The Cost of a Trip Between Colorado and Illinois: Navigating Current Gas Prices

Introduction

When planning a trip from Colorado to Illinois, one of the biggest factors to consider is the cost - particularly the cost of gas. With constantly fluctuating gas prices, it can be a challenge to accurately budget for the expense of driving between these two states. In this article, we will explore the different routes available and break down the cost of each, helping you make an informed decision about the best way to travel between Colorado and Illinois.

The Routes

Route 1: Taking I-70 E and I-76 E

One of the most direct routes from Colorado to Illinois is to take I-70 E and then switch to I-76 E as you reach the eastern part of Colorado. This route takes you through the Kansas heartland before ultimately leading to Illinois.

The total distance for this route is approximately 1,000 miles. With the current national average price of gas at $3.18 per gallon, and the average vehicle getting around 25 miles per gallon, the estimated cost of gas for this route is around $127.20 one-way.

Route 2: Using I-80 E

Another popular route from Colorado to Illinois is to take I-25 N to I-80 E, which will take you through Nebraska and Iowa before reaching Illinois. This is a slightly longer route than the first option, but it provides a different set of sights and experiences along the way.

The total distance for this route is approximately 1,100 miles. With the current national average price of gas at $3.18 per gallon, and the average vehicle getting around 25 miles per gallon, the estimated cost of gas for this route is around $139.68 one-way.

Route 3: The Scenic Route

If you have the time and want to make the most of your journey, you may opt for a scenic route from Colorado to Illinois. This could involve taking more rural roads and stopping at various attractions along the way. While this route may be longer in terms of both time and distance, the cost of gas may actually be more difficult to calculate, as it will depend largely on your chosen stops and deviations from the standard highways.

Recommendation

When considering the cost of the trip between Colorado and Illinois, along with the overall distance and driving time, it is clear that taking the I-70 E and I-76 E route is the most cost-effective option. Not only does this route offer the shortest distance, resulting in lower costs in gas, but it also has the added benefit of being a more direct and efficient way to reach your destination.

Conclusion

After careful consideration of the different routes and their associated costs, it is evident that taking I-70 E and I-76 E is the most economical and practical option for traveling between Colorado and Illinois. With an estimated cost of around $127.20 one-way in gas, it offers the best balance of affordability and efficiency. Depending on your starting point in Colorado and your final destination in Illinois, this route generally takes around 15-17 hours of driving, making it a relatively quick and cost-effective way to travel between these two states. Safe travels!