a total cost of:
Cost: $2.50 x 0.92 = $2.30
Similar to Route 1, tolls are also a part of this journey. Be sure to factor in the toll costs, keeping in mind any discounts available and the payment method you plan to use.
Route 3: Via IL-19 W (25 miles)
Lastly, if you prefer a more scenic drive that avoids highways, you can take the third route via IL-19 W. While this route is the longest, covering a distance of 25 miles, it provides a different experience for those who enjoy the charm of local roads. The estimated driving time is around 45 minutes.
Using the same calculations as before, this route would require approximately 1 gallon of gas, resulting in a total cost of:
Cost: $2.50 x 1 = $2.50
Although there are no tolls on this route, it's always a good idea to check for any road closures or construction that may affect your journey on local roads.
Summary
Let's recap the distance, time, and cost for each of the routes:
- Route 1: Via I-290 W (19 miles, 30 minutes, $1.90 in gas).
- Route 2: Via I-290 W and I-294 W (23 miles, 35 minutes, $2.30 in gas).
- Route 3: Via IL-19 W (25 miles, 45 minutes, $2.50 in gas).
Remember, these calculations are based on current gas prices and are subject to change. It's always a good idea to verify the gas prices, toll rates, and road conditions before embarking on your journey.
Safe travels and enjoy your trip from Chicago to Elmhurst!