Driving Cost from Chicago, Illinois to Jackson, Mississippi

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Trip between Chicago, Illinois and Jackson, Mississippi

Introduction

When planning a trip, one of the key factors to consider is the cost involved. Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, being aware of the expenses can help with budgeting and overall trip planning. In this article, we will explore the cost of a trip between Chicago, Illinois and Jackson, Mississippi, two bustling cities located in the heart of the United States. Considering the fluctuating gas prices, we will break down the different possible routes, highlight the cost and distance of each, and ultimately recommend the best route for your journey.

Possible Routes and their Costs

Route 1: Interstate 55 (I-55)

The most straightforward route between Chicago and Jackson is via Interstate 55 (I-55). This route spans approximately 571 miles, making it a relatively direct path to your destination. As of the most recent gas prices, the average cost of a gallon of gas in the United States is $2.86^[1^]. Assuming an average gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon (MPG), a one-way trip would require around 22.84 gallons of gas. This calculates to a total cost of $65.47 for fuel for a one-way trip from Chicago to Jackson.

Route 2: Interstate 57 (I-57) and Interstate 55 (I-55)

An alternative route from Chicago to Jackson is to take Interstate 57 (I-57) followed by Interstate 55 (I-55). This route adds some additional miles to the journey but could be worth considering depending on traffic conditions or personal preferences. The total distance when taking this route is approximately 593 miles. Using the same gas mileage and average gas prices, the fuel cost for this route would amount to $67.39 for a one-way trip.

Route 3: Interstate 55 (I-55) and US-51

For those seeking a more scenic drive, consider taking Interstate 55 (I-55) followed by US-51. The total distance is slightly longer than the previous routes, totaling around 618 miles. With this added mileage, the fuel cost rises accordingly. Based on the average gas mileage and current prices, the cost of gas for this route would amount to $70.37 for a one-way trip.

Recommendation: Route 1 - Interstate 55 (I-55)

Considering both the distance and cost of each route, our recommendation is to take Route 1, via Interstate 55 (I-55). This route offers the shortest distance (571 miles) and has the lowest fuel cost ($65.47 for a one-way trip). Additionally, I-55 is a well-maintained highway that offers relatively smooth driving conditions, making it an ideal choice for most travelers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a trip between Chicago, Illinois, and Jackson, Mississippi can vary depending on the route you choose. After evaluating different options, Route 1, via Interstate 55 (I-55), is the most recommended route due to its shorter distance and lower fuel cost. With an approximate distance of 571 miles, the one-way trip from Chicago to Jackson would cost approximately $65.47 for gas used at the current average gas price of $2.86 per gallon. However, it's important to note that these calculations are based solely on the cost of fuel and do not include other expenses such as tolls or accommodation. Make sure to consider these factors when planning your trip. Safe travels!

Disclaimer: Gas prices mentioned in this article are subject to change. Please refer to the most up-to-date gas prices at the time of your journey for accurate calculations.

References

[1] AAA Gas Prices, https://gasprices.aaa.com/, Accessed: [Insert Access Date]