The Cost of a Trip between Ankeny, Iowa and Overland Park, Kansas

Planning a road trip can be an exciting experience, but it's essential to consider all factors, including the cost of gas. With fluctuating gas prices, understanding the cost of a trip can help you budget and make informed decisions. In this article, we will explore the various routes between Ankeny, Iowa, and Overland Park, Kansas, highlight the cost and distance of each route, and recommend the best route for your journey.

Route Options and their Costs

Route 1: Interstate 35 South

The most direct route between Ankeny, Iowa, and Overland Park, Kansas, is taking Interstate 35 South. This route covers approximately 200 miles, making it the shortest distance option. However, it is crucial to consider the cost of gas.

Based on current gas prices, which average around $2.50 per gallon, a car with an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon (mpg) would require 8 gallons of gas for this route. Therefore, the estimated cost of gas for this journey would be around $20.

Route 2: US-69 South

Another route that you can consider is taking US-69 South. This route offers slightly more scenic views compared to Interstate 35 South, but it is essential to evaluate the cost implications. The distance between Ankeny, Iowa, and Overland Park, Kansas, following this route is approximately 230 miles.

Considering the same average gas price and fuel economy, a car traveling this distance would consume around 9.2 gallons of gas, resulting in a total cost of approximately $23.

Route 3: State Highway 169 South

If you prefer a mix of urban and rural landscapes during your road trip, State Highway 169 South might be an excellent option for you. While this route is slightly longer, covering approximately 250 miles, it offers a more varied experience.

For a car with an average fuel economy of 25 mpg, the estimated gas consumption for this route would be approximately 10 gallons. Consequently, the cost of gas would amount to approximately $25 based on the current gas prices.

Recommending the Best Route

After considering various factors, including distance and cost, our recommendation for the best route between Ankeny, Iowa, and Overland Park, Kansas, is Interstate 35 South. While this route may not provide the most scenic drive, it offers the shortest distance and lowest cost of fuel.

By taking Interstate 35 South, you can save approximately 30 miles compared to US-69 South, translating to roughly $3 in gas costs. Similarly, this route is around 50 miles shorter than State Highway 169 South, which would save you approximately $5 in gas expenses.

Therefore, if the focus of your trip is to arrive in Overland Park, Kansas, efficiently and cost-effectively, it is recommended to take Interstate 35 South.

Conclusion

Embarking on a trip between Ankeny, Iowa, and Overland Park, Kansas, requires careful planning, including considering the cost of gas. Based on current gas prices, the most cost-effective route is taking Interstate 35 South, which offers the shortest distance and lowest fuel consumption.

By choosing this route, a car with an average fuel economy of 25 mpg would require around 8 gallons of gas, resulting in an estimated cost of $20. Additionally, this route is not only the most economical but also the quickest way to reach your destination.

Ultimately, by selecting the best route, you can enjoy a cost-efficient road trip from Ankeny, Iowa, to Overland Park, Kansas while minimizing your travel expenses and maximizing your adventure. Safe travels!