Driving Cost from Des Plaines, Illinois to Rockford, Illinois

A picture depicting a gas pump

Calculating the Cost of a Trip from Des Plaines to Rockford, Illinois: A Comprehensive Guide

Traveling between Des Plaines and Rockford, Illinois, offers a great opportunity to explore the beautiful landscape of northern Illinois. But as any traveler knows, understanding the cost of transportation is crucial in planning your road trip. With fluctuating gas prices, calculating the expenses based on the route you choose becomes essential. This article explores different routes from Des Plaines to Rockford, their distances, costs based on current gas prices, and recommends the optimal path for a hassle-free journey.

Current Gas Prices in Illinois

Before diving into the routes, let's address the current gas prices in Illinois. As of October 2023, the average price per gallon of regular unleaded gasoline in Illinois is approximately $3.90. This price may vary across different locations and gas stations, but for the sake of this article, we'll use $3.90 as our working figure for calculating travel costs.

Estimated Fuel Economy

The average fuel economy for cars typically ranges from 25 to 30 miles per gallon (mpg). For the purpose of this calculation, we'll consider a mid-range vehicle that provides around 28 mpg. This way, we can assess fuel costs accurately based on the distance covered.

Route Options from Des Plaines to Rockford

Route 1: I-90 W (Direct Route)

Distance: Approximately 70 miles
Estimated Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes (without heavy traffic)

The most straightforward and commonly used route to travel from Des Plaines to Rockford is via Interstate 90 (I-90). Starting in Des Plaines, travelers can hop onto I-90 W and head directly to Rockford. This route is primarily highway driving, making it easier and quicker for those looking to minimize travel time.

Fuel Cost Calculation:

  • Total Distance: 70 miles
  • Fuel Efficiency: 28 mpg
  • Total Gallons Used: 70 miles / 28 mpg = 2.5 gallons
  • Total Cost: 2.5 gallons x $3.90/gallon = $9.75

Route 2: I-294 N and US-20 W (Scenic Route)

Distance: Approximately 85 miles
Estimated Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes

Another option exists for those who enjoy scenic drives and wish to take a detour. By taking Interstate 294 N and then transitioning onto US-20 W, drivers can experience a more picturesque view of the Illinois countryside. This route adds about 15 miles to the journey and may offer more interesting scenery along the way.

Fuel Cost Calculation:

  • Total Distance: 85 miles
  • Fuel Efficiency: 28 mpg
  • Total Gallons Used: 85 miles / 28 mpg = 3.04 gallons
  • Total Cost: 3.04 gallons x $3.90/gallon = $11.85

Route 3: Route 83 & US-12 W (Rural Route)

Distance: Approximately 75 miles
Estimated Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

For travelers who enjoy winding roads through rural areas, taking Route 83 north and then merging onto US-12 W offers a unique perspective of Illinois. This route takes you through smaller towns and showcases the region's rural charm. Although it's not the quickest option, it could be enjoyable for those looking for a leisurely drive.

Fuel Cost Calculation:

  • Total Distance: 75 miles
  • Fuel Efficiency: 28 mpg
  • Total Gallons Used: 75 miles / 28 mpg = 2.68 gallons
  • Total Cost: 2.68 gallons x $3.90/gallon = $10.45

After evaluating the three identified routes, the best recommendation for any traveler looking to minimize costs and time would be Route 1, utilizing I-90 W. While the other routes provide their unique experiences, the direct and efficient nature of I-90 allows travelers to reach Rockford faster and without incurring unnecessary costs.

Choosing I-90 W saves roughly $1.10 compared to Route 3 and $2.10 compared to Route 2 and ensures a consistent speed with minimal stops.

It's important to note that travel times can vary based on factors like traffic, weather, and road conditions. Additionally, those who may wish to take breaks should consider potential impacts on the total duration of the trip.

Additional Expenses to Consider

While gas costs constitute a significant portion of your trip expenses, there may be other costs associated with travel that you should keep in mind:

  • Tolls: Traveling on Route 1 (I-90) may incur tolls. Depending on when and how you travel, you could pay anywhere from $1.50 to $5.00, adding some variability to your costs.
  • Food and Beverages: Plan for stops where you could snack or drink on your way. A budget of around $10 to $20 could comfortably cover basic refreshments for the trip.
  • Occasional Attractions: Consider whether you may want to make stops along the way, especially in historic towns or notable attractions, which could add time and cost to your total journey.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the trip from Des Plaines to Rockford, Illinois, offers several routes with different distances and costs. Route 1 via I-90 W stands out as the most efficient, costing approximately $9.75 in gas, based on current gas prices. This route allows drivers to complete the journey in about 1 hour and 15 minutes under optimal conditions. Whether you opt for a scenic adventure or a quick drive, understanding the costs and distances involved helps make every road trip a well-planned escape.