Driving Cost from Chicago, Illinois to St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Trip between Chicago, Illinois and St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador: Navigating the Gas Price Maze

Introduction

Planning a trip from Chicago, Illinois to St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador requires considering various factors, and one of the most significant aspects is the cost associated with the journey. With fluctuating gas prices affecting our wallets, it becomes crucial to choose the most economical route that balances both distance and expenses. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes between these two destinations and highlight the average costs and distances for each option, guiding you towards the best route to take.

Routes and Costs

Route 1: The Direct Route

The most direct route from Chicago to St. John's spans approximately 3,400 kilometers (2,113 miles), crossing five different states and six Canadian provinces. Taking I-90 and then I-94, you will travel through major cities like Detroit, Toronto, and Quebec City.

However, this direct route can be quite costly, considering the total distance and gas prices. With an average gas price in early 2022 of $3.00 per gallon (based on U.S. national average), and assuming a fuel efficiency of 30 miles per gallon (MPG) for moderate driving, the cost of gas for this journey can be estimated as follows:

3,400 km / 1.61 km/mile = 2,113 miles

2,113 miles / 30 MPG = 70.43 gallons

70.43 gallons * $3.00 per gallon = $211.29

Thus, the approximate cost of gas for the direct route is around $211.29 one way.

Route 2: The Scenic Route

For those seeking a more scenic route, a detour through the Eastern United States and the Canadian Maritime provinces can offer breathtaking landscapes and unique experiences. This option is longer and increases the overall distance from Chicago to St. John's to approximately 4,300 kilometers (2,672 miles). The route is as follows:

  • Starting from Chicago, head east on I-90 towards Buffalo, New York.
  • Follow I-87 north towards Montreal, Quebec, then continue along Highway 20 towards Quebec City.
  • Enter the province of New Brunswick and continue east on Route 2 towards Moncton.
  • Finally, cross the Confederation Bridge into Prince Edward Island and proceed towards North Sydney, Nova Scotia, where you can catch a ferry to Port aux Basques, Newfoundland. From there, drive to St. John's.

Although the scenic route offers incredible sights and memorable experiences, it comes at a higher fuel cost due to the increased distance. Considering the same gas prices and fuel efficiency as mentioned earlier, the estimated cost for this route is approximately $247.71 one way.

Route 3: The Balanced Route

Sometimes, the best option lies in striking a balance between distance and cost. The following route takes you through a scenic portion of the Midwest and Eastern Canada, while still ensuring a reasonable overall distance and expense:

  • Start by taking I-90 east towards Buffalo, New York.
  • Then, switch to I-79 south towards Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
  • Continue south on I-77 into West Virginia and through Virginia.
  • Head east on I-81 towards Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and continue on I-78 towards Allentown.
  • Finally, follow I-476 north to Scranton, where you cross into New York state and connect with I-87 north. Continue towards Montreal, Quebec, and follow the same route as the direct option.

This balanced route provides a pleasant mixture of scenic views and moderate distance. Taking into account the distance of approximately 3,500 kilometers (2,175 miles), the cost of gas for this route can be around $219.53 one way.

After evaluating the different routes and their associated costs, we recommend taking the balanced route as the most economical option, while still allowing for enjoyable scenery along the journey. With an estimated one-way gas cost of $219.53, this route strikes a balance between cost and distance, providing a reasonable compromise.

Conclusion

Choosing the appropriate route for a trip from Chicago, Illinois to St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador requires careful consideration of both cost and distance. Out of the three routes reviewed in this article, the balanced route appears to be the most advantageous choice, offering a pleasant journey with an estimated gas cost of $219.53 one way. Regardless of the route chosen, this trip involves a considerable distance but promises a rewarding experience, highlighting the diverse landscapes and cultural richness found along the way. Remember to adapt the cost calculations based on current gas prices, ensuring you plan your travel budget accurately. Safe travels!