Driving Cost from DeKalb, Illinois to Chicago Heights, Illinois

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The Cost of Driving from DeKalb, Illinois to Chicago Heights, Illinois: A Budget-Friendly Guide

Planning a trip from DeKalb to Chicago Heights? You’re in for an adventure! However, it's essential to consider the costs associated with your journey, especially with fluctuating gas prices and tolls. In this blog post, we’ll explore different routes, focusing on distance, time, and the cost for gas and tolls. Let’s dive in!

Route 1: The I-88 E and I-294 S Route

The first option is the most straightforward route, taking you via I-88 E and I-294 S.

  • Distance: Approximately 65 miles
  • Time: Roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes
  • Gas Cost: Assuming a gas price of $3.50 per gallon and your vehicle’s fuel efficiency is about 25 miles per gallon, you’ll need around 2.6 gallons for this trip. Therefore, your gas cost will be about $9.10.
  • Toll Cost: Tolls on this route will amount to around $4.50.

So, for this route, your total cost comes to about $13.60. Not too shabby for a smooth drive!

Route 2: The I-55 S Route

If you prefer a slightly longer, but arguably more scenic route, consider traveling via I-55 S.

  • Distance: Roughly 70 miles
  • Time: Expect to spend about 1 hour and 30 minutes
  • Gas Cost: With the same assumptions (gas price at $3.50 per gallon and 25 miles per gallon), you’ll use approximately 2.8 gallons. Thus, your gas cost would be approximately $9.80.
  • Toll Cost: Luckily, this route has no tolls, which saves you some cash!

In total, this route will cost you about $9.80 for gas, making it a budget-friendly option.

Route 3: The Scenic Route via IL-38 E

For those who love to enjoy the sights along the way, taking IL-38 E can offer a refreshing change of pace.

  • Distance: About 72 miles
  • Time: Allow yourself around 1 hour and 40 minutes for this leisurely drive.
  • Gas Cost: Following the same calculations, you’d need around 2.9 gallons of gas, totaling approximately $10.15.
  • Toll Cost: This route also has no tolls, so you can save those extra coins!

Therefore, the total cost for this scenic route comes to about $10.15. It’s a great option if you want to make your journey worthwhile!

Conclusion

Choosing between these routes from DeKalb, Illinois to Chicago Heights doesn’t just depend on the quickest path; it also comes down to your budget and preferences. The I-88 E and I-294 S Route is the fastest at $13.60, while the I-55 S Route and the IL-38 E offer budget-friendly options at $9.80 and $10.15, respectively. Each route has its perks, whether it’s time, cost, or scenic views. So, buckle up, choose your route, and enjoy the ride! Safe travels!