Chicago to Washington, Illinois: Road Trip Guide & Distance

122.8 miles 197.7 km · straight line
145.5 miles actual route 234.2 km · driving distance
3h 6min estimated drive time
$14 - $17 estimated fuel cost
~45min flight time · usually no direct flights
229° SW bearing direction

How far is Chicago from Washington, Illinois?

The distance from Chicago to Washington, Illinois is 122.8 miles (197.7 km) as the crow flies. Washington, Illinois is located SW of Chicago. By car, the driving distance is approximately 145.5 miles, taking about 3h 6min. A direct flight would take roughly 45min. Both are located in United States.

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. Given the short distance, driving or taking a train is often faster and more convenient than dealing with airport security and flight boarding times.

Coordinates come from public place data for Chicago and Washington, Illinois. 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 Washington, Illinois

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 3h 6min $14 - $17 Flexible stops
Bus ~3h 43min $12–$22* Budget
Train ~2h 57min $17–$51* Comfort

Suggested Stops Between Chicago & Washington, Illinois

Quick Facts

Chicago
41.88°N, 87.63°W
America/Chicago
181m elevation
Washington, Illinois
40.70°N, 89.41°W
America/Chicago
232m elevation
Explore more routes from Washington, Illinois

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 41 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 10 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 202.7 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · OSRM