The Cost of a Trip Between Chicago, IL and Albuquerque, NM: A Comparison of Gas Prices

When planning a road trip from Chicago, Illinois to Albuquerque, New Mexico, one of the first things to consider is the cost of gas. With fluctuating gas prices, finding the most cost-effective route can significantly impact the overall budget for your trip. In this article, we will compare the costs and distances of different routes from Chicago to Albuquerque, factoring in current gas prices. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision that will save you money without sacrificing on the quality of your road trip experience.

Route Options and Gas Prices

Route 1: I-55 S and I-44 W

The first route option from Chicago to Albuquerque involves taking I-55 S and I-44 W. This route spans approximately 1,300 miles and takes around 19 hours to complete. With the current average gas price of $3.00 per gallon, this route would cost an estimated $195 in gas for a round trip.

Route 2: I-55 S and I-40 W

Another possibility is to take I-55 S and I-40 W, which covers roughly 1,400 miles and takes approximately 20 hours to drive. At the current gas price of $3.00 per gallon, the total cost for this route would be around $210 for a round trip.

Route 3: I-39 S and I-80 W

An alternative route from Chicago to Albuquerque is to take I-39 S and I-80 W, which spans about 1,500 miles and takes approximately 21 hours to complete. With the average gas price of $3.00 per gallon, this route would cost an estimated $225 for a round trip.

Route 4: I-39 S and I-70 W

Lastly, another option is to take I-39 S and I-70 W, covering approximately 1,600 miles and taking around 22 hours to drive. At the current gas price of $3.00 per gallon, the total cost for this route would be around $240 for a round trip.

Recommendation

Based on the cost of gas and the distance traveled, we recommend taking Route 1: I-55 S and I-44 W. While this route may not be the shortest in terms of mileage, it offers the most cost-effective option for the round trip. With an estimated gas cost of $195, this route allows you to save money without adding significant extra travel time.

Conclusion

After careful consideration of the different routes and the current gas prices, taking Route 1: I-55 S and I-44 W is the most cost-effective option for a road trip from Chicago, Illinois to Albuquerque, New Mexico. With an estimated gas cost of $195 for a round trip, this route provides a balance of affordability and efficient travel time, making it the optimal choice for budget-conscious travelers. Safe travels!