The Cost of a Trip Between Chicago, Illinois and Riverside, Illinois: A Journey through Routes and Gas Prices

Planning a trip from Chicago, Illinois to Riverside, Illinois? One of the foremost considerations in making this journey is the cost associated with transportation. Fuel costs, in particular, comprise a major component of the overall expenses. In this article, we will explore the various routes available between the two cities, highlighting the distances and prices associated with each option. Moreover, based on the current gas prices, we will recommend the best route to undertake this trip.

Route 1: Via I-290 W and I-88 W

One option to travel from Chicago to Riverside is to take I-290 W and I-88 W. This route, spanning a distance of approximately 19.6 miles, is the shortest and quickest path according to Google Maps. By employing this route, travelers can expect to cover the journey in around 25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Given the current gas prices in Chicago and Riverside, let's calculate the approximate cost of this route. Assuming an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon (mpg), and with the average gas price in the region being $3.29 per gallon, the cost can be determined by the following formula:

Cost = (Distance / Fuel Efficiency) * Gas Price

Plugging in the numbers, we get:

Cost = (19.6 / 25) * 3.29
      = 0.784 * 3.29
      ≈ $2.58

Thus, the estimated cost to complete this journey using Route 1 would be around $2.58.

Route 2: Via I-290 W and Harlem Ave

A slightly longer alternative is to take I-290 W initially, but then exit onto Harlem Ave and travel southward until reaching Riverside. This route covers approximately 20.9 miles, slightly longer than Route 1. However, it might offer advantages in terms of traffic conditions or personal preferences on the road.

To calculate the cost of taking Route 2, we once again apply the same formula as before. Assuming the same average fuel efficiency and gas price, we find:

Cost = (20.9 / 25) * 3.29
      = 0.836 * 3.29
      ≈ $2.75

Hence, according to the current gas prices, Route 2 would cost approximately $2.75 in fuel expenses.

Route 3: Via I-290 W and Cermak Rd

Another alternative to reach Riverside from Chicago is to follow I-290 W and then transition onto Cermak Rd. This route spans approximately 21.6 miles, making it a few miles longer than the previous two options.

By applying the cost calculation formula, assuming the same fuel efficiency and gas prices, we find:

Cost = (21.6 / 25) * 3.29
      = 0.864 * 3.29
      ≈ $2.84

Thus, according to the current gas prices, Route 3 would have an estimated fuel cost of approximately $2.84.

Route 4: Via US-34 W

Lastly, an alternative path is to opt for US-34 W, a longer route but potentially offering a different travel experience. By selecting this route, travelers would cover around 24.3 miles, making it the longest option considered in this article.

Applying the cost calculation formula, once again assuming the same fuel efficiency and gas prices, we find:

Cost = (24.3 / 25) * 3.29
      = 0.972 * 3.29
      ≈ $3.20

Hence, according to the current gas prices, Route 4 would cost approximately $3.20 in fuel expenses.

Choosing the Best Route

Now that we have the approximate fuel costs for each route, we can make an informed decision regarding the best route for our Chicago to Riverside trip.

Considering both the cost and the distance, Route 1 via I-290 W and I-88 W seems to be the most favorable option. It not only covers the shortest distance but also incurs the lowest fuel expenses, with an estimated cost of around $2.58 based on current gas prices.

Conclusion

Taking into account current gas prices and the distances of the various proposed routes, Route 1 via I-290 W and I-88 W emerges as the optimal choice for a trip from Chicago to Riverside. This route, spanning approximately 19.6 miles, can be completed in around 25 minutes under normal traffic conditions. Moreover, with the estimated fuel cost standing at $2.58, it provides an economical and efficient option for travelers.

It is worth noting that these calculations are based on average fuel efficiency and gas prices. Individual results may vary depending on factors such as vehicle type, driving behavior, and fluctuating gas prices. Nonetheless, the information presented here can serve as a valuable starting point for determining the cost of your trip and choosing the best route accordingly. Safe travels!