Driving Cost from Chicago, Illinois to Westminster, Colorado

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Road Trip from Chicago, Illinois to Westminster, Colorado based on Current Gas Prices

Introduction

Planning a road trip can be an exciting experience, especially if you have chosen one that takes you through scenic landscapes and vibrant cities. If you are considering a trip from Chicago, Illinois to Westminster, Colorado, there are several factors to consider, with one of the most important being the cost of fuel. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes from Chicago to Westminster and highlight the cost and distance of each one based on current gas prices. By the end, we will recommend the best route for you to take, allowing you to have a memorable journey while keeping costs in check.

Route 1: The Direct Route

The first and most direct route from Chicago to Westminster is approximately 1,000 miles and takes you through the states of Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, and Colorado. To estimate the cost of this route, we need to consider the current gas prices in each state.

Based on recent data, the average gas price in Illinois is $2.79 per gallon, while in Iowa it is $2.68 per gallon. In Nebraska, gas prices average at $2.84 per gallon, and in Colorado, they stand at $3.05 per gallon. Assuming your vehicle has a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, the total cost for this route can be calculated as follows:

  • Illinois: 400 miles (400 / 25) * $2.79 = $44.64
  • Iowa: 200 miles (200 / 25) * $2.68 = $21.44
  • Nebraska: 300 miles (300 / 25) * $2.84 = $34.08
  • Colorado: 100 miles (100 / 25) * $3.05 = $12.20

Total Cost: $44.64 + $21.44 + $34.08 + $12.20 = $112.36

Route 2: The Scenic Route

If you have some extra time and are looking to explore breathtaking landscapes along the way, the scenic route might be the best option for you. This route spans approximately 1,100 miles and takes you through Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, and Colorado.

Following the same fuel efficiency assumption and using the current gas prices, here is the estimated cost breakdown for this route:

  • Illinois: 400 miles (400 / 25) * $2.79 = $44.64
  • Missouri: 300 miles (300 / 25) * $2.65 = $31.80
  • Kansas: 300 miles (300 / 25) * $2.76 = $33.12
  • Colorado: 100 miles (100 / 25) * $3.05 = $12.20

Total Cost: $44.64 + $31.80 + $33.12 + $12.20 = $121.76

Route 3: The Northern Route

For those who prefer a slightly longer drive but want to experience different states along the way, the northern route is a great option. This route covers around 1,200 miles and goes through Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, South Dakota, and Colorado.

Applying the same fuel efficiency assumption and using the current gas prices, we can calculate the estimated cost for this route:

  • Illinois: 400 miles (400 / 25) * $2.79 = $44.64
  • Wisconsin: 200 miles (200 / 25) * $2.69 = $21.52
  • Minnesota: 300 miles (300 / 25) * $2.77 = $33.36
  • South Dakota: 250 miles (250 / 25) * $2.85 = $28.50
  • Colorado: 150 miles (150 / 25) * $3.05 = $18.30

Total Cost: $44.64 + $21.52 + $33.36 + $28.50 + $18.30 = $146.32

Route 4: The Southern Route

If you are more inclined to visit various states to experience their unique cultures, the southern route might be the ideal choice. This 1,150-mile journey takes you through Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Colorado.

Calculating the estimated cost for this route using our fuel efficiency assumption and current gas prices, we have:

  • Illinois: 400 miles (400 / 25) * $2.79 = $44.64
  • Missouri: 300 miles (300 / 25) * $2.65 = $31.80
  • Oklahoma: 200 miles (200 / 25) * $2.83 = $22.64
  • Kansas: 200 miles (200 / 25) * $2.76 = $22.08
  • Colorado: 50 miles (50 / 25) * $3.05 = $6.10

Total Cost: $44.64 + $31.80 + $22.64 + $22.08 + $6.10 = $127.26

Recommendation: The Direct Route

After considering the different routes and comparing the cost estimates, it is clear that the direct route is the most cost-effective option. Not only does it have the lowest total cost at $112.36, but it is also the shortest route overall, providing a more direct and time-efficient journey.

While the scenic, northern, and southern routes offer opportunities to explore unique regions and enjoy various attractions along the way, they do come with higher total costs. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preferences and the amount of time you are willing to spend on the road.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the road trip from Chicago, Illinois to Westminster, Colorado offers multiple routes to choose from, each with its own advantages and costs. Based on current gas prices, the most cost-effective and direct route is the first option, encompassing approximately 1,000 miles. It provides a total cost of $112.36 and takes you through Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, and Colorado.

Regardless of the route you decide to take, embarking on this journey promises to be an unforgettable experience. The scenic landscapes, cultural encounters, and new discoveries along the way will undoubtedly make the trip well worth the cost. Safe travels!