Driving Cost from Delavan, Wisconsin to Rock Island, Illinois

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Trip from Delavan, Wisconsin to Rock Island, Illinois Based on Current Gas Prices

When planning a journey from Delavan, Wisconsin, to Rock Island, Illinois, travelers often weigh the costs associated with fuel, time, and distance. With current gas prices fluctuating around $3.20 per gallon in October 2023, understanding the financial impact of each potential route becomes crucial. This article breaks down various routes, examines their costs based on fuel consumption, and ultimately recommends the best option for your trip.

Overview of the Route

Delavan, a charming town in Walworth County, Wisconsin, lies approximately 130 miles away from Rock Island, a vibrant city situated along the Mississippi River in Illinois. Given the distance, drivers typically consider multiple routes, each offering unique perspectives and experiences along the way. The most common routes include:

  1. I-43 S to I-88 W
  2. US-51 S to I-80 W
  3. US-14 W to I-74 S

Each of these routes presents varying distances, traffic patterns, and overall travel costs, allowing drivers to make an informed decision based on their preferences.

Route 1: I-43 S to I-88 W

Distance and Duration

The route from Delavan to Rock Island via I-43 S and I-88 W measures approximately 140 miles. This trip typically takes about two hours and fifteen minutes, contingent on traffic conditions and driving speed.

Cost Breakdown

Here's how the fuel expense adds up for this route:

  • Average Fuel Efficiency: Let's use an estimate of 25 miles per gallon (MPG) for a mid-sized sedan.

  • Total Gallons Needed: [ \frac{140 \text}{25 \text} = 5.6 \text ]

  • Total Cost: [ 5.6 \text \times 3.20 \text = 17.92 \text ]

By this estimation, a trip along this route would cost approximately $17.92 in fuel.

Route 2: US-51 S to I-80 W

Distance and Duration

Taking US-51 S and then connecting to I-80 W gives you a distance of roughly 130 miles. This option typically has a travel time of around two hours.

Cost Breakdown

Calculating the fuel expenses:

  • Average Fuel Efficiency: Assuming 25 MPG again,

  • Total Gallons Needed: [ \frac{130 \text}{25 \text} = 5.2 \text ]

  • Total Cost: [ 5.2 \text \times 3.20 \text = 16.64 \text ]

Thus, traveling via US-51 S to I-80 W would cost around $16.64 in gas.

Route 3: US-14 W to I-74 S

Distance and Duration

Choosing this scenic route along US-14 W to I-74 S covers about 135 miles. The estimated travel time is also around two hours and ten minutes, making it a competitive option in terms of time.

Cost Breakdown

For this route:

  • Average Fuel Efficiency: Sticking with the same assumption of 25 MPG,

  • Total Gallons Needed: [ \frac{135 \text}{25 \text} = 5.4 \text ]

  • Total Cost: [ 5.4 \text \times 3.20 \text = 17.28 \text ]

This route will cost about $17.28 for fuel.

Comparison of Routes

Here is a quick comparison of the three routes, focusing on distance, time, and fuel cost:

Route Distance (miles) Time (hours) Gallons Needed Fuel Cost ($)
I-43 S to I-88 W 140 2.25 5.6 17.92
US-51 S to I-80 W 130 2.0 5.2 16.64
US-14 W to I-74 S 135 2.16 5.4 17.28

From the table, US-51 S to I-80 W stands out as the most economical route. Not only does it cover the shortest distance, but it also has the lowest fuel cost.

Based on the analysis, the recommended route for your trip from Delavan to Rock Island is US-51 S to I-80 W. This option provides an efficient balance of distance, travel time, and cost. With an estimated travel time of just two hours and a total fuel expenditure of $16.64, drivers can reach their destination comfortably while keeping expenses minimal.

Additionally, this route allows you to enjoy various scenic views and attractions in both Wisconsin and Illinois. The scenery transitions from rural farmland to urban landscapes, giving travelers a rich experience.

Conclusion

Traveling from Delavan, Wisconsin, to Rock Island, Illinois, should be straightforward and budget-friendly. The journey along US-51 S to I-80 W takes about two hours, covering a distance of approximately 130 miles and costing around $16.64 in gas. This route proves not only to be economical, but it also offers a pleasant driving experience, allowing you to enjoy the characteristics of the Midwest. Make sure to prepare ahead, check traffic conditions, and enjoy your road trip!