Driving Cost from Chicago, Illinois to Manchester, New Hampshire

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Trip Between Chicago, Illinois and Manchester, New Hampshire

Planning a road trip from Chicago, Illinois to Manchester, New Hampshire? One of the first things to consider is the cost of the trip, especially with fluctuating gas prices. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes and highlight the cost and distance of each option. So fasten your seatbelt and let's dive into the details to find the best route for your journey.

The Routes

There are multiple routes you can take when driving from Chicago to Manchester. Each route has its own pros and cons, including varying distances and gas costs. Let's explore the different options:

Route 1: The Most Direct Route

  • Distance: Approximately 1,000 miles
  • Major Cities along the way: Chicago, Indianapolis, Columbus, Pittsburgh, Buffalo
  • Gas Cost: Calculated based on current average gas prices

If time is of the essence and you prefer the most direct route, this is the one for you. Starting from Chicago, you will head east on I-90 and continue through Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York. Finally, you'll head north on I-87 to reach Manchester, New Hampshire. The total distance for this route is roughly 1,000 miles.

Route 2: The Scenic Route

  • Distance: Approximately 1,200 miles
  • Major Cities along the way: Chicago, Milwaukee, Madison, Minneapolis, Green Bay, Milwaukee, Detroit
  • Gas Cost: Calculated based on current average gas prices

If you have a little extra time and want to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Midwest and Great Lakes region, this route will be perfect for you. Starting from Chicago, you'll head north on I-94, passing through Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Then, you'll continue on I-90, which will take you through Madison, Minnesota, and eventually Detroit, Michigan. From there, you can head east on I-94 and cross over into Ontario, Canada. After reconnecting with the US border, you can head southeast to Manchester.

Route 3: The East Coast Adventure

  • Distance: Approximately 1,400 miles
  • Major Cities along the way: Chicago, Cleveland, Philadelphia, Atlantic City, New York City, Boston
  • Gas Cost: Calculated based on current average gas prices

For those seeking an extended journey along the east coast, this route offers a mix of cities and coastal beauty. Starting from Chicago, you'll head east on I-90, driving through Cleveland and Erie, Pennsylvania. After crossing into New York, you'll have the opportunity to visit both Philadelphia and Atlantic City. From there, continue north to New York City before heading northeast on I-95 to Boston. Finally, make your way to Manchester, New Hampshire.

Gas Costs and Considerations

Considering the fluctuating gas prices, it's essential to have an estimate of the total gas cost for each route. To calculate this, we'll take the average fuel economy of a typical car, which is around 25 miles per gallon (MPG), and multiply it by the distance of each route mentioned above. Then, we'll divide the multiplied value by the average gas price per gallon.

For instance, if the average gas price per gallon is $2.50, the calculation would look like this:

Total Gas Cost = (Distance / MPG) * Gas Price

Since gas prices vary over time, this estimation will provide a general idea of the expenses associated with each route. Additionally, considering any toll costs along the way is also advisable for a more accurate budget.

The Best Route: Route 1

While each route offers its own unique experience, considering the distance and overall gas cost, Route 1 is the most convenient and cost-effective option. Though it is the most direct route, it still allows for some beautiful scenery along the way.

Stretching approximately 1,000 miles, Route 1 takes you through a few major cities, including Indianapolis, Columbus, Pittsburgh, and Buffalo. Additionally, this route avoids toll roads, which can contribute to the overall cost savings of the trip. The straightforward nature of this route also minimizes the chances of getting lost or encountering road closures.

Conclusion

After carefully considering the different routes, the most recommended option for a road trip from Chicago, Illinois to Manchester, New Hampshire is Route 1. This direct route provides a balance between distance, gas cost, and convenience.

With a total distance of approximately 1,000 miles, this journey may take around 16-18 hours, depending on traffic and breaks taken along the way. However, it's important to note that travel time may vary, so it's advisable to plan in advance and be prepared for unforeseen circumstances.

As you embark on this adventure, keep in mind that gas prices can change, so it's best to calculate the exact cost closer to your trip. Safe travels!