Driving Cost from Clarendon Hills, Illinois to Dubuque, Iowa

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The Cost of a Trip from Clarendon Hills, Illinois to Dubuque, Iowa: A Comprehensive Guide

When planning a trip from Clarendon Hills, Illinois to Dubuque, Iowa, one of the most important factors to consider is the cost of the journey, particularly in terms of fuel expenses. With varying routes and gas prices, it's essential to understand the different options and their associated costs in order to make an informed decision. In this article, we will explore the different routes available, calculate the cost based on current gas prices, and recommend the best route for this journey.

Route Options

When traveling from Clarendon Hills to Dubuque, there are several route options to consider. The most common routes involve taking Interstate 88 West to Interstate 80, then heading north through Davenport to Dubuque. Another route may involve taking Interstate 55 South to Interstate 80 West, then following a similar path northward. Each route presents its own unique set of gas expenses, determined by the distance and current gas prices along the way.

Route 1: Via I-88 and I-80

The first route, via I-88 and I-80, covers a total distance of approximately 225 miles. This route is relatively straightforward, taking travelers through the heart of Illinois and into Iowa. The cost of this journey is dependent on the current gas prices along the route, which will be calculated in the next section.

Route 2: Via I-55 and I-80

The second route, via I-55 and I-80, covers a similar distance of around 229 miles. This route may offer some variation in gas prices and amenities along the way, compared to Route 1. As with the first route, the cost of this journey will be determined based on current gas prices.

Calculating the Cost

In order to calculate the cost of the trip from Clarendon Hills to Dubuque, it is necessary to consider the current gas prices and the fuel efficiency of the vehicle being used. As of writing, the average gas price in Illinois is $3.50 per gallon, while in Iowa, it stands at $3.45 per gallon. Using these figures, we can determine the cost of fuel for each route based on the distance covered and the vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Route 1 Cost Calculation

Assuming a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, the cost of traveling the 225-mile distance via Route 1 can be calculated as follows:

  • 225 miles / 25 miles per gallon = 9 gallons of gas required
  • 9 gallons * $3.50 per gallon = $31.50

The estimated fuel cost for Route 1 stands at approximately $31.50, based on the current gas prices in Illinois.

Route 2 Cost Calculation

For Route 2, applying the same fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, the cost of covering the 229-mile distance can be calculated as:

  • 229 miles / 25 miles per gallon = 9.16 gallons of gas required
  • 9.16 gallons * $3.50 per gallon = $32.06

Based on the current gas prices in Illinois, the estimated fuel cost for Route 2 stands at around $32.06.

After considering the distance and fuel cost for each route, it is evident that Route 1 via I-88 and I-80 offers a slightly lower estimated fuel cost compared to Route 2. Given the similar distance and the proximity of gas prices between Illinois and Iowa, Route 1 presents a more cost-effective option for this journey.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a trip from Clarendon Hills, Illinois to Dubuque, Iowa can be significantly impacted by the chosen route and current gas prices. After calculating the fuel cost for two possible routes, it is recommended to take Route 1 via I-88 and I-80, with an estimated fuel cost of approximately $31.50. This route offers a cost-effective and straightforward option for travelers, ensuring a smooth journey to Dubuque, Iowa, in a reasonable amount of time.