Kansas City to Waterloo, Iowa: Road Trip Guide & Distance

262 miles 421.6 km · straight line
303.7 miles actual route 488.7 km · driving distance
5h 55min estimated drive time
$29 - $36 estimated fuel cost
~1h 2min flight time
26° NNE bearing direction

How far is Kansas City from Waterloo, Iowa?

The distance from Kansas City to Waterloo, Iowa is 262 miles (421.6 km) as the crow flies. Waterloo, Iowa is located NNE of Kansas City. By car, the driving distance is approximately 303.7 miles, taking about 5h 55min. A direct flight would take roughly 1h 2min. Both are located in United States — Kansas City in Missouri 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. 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 Kansas City 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 Kansas City to Waterloo, Iowa

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 5h 55min $29 - $36 Flexible stops
Fly ~1h 2min $80–200* Speed
Bus ~7h 6min $24–$46* Budget
Train ~5h 37min $36–$106* Comfort

Suggested Stops Between Kansas City & Waterloo, Iowa

Quick Facts

Kansas City
39.10°N, 94.58°W
America/Chicago
277m 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 87 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 22 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 95.1 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · OSRM