Driving Cost from Chicago, Illinois to Downtown Kansas City, Missouri

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Trip Between Chicago, Illinois and Downtown Kansas City, Missouri

Introduction

Planning a trip between two cities can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience, especially if you are concerned about the cost of travel. In this article, we will delve into the various routes available for a trip between Chicago, Illinois and Downtown Kansas City, Missouri, focusing on the current gas prices and the associated costs. By the end, we hope to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about your travel route.

Routes and Cost Analysis

When it comes to travel between Chicago and Downtown Kansas City, there are multiple routes available, each varying in distance, tolls, and fuel consumption. Let's explore the most common routes and highlight the cost and distance associated with each one.

Route 1: I-55 S and I-44 W (721 miles)

This is the most direct route, although it can be quite costly due to tolls and higher fuel consumption. For this journey, you will start on I-55 S in Chicago and continue onto I-44 W in St. Louis, which will ultimately lead you to Downtown Kansas City.

Cost Analysis:

  • Fuel Consumption: As an estimate, a car averaging 25 miles per gallon (MPG) will consume approximately 29 gallons of gas for this route.
  • Gas Prices: Assuming a gas price of $2.85 per gallon, the total cost for this leg of the trip would be $82.65.
  • Tolls: Be prepared to spend around $12-15 in toll fees, depending on the specific tollways you encounter along the way.

Route 2: I-80 W (784 miles)

Another popular route is to take I-80 W, which adds a few extra miles to the journey but offers a more scenic drive. This route takes you through Des Moines, Iowa, and then onto I-35 S, which leads straight down to Downtown Kansas City.

Cost Analysis:

  • Fuel Consumption: Considering the extra distance, a car averaging 25 MPG will require around 31.4 gallons of gas for this route.
  • Gas Prices: Using the same gas price assumption of $2.85 per gallon, the total cost for this leg of the trip would be approximately $89.59.
  • Tolls: Unlike Route 1, this route does not have any major tolls, making it a more budget-friendly option.

Route 3: I-94 W and I-80 W (802 miles)

If you prefer a mix of scenery and a longer drive, this route might be ideal for you. Starting on I-94 W in Chicago, you will pass through Davenport, Iowa, before joining I-80 W, which will ultimately lead you to Downtown Kansas City.

Cost Analysis:

  • Fuel Consumption: With the longest distance of the three routes, a car averaging 25 MPG will use approximately 32.1 gallons of gas.
  • Gas Prices: Using the same gas price assumption, the total cost for this route would be roughly $91.49.
  • Tolls: Similar to Route 2, this route doesn't have any significant tolls to consider.

Based on the cost analysis and overall convenience, Route 2 (I-80 W) appears to be the most recommended route from Chicago, Illinois to Downtown Kansas City, Missouri. Although it adds a few more miles compared to Route 1 (I-55 S and I-44 W), it avoids tolls and offers a more pleasant drive through scenic landscapes.

Moreover, since Route 3 (I-94 W and I-80 W) is the longest option, it would consume more fuel and result in higher costs compared to Route 2. Therefore, Route 2 strikes a balance between cost-effectiveness, mileage, and a pleasant driving experience.

Conclusion

Embarking on a trip from Chicago, Illinois to Downtown Kansas City, Missouri can be an enjoyable adventure. However, it is crucial to consider the cost of travel, especially with fluctuating gas prices. After analyzing the different routes available, we recommend taking Route 2 (I-80 W) for a balance between cost and driving experience. This route bypasses tolls and offers a scenic journey through Des Moines, Iowa.

It is also worth noting that the estimated travel time for this trip is approximately 11 to 12 hours, depending on aspects such as traffic and breaks. Remember to plan your journey accordingly, considering the distance and any additional stops you may want to make along the way. Safe travels!