Driving Cost from Berkley, Michigan to Spokane, Washington

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The Cost of a Trip from Berkley, Michigan to Spokane, Washington

Current Gas Prices and Best Route Recommendations

Are you planning a road trip from Berkley, Michigan to Spokane, Washington? As exciting as it may be, it's crucial to consider the cost associated with such a journey. One significant expense to factor in is the cost of gasoline. In this article, we will explore the cost of driving between these two cities based on current gas prices, highlight different possible routes, and recommend the best route to optimize both cost and distance.

Current Gas Prices

Before diving into the specifics of the trip, let's take a look at the current gas prices. Gas prices can vary greatly from region to region and fluctuate frequently. However, as of September 2021, the average price of regular unleaded gasoline in Michigan is around $3.20 per gallon, while in Washington, it stands at approximately $3.70 per gallon.

Keep in mind that these prices may change over time, so it's essential to check for the most up-to-date gas prices before embarking on your journey.

Route Options

When considering the best route from Berkley, Michigan to Spokane, Washington, there are a few possible routes to choose from. Let's examine each option, including the distance and approximate cost based on the current gas prices.

Route 1: I-94 W to I-90 W (1,920 miles)

The first route involves taking I-94 West towards Chicago and then connecting to I-90 West, which will take you all the way to Spokane. While this is the most direct route, it may not always be the most cost-effective due to tolls and traffic congestion in certain areas.

The total distance for this route is approximately 1,920 miles. Assuming your vehicle has an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, and considering the average gas prices in both states mentioned earlier, here's an estimation of the cost:

Distance: 1,920 miles
Average fuel efficiency: 25 mpg
Gas price in MI: $3.20/gallon
Gas price in WA: $3.70/gallon
Total cost: (1,920 / 25) * ($3.20 + $3.70) = $256.00 + $296.96 = $552.96

The estimated cost for gas on this route is approximately $552.96, one way.

Route 2: I-75 N to I-90 W (2,062 miles)

Another option is to take I-75 North towards the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and then connect to I-90 West. This route adds some extra mileage, but it can provide a more scenic and enjoyable drive. Let's calculate the approximate cost for this route:

Distance: 2,062 miles
Average fuel efficiency: 25 mpg
Gas price in MI: $3.20/gallon
Gas price in WA: $3.70/gallon
Total cost: (2,062 / 25) * ($3.20 + $3.70) = $262.56 + $304.48 = $567.04

The estimated cost for gas on this route is approximately $567.04, one way.

Route 3: I-94 W to I-29 N to I-90 W (2,001 miles)

For those looking for an alternative route, you can also consider taking I-94 West towards Fargo, North Dakota, then switching to I-29 North before finally connecting to I-90 West. This option may offer a change of scenery and potentially fewer congested areas. Let's calculate the approximate cost for this route:

Distance: 2,001 miles
Average fuel efficiency: 25 mpg
Gas price in MI: $3.20/gallon
Gas price in WA: $3.70/gallon
Total cost: (2,001 / 25) * ($3.20 + $3.70) = $256.12 + $295.44 = $551.56

The estimated cost for gas on this route is approximately $551.56, one way.

Based on both cost and distance considerations, the recommended route for a trip from Berkley, Michigan to Spokane, Washington would be Route 1: I-94 W to I-90 W.

This route offers the shortest distance among the options presented, reducing the number of miles driven and, consequently, the cost of gas. While other routes may offer different experiences and sights, they add extra time and expenses to the journey.

It's important to note that when planning a road trip, there are other factors to consider beyond just the cost of gas. Safety, traffic conditions, and personal preferences should also influence your decision.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the trip from Berkley, Michigan to Spokane, Washington can be an exciting adventure. By analyzing the current gas prices and considering different possible routes, we have determined that taking Route 1 (I-94 W to I-90 W) is the most cost-effective option. With an estimated cost of approximately $552.96 for gas and a distance of 1,920 miles, this route balances both cost and travel time.

We hope this information helps you plan your trip and make informed decisions. Remember to stay safe on the road, enjoy the beautiful sights along the way, and have a memorable journey from Berkley to Spokane!