The Cost of Driving From Berkeley, California to Long Beach, California Based on Current Gas Prices

Are you planning a road trip from Berkeley to Long Beach in California? You might be wondering about the various routes, the distance, the time it takes, and most importantly, the cost of driving. In this blog post, we'll give you a breakdown of the cost of each route based on current gas prices.

Route 1: Via I-5 South

One of the most direct routes to Long Beach is via I-5 South. The distance from Berkeley to Long Beach via this route is approximately 398 miles, and it takes approximately 6 hours and 15 minutes to drive. The cost of driving this route depends on gas prices and tolls.

Currently, the average gas price in California is around $4.14 per gallon. The estimated fuel cost for this journey is around $54.12 for a car with an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon. You should also factor in toll expenses, which will vary depending on the route you take.

Route 2: Via I-580 and I-5 South

Another possible route is via I-580 and I-5 South. This route is a bit longer than the first one, with a distance of approximately 424 miles. However, it might be a more scenic route, passing by Mount Diablo State Park and the San Joaquin Valley. The estimated drive time is around 6 hours and 45 minutes.

The estimated fuel cost for this route is around $55.44, based on the same average fuel economy and current gas prices. Again, toll expenses will vary, but you might encounter toll roads along the way.

Route 3: Via CA-1 South

If you prefer a coastal drive rather than a more direct route, you might want to follow CA-1 South. This route is the longest of the three, with a distance of approximately 549 miles. However, you'll get to enjoy scenic views of the Pacific Coast and might be able to stop at iconic California landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and the Santa Monica Pier. The estimated drive time is around 10 hours and 15 minutes.

The estimated fuel cost for this route is around $71.16. Keep in mind that the fuel economy of your car might fluctuate due to the terrain and traffic. You don't have to worry about toll expenses, though.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the cost of driving from Berkeley to Long Beach depends on various factors, such as gas prices, toll roads, and your car's fuel economy. However, no matter which route you take, you'll get to explore the diverse landscapes of California and experience the thrill of the open road.