Driving Cost from Downers Grove, Illinois to Waukegan, Illinois

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Calculating the Cost of Driving from Downers Grove to Waukegan, Illinois: A Gas Price Breakdown

Are you planning a trip from Downers Grove to Waukegan, Illinois? Whether it’s for a weekend getaway or a visit to family, knowing the costs can help you budget better and avoid any surprises along the way. With gas prices fluctuating and the possibility of tolls, let’s take a closer look at a couple of routes, their associated costs, and everything you need to keep in mind for your journey.

Route 1: I-294 North

The I-294 North route is one of the most popular choices due to its speed and convenience. Starting from Downers Grove, you’ll head northeast toward Waukegan while primarily following the interstate.

  • Distance: 43 miles
  • Time: 45 minutes (without traffic)
  • Cost: Let’s calculate the driving costs. As of now, the average gas price is around $3.50 per gallon. If your vehicle averages 25 miles per gallon, you'll need about 1.72 gallons of gas for this trip. Therefore, your total cost for gas will be approximately $6.02.

Keep in mind that there is a toll on I-294, which will set you back about $2.40. Adding that to your gas cost, the total trip cost amounts to $8.42. It’s a swift route, so you won't be wasting too much time or money!

Route 2: I-55 to US-41 North

If you prefer driving through a mix of highways and sometimes more scenic routes, consider taking I-55 to US-41 North. While this path takes a bit longer, it can be a refreshing change of scenery.

  • Distance: 48 miles
  • Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes (depending on traffic)
  • Cost: With the same current gas price of $3.50 per gallon and still averaging 25 miles per gallon, you will need about 1.92 gallons of gas. This means your gas expense would be roughly $6.72 for this route.

This path doesn't have any tolls, which is a bonus! Thus, your total driving cost remains at $6.72. Although it takes a little longer, you might enjoy the journey more, especially if you appreciate a scenic drive.

Conclusion

Choosing the right route from Downers Grove to Waukegan can make all the difference in terms of both cost and experience. Whether you opt for the quick and efficient I-294 North route at a total cost of $8.42 or the picturesque I-55 to US-41 North route at $6.72, each trip promises to deliver its own unique advantages.

So, buckle up, enjoy the ride, and happy driving! Safe travels as you head towards your destination.