The Cost of Driving From Azusa, California to Long Beach, California
If you're planning a road trip from Azusa, California to Long Beach, California, it's important to factor in the cost of driving, which includes gas prices and tolls. Let's explore different routes, their distances, times, and associated costs, so you can make an informed decision.
Route 1: The Scenic Coastal Drive
The first route we'll consider is the scenic coastal drive. This route takes you along the beautiful Pacific Coast Highway, offering breathtaking views of the ocean. The distance from Azusa to Long Beach via this route is approximately 40 miles. You can expect to spend around 1 hour on the road, depending on traffic conditions.
To calculate the cost of this route, we'll consider the current gas prices in California. As of November 2021, the average price for a gallon of gas is $4.301. Assuming your vehicle has an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you would need around 1.6 gallons for this trip. Therefore, the gas cost alone would be approximately $6.88 for a one-way journey.
As for toll prices, there are no tolls on this specific route, so you can drive without worrying about additional costs.
Route 2: The Efficient Freeway Drive
The second route we'll explore is the efficient freeway drive. This route takes you primarily on the I-605 S and I-405 S, providing a more direct path between Azusa and Long Beach. The distance via this route is approximately 29 miles, and the estimated travel time is around 40 minutes, again depending on traffic.
Considering the average gas prices mentioned earlier, you would still need around 1.2 gallons of gas for this route, resulting in a gas cost of approximately $5.16 for a one-way journey.
Regarding toll prices, there are no tolls on this route, so you can enjoy a seamless drive without any additional expenses.
Route 3: The Riverside Drive
The third and final route we'll consider is the Riverside Drive. This route takes you through the scenic San Gabriel Mountains and along the Riverside Freeway (CA-91 W). The distance from Azusa to Long Beach via this route is approximately 41 miles. You can expect a travel time of around 1 hour and 10 minutes, depending on traffic congestion.
For this route, you would require approximately 1.64 gallons of gas, resulting in a gas cost of approximately $7.04 for a one-way journey, based on the average gas prices mentioned earlier.
Unlike the previous routes, this one includes tolls. The monthly toll rates for The 91 Express Lanes vary from $12.40 to $15.70 depending on the time of day and the type of vehicle2. Be sure to factor in these additional costs when considering this route.
Conclusion
When planning your trip from Azusa, California to Long Beach, California, it's important to consider the cost of driving. The scenic coastal drive offers beautiful views but tends to be slightly longer. The efficient freeway drive is quicker and comes with no tolls. The Riverside Drive route provides a scenic route through the mountains, but includes toll costs.
Ultimately, the choice of route depends on your preferences, time constraints, and budget. Whichever route you choose, make sure to enjoy the journey and have a safe trip!