The drive from Chicago to Waukegan takes approximately 55 min, covering 42 miles via I-90. Under normal conditions, expect to spend around $4 on gas.
Travel time can vary — during rush hour or bad weather, the journey may take 83–93 minutes. For the fastest trip, avoid peak commute hours.
Traffic Estimate
🟢 Light traffic
47 min
🔵 Typical
55 min
🔴 Heavy traffic
1h 20m
Traffic is usually worst during weekday rush hours (7–9 AM, 4–7 PM) and holiday weekends.
Trip Details
Distance42 miles (67 km)
Drive Time55 min
RouteI-90
Best TimeEarly morning (6-8 AM)
Fuel Costs
Gas (30 mpg)~1.4 gallons
Est. Cost$4
Best Time to Drive from Chicago to Waukegan
For this shorter drive, the best time to go is early morning (6-8 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:Early morning (6-8 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 Waukegan?
The drive from Chicago to Waukegan takes approximately 55 min covering 42 miles via I-90. Actual time may vary based on traffic, weather, and road conditions.
How much does gas cost for Chicago to Waukegan?
At 30 MPG and $3.50/gallon, expect to spend approximately $4 on gas for this 42-mile trip. You'll need about 1.4 gallons of fuel.
What is the best time to drive from Chicago to Waukegan?
Early morning (6-8 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 Waukegan route?
There may be minor tolls (around $1) on parts of this route. Some sections have toll-free alternatives.
