Driving Cost from Des Plaines, Illinois to Chicago, Illinois

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of Driving from Des Plaines to Chicago: Budgeting Your Trip with Current Gas Prices

Driving from Des Plaines to Chicago is a common journey for many commuters and weekend travelers. As you plan your trip, it’s essential to keep an eye on the costs involved, especially with the fluctuating gas prices. Let’s break down a couple of popular routes you can take, focusing on distance, time, and cost.

Route 1: Via I-90 E (Kennedy Expressway)

One of the most straightforward routes is taking I-90 E, also known as the Kennedy Expressway. This path is not only direct but also conveniently connects you to central Chicago.

  • Distance: Approximately 20 miles

  • Time: Typically takes about 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic.

  • Cost Breakdown:

    • Gas: Given the current average gas price in Illinois is around $4.00 per gallon, and your vehicle gets about 25 miles per gallon, you can expect to spend about $3.20 on gas for this route.
    • Tolls: The I-90 route incurs a toll of approximately $3.50.

Thus, the total cost for this route comes to around $6.70.

Route 2: Via US-12 E/US-45 S (Mannheim Rd)

Another option is to take US-12 E, which runs parallel to the airport and offers a slightly different scenic view. This route is great if you want to avoid toll roads.

  • Distance: Roughly 18 miles

  • Time: This ride usually takes about 35-45 minutes, depending on the traffic flow.

  • Cost Breakdown:

    • Gas: With the same gas prices applied, you would spend around $3.20 on gas for this route as well.
    • Tolls: The best part? This option is toll-free!

So in total, your cost for this trip amounts to approximately $3.20.

Summary

To wrap it up, if you're driving from Des Plaines to Chicago, you have a couple of great options, each with its unique pros. The I-90 E route costs around $6.70 thanks to the tolls, while the US-12 E/US-45 S route gives you a more budget-friendly option at just $3.20.

Overall, keep an eye on the gas prices and plan your route based on your preference for scenic views versus quick commutes. Happy driving!