Driving Cost from City of Ithaca, New York to Bloomington, Indiana

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Trip from Ithaca, NY to Bloomington, IN based on Gas Prices

Introduction

Planning a trip from Ithaca, New York to Bloomington, Indiana? Whether it's for business or pleasure, one of the key factors to consider is the cost of the journey. The price of gas can have a significant impact on your travel expenses, so let's take a closer look at the different possible routes and their associated costs.

Route Options

Route 1: I-80 W

The first route option is to take Interstate 80 West. This is the most direct and commonly traveled route. The distance between Ithaca, NY and Bloomington, IN via this route is approximately 763 miles.

Gas Prices

Based on the current average gas price of $2.50 per gallon, and considering the average mileage of 25 miles per gallon for a compact car, the estimated fuel cost for this route would be:

763 miles ÷ 25 miles per gallon = 30.52 gallons 30.52 gallons × $2.50 per gallon = $76.30

Route 2: I-90 W and I-65 S

Another option is to take Interstate 90 West and then merge onto Interstate 65 South towards Bloomington. While this route might add a few extra miles, it may have lower gas prices or toll charges, making it more economical.

Gas Prices

Using the same average gas price and mileage assumptions as before, the estimated fuel cost for this alternative route is:

785 miles ÷ 25 miles per gallon = 31.40 gallons 31.40 gallons × $2.50 per gallon = $78.50

Route 3: Scenic Route via US-20 W

If you prefer to explore scenic landscapes and enjoy a more leisurely drive, you can consider taking US-20 West. This route may be longer in terms of distance, but it can provide a more enjoyable journey, especially for those who appreciate nature.

Gas Prices

Estimating the fuel cost for this scenic route with the same assumptions as before:

903 miles ÷ 25 miles per gallon = 36.12 gallons 36.12 gallons × $2.50 per gallon = $90.30

Considering both the cost and distance, the recommended route for the trip from Ithaca, NY to Bloomington, IN would be Route 1: I-80 W. It offers the shortest distance and slightly lower estimated fuel cost compared to Route 2. Though Route 3 may be attractive for those seeking a more scenic drive, it significantly increases both the distance and expense of the trip.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when planning a trip from Ithaca, New York to Bloomington, Indiana, it's important to consider the cost of the journey based on current gas prices. After evaluating the different route options, it is recommended to take Route 1: I-80 W, offering the shortest distance and estimated fuel cost of $76.30. While this estimated cost is subject to change due to fluctuating gas prices, it provides a good baseline for planning your travel budget.

Having taken Route 1, the trip should take approximately 12-13 hours, assuming steady driving with minimal stops. Factors such as traffic, weather conditions, and personal preferences may affect the exact duration. It's always wise to check real-time traffic updates and plan for breaks during such a long drive. Drive safely and enjoy your journey from Ithaca, NY to Bloomington, IN!