Driving Cost from Chicago, Illinois to Detroit, Michigan

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The Cost of Driving From Chicago, Illinois to Detroit, Michigan Based on Current Gas Prices

Are you planning a road trip from Chicago to Detroit? Before hitting the road, it's important to be aware of the expenses associated with the journey. In this blog post, we will break down the cost of driving from Chicago, Illinois to Detroit, Michigan, highlighting different routes, the distance, time, and cost for each route.

Route 1: Taking the I-94 E

One of the most popular routes to get from Chicago to Detroit is via the I-94 E. This route covers a distance of 284 miles and takes approximately 4.5 hours to complete, depending on traffic conditions.

Cost Breakdown:

  • Gasoline: With current gas prices averaging around $2.50 per gallon, driving a car with an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon (mpg) will require around 11.36 gallons of fuel for this route. At $2.50 per gallon, the estimated fuel cost will be approximately $28.40.
  • Tolls: Along the way, you will encounter tolls. The total toll cost for this route is around $10.00. Keep some loose change handy!

Route 2: Choosing the I-80 E and I-69 N

Another option for your journey is to take the I-80 E and then switch to the I-69 N. This route covers a total distance of 319 miles and takes approximately 5 hours to complete.

Cost Breakdown:

  • Gasoline: Following the same average fuel efficiency of 25 mpg, you will need approximately 12.76 gallons of fuel for this route, resulting in an estimated fuel cost of around $31.90.
  • Tolls: The tolls along this route add up to $14.00. Make sure to have some cash or a toll pass to cover these fees.

Route 3: Exploring the Scenic Route via US-12

For those who prefer a more leisurely drive, taking the scenic route via US-12 is a great choice. This route covers a distance of approximately 282 miles and takes around 5.5 hours, depending on the stops you make along the way.

Cost Breakdown:

  • Gasoline: With an average fuel efficiency of 25 mpg, you will need approximately 11.28 gallons of fuel, resulting in an estimated fuel cost of roughly $28.20.
  • Tolls: Fortunately, this route does not include any toll roads, so you can enjoy the scenic journey without worrying about additional costs.

Conclusion

When planning your road trip from Chicago, Illinois to Detroit, Michigan, it's essential to consider the cost of driving. By breaking down the expenses for different routes, we can see that the approximate fuel cost ranges from $28.20 to $31.90, depending on the route you choose. Additionally, tolls range from $10.00 to $14.00. Be sure to factor in these costs when budgeting for your trip.

Safe travels and enjoy the open road!