Chicago to Waterloo, Iowa: Road Trip Guide & Distance

244.9 miles 394.2 km · straight line
269.7 miles actual route 434 km · driving distance
5h 41min estimated drive time
$26 - $32 estimated fuel cost
~1h 0min flight time
282° WNW bearing direction

How far is Chicago from Waterloo, Iowa?

The distance from Chicago to Waterloo, Iowa is 244.9 miles (394.2 km) as the crow flies. Waterloo, Iowa is located WNW of Chicago. By car, the driving distance is approximately 269.7 miles, taking about 5h 41min. A direct flight would take roughly 1h 0min. Both are located in United States — Chicago in Illinois and Waterloo, Iowa 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 Waterloo, Iowa. 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 Waterloo, Iowa

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 5h 41min $26 - $32 Flexible stops
Fly ~1h 0min $80–200* Speed
Bus ~6h 49min $22–$40* Budget
Train ~5h 24min $32–$94* Comfort

Suggested Stops Between Chicago & Waterloo, Iowa

Quick Facts

Chicago
41.88°N, 87.63°W
America/Chicago
181m elevation
Waterloo, Iowa
42.49°N, 92.34°W
America/Chicago
261m elevation
Explore more routes from Waterloo, Iowa

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 82 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 20 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 101.7 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · OSRM