Milwaukee to Rock Island: Road Trip Guide & Distance

172.7 miles 277.9 km · straight line
214.7 miles actual route 345.6 km · driving distance
4h 13min estimated drive time
$21 - $25 estimated fuel cost
~51min flight time
233° SW bearing direction

How far is Milwaukee from Rock Island?

The distance from Milwaukee to Rock Island is 172.7 miles (277.9 km) as the crow flies. Rock Island is located SW of Milwaukee. By car, the driving distance is approximately 214.7 miles, taking about 4h 13min. A direct flight would take roughly 51min. Both are located in United States — Milwaukee in Wisconsin and Rock Island in Illinois.

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 Milwaukee and Rock Island. 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 Milwaukee to Rock Island

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 4h 13min $21 - $25 Flexible stops
Fly ~51min $80–200* Speed
Bus ~5h 4min $17–$32* Budget
Train ~4h 0min $26–$75* Comfort

Suggested Stops Between Milwaukee & Rock Island

Quick Facts

Milwaukee
43.04°N, 87.91°W
America/Chicago
188m elevation
Rock Island
41.51°N, 90.58°W
America/Chicago
171m elevation
Explore more routes from Rock Island

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 58 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 14 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 144.2 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · OSRM