Driving Cost from Altoona, Iowa to Nevada, Iowa

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Trip from Altoona to Nevada, Iowa: Navigating Gas Prices

Traveling from one city to another can be an exciting adventure, but the cost of the trip often becomes a significant factor in our decision-making. In this article, we will explore the cost of a trip from Altoona to Nevada in Iowa by analyzing the possible routes and current gas prices. By the end of this article, you will be able to determine the most cost-effective route and make informed travel decisions.

Factors Affecting the Cost of a Trip

Before diving into the cost of the trip, we must first identify the factors that influence it. The two primary factors are the distance and gas prices. The distance between the two cities is approximately 22 miles, and the shortest route takes about thirty minutes to reach Nevada, Iowa.

The cost of gas is another determinant factor in the cost of the trip. Gas prices generally fluctuate over time and can vary from one gas station to another. Therefore, it is essential to check the current gas prices and choose the most cost-effective route.

Possible Routes

There are several routes available when traveling from Altoona to Nevada, Iowa. The following are the most common routes to consider:

Route 1: Via I-35 S

This route is about 22 miles of distance between the two cities. It is the shortest route and typically takes 30 minutes to reach Nevada, Iowa. You will need to take the following steps:

  • From Altoona, take the I-35 S towards Des Moines.
  • Continue driving on I-35 S until exit 102, which leads to US-30 W.
  • Take the exit and continue driving on US-30 W for 5.9 miles.
  • Then, take exit 153 onto S. Ave.
  • Turn right onto S. Ave and continue driving for another 5.4 miles until you reach 6th St in Nevada.

The gas cost for this route will depend on the current gas prices, the car, and its fuel efficiency. If we assume that the current gas price is $2.50 per gallon, a car that gets 25 miles per gallon will use approximately 0.88 gallons of gas, costing around $2.20.

Route 2: Via I-80 W

This route is around 27 miles of distance between the two cities. This route typically takes longer than Route 1 and takes approximately 38 minutes to reach Nevada, Iowa. Here is the detailed direction to I-80 W:

  • From Altoona, take the I-80 W towards Des Moines for 11.5 miles.
  • You will then reach exit 123A to merge onto I-35 S towards Ames.
  • Continue driving on I-35 S until exit 111, which leads to Nevada.
  • Take the exit and continue driving for about one mile until you reach 6th St.

The gas cost for this route depends on the factors mentioned earlier. Suppose we assume that a car that gets 25 miles per gallon and the current gas price is $2.50 per gallon. In that case, it will use approximately 1.08 gallons of gas, costing around $2.70.

Route 3: Via IA-163 W

This route is approximately 26 miles of distance between the two cities. This route typically takes longer than Route 1 but slightly shorter than Route 2, taking approximately 34 minutes to reach Nevada, Iowa. You will need to follow these steps:

  • From Altoona, take 8th St SW to 1st Ave.
  • Turn right onto 1st Ave for around 6.3 miles.
  • Turn left onto NW 54th Ave and continue driving for about seven miles.
  • Turn right onto S Ave and continue driving for another 4 miles.
  • After that, turn left onto 230th St/6th St, which is the route's endpoint.

The gas cost for this route also depends on the factors mentioned earlier, including the current gas price and the car's fuel efficiency.

Choosing the Best Route

The best route depends on individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for the fastest and shortest route, Route 1 via I-35 S is your best option. On the other hand, if you prefer a less congested route and don't mind spending a few extra miles, Route 3 via IA-163 W is a good choice.

However, suppose the gas cost is an essential factor in the decision-making. In that case, Route 1 is the most cost-effective route, considering it's the shortest and requires less gas compared to the other routes. If you are willing to spend a little extra time on the road for a more comfortable ride, Route 3 is a good option.

Conclusion

Traveling from Altoona to Nevada, Iowa, will cost you gas money, the exact amount of which depends on the route you choose and the current gas prices. The three possible routes - I-35 S, I-80 W, and IA-163 W - all have their advantages and disadvantages, according to gas consumption, distance, and time, and individual preferences.

In general, Route 1, which is the shortest but sometimes more congested, is the most cost-effective. Meanwhile, Route 3, which is the second-shortest but less congested, is also an excellent option for a more comfortable ride. However, it is up to the individual to decide the best route to meet their needs and preferences. Happy traveling!