The Cost of a Road Trip from Cedar Rapids to Arlington Heights

If you're thinking of hitting the road, be it for a family gathering or a work-related trip, the cost of gas is a major expense to consider. The cost of driving a car from Cedar Rapids to Arlington Heights will vary depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency, the distance, and the gas prices. In this article, we will break down the different routes you can take and highlight the cost and distance for each one.

The Routes

Route 1: The Shortest Way

The shortest distance between Cedar Rapids and Arlington Heights is approximately 260 miles via I-80 E and I-88 E, and it would take about 4 hours to drive without making any stops. This route is the most direct option and is recommended for those on a tight schedule.

Based on the 2021 national average gas price of $3.14 per gallon, you'll have to spend around $35 on gas for a small car with 28 miles per gallon (MPG) or $42 for a larger SUV with 21 MPG. Keep in mind that gas prices can fluctuate daily, so one way to ensure that you're getting the best deal is to use a website or mobile app like GasBuddy to compare gas prices along the way.

Route 2: The Scenic Route

For those who prefer to take a more scenic route, there is an alternative option that takes you through rural countryside and past some of Illinois' small towns. This route starts by heading east towards Rockford before heading south on I-39 and eventually merging onto I-90 E. From there, you can take I-53 N and finally I-290 W towards Arlington Heights.

The total distance covered by this route is around 306 miles, and the estimated driving time is about 5 hours without taking any stops. The extra mileage and potential traffic on I-90 may add 30 minutes to the trip.

While this route may take longer, it offers beautiful views and cultural experiences that you would otherwise miss sticking to the main highway. A small car with 28 MPG would need approximately $43 to $44 for gas, while a larger SUV with 21 MPG would require roughly $51 to $52.

Route 3: The Eastern Way

Another possible route from Cedar Rapids to Arlington Heights takes you east towards Chicago. This route starts by heading east on US-30 E and merging onto I-88 E. From there, you can take the I-355 N toll road, which merges with I-290 W and eventually leads you to Arlington Heights.

The total distance covered by this route is around 315 miles, and the estimated driving time is about 5.5 hours without making any stops. The speed limit on I-355 N toll road is 70 MPH, allowing for a relatively quick drive. Additionally, the route passes through several toll booths, adding a few extra dollars to the cost of the trip.

Based on the 2021 national average gas prices and a small car's MPG, the cost of gas for this route should be around $46 to $47, while a larger SUV should require about $55 to $56. Keep in mind that toll road charges also add extra costs, so make sure to budget for those as well.

The Recommended Route

While all three routes offer different experiences and distances, Route 1 is the most direct and cost-effective way to get from Cedar Rapids to Arlington Heights. This route also avoids Chicago traffic, which can be a headache, especially during peak travel hours.

However, it's also worth considering factors such as road conditions, weather, and personal preferences when deciding on a route. If the weather is bad or you're not keen on highways' high-speed traffic, a more scenic route like Route 2 may be a better option.

Conclusion

Regardless of the route chosen, a trip from Cedar Rapids to Arlington Heights requires budgeting for gas and potential toll road charges. The most cost-effective route is Route 1 via I-80 E and I-88 E, which saves both time and money. However, if you'd prefer a more scenic drive, Route 2 takes you through rural countryside and charming Illinois towns. Route 3 offers a faster drive through toll roads and a route that avoids the Chicago traffic. Happy travels and drive safely!