Driving Cost from Carol Stream, Illinois to Woodridge, Illinois

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Trip Between Carol Stream, Illinois and Woodridge, Illinois

As gas prices continue to fluctuate, it's important to consider the cost of transportation when planning a trip. This is especially true for those planning a trip between Carol Stream and Woodridge in Illinois. These two cities are about 14 miles apart, but which route is the most cost-effective? In this article, we'll analyze the different routes, their costs, and recommend the best route based on the current gas prices.

Possible Routes

There are three main routes that one can take between Carol Stream and Woodridge. They are:

Route 1: IL-53 S

The first possible route is to take IL-53 S. This route is about 13.6 miles and takes about 20 minutes without traffic. It's the most direct route to Woodridge. However, there are tolls on this route. As of 2021, the toll cost is $1.90 without an I-PASS and $1.50 with an I-PASS.

Route 2: I-355 S

The second possible route is to take I-355 S. This route is about 14.5 miles and takes about 25 minutes without traffic. While it's a little longer than Route 1, it has the advantage of being toll-free.

Route 3: IL-64 W and IL-53 S

The third possible route is to take IL-64 W and IL-53 S. This route is about 15.2 miles and takes about 25 minutes without traffic. It's the longest route but has no tolls.

Cost Analysis

To determine the cost of each route, we'll need to consider the current gas prices and the fuel efficiency of a typical car. According to AAA, the average gas price in Illinois as of 2021 is $3.10 per gallon. Let's assume a typical car gets 25 miles per gallon.

Using these figures, we can calculate the cost of each route based on their distance:

  • Route 1 (13.6 miles): $1.86
  • Route 2 (14.5 miles): $1.97
  • Route 3 (15.2 miles): $2.01

Based on this analysis, Route 1 with tolls is the cheapest option. However, for those who don't have an I-PASS or prefer to avoid tolls, Route 2 is the next best option.

While Route 1 is the cheapest option based solely on cost, it's important to consider other factors such as traffic and convenience. During rush hour, Route 1 can be congested due to tollbooth backups. In this case, Route 2 can be a much faster and more convenient route. It's also worth noting that Route 2 is a more scenic drive as it passes through the Morton Arboretum.

Therefore, overall, we recommend Route 2 as the best option for a trip between Carol Stream and Woodridge.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a trip between Carol Stream and Woodridge can vary depending on the route taken and current gas prices. After analyzing the three main routes, we recommend Route 2 as the best option based on factors such as traffic, convenience, and scenic views. Keep in mind that tolls may be a factor in choosing the cheapest option, which is Route 1. Overall, the trip is relatively short, taking about 20-25 minutes without traffic. With our recommended route, the journey can be enjoyable and efficient.