Lincoln, Nebraska to Ottumwa: Road Trip Guide & Distance

224.5 miles 361.3 km · straight line
280.6 miles estimated 451.6 km · driving distance
5h 39min estimated drive time
$27 - $33 estimated fuel cost
~57min flight time
85° E bearing direction

How far is Lincoln, Nebraska from Ottumwa?

The distance from Lincoln, Nebraska to Ottumwa is 224.5 miles (361.3 km) as the crow flies. Ottumwa is located E of Lincoln, Nebraska. By car, the driving distance is approximately 280.6 miles, taking about 5h 39min. A direct flight would take roughly 57min. Both are located in United States — Lincoln, Nebraska in Nebraska and Ottumwa 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 Lincoln, Nebraska and Ottumwa. The driving distance is estimated from straight-line distance with a road-factor model, so confirm the route in your navigation app. Fuel, flight, bus, and train values are planning estimates and can change by date, provider, road closures, and border rules.

How to Get from Lincoln, Nebraska to Ottumwa

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 5h 39min $27 - $33 Flexible stops
Fly ~57min $80–200* Speed
Bus ~6h 47min $22–$42* Budget
Train ~5h 22min $34–$98* Comfort

Suggested Stops Between Lincoln, Nebraska & Ottumwa

Quick Facts

Lincoln, Nebraska
40.81°N, 96.70°W
America/Chicago
362m elevation
Ottumwa
41.02°N, 92.41°W
America/Chicago
205m elevation
Explore more routes from Ottumwa

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 75 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 19 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 110.9 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · Driving distance estimated using road factor coefficients