Chicago to Cincinnati: Road Trip Guide & Distance

252.2 miles 405.8 km · straight line
289.4 miles actual route 465.8 km · driving distance
5h 39min estimated drive time
$28 - $34 estimated fuel cost
~1h 0min flight time
138° SE bearing direction

How far is Chicago from Cincinnati?

The distance from Chicago to Cincinnati is 252.2 miles (405.8 km) as the crow flies. Cincinnati is located SE of Chicago. By car, the driving distance is approximately 289.4 miles, taking about 5h 39min. A direct flight would take roughly 1h 0min. Both are located in United States — Chicago in Illinois and Cincinnati in Ohio.

For a drive of this length, it's recommended to plan at least one quick rest stop to stretch your legs and grab a coffee. Heading East means you'll be driving into the sunrise if you start early. Keep your windshield clean for the best visibility.

Coordinates come from public place data for Chicago and Cincinnati. The driving distance uses an OSRM road-route result when route data is available. Fuel, flight, bus, and train values are planning estimates and can change by date, provider, road closures, and border rules.

How to Get from Chicago to Cincinnati

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 5h 39min $28 - $34 Flexible stops
Fly ~1h 0min $80–200* Speed
Bus ~6h 47min $23–$43* Budget
Train ~5h 22min $35–$101* Comfort

Suggested Stops Between Chicago & Cincinnati

Quick Facts

Chicago
41.88°N, 87.63°W
America/Chicago
181m elevation
Cincinnati
39.10°N, 84.51°W
America/New_York
267m elevation
Explore more routes from Cincinnati

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 84 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 21 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 98.8 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · OSRM