What is the exact distance from Chicago to Kansas City?

The driving distance from Chicago to Kansas City is 823 kilometers (511 miles). The straight-line distance is 664 km.

How long does it take to drive from Chicago to Kansas City?

The estimated driving time from Chicago to Kansas City is 8 hours under normal traffic conditions. This can vary based on traffic, road conditions, and your driving speed.

What is the fastest route from Chicago to Kansas City?

The fastest route is typically 823km and takes about 8 hours. This route is optimized for time and usually uses major highways and roads.

Are there alternative routes from Chicago to Kansas City?

Yes, we provide up to 2 different route options including the fastest route, shortest distance route, and alternative paths that may offer different scenery or avoid certain road types.

Does the route from Chicago to Kansas City include tolls?

Yes, some routes from Chicago to Kansas City may include toll roads. Check the detailed route information below for specific toll road indicators.

Can I get turn-by-turn directions from Chicago to Kansas City?

While we provide the route overview and key information, for detailed turn-by-turn directions, we recommend using the route data with your preferred GPS navigation app or mapping service.

Chicago to Kansas City Distance

511 miles•823 km•8 hours

Driving distance and route information from Chicago, United Statesto Kansas City, United States. Compare multiple routes and get detailed travel information.

⭐

FASTEST ROUTE

511.67 mi

(823.46 km)

⏱️8h 1m

Via South Michigan Avenue, East Balbo Drive

South Michigan Avenue → East Balbo Drive

🛣️ 70% Highway💰 Tolls

📏

SHORTEST ROUTE

526.12 mi

(846.71 km)

⏱️8h 8m

Via South Michigan Avenue, East Harrison Street

South Michigan Avenue → East Harrison Street

🛣️ 70% Highway💰 Tolls

📏 Straight-line distance: 413 miles (664 km)

See crow flies distance →

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Complete Driving Guide: Chicago to Kansas City

Essential Route Information

TOTAL DISTANCE

511 mi

823 kilometers

DRIVING TIME

8 hours

480 minutes

FUEL ESTIMATE

69 L

$103 cost

📍 Route Overview

Starting PointChicago, Illinois

DestinationKansas City, Missouri

Route Options2 available routes

Countries Crossed1 country

Time Zone ChangesCheck local times

🚗 Driving Details

Average Speed103 km/h

Straight-line Distance664 km

Route Efficiency81%

Toll RoadsYes - Budget required

Ferry CrossingsNo ferries

Compare All Routes from Chicago to Kansas City

Route Type	Distance	Drive Time	Avg Speed	Tolls
⭐ Fastest Route	512 mi (823 km)	8 hours	103 km/h	✅ Yes
Alternative 1	526 mi (847 km)	8.1 hours	104 km/h	✅ Yes

Complete Journey Overview: Chicago to Kansas City

The road journey from Chicago to Kansas City spans approximately 511 miles (823 kilometers), making it a long-distance drive that typically requires 8 hours of continuous driving under normal traffic conditions.

This route connects Illinois, United States with Missouri, United States, traversing through various regions within United States. The journey offers 2 distinct routing options, each with unique advantages in terms of distance, time, or scenic value.

The most efficient route from Chicago to Kansas City follows major highways and arterial roads, maintaining an average speed of approximately 103 km/h. This route has been optimized for speed, though it includes toll roads that require payment.

🗺️ Travel Planning Essentials

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Fuel Planning: Expect to use approximately 20 gallons (69 liters) of fuel for this 511 mile journey. Plan fuel stops every 250-300 miles.

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Rest Stops: For safety, plan a 15-minute break every 2 hours of driving. Total journey with breaks: 9.2 hours.

✓

Best Travel Times: Avoid peak traffic hours (7-9 AM and 5-7 PM) in major cities along your route for optimal travel time.

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Weather Check: Monitor weather conditions along the entire route, especially during winter months or rainy seasons.

💰 Cost Estimation Guide

Fuel Cost (approximate)$72

Toll Costs$26

Vehicle Wear (per mile)$128

Total Trip Cost$225

* Costs are estimates based on average fuel prices and vehicle maintenance. Actual costs may vary.

Alternative Transportation Options

🚗

By Car

8 hours

511 miles

✈️

By Plane

0.8 hours flight

664 km direct

🚌

By Bus

10.4 hours

Multiple stops

🚂

By Train

Check availability

Scenic route