North Chicago to Waterloo, Iowa: Road Trip Guide & Distance

229.9 miles 370 km · straight line
287.4 miles estimated 462.5 km · driving distance
5h 47min estimated drive time
$28 - $34 estimated fuel cost
~58min flight time
274° W bearing direction

How far is North Chicago from Waterloo, Iowa?

The distance from North Chicago to Waterloo, Iowa is 229.9 miles (370 km) as the crow flies. Waterloo, Iowa is located W of North Chicago. By car, the driving distance is approximately 287.4 miles, taking about 5h 47min. A direct flight would take roughly 58min. Both are located in United States — North 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 North Chicago and Waterloo, Iowa. 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 North Chicago to Waterloo, Iowa

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 5h 47min $28 - $34 Flexible stops
Fly ~58min $80–200* Speed
Bus ~6h 56min $23–$43* Budget
Train ~5h 30min $34–$101* Comfort

Suggested Stops Between North Chicago & Waterloo, Iowa

Quick Facts

North Chicago
42.33°N, 87.84°W
America/Chicago
201m 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 77 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 19 hours
  • You could travel this distance about 108.3 times to circle the Earth's equator
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · Driving distance estimated using road factor coefficients