How Much Would it Cost to Drive from Baltimore to Chicago?

If you're planning to take a road trip from Baltimore to Chicago, you'll want to plan ahead to make sure you stay on budget. The cost of gas, tolls, and other expenses can add up quickly, so it's important to know what you're in for before you hit the road.

Route 1: I-70 W and I-64 W

This is the shortest route, covering a distance of 722 miles. It will take approximately 12 hours and 11 minutes to drive, assuming no stops along the way. You'll spend around $114.00 in gas if your vehicle gets 25 miles per gallon, with gas prices averaging around $2.80 per gallon. Toll prices for this route will vary based on your exact starting point, but expect to spend around $9 in tolls.

Route 2: I-76 W

If you want to cut your driving time down a bit, consider taking I-76 W. It covers a distance of 772 miles, making it slightly longer than Route 1, but you'll get to Chicago about an hour sooner, taking approximately 11 hours and 14 minutes. You'll spend around $123.50 in gas if you have a vehicle that gets 25 miles per gallon, and tolls along this route will cost around $41.

Route 3: I-80 W

I-80 W is the longest route of the three, covering a distance of 790 miles. However, it is the fastest option, taking approximately 10 hours and 19 minutes if you drive without stopping. Gas prices again, averaging $2.80 per gallon, you can expect to spend around $126.40 on this route. Tolls will be around $43.

Conclusion

As you can see, the cost of driving from Baltimore to Chicago can vary depending on the route you take. I-70 W and I-64 W are the most economical route, but taking I-80 W could save a few hours of driving time. Regardless of which route you choose, it's essential to budget for gas and tolls. With proper planning, you can enjoy your road trip while staying within your budget.