The Cost of Driving From Chicago, Illinois to Ruston, Louisiana

If you're planning a road trip from Chicago, Illinois to Ruston, Louisiana, it's important to factor in the cost of gas and tolls to your budget. In this blog post, we'll explore the different routes available, their distances, estimated travel times, and the cost associated with each option. So, let's dive in!

Route 1: The Fast and Scenic Way

Distance: Approximately 1,025 miles Time: Around 15 hours Gas Price: $2.85 per gallon Toll: $12

This route takes you on a journey through some beautiful landscapes. Starting from Chicago, you'll head south on I-55 for about 150 miles until you reach St. Louis. From there, you'll continue on I-55 until you reach Memphis, Tennessee. Once in Memphis, you'll take I-40 west until you reach Little Rock, Arkansas. Finally, you'll continue south on US-167 until you reach Ruston, Louisiana.

With a distance of approximately 1,025 miles, this route will take you around 15 hours to complete. Based on the current gas price of $2.85 per gallon and a fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, you can expect to spend around $115 on gasoline for this trip (excluding any additional stops).

Route 2: The Direct and Efficient Way

Distance: Approximately 940 miles Time: Around 14 hours Gas Price: $2.85 per gallon Toll: None

If you're looking for a quicker and more direct route, this option might be ideal for you. Starting again from Chicago, you'll head south on I-55 until you reach Memphis, Tennessee. From there, you'll continue on I-40 west until you reach Little Rock, Arkansas. Finally, you'll head south on US-167 until you reach Ruston, Louisiana.

With a total distance of approximately 940 miles, this route can be completed in around 14 hours. As there are no tolls on this route, you'll only have to consider the cost of gas. Based on a fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon and the current gas price of $2.85 per gallon, you can estimate your gasoline expenses to be around $107.

Route 3: The Scenic and Coastal Way

Distance: Approximately 1,060 miles Time: Around 16 hours Gas Price: $2.85 per gallon Toll: $20

If you're up for a more scenic and adventurous route, this option will take you along the coast. From Chicago, you'll head south on I-55 until you reach St. Louis. Then, you'll continue on I-55 until you reach Memphis, Tennessee. From there, you'll take I-40 west until you reach Little Rock, Arkansas. Finally, you'll continue south on US-167 until you reach Ruston, Louisiana.

Covering approximately 1,060 miles, this route will take you around 16 hours to complete. Along the way, you'll enjoy stunning coastal views. However, it's important to note that this route includes a toll road, costing you an additional $20. With the current gas price of $2.85 per gallon and a fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, you can anticipate spending approximately $120 on gasoline.

Conclusion

While the cost of driving from Chicago, Illinois to Ruston, Louisiana will vary depending on your vehicle's fuel economy and current gas prices, it's essential to consider the expenses when planning your trip. As discussed in this blog post, there are several routes to choose from, each with its own distance, time, and cost implications. Whether you prioritize efficiency, scenery, or a balance of both, rest assured that a road trip from Chicago to Ruston will offer a memorable adventure worth every mile. Safe travels!