How Long Is the Drive from Chicago to Arlington Heights?
The drive from Chicago to Arlington Heights takes approximately 21 min, covering 10 miles via I-90. Under normal conditions, expect to spend around $1 on gas.
Travel time can vary — during rush hour or bad weather, the journey may take 31–36 minutes. For the fastest trip, avoid peak commute hours.
Traffic Estimate
🟢 Light traffic
18 min
🔵 Typical
21 min
🔴 Heavy traffic
30 min
Traffic is usually worst during weekday rush hours (7–9 AM, 4–7 PM) and holiday weekends.
Trip Details
Distance10 miles (16 km)
Drive Time21 min
RouteI-90
Best TimeMid-morning (9-11 AM)
Fuel Costs
Gas (30 mpg)~0.3 gallons
Est. Cost$1
Best Time to Drive from Chicago to Arlington Heights
For this shorter drive, the best time to go is mid-morning (9-11 am). Rush hour (7-9 AM and 4-7 PM) can add significant time on this route. Weekends are generally smoother unless it's a holiday.
🟢 Best:Mid-morning (9-11 AM)
🔴 Avoid:Rush hour (4-7 PM)
Route Tips: I-90
The longest Interstate, coast to coast. Tolls in several states (Ohio, Indiana, Illinois).
This trip can typically be done on a single tank of gas.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to drive from Chicago to Arlington Heights?
The drive from Chicago to Arlington Heights takes approximately 21 min covering 10 miles via I-90. Actual time may vary based on traffic, weather, and road conditions.
How much does gas cost for Chicago to Arlington Heights?
At 30 MPG and $3.50/gallon, expect to spend approximately $1 on gas for this 10-mile trip. You'll need about 0.3 gallons of fuel.
What is the best time to drive from Chicago to Arlington Heights?
Mid-morning (9-11 AM) to avoid heavy traffic. Weekday mornings before 7 AM or evenings after 7 PM typically have less congestion.
Are there tolls on the Chicago to Arlington Heights route?
This route is primarily toll-free, though some bridges or tunnels may have small fees.
