Driving Cost from Chicago, Illinois to Omaha, Nebraska

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of Driving From Chicago, Illinois to Omaha, Nebraska

So you've decided to embark on a road trip from the windy city of Chicago to the charming city of Omaha, Nebraska? Great choice! With its vibrant culture and beautiful landscapes, Omaha is definitely worth the drive. But before you hit the road, let's take a look at the different routes, their distances, time, and most importantly, the cost based on current gas prices.

Route 1: The Straight Shot

If you're in a hurry and want the most direct route, then the I-80W is the way to go. This route spans approximately 403 miles and takes around 6 hours of driving time. With the current gas price at $2.50 per gallon, you'll need to calculate the cost based on your vehicle's fuel efficiency. But on average, for a car that gives you around 25 miles per gallon, you can expect to spend around $40 on gas for this route.

Route 2: The Scenic Detour

If you're up for an adventure and want to enjoy some scenic views along the way, take the Route 30W instead. This route is slightly longer, spanning about 442 miles, but the extra distance comes with some beautiful landscapes that will make your journey truly memorable. The driving time for this route is approximately 7 hours and 15 minutes. With the same gas price as before, you can expect to spend around $45 on gas for this route.

Route 3: The Time-Saver

For those who value their time and want to reach Omaha quickly, with minimal stops and delays, the I-88W and I-80W combo is the perfect choice. By taking the I-88W to the I-80W, you will travel a distance of around 429 miles in about 7 hours of driving time. The efficiency of your vehicle remains the same as in the previous routes, so you can expect to spend approximately $43 on gas for this route.

Tolls and Additional Costs

While gas prices are a significant factor in calculating the cost of your trip, it's also important to consider toll prices and any additional expenses that may come along the way. For Route 1, expect to encounter tolls in Indiana, where the rate is around $9.50 for passenger vehicles. Route 2 doesn't have any tolls, so that's a plus! And for Route 3, you will encounter tolls on the I-88W in Illinois, costing around $5.50 for passenger vehicles.

Keep in mind that these toll prices are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to double-check before hitting the road. Additionally, don't forget to account for any food, accommodations, or other expenses you may incur during your trip.

Time to Hit the Road!

Now that you have a good idea of the different routes, their distances, time, and costs, it's time to choose the one that suits your preferences and budget. Whether you prefer a straightforward drive, a scenic detour, or a time-saving route, each option offers its own unique experience. So buckle up, turn up the music, and enjoy the journey from Chicago, Illinois to Omaha, Nebraska!

Sources: