Road Tripping from Anaheim, California to Rancho Santa Margarita: Here's How Much You'll Pay

Are you planning a road trip from Anaheim to Rancho Santa Margarita? Before hitting the road, it's important to figure out the cost of gas, tolls, and any other expenses that may be incurred. In this blog post, we'll break down the cost of driving based on current gas prices, as well as different routes to take.

Route 1: Taking the 241 Toll Road

If you're in a hurry and want to avoid traffic, taking the 241 toll road is your best bet. The distance from Anaheim to Rancho Santa Margarita is around 27 miles, and this route will take around 30 minutes in clear traffic. However, it is important to note that the toll for this road is $5.66 during peak hours and $4.10 during non-peak hours. Assuming you take this route during non-peak hours and are driving a car that gets 20 miles per gallon (mpg), the cost of gas for this trip would be around $2.50.

Distance: 27 miles | Time: 30 minutes | Toll: $4.10 | Gas: $2.50

Route 2: Taking the 5 Freeway

If you prefer to skip the toll roads, taking the 5 freeway is another option. This route is longer, at around 34 miles, and will take around 40 minutes in clear traffic. However, it is also much cheaper, as there are no tolls to pay. Assuming you are driving a car that gets 20 mpg, the cost of gas for this trip would be around $4.50.

Distance: 34 miles | Time: 40 minutes | Toll: $0 | Gas: $4.50

Route 3: Taking the Scenic Route

For those who want to take the scenic route, taking Jamboree Road all the way down to Rancho Santa Margarita is a great option. This route is around 27 miles and will take around 45 minutes in clear traffic. There are no tolls to pay. Assuming you are driving a car that gets 20 mpg, the cost of gas for this trip would be around $2.50.

Distance: 27 miles | Time: 45 minutes | Toll: $0 | Gas: $2.50

Conclusion

When planning a road trip from Anaheim to Rancho Santa Margarita, it's important to consider the cost of gas and tolls. Taking the toll road may be faster, but it is important to consider the toll fees. Taking the scenic route is a great option for those who want to enjoy the scenery, but it may take longer. No matter which route you choose, driving between Anaheim and Rancho Santa Margarita is a great way to explore Orange County.