Driving Cost from Birmingham, Alabama to South Beloit, Illinois

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The Cost of a Trip Between Birmingham, Alabama and South Beloit, Illinois: Analyzing the Different Routes Based on Gas Prices

The distance between Birmingham, Alabama and South Beloit, Illinois is approximately 696 miles. While many factors can influence the cost of a trip, one of the most significant is gas prices. In this article, we will explore the different routes available to travelers, highlighting the cost and distance of each one. We will then recommend the best route based on current gas prices.

The Possible Routes

Route 1: Taking I-65 N and I-90 W

The first route we will consider is taking I-65 N and I-90 W. This route spans over 769 miles, and it takes around 11 hours and 45 minutes to drive non-stop. Here are the estimated fuel costs based on the current average gas prices:

  • Alabama (Birmingham to Huntsville) – 102 miles - approximately $14.53
  • Tennessee (Huntsville to Nashville) – 108 miles - approximately $15.40
  • Kentucky (Nashville to Louisville) – 175 miles - approximately $24.98
  • Indiana (Louisville to Indianapolis) – 114 miles - approximately $16.26
  • Indiana (Indianapolis to South Beloit) – 270 miles - approximately $38.46

The total estimated fuel cost for this route is around $109.63, assuming a fuel economy of 23 miles per gallon and an average gas price of $2.87 per gallon.

Route 2: Taking I-65 N, I-264 W, and I-65 N again

The second route we will analyze is taking I-65 N, I-264 W, and I-65 N again. This route covers 761 miles and takes about 11 hours and 50 minutes to drive non-stop. Here are the estimated fuel costs based on the current average gas prices:

  • Alabama (Birmingham to Huntsville) – 102 miles - approximately $14.53
  • Tennessee (Huntsville to Nashville) – 108 miles - approximately $15.40
  • Kentucky (Nashville to Louisville) – 175 miles - approximately $24.98
  • Kentucky (Louisville to Indianapolis) – 149 miles - approximately $21.22
  • Indiana (Indianapolis to South Beloit) – 227 miles - approximately $32.43

The total estimated fuel cost for this route is around $108.56, assuming a fuel economy of 23 miles per gallon and an average gas price of $2.87 per gallon.

Route 3: Taking I-59 N, I-24 W, I-57 N, and I-90 W

The third and final route we will consider is taking I-59 N, I-24 W, I-57 N, and I-90 W. This route spans over 753 miles and takes approximately 12 hours and 15 minutes to drive non-stop. Here are the estimated fuel costs based on the current average gas prices:

  • Alabama (Birmingham to Chattanooga) – 148 miles - approximately $21.13
  • Tennessee (Chattanooga to Nashville) – 133 miles - approximately $18.97
  • Kentucky (Nashville to Paducah) – 146 miles - approximately $20.85
  • Illinois (Paducah to Marion) – 138 miles - approximately $19.67
  • Illinois (Marion to South Beloit) – 188 miles - approximately $26.80

The total estimated fuel cost for this route is around $107.42, assuming a fuel economy of 23 miles per gallon and an average gas price of $2.87 per gallon.

Based on the analysis of the three possible routes, it is clear that taking I-65 N, I-264 W, and I-65 N again is the best choice. This route offers the cheapest estimated fuel cost and nearly the same distance compared to the other routes. It also avoids the congested Chicago area, which can save time and stress.

Conclusion

The cost of a trip between Birmingham, Alabama and South Beloit, Illinois can vary based on the route taken and the current gas prices. After analyzing three possible routes, we recommend taking I-65 N, I-264 W, and I-65 N again, which has an estimated fuel cost of around $108.56. However, it is essential to remember that prices can fluctuate based on location, fuel economy, and other factors. Therefore, drivers are encouraged to check gas prices before embarking on any long-distance journey to find the best deal. Even though the recommended route can take around 11 hours and 50 minutes to drive non-stop, factors such as traffic, rest stops, and weather can make the trip take longer. With the information provided, drivers can plan their trip and budget accordingly for fuel costs.