The Cost of Driving from Belmont to Richmond: A Guide to the Best Routes

If you're planning on driving from Belmont to Richmond, you're likely wondering what the cost of the trip will be. With gas prices constantly fluctuating and tolls adding an extra expense, it can be difficult to know just how much you'll need to budget for your journey. We've put together this guide to help you navigate the different routes available and get an idea of the cost and time involved.

Route 1: I-280 N and I-80 E

Distance: 31.5 miles

Time: 35-45 minutes

Cost: $6.75 (in tolls and gas*)

This route will take you up I-280 North until you reach San Francisco, where you'll switch to I-80 East. You'll cross the Bay Bridge and continue on until you reach Richmond. While this is the most direct route, it does involve tolls. The Bay Bridge toll is currently $6.00 during peak hours and $4.00 during non-peak hours. In addition, you'll need to budget for gas, which will likely add up to around $0.75 per mile.

Route 2: US-101 N and I-580 E

Distance: 40.5 miles

Time: 50-60 minutes

Cost: $7.50 (in tolls and gas*)

If you'd prefer to avoid tolls, this route may be a better option. You'll take US-101 North until you reach I-580 East, which will take you over the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge. While there are no tolls on this route, it's slightly longer than the I-280 and I-80 route, so you'll need to budget for a bit more gas. Expect to spend around $0.50 per mile.

Route 3: I-280 N, CA-92 E, and I-580 E

Distance: 38.5 miles

Time: 45-55 minutes

Cost: $8.25 (in tolls and gas*)

This route is a combination of the first two options. You'll take I-280 North until you reach CA-92 East, which will take you over the San Mateo Bridge. From there, you'll head onto I-580 East and over the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge. This route involves two tolls: $5.00 for the San Mateo Bridge and $2.75 for the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge. You'll also need to budget for gas, which will likely add up to around $0.50 per mile.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the cost of your trip will depend on a number of factors, including gas prices and the time of day you're traveling. However, we hope this guide has given you a better idea of what to expect. While tolls can add up quickly, there are ways to avoid them if you're willing to take a slightly longer route. Regardless of which route you choose, remember to always drive safely and enjoy the journey!

*Gas prices are based on the average price of gas in Belmont and Richmond as of August 2021.