DeKALB | High gas prices have taken their toll on many area residents and NIU students.

A recent Lundberg Survey stated Chicago, about 65 miles away, had the highest average gas price in the country at $3.29 per gallon.

The prices have affected the drive home for senior theater major David Galbreath.

“It makes it hard to go home when it costs $40 to fill up,” said Galbreath.

For at least one student, being close to campus has helped save money.

Nora Linehan, a junior psychology major, finds the gas prices acceptable, and that they can still be cost-effective.

“I travel the same amount. I just drove to Colorado, and it was cheaper to drive than fly,” said Linehan.

“It (the prices) used to affect me when I was out of town. Now that I live in DeKalb, I’m less worried,” said Brian Dahlquist, a junior psychology major.

One Chicago resident visiting DeKalb found the prices here to be a relief.

“I don’t think prices should be as high as they are, but prices go up in bigger cities because of taxes,” said Dwayne Wade, 35, of Chicago.

Alan Edrinn is a City Reporter for the Northern Star.