Driving Cost from Des Plaines, Illinois to Wheaton, Illinois

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of Driving from Des Plaines to Wheaton: A Gas Price Guide

Planning a trip from Des Plaines, Illinois to Wheaton, Illinois? Whether you're heading to visit friends, family, or just exploring the area, knowing the cost of your journey can help you budget better. Let’s break down a couple of popular routes, their distances, travel times, and the fuel costs based on current gas prices.

Route 1: The Tollway Route Via I-90

First up, let’s discuss the tollway route. This is probably the quickest option and offers a smooth drive:

  • Distance: 32 miles
  • Time: 40 minutes (depending on traffic)
  • Toll Costs: Approximately $4.50 (this may vary if you use an I-Pass or a different toll method)

Gas Cost Calculation

Currently, gas prices in the area hover around $3.50 per gallon. If your vehicle averages 25 miles per gallon, you’ll need about 1.3 gallons for this trip.

  • Gas Cost: 1.3 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $4.55

So, taking this route, the total cost of your trip would be approximately $9.05 (adding tolls and gas). Easy peasy!

Route 2: The Scenic Route Via IL-83 S

If you feel like enjoying a more scenic drive, consider taking IL-83 S. This route allows you to see some lovely neighborhoods along the way.

  • Distance: 30 miles
  • Time: 50 minutes (again, depending on traffic)
  • Toll Costs: $0 (this route is toll-free)

Gas Cost Calculation

With gas prices still around $3.50 per gallon and the same fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, this route will also require approximately 1.2 gallons of gas.

  • Gas Cost: 1.2 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $4.20

Here's the best part: since there are no tolls, your total cost for this more leisurely journey comes to around $4.20.

Conclusion

As you can see, traveling from Des Plaines to Wheaton can vary in cost based on the route you choose. The tollway route will set you back about $9.05, while the scenic alternative is only about $4.20.

Whichever route you decide on, safe travels, and enjoy your time in Wheaton! Remember to factor in current gas prices and tolls before you hit the road for the best budgeting experience. Happy driving!