The Cost of a Trip between Chicago, Illinois and Brentwood, Missouri

Traveling between major cities can be an exciting adventure, but it's essential to consider the cost factors associated with the journey. If you're planning a trip from Chicago, Illinois to Brentwood, Missouri, one of the vital components to account for is the cost of transportation, primarily fuel expenses. In this article, we will delve into the various possible routes for this journey, highlighting the cost and distance of each option. By thoroughly examining the alternatives, we can recommend the best route, balancing convenience and affordability.

Route 1: Via I-55 S

One of the most direct paths between Chicago and Brentwood is via Interstate 55 South. This route covers a distance of approximately 300 miles and allows you to reach your destination relatively quickly. However, it's important to note that the cost of fuel can vary depending on the current gas prices.

To estimate the expenses accurately, let's assume an average gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon for your vehicle. With gas prices in Chicago currently hovering around $3.50 per gallon, and Brentwood at $3.20 per gallon, we can calculate the fuel costs for this route.

Since the distance is approximately 300 miles, you would need around 12 gallons of fuel to complete the journey from Chicago to Brentwood. At the average gas prices mentioned earlier, the total cost of fuel for this route would be $42.

Route 2: Via I-55 S and I-70 W

Another option to consider is taking a slight detour and incorporating Interstate 70 West into your route. This choice adds some additional distance to your journey, but it could still be a cost-effective solution, depending on the gas prices along the way.

By using this route, you would travel approximately 330 miles, compared to the 300 miles of Route 1. As such, the fuel consumption would also increase. Assuming the same gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon, you would require around 13.2 gallons of fuel to complete the journey.

Considering the current gas prices in Chicago and Brentwood, the total cost of fuel for this route would be approximately $44.64.

Route 3: Via I-72 W and I-55 S

For those seeking a change of scenery and willing to explore an alternative path, Route 3 might be a suitable option. By taking Interstate 72 West before connecting to Interstate 55 South, you can experience a different landscape while traveling from Chicago to Brentwood.

Although this route covers a slightly longer distance of around 310 miles, it could provide a more enjoyable journey for some individuals. Calculating the fuel costs once again, you would require approximately 12.4 gallons of fuel to reach your destination.

Considering the current gas prices, the total cost of fuel for Route 3 would be approximately $39.68.

Recommendation: The Best Route

After considering the different aspects of each route, including distance and fuel costs, we can confidently recommend the most suitable option for your trip from Chicago, Illinois to Brentwood, Missouri.

While Route 2 offers a slightly more scenic drive, the additional fuel expenses seem unnecessary when compared to Route 1. Therefore, we suggest taking Route 1 via I-55 South. This path not only provides a direct route but also minimizes the fuel costs for your journey. With an estimated cost of $42 for fuel, it strikes the perfect balance between convenience and affordability.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the most cost-effective route for a trip from Chicago, Illinois to Brentwood, Missouri is via I-55 South. While the other routes may offer slight variations in distance and scenery, the minimal cost difference makes Route 1 the most logical choice.

By following this recommended route, you can expect a journey of approximately 300 miles, taking into account the current gas prices. With an average gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon, you would require around 12 gallons of fuel, amounting to a total cost of $42. Considering traffic conditions and potential stops, it's safe to estimate a travel time of around 5 to 6 hours, ensuring a smooth and comfortable trip. Safe travels!