Driving Cost from Columbia, Missouri to Hinsdale, Illinois

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The Cost of a Trip: Columbia, Missouri to Hinsdale, Illinois

When planning a trip from Columbia, Missouri to Hinsdale, Illinois, one of the biggest factors to consider is the cost of transportation. Whether you're driving or flying, the cost of the trip can vary significantly depending on the route you choose, the mode of transportation, and current gas prices. In this article, we will examine the cost of a trip between these two cities, focusing on the cost of driving and the various routes you can take.

Cost of Driving

The cost of driving from Columbia, Missouri to Hinsdale, Illinois is largely dependent on the distance, gas prices, and the fuel efficiency of your vehicle. As of the time of writing, the average gas price in Missouri is $2.59 per gallon, while in Illinois it is $2.83 per gallon. It's important to factor in the cost of gas for the entire trip, as well as any tolls along the route.

Route Options and Cost

Route 1: I-70 E and I-55 N

This route takes you through St. Louis and then up through Springfield, Bloomington, and finally Hinsdale. The total distance is approximately 385 miles, with an estimated driving time of 6 hours and 15 minutes. With the current gas prices, the cost of gas for this route is around $53.74 for a vehicle with a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon.

Route 2: US-63 N and I-55 N

This route starts by taking US-63 N from Columbia, Missouri and then merging onto I-55 N. The total distance is approximately 365 miles, with an estimated driving time of 6 hours and 5 minutes. The cost of gas for this route is around $51.02 for a vehicle with a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon.

Route 3: I-70 E and I-55 N (via I-270)

This route is similar to Route 1, but it takes a slight detour through I-270. The total distance is approximately 376 miles, with an estimated driving time of 6 hours and 10 minutes. The cost of gas for this route is around $52.69 for a vehicle with a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon.

Route 4: US-50 E and I-55 N

This route takes you through Jefferson City and then up to St. Louis before heading to Hinsdale. The total distance is approximately 395 miles, with an estimated driving time of 6 hours and 25 minutes. The cost of gas for this route is around $55.37 for a vehicle with a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon.

Based on the cost of gas and the overall distance, Route 2 (US-63 N and I-55 N) is the recommended route for driving from Columbia, Missouri to Hinsdale, Illinois. Not only is it the shortest route in terms of distance, but it also offers a relatively lower cost of gas compared to the other routes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a trip from Columbia, Missouri to Hinsdale, Illinois can vary depending on the route you choose and current gas prices. When factoring in the cost of gas and the distance, Route 2 (US-63 N and I-55 N) emerges as the most cost-effective option for driving. With an estimated driving time of 6 hours and 5 minutes, it offers a good balance between cost and travel time. Safe travels!