Driving Cost from Billings, Montana to Yakima, Washington

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The Cost of a Trip Between Billings, Montana and Yakima, Washington

Introduction

Planning a trip from Billings, Montana to Yakima, Washington? One major consideration is the cost of transportation, particularly fuel expenses. With the ever-changing gas prices and multiple possible routes, it can be challenging to determine the most economical option. In this article, we will explore the various routes available between these two cities, highlighting the costs and distances associated with each. By the end, we will recommend the best route, taking into account the current gas prices.

Route Options

Route 1: Via I-90 W and I-82 S

The first route option is to travel via I-90 W and I-82 S. This is the most direct route, covering a distance of approximately 535 miles. Commencing from Billings, follow I-90 W for around 350 miles until reaching the I-82 S exit. Continue driving on I-82 S for the remaining 185 miles until arriving in Yakima.

To calculate the fuel cost for this route, let's assume an average gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon (MPG) for your vehicle. According to the United States Energy Information Administration, the average price of regular gasoline in Montana is currently $2.75 per gallon. Considering the distance of the trip and the average MPG, the estimated fuel cost for this route (one way) would be:

535 miles / 25 MPG = 21.4 gallons 21.4 gallons * $2.75 per gallon = $58.85

Route 2: Via I-90 W and I-82 N

Another possible route is to take I-90 W and I-82 N. This alternative route covers a slightly longer distance of approximately 545 miles. Similarly, start by following I-90 W for around 350 miles. However, this time, instead of exiting onto I-82 S, continue further on I-90 W until you reach I-82 N. Drive on I-82 N for the remaining 195 miles until reaching Yakima.

Calculating the fuel cost for this route using the same average MPG of 25 and Montana's current gas price of $2.75 per gallon, the estimated one-way fuel cost for this route would be:

545 miles / 25 MPG = 21.8 gallons 21.8 gallons * $2.75 per gallon = $59.95

Route 3: Via US-212 W and I-90 W

If you prefer a more scenic route, you can consider traveling via US-212 W and I-90 W. Although it covers a longer distance of approximately 570 miles, this route offers picturesque landscapes along the way. To embark on this route, drive on US-212 W from Billings for about 550 miles until reaching Crow Agency. From there, follow I-90 W for the remaining 20 miles until reaching I-82 N, and finally, continue for another 195 miles on I-82 N until you reach Yakima.

Considering the average MPG of 25 and Montana's current gas price of $2.75 per gallon, the estimated one-way fuel cost for this route would be:

570 miles / 25 MPG = 22.8 gallons 22.8 gallons * $2.75 per gallon = $62.70

Route 4: Via I-94 W and I-90 W

The final route option we will consider is traveling via I-94 W and I-90 W. This route covers a distance of approximately 620 miles. Begin by driving on I-94 W from Billings for approximately 350 miles. Once reaching Glendive, continue driving west on I-94 until reaching Miles City. From there, take the exit onto I-90 W and continue for another 260 miles until arriving in Yakima.

Calculating the fuel cost for this route with the same average MPG of 25 and Montana's current gas price of $2.75 per gallon, the estimated one-way fuel cost would be:

620 miles / 25 MPG = 24.8 gallons 24.8 gallons * $2.75 per gallon = $68.20

Considering the distances and estimated fuel costs, the most economical route is Route 1: Via I-90 W and I-82 S. This route covers the shortest distance and offers a direct path between Billings and Yakima. With an estimated one-way fuel cost of $58.85, it also proves to be the most cost-effective option.

While the difference in fuel costs between the routes may not seem substantial, it is essential to consider the cumulative effect during a round trip. Additionally, Route 1 minimizes travel time, allowing you to reach your destination more efficiently.

Conclusion

Embarking on a trip from Billings, Montana to Yakima, Washington requires careful consideration of fuel costs, especially in the face of fluctuating gas prices. After examining various route options, we recommend Route 1: Via I-90 W and I-82 S as the most economical choice based on current gas prices. With a distance of approximately 535 miles, this route offers a one-way fuel cost of $58.85, assuming an average MPG of 25 and Montana's gas price of $2.75 per gallon.

Remember, these calculations are estimations based on average fuel consumption and gas prices, which may vary. Safe travels, and enjoy your trip from Billings to Yakima!