Driving Cost from Chicago, Illinois to Tacoma, Washington

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of Driving From Chicago, Illinois to Tacoma, Washington

Are you planning a road trip from the Windy City to the Emerald City? Driving from Chicago, Illinois to Tacoma, Washington can be an exciting adventure, filled with breathtaking landscapes and memorable experiences. However, it's important to plan ahead and consider the cost of the trip, including gas prices and toll fees. In this blog post, we'll explore different routes, the distance of each route, the time it takes, and the cost involved. Let's hit the road!

Route 1: The Northern Adventure

If you're up for a scenic route through the stunning landscapes of the northern United States, this route is for you. Starting from Chicago, you'll head west on I-90, passing cities like Madison and Minneapolis. Once you reach Seattle, you'll continue south on I-5 until you reach Tacoma.

  • Distance: Approximately 2,140 miles.
  • Time: Expect a drive time of around 34 hours.

Keep in mind that this route does have tolls. For example, you'll encounter the Indiana Toll Road with a cost of around $9.70 for passenger vehicles. Additionally, crossing the Mackinac Bridge in Michigan will have a toll fee of $4.00.

Considering gas prices, which tend to vary, let's assume an average of $2.50 per gallon. With an estimated fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you'll need around 86 gallons of gas for this journey. This would cost you approximately $215.00.

Route 2: The Speedy Express

If you prefer reaching your destination as quickly as possible, this is the route for you. Starting from Chicago, you'll head west on I-80, then south on I-76, eventually merging onto I-10 west. You'll continue on I-10 until you reach the LA area, at which point you'll head north on I-5 toward Tacoma.

  • Distance: Approximately 2,310 miles.
  • Time: Expect a drive time of around 32 hours.

This route has fewer tolls than the previous one, but you'll still encounter some. For instance, the Indiana Toll Road will cost you around $9.70 for passenger vehicles, while the Chicago Skyway Toll Bridge will add an additional $5.60.

With the same average gas price of $2.50 per gallon and estimated fuel efficiency, this route will require approximately 93 gallons of gas, totaling around $232.50.

Route 3: The Midwestern Scenic

For those who prefer to avoid major cities and enjoy the tranquility of the countryside, this route offers charm and beauty. Starting from Chicago, you'll head west on I-80, then north on I-29, and continue on I-94 until you reach Spokane. From there, you'll drive west on I-90 until you arrive in Tacoma.

  • Distance: Approximately 2,280 miles.
  • Time: Expect a drive time of around 36 hours.

Similar to the first route, this option also has tolls. The Indiana Toll Road will have a cost of around $9.70 for passenger vehicles, and the Mackinac Bridge in Michigan will add another $4.00 to your expenses.

Considering the average gas price of $2.50 per gallon and estimated fuel efficiency, this journey will require approximately 91 gallons of gas, costing you approximately $227.50.

Conclusion

When planning your road trip from Chicago, Illinois to Tacoma, Washington, it's essential to consider the cost of the journey, including gas prices and toll fees. The Northern Adventure route will take you through stunning landscapes in a distance of approximately 2,140 miles, amounting to a gas cost of around $215.00. The Speedy Express offers a quicker option of around 2,310 miles, with a gas cost of approximately $232.50. If you prefer a Midwestern Scenic route, you can enjoy approximately 2,280 miles of countryside charm, spending around $227.50 on gas.

Safe travels and enjoy the adventure!