The Cost of Driving from Azusa, California to Tucson, Arizona based on Current Gas Prices
If you're planning a road trip from Azusa, California to Tucson, Arizona, one of the first things you need to consider is the cost of the trip. Gas prices can fluctuate quite a bit, but we've done the research to help you figure out how much you should expect to pay.
Route 1: via I-10 E
One of the most direct routes from Azusa to Tucson is via Interstate 10 E, which crosses the southern part of California and then heads east through Arizona. This route is 484 miles long and should take around 7 hours and 40 minutes to drive. Assuming gas prices are around $2.50 per gallon and your car gets an average of 25 miles per gallon, you'll need around 19 gallons of gas for the entire trip. At $2.50 per gallon, that equals a total of $47.50 in gas costs. Additionally, you will not encounter any toll roads on this route.
Route 2: via I-10 E and CA-78 E
Another option is to take Interstate 10 E and then turn off onto CA-78 E, which will take you through the desert and eventually rejoin I-10 E just before Tucson. This route is slightly longer, at 505 miles, and takes around 8 hours to complete. However, it may be more scenic and offer different experiences. Assuming the same gas prices and mileage as Route 1, you'll need approximately 20 gallons of gas, adding up to a total of $50 in gas costs. Additionally, there are no toll roads on this route.
Route 3: via CA-60 E and I-10 E
For a longer, but somewhat more interesting and scenic drive, you can take CA-60 E instead of I-10 E until it meets the latter along the way, just after Riverside and Palm Springs. This route involves more mountain driving and can be a good choice for those looking for more adventure and sightseeing. The total distance is 529 miles, and it should take around 8 hours and 30 minutes to drive. As before, with the same gas prices and mileage, you'll need about 21 gallons of gas and can expect to pay around $52.50 in gas costs. Additionally, there are no toll roads on this route.
Route 4: via I-10 E and AZ-83 S
If you want to avoid traffic and explore a different part of Arizona, you can take I-10 E to the small town of Sonoita and then turn south on AZ-83 S. This scenic drive takes you through the rolling hills and grasslands of southeastern Arizona and ends in the town of Vail. The total distance of this route is 536 miles, and it should take around 8 hours and 45 minutes to drive. With the same gas mileage and prices as before, you'll need about 22 gallons of gas, adding up to a total of $55 in gas costs. There are also no toll roads on this route.
Conclusion
All in all, driving from Azusa, California to Tucson, Arizona by car can cost you anywhere between $47.50 and $55 in gas alone, depending on the route you choose. Additionally, if you take one of the toll roads or take a wrong turn and get lost, there may be additional financial costs and expenses. However, with good planning, constant awareness and the right mindset, road trips are great ways to explore the country, have fun and create lasting memories.