Driving Cost from Downers Grove, Illinois to Lincolnwood, Illinois

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How Much Does It Cost to Drive from Downers Grove to Lincolnwood, Illinois? Navigating Routes and Expenses

Traveling between Downers Grove and Lincolnwood, Illinois, presents a unique opportunity to explore the heart of the Midwest while considering both the distance and costs involved due to fluctuating gas prices. In this article, we will analyze various routes, calculate their distances, and estimate the travel expenses based on current gas prices. Whether you're visiting friends, attending an event, or exploring the area, understanding the cost of your journey is essential.

Current Gas Prices in Illinois

As of October 2023, the average gas price in Illinois hovers around $3.60 per gallon. This rate can vary slightly based on location and market conditions. For our calculations, we will use this average price to determine trip costs.

Distance from Downers Grove to Lincolnwood

The distance between these two locations is approximately 30 miles. Depending on the route you select, travel time may vary, impacting your overall budget and the time spent on the road.

Route Options

Route 1: I-55 N and I-90 E

  • Distance: Approximately 30 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: 40 minutes (barring traffic)
  • Route Description: This route involves taking I-55 N to I-90 E and then exiting to your destination in Lincolnwood.
  • Estimated Gas Consumption: If you drive a car that averages 25 miles per gallon, this journey would require about 1.2 gallons of gas, translating to a cost of approximately $4.32.

Route 2: I-355 N and I-290 E

  • Distance: Approximately 32 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: 45 minutes
  • Route Description: This option takes you along I-355 N to I-290 E, where you would merge onto I-90 E heading towards Lincolnwood.
  • Estimated Gas Consumption: Using the same vehicle mileage of 25 miles per gallon, this route would consume about 1.28 gallons of gas, costing around $4.61.

Route 3: IL-83 N and Dempster St

  • Distance: Approximately 28 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: 50 minutes
  • Route Description: This route departs from Downers Grove on IL-83 N, eventually merging onto Dempster St, which leads you directly to Lincolnwood.
  • Estimated Gas Consumption: At 25 miles per gallon, this route will use about 1.12 gallons, costing approximately $4.03.

Route 4: I-290 E and Dempster St

  • Distance: Approximately 29 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: 50 minutes
  • Route Description: You will take I-290 E from Downers Grove. Near Oak Park, you will merge onto Dempster St toward Lincolnwood.
  • Estimated Gas Consumption: This route will also require about 1.16 gallons, costing around $4.17.

Route 5: Local Roads via Ogden Ave and Central Ave

  • Distance: Approximately 31 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour
  • Route Description: For those who prefer a more scenic, local route, you can take Ogden Ave and then connect to Central Ave to reach Lincolnwood.
  • Estimated Gas Consumption: This route is slightly longer, using about 1.24 gallons, corresponding to a cost of about $4.46.

Route Comparison and Recommendations

After evaluating the distance, travel time, and estimated costs of each route above, Route 1 (I-55 N and I-90 E) stands out as the best option for this trip.

  • Cost: $4.32
  • Distance: 30 miles
  • Travel Time: 40 minutes

This combination offers both the shortest distance and the least amount of gas consumption while maintaining a reasonable travel time without significant traffic disruptions.

Other Cost Considerations

While gas prices represent a primary cost associated with your journey, several other expenses may arise. Here are a few factors to keep in mind:

Tolls

Depending on the chosen route, you may encounter tolls. For example, if you take I-90, you will need to pay a toll when crossing the Skokie River. Make sure to plan for these potential fees in your budget. Tolls can cost anywhere from $0.50 to $2.00, depending on the specific area and time of day.

Food and Beverages

Should your trip extend beyond an hour, you might want to consider food and beverage costs. A quick stop at a fast-food chain might set you back about $10 to $15 per person, depending on your preferences.

Vehicle Wear-and-Tear

Long-distance driving increases wear-and-tear on your vehicle. While this cost is hard to quantify for a single trip, regular maintenance and ongoing fuel expenses should factor into your overall budgeting for frequent travel.

Conclusion

Traveling from Downers Grove to Lincolnwood is a straightforward journey of approximately 30 miles, with our recommended route taking about 40 minutes and costing around $4.32 in gas. However, various alternative routes can extend the distance and cost, making it essential to plan ahead. Ultimately, the I-55 N and I-90 E route offers the best balance between cost and travel time, ensuring a smooth journey to your destination.