What is the exact distance from Chicago to St. Louis?

The driving distance from Chicago to St. Louis is 479 kilometers (298 miles). The straight-line distance is 422 km.

How long does it take to drive from Chicago to St. Louis?

The estimated driving time from Chicago to St. Louis is 4.7 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 St. Louis?

The fastest route is typically 479km and takes about 4.7 hours. This route is optimized for time and usually uses major highways and roads.

Are there alternative routes from Chicago to St. Louis?

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 St. Louis include tolls?

Yes, some routes from Chicago to St. Louis 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 St. Louis?

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 St. Louis Distance

298 miles•479 km•4.7 hours

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

⭐

FASTEST ROUTE

297.34 mi

(478.53 km)

⏱️4h 44m

Via South Michigan Avenue, East Balbo Drive

South Michigan Avenue → East Balbo Drive

🛣️ 70% Highway💰 Tolls

📏

SHORTEST ROUTE

310.95 mi

(500.42 km)

⏱️4h 50m

Via South Michigan Avenue, East Balbo Drive

South Michigan Avenue → East Balbo Drive

🛣️ 70% Highway💰 Tolls

📏 Straight-line distance: 262 miles (422 km)

See crow flies distance →

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Complete Driving Guide: Chicago to St. Louis

Essential Route Information

TOTAL DISTANCE

298 mi

479 kilometers

DRIVING TIME

4.7 hours

282 minutes

FUEL ESTIMATE

40 L

$60 cost

📍 Route Overview

Starting PointChicago, Illinois

DestinationSt. Louis, Missouri

Route Options2 available routes

Countries Crossed1 country

Time Zone ChangesCheck local times

🚗 Driving Details

Average Speed102 km/h

Straight-line Distance422 km

Route Efficiency88%

Toll RoadsYes - Budget required

Ferry CrossingsNo ferries

Compare All Routes from Chicago to St. Louis

Route Type	Distance	Drive Time	Avg Speed	Tolls
⭐ Fastest Route	297 mi (479 km)	4.7 hours	101 km/h	✅ Yes
Alternative 1	311 mi (500 km)	4.8 hours	104 km/h	✅ Yes

Complete Journey Overview: Chicago to St. Louis

The road journey from Chicago to St. Louis spans approximately 298 miles (479 kilometers), making it a medium-distance drive that typically requires 4.7 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 St. Louis follows major highways and arterial roads, maintaining an average speed of approximately 102 km/h. This route has been optimized for speed, though it includes toll roads that require payment.

🗺️ Travel Planning Essentials

✓

Fuel Planning: Expect to use approximately 12 gallons (40 liters) of fuel for this 298 mile journey. Plan fuel stops every 250-300 miles.

✓

Rest Stops: For safety, plan a 15-minute break every 2 hours of driving. Total journey with breaks: 5.4 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.

✓

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

💰 Cost Estimation Guide

Fuel Cost (approximate)$42

Toll Costs$15

Vehicle Wear (per mile)$74

Total Trip Cost$131

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

Alternative Transportation Options

🚗

By Car

4.7 hours

298 miles

✈️

By Plane

0.5 hours flight

422 km direct

🚌

By Bus

6.1 hours

Multiple stops

🚂

By Train

Check availability

Scenic route