Driving Cost from DeKalb, Illinois to Buffalo Grove, Illinois

A picture depicting a gas pump

Traveling from DeKalb to Buffalo Grove: Cost Breakdown Based on Current Gas Prices

Traveling between DeKalb and Buffalo Grove, Illinois, involves not just the excitement of the journey but also the realities of budgeting, particularly in the current environment of fluctuating gas prices. In this article, we will explore the costs associated with driving this route, analyze different possible paths, and recommend the most economical option.

Understanding the Distances

Before calculating costs, let's establish the distances involved. The distance between DeKalb and Buffalo Grove varies slightly depending on the route taken. Below are the primary routes, along with their estimated distances:

  1. Route via I-88 and I-90: Approximately 65 miles
  2. Route via US-30 E and IL-53 N: Approximately 70 miles
  3. Route via IL-38 and IL-83 N: Approximately 67 miles

By understanding these distances, you can begin to fathom the costs involved based on current fuel prices.

Current Gas Prices

As of October 2023, the average gas price in Illinois fluctuates around $3.50 per gallon. This figure can change based on specific locations and local market dynamics, so consider this an estimated baseline for budgeting your trip.

Estimating Fuel Costs

To estimate the fuel costs for your trip, you must consider the fuel efficiency of your vehicle. Here are a few common vehicle categories and their average miles per gallon (MPG):

  • Compact Car: 30 MPG
  • Sedan: 25 MPG
  • SUV: 20 MPG
  • Pickup Truck: 15 MPG

Calculating Fuel Costs Per Route

Now, let’s break down the fuel costs for each of the three routes mentioned previously based on the MPG categories.

1. Route via I-88 and I-90 (65 miles)

  • Compact Car (30 MPG):

    • Gallons needed: 65 miles / 30 MPG = 2.17 gallons
    • Cost: 2.17 gallons x $3.50 = $7.60

  • Sedan (25 MPG):

    • Gallons needed: 65 miles / 25 MPG = 2.6 gallons
    • Cost: 2.6 gallons x $3.50 = $9.10

  • SUV (20 MPG):

    • Gallons needed: 65 miles / 20 MPG = 3.25 gallons
    • Cost: 3.25 gallons x $3.50 = $11.38

  • Pickup Truck (15 MPG):

    • Gallons needed: 65 miles / 15 MPG = 4.33 gallons
    • Cost: 4.33 gallons x $3.50 = $15.13

2. Route via US-30 E and IL-53 N (70 miles)

  • Compact Car (30 MPG):

    • Gallons needed: 70 miles / 30 MPG = 2.33 gallons
    • Cost: 2.33 gallons x $3.50 = $8.15

  • Sedan (25 MPG):

    • Gallons needed: 70 miles / 25 MPG = 2.8 gallons
    • Cost: 2.8 gallons x $3.50 = $9.80

  • SUV (20 MPG):

    • Gallons needed: 70 miles / 20 MPG = 3.5 gallons
    • Cost: 3.5 gallons x $3.50 = $12.25

  • Pickup Truck (15 MPG):

    • Gallons needed: 70 miles / 15 MPG = 4.67 gallons
    • Cost: 4.67 gallons x $3.50 = $16.35

3. Route via IL-38 and IL-83 N (67 miles)

  • Compact Car (30 MPG):

    • Gallons needed: 67 miles / 30 MPG = 2.23 gallons
    • Cost: 2.23 gallons x $3.50 = $7.80

  • Sedan (25 MPG):

    • Gallons needed: 67 miles / 25 MPG = 2.68 gallons
    • Cost: 2.68 gallons x $3.50 = $9.38

  • SUV (20 MPG):

    • Gallons needed: 67 miles / 20 MPG = 3.35 gallons
    • Cost: 3.35 gallons x $3.50 = $11.73

  • Pickup Truck (15 MPG):

    • Gallons needed: 67 miles / 15 MPG = 4.47 gallons
    • Cost: 4.47 gallons x $3.50 = $15.65

Summary of Fuel Costs by Route

Here's a breakdown of estimated fuel costs for each vehicle type across the three routes:

Route Compact Car Sedan SUV Pickup Truck
I-88 and I-90 (65 miles) $7.60 $9.10 $11.38 $15.13
US-30 E and IL-53 N (70 miles) $8.15 $9.80 $12.25 $16.35
IL-38 and IL-83 N (67 miles) $7.80 $9.38 $11.73 $15.65

After evaluating the distances and estimated fuel costs, the best route to take from DeKalb to Buffalo Grove depends on your vehicle's fuel efficiency and your personal preferences. However, the Route via I-88 and I-90 stands out as the most economical option for compact cars and sedans, ranking it as the overall best choice overall. It offers the shortest distance and the lowest fuel cost, with an approximately $7.60 trip for a compact vehicle, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious travelers.

On the other hand, for SUV and pickup truck drivers, the Route via I-88 and I-90 |still remains the cheapest option if drivers opt for the shorter trip.

Conclusion

The drive from DeKalb to Buffalo Grove, Illinois, is a manageable journey of roughly 65 miles. It will take around one hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The route via I-88 and I-90 proves to be both cost-effective and time-efficient, especially for those with fuel-efficient vehicles. Ultimately, whether you prioritize cost, time, or scenery, this trip promises a delightful travel experience between two vibrant Illinois communities.