Chicago to Durham, North Carolina: Road Trip Guide & Distance

620.3 miles 998.2 km · straight line
770.4 miles actual route 1239.9 km · driving distance
14h 56min estimated drive time
$74 - $91 estimated fuel cost
~1h 45min flight time
128° SE bearing direction

How far is Chicago from Durham, North Carolina?

The distance from Chicago to Durham, North Carolina is 620.3 miles (998.2 km) as the crow flies. Durham, North Carolina is located SE of Chicago. By car, the driving distance is approximately 770.4 miles, taking about 14h 56min. A direct flight would take roughly 1h 45min. Both are located in United States — Chicago in Illinois and Durham, North Carolina in North Carolina.

This is a serious multi-day road trip! We strongly recommend breaking this journey up with an overnight stay to ensure you arrive safely and refreshed. 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 Durham, North Carolina. 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 Durham, North Carolina

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 14h 56min $74 - $91 Flexible stops
Fly ~1h 45min $80–200* Speed
Bus ~17h 55min $62–$116* Budget
Train ~19h 25min $92–$270* Comfort

Suggested Stops Between Chicago & Durham, North Carolina

Quick Facts

Chicago
41.88°N, 87.63°W
America/Chicago
181m elevation
Durham, North Carolina
35.99°N, 78.90°W
America/New_York
123m elevation
Explore more routes from Durham, North Carolina

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 207 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 52 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 40.1 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · OSRM