The Cost of a Trip Between Chicago, Illinois and Port Orange, Florida: Breaking Down the Best Routes Based on Current Gas Prices

Introduction

Planning a trip from Chicago, Illinois to Port Orange, Florida? One of the primary factors to consider while charting your journey is the cost. Gas prices play a significant role in determining the overall expense of your trip, especially for long drives like this one. In this article, we will break down the different possible routes between these two destinations, highlighting the cost and distance of each option. By analyzing current gas prices, we aim to recommend the best route to help you make an informed decision for your upcoming voyage.

Route Options

Route 1: The Direct Route via I-65 S and I-24 E

The most direct route from Chicago, Illinois to Port Orange, Florida takes you through two major interstate highways, I-65 S and I-24 E. This route covers approximately 1,014 miles and is usually the fastest option. However, it's important to analyze the gas prices along the way to determine the cost impact of this route.

Route 2: The Scenic Route via I-57 S and I-55 S

If you enjoy picturesque landscapes and wish to add a touch of natural beauty to your journey, consider taking the scenic route via I-57 S and I-55 S. This scenic route is slightly longer, spanning around 1,088 miles, but the experience can be well worth it. However, let's calculate the potential increase in cost due to the additional distance.

Route 3: The Coastal Route via I-65 S and I-10 E

For those who long for ocean views and coastal charm, the coastal route via I-65 S and I-10 E could be an enticing option. This route covers a distance of about 1,038 miles, taking you along the Gulf of Mexico coastline. However, let's delve into the cost implications to determine if the scenic benefits come with a higher price tag.

Analyzing Gas Prices

To accurately estimate the cost of each route, we need to consider the average gas prices along the way. Based on current gas prices, let's break down the approximate costs for each of the three routes. Please keep in mind that gas prices are subject to change, so it's essential to cross-reference this information with real-time data closer to your departure date.

Gas Prices: Route 1 - The Direct Route

To estimate the cost of gas for Route 1, we will consider gas prices at specific stops along I-65 S and I-24 E. Here are the approximate gas prices at major cities along the route:

City 1: Indianapolis, Indiana - $2.85 per gallon
City 2: Nashville, Tennessee - $2.75 per gallon
City 3: Birmingham, Alabama - $2.65 per gallon
City 4: Montgomery, Alabama - $2.70 per gallon
City 5: Tallahassee, Florida - $2.80 per gallon
City 6: Port Orange, Florida - $2.75 per gallon (estimated)

Considering an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon (mpg) for most vehicles, let's calculate the total gas cost for this route. The average distance between stops is approximately 250 miles.

Cost from Chicago to Indianapolis (250 miles / 25 mpg) * $2.85 per gallon = $28.50
Cost from Indianapolis to Nashville = $27.50
Cost from Nashville to Birmingham = $26.50
Cost from Birmingham to Montgomery = $27.00
Cost from Montgomery to Tallahassee = $28.00
Cost from Tallahassee to Port Orange = $27.50

Estimated total gas cost for Route 1: $165.00 (approximately)

Gas Prices: Route 2 - The Scenic Route

For Route 2, let's consider average gas prices at major cities along I-57 S and I-55 S:

City 1: Cairo, Illinois - $2.90 per gallon
City 2: Sikeston, Missouri - $2.80 per gallon
City 3: Memphis, Tennessee - $2.70 per gallon
City 4: Jackson, Mississippi - $2.75 per gallon
City 5: Slidell, Louisiana - $2.80 per gallon
City 6: Mobile, Alabama - $2.85 per gallon
City 7: Port Orange, Florida - $2.75 per gallon (estimated)

Using the same average fuel efficiency of 25 mpg, let's calculate the gas cost for this scenic route:

Cost from Chicago to Cairo = $29.00
Cost from Cairo to Sikeston = $28.00
Cost from Sikeston to Memphis = $27.00
Cost from Memphis to Jackson = $27.50
Cost from Jackson to Slidell = $28.00
Cost from Slidell to Mobile = $28.50
Cost from Mobile to Port Orange = $27.50

Estimated total gas cost for Route 2: $195.50 (approximately)

Gas Prices: Route 3 - The Coastal Route

For Route 3, let's analyze the gas costs along I-65 S and I-10 E:

City 1: Indianapolis, Indiana - $2.85 per gallon
City 2: Montgomery, Alabama (via I-85 S) - $2.70 per gallon
City 3: Mobile, Alabama - $2.85 per gallon
City 4: Pensacola, Florida - $2.80 per gallon
City 5: Tallahassee, Florida - $2.80 per gallon
City 6: Port Orange, Florida - $2.75 per gallon (estimated)

Using the same average fuel efficiency of 25 mpg, let's calculate the gas cost for this coastal route:

Cost from Chicago to Indianapolis = $28.50
Cost from Indianapolis to Montgomery = $27.00
Cost from Montgomery to Mobile = $27.50
Cost from Mobile to Pensacola = $28.00
Cost from Pensacola to Tallahassee = $28.00
Cost from Tallahassee to Port Orange = $27.50

Estimated total gas cost for Route 3: $166.50 (approximately)

Recommending the Best Route

After analyzing the gas prices and total costs of each route, the best route for travelers concerned with cost is Route 3: The Coastal Route. Route 3 offers a relatively short distance and a lower overall gas cost compared to the other options. Additionally, travelers can indulge in coastal beauty and enjoy the charming towns and cities along the way.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when planning a trip from Chicago, Illinois to Port Orange, Florida, considering the cost of gas is essential. Analyzing current prices and calculating approximate costs for each route allows us to make an informed decision. Based on gas prices, the recommended route is Route 3: The Coastal Route. This route offers the optimal balance between cost-effectiveness, distance, and the opportunity to experience coastal charm. Remember to double-check gas prices nearer to your travel date and enjoy your journey, taking in the captivating sights along the way!