The Cost of a Trip Between Bradford, Pennsylvania and Chicago, Illinois: A Comparison of Routes Based on Current Gas Prices

When planning a trip between Bradford, Pennsylvania and Chicago, Illinois, one of the primary considerations is the cost, specifically the cost of gas. With different routes available, it can be challenging to determine the most cost-effective option. In this article, we will compare different routes based on current gas prices and recommend the best route for a budget-friendly trip to Chicago.

Driving Routes

Before we compare the driving routes, we should establish the distance between Bradford and Chicago. The distance between the two cities is approximately 475 miles, and the driving time is around 7 hours, depending on traffic and driving conditions.

Route 1: Via I-80 West

The first route we will consider is via I-80 West. From Bradford, you would head southwest on US-219 and merge onto I-80 West in DuBois. You would then continue on I-80 West, passing through Ohio, and ending up at Chicago.

This route is about 484 miles and would take around 7 hours 35 minutes without stops. According to Gasbuddy as of May 2021, the average gas price along this route is $2.89 per gallon. With an average gas mileage of 24 mpg, you would need to budget approximately $60 for gas alone.

Route 2: Via I-90 West

The second route we will consider is via I-90 West. From Bradford, you would head southwest on US-219 and merge onto I-90 West in Erie. You would then continue on I-90 West, passing through Cleveland, and ending up at Chicago.

This route is about 516 miles and would take around 8 hours without stops. According to Gasbuddy, the average gas price along this route is $2.93 per gallon. With an average gas mileage of 24 mpg, you would need to budget approximately $64 for gas alone.

Route 3: Via I-79 South and I-76 West

The third route we will consider is via I-79 South and I-76 West. From Bradford, you would head southwest on US-219 and merge onto I-79 South in Dubois. In Pittsburgh, you would then take I-76 West and continue on it until you reach Chicago.

This route is about 537 miles and would take around 8 hours and 30 minutes without stops. According to Gasbuddy, the average gas price along this route is $2.87 per gallon. With an average gas mileage of 24 mpg, you would need to budget approximately $68 for gas alone.

Conclusion: The Best Route

Based on the comparison of the three routes, the most cost-effective option for a trip between Bradford, Pennsylvania and Chicago, Illinois is via I-80 West. With a lower average gas price and a shorter distance, this route would cost approximately $60 for gas alone. However, it is essential to note that driving conditions and traffic can affect the cost and time of your trip.

In conclusion, the best route from Bradford to Chicago is via I-80 West, taking approximately 7 hours and 35 minutes without stops, based on current gas prices. Whether you are planning a budget-friendly trip or a road trip adventure, this information can help you make informed decisions and plan your travels accordingly.