How Much Does a Trip from Bloomington, Illinois to Carbondale, Illinois Cost with Current Gas Prices?

If you're planning a trip from Bloomington to Carbondale, Illinois, one thing you may be wondering about is how much it will cost. The cost of the trip will depend on a number of factors, including the type of vehicle you're driving, current gas prices in your area, and the route you choose to take. In this article, we'll explore some of the potential routes you could take, how much it would cost to drive them, and which options might be the most cost-effective.

Different Possible Routes and the Cost of Each One

Route 1: I-55 and I-57

The first route we'll consider is taking Interstate 55 (I-55) south to Interstate 57 (I-57), and then driving down I-57 into Carbondale. This is a fairly direct route that covers a total distance of around 160 miles. Depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency, current gas prices, and other factors, the cost of gas for this route could range anywhere from $20-$50 or more.

Route 2: I-55 to US-51

Another option you might consider is taking I-55 south to US-51, and then driving south through towns like Heyworth, Clinton, and Decatur until you meet up with I-57. This route is not as direct as Route 1, but it may allow you to explore some new towns in Illinois and see some interesting sights along the way. If you choose this route, you may end up driving slightly more miles than you would on Route 1 (around 200 miles), but the cost of gas may be comparable - somewhere in the $20-$50 range depending on current gas prices and other factors.

Route 3: US-51 and IL-13

A third possible route you might consider is taking US-51 south and then connecting with IL-13 in Marion, Illinois. This route is even more circuitous than the previous two, covering a total distance of around 220 miles. However, if you're looking to enjoy a scenic drive and take in the Illinois countryside, this may be the option for you. The cost of gas for this route could be a bit more expensive than Routes 1 and 2, ranging from around $30-$60 depending on current gas prices and other factors.

Which Route Offers the Best Value?

Of the three routes mentioned above, the most cost-effective option probably depends on your priorities. If you're primarily concerned with getting to Carbondale as quickly and efficiently as possible, Route 1 may be your best bet - while it may not be the most scenic option, it is the most direct and will likely result in the lowest cost of gas.

If you have a bit more time to spare and want to take in some new sights along the way, either Routes 2 or 3 might be worth considering. Keep in mind that while these routes may be slightly longer and more circuitous, they will also allow you to see parts of Illinois you might not otherwise experience.

Another factor to consider is current gas prices. If gas prices are particularly low in Bloomington, and you're planning to make the drive relatively soon, you might be able to get a better deal overall by choosing a route with more miles, since the per-gallon cost of gas will be lower.

Conclusion

Overall, the cost of driving from Bloomington to Carbondale can vary quite a bit depending on the route you choose, current gas prices, and other factors. If you're looking to maximize your savings, it's a good idea to research current gas prices in your area, explore alternative routes (including those we've mentioned above), and consider the fuel efficiency of your vehicle.

Regardless of which route you ultimately choose, however, a trip from Bloomington to Carbondale can be a worthwhile and enjoyable adventure, offering up plenty of opportunities to see new sights, experience new things, and enjoy all that Illinois has to offer. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to make some great memories!