The Cost of Driving From Bellevue to Des Moines

Traveling from Bellevue to Des Moines can be a fun adventure, but it can also be an expensive one, depending on the route you take and the gas prices at the time. Let's explore some of the most common routes and their costs based on current gas prices.

Route 1: Chicory Road to I-80W

The shortest distance from Bellevue to Des Moines is along Chicory Road to I-80W. This route covers roughly 151 miles and takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete. You will need to pay a total of $12.60 for gas (based on a fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon and gas prices at $2.10/gallon). This route has no tolls, so your total costs will be just $12.60.

Route 2: Saddleback Road to I-80W

Another common route is to take Saddleback Road to I-80W. This route will cover about 170 miles and takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. The total expenses for this route will be $14.04 for gas (based on fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon and gas prices at $2.10/gallon). You will also need to pay for tolls on this route, which will come to a total of $7.60, making the total costs for this route, $21.64.

Route 3: US-61S to I-80W

If you are looking for a slightly longer but cheaper route, you can take US-61S to I-80W. This route adds a few more miles, roughly 194 miles, and will take about 3 hours to complete. However, the gas costs are lower, at $15.96 (based on fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon and gas prices at $2.10/gallon), there are no tolls on this route. The total expenses will be only $15.96.

Route 4: US-20W to I-35S

For those who want a longer scenic drive or avoid tolls, the US-20W to I-35S route would be the best option. This route is the longest at approximately 248 miles and will take over 4 hours to complete. However, there are no tolls on this route, and the gas costs are slightly higher, at $20.64 (based on fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon and gas prices at $2.10/gallon). The total expenses for this route will be $20.64.

Regardless of which route you decide to take, it's important to note that the gas prices can change drastically, which can affect your budget. Always plan accordingly and budget a little extra, just in case. Safe travels!