Chicago to Marshalltown: Road Trip Guide & Distance

271.4 miles 436.8 km · straight line
312.2 miles actual route 502.4 km · driving distance
5h 58min estimated drive time
$30 - $37 estimated fuel cost
~1h 3min flight time
274° W bearing direction

How far is Chicago from Marshalltown?

The distance from Chicago to Marshalltown is 271.4 miles (436.8 km) as the crow flies. Marshalltown is located W of Chicago. By car, the driving distance is approximately 312.2 miles, taking about 5h 58min. A direct flight would take roughly 1h 3min. Both are located in United States — Chicago in Illinois and Marshalltown in Iowa.

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. Since you'll be heading mostly West, pack a good pair of sunglasses if you plan to drive during the late afternoon to avoid the harsh sun glare.

Coordinates come from public place data for Chicago and Marshalltown. 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 Marshalltown

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 5h 58min $30 - $37 Flexible stops
Fly ~1h 3min $80–200* Speed
Bus ~7h 10min $25–$47* Budget
Train ~5h 40min $37–$109* Comfort

Suggested Stops Between Chicago & Marshalltown

Quick Facts

Chicago
41.88°N, 87.63°W
America/Chicago
181m elevation
Marshalltown
42.05°N, 92.91°W
America/Chicago
287m elevation
Explore more routes from Marshalltown

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 90 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 23 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 91.7 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · OSRM