Driving Cost from Downers Grove, Illinois to Wickliffe, Ohio

A picture depicting a gas pump

Understanding the Cost of Your Trip from Downers Grove, Illinois to Wickliffe, Ohio Based on Current Gas Prices

Traveling from Downers Grove, Illinois, to Wickliffe, Ohio, offers an exciting opportunity to explore scenic highways while visiting friends or embarking on a weekend getaway. As of October 2023, gas prices have seen fluctuations, making calculating your trip’s cost essential for budgeting. This article breaks down your traveling options, discusses the costs associated with each route, and recommends the best route for your journey.

Distance and Driving Time

The distance between Downers Grove and Wickliffe is approximately 335 miles. Driving time varies based on your chosen route, traffic conditions, and road construction. On average, expect to spend around 5 to 6 hours on the road, depending on your speed and rest stops.

Current Gas Prices and Assumptions

Assuming the current average gas price is around $3.40 per gallon (as of October 2023), we can estimate fuel costs for your trip based on your vehicle's fuel efficiency. For this guide, we'll consider three different vehicles with varying miles per gallon (MPG) averages:

  1. Compact Car (30 MPG)
  2. Sedan (25 MPG)
  3. Truck (15 MPG)

Using these figures, we can calculate the estimated cost of gas for each vehicle type along different routes.

Route Options

Route #1: I-90 E

  1. Distance: Approximately 333 miles
  2. Estimated Time: 5 hours 20 minutes

This route takes you along I-90 E, a major expressway running through the northern part of Illinois and extending through Ohio. You will enjoy views of urban landscapes before entering more rural areas as you approach Ohio.

  • Estimated Fuel Costs:
    • Compact Car (30 MPG): ~11.1 gallons x $3.40 = $37.74
    • Sedan (25 MPG): ~13.3 gallons x $3.40 = $45.22
    • Truck (15 MPG): ~22.2 gallons x $3.40 = $75.48

Route #2: I-80 E

  1. Distance: Approximately 384 miles
  2. Estimated Time: 6 hours 15 minutes

The I-80 E route is slightly longer but provides a smooth drive. This route veers south of the northern urban centers and takes you east, often experiencing less traffic than I-90.

  • Estimated Fuel Costs:
    • Compact Car (30 MPG): ~12.8 gallons x $3.40 = $43.52
    • Sedan (25 MPG): ~15.4 gallons x $3.40 = $52.36
    • Truck (15 MPG): ~25.6 gallons x $3.40 = $87.04

Route #3: I-88 E and I-71 N

  1. Distance: Approximately 372 miles
  2. Estimated Time: 6 hours 10 minutes

This route starts on I-88 E before connecting to I-71 N. It enjoys scenic landscapes through both rural and suburban areas, providing a pleasant alternative to the busier highways.

  • Estimated Fuel Costs:
    • Compact Car (30 MPG): ~12.4 gallons x $3.40 = $42.16
    • Sedan (25 MPG): ~14.9 gallons x $3.40 = $50.66
    • Truck (15 MPG): ~24.8 gallons x $3.40 = $84.32

Route #4: I-294 N and I-90 E

  1. Distance: Approximately 340 miles
  2. Estimated Time: 5 hours 45 minutes

This option involves taking the expressway around Chicago, merging onto I-90 E. While it is one of the longer routes in terms of distance, it integrates major highways and reduces exposure to local traffic.

  • Estimated Fuel Costs:
    • Compact Car (30 MPG): ~11.3 gallons x $3.40 = $38.42
    • Sedan (25 MPG): ~13.6 gallons x $3.40 = $46.24
    • Truck (15 MPG): ~22.7 gallons x $3.40 = $77.18

Summary of Fuel Costs by Route and Vehicle

Route Compact Car (30 MPG) Sedan (25 MPG) Truck (15 MPG)
I-90 E $37.74 $45.22 $75.48
I-80 E $43.52 $52.36 $87.04
I-88 E and I-71 N $42.16 $50.66 $84.32
I-294 N and I-90 E $38.42 $46.24 $77.18

Considering both cost and travel time, the I-90 E route emerges as the best option for your trip from Downers Grove to Wickliffe. Not only does it have the lowest fuel cost of approximately $37.74 when driving a compact car, but it also features a more straightforward path through highways with minimal city traffic. This makes it an efficient choice for anyone seeking to save time without sacrificing comfort.

Conclusion

Your trip from Downers Grove, Illinois, to Wickliffe, Ohio, is a manageable journey that can range from around 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic and your specific route choice. The drive along I-90 E is highly recommended for its balance of cost-effectiveness and travel efficiency. With an estimated fuel cost of around $37.74 in a compact car, your journey can remain budget-friendly while allowing you to enjoy this picturesque drive across state lines. Prepare yourself for a rewarding adventure, breathe in the scenery, and drive safely!