The Cost of a Trip from Chicago, Illinois to Fort Collins, Colorado: A Gas Price Analysis

When planning a road trip from Chicago to Fort Collins, one of the biggest considerations is the cost of gas. With fluctuating gas prices, it's important to map out the route and estimate the cost of the journey in order to budget accordingly. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes, their distances, and the corresponding fuel costs based on current gas prices. By the end, we will recommend the best route for a cost-effective trip.

Possible Routes

Route 1: I-80 W and I-76 W

This route takes you west on Interstate 80, then south on Interstate 76 towards Fort Collins. The total distance is approximately 1,050 miles.

Route 2: I-55 S and I-70 W

For this route, you will head south on Interstate 55 and then west on Interstate 70. This route covers a distance of around 1,100 miles.

Route 3: I-90 W and I-25 S

The third and final route involves taking Interstate 90 west and then heading south on Interstate 25. The total distance for this route is about 1,050 miles.

Gas Prices and Estimation

To estimate the cost of the trip, we will consider the current average gas price as of September 2021, which is $3.14 per gallon. Based on the average fuel efficiency of a standard car (25 miles per gallon), we can calculate the approximate fuel cost for each route.

Route 1: I-80 W and I-76 W

With a distance of 1,050 miles, this route would require 42 gallons of gas. At the current average price of $3.14 per gallon, the estimated fuel cost for this route is approximately $132.

Route 2: I-55 S and I-70 W

Covering a distance of 1,100 miles, this route would necessitate 44 gallons of gas, resulting in an estimated fuel cost of around $138.

Route 3: I-90 W and I-25 S

Similar to Route 1, this route also spans a distance of 1,050 miles, requiring 42 gallons of gas. The estimated fuel cost for Route 3 is approximately $132.

Recommended Route

After comparing the distances and estimated fuel costs, Route 1 (I-80 W and I-76 W) emerges as the most cost-effective option for the trip from Chicago to Fort Collins. While all three routes have similar distances, Route 1's slightly lower mileage results in a slightly lower fuel cost, making it the recommended route for a budget-friendly journey.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a trip from Chicago to Fort Collins can vary based on the chosen route and current gas prices. By opting for Route 1, travelers can save on fuel costs while still covering the distance in a reasonable amount of time. With an estimated fuel cost of $132 and a distance of approximately 1,050 miles, this route provides a cost-effective and efficient way to reach Fort Collins, Colorado. Safe travels!