The Cost of a Trip between Birmingham, Alabama and Tulsa, Oklahoma - A Comprehensive Guide

Are you planning a trip from Birmingham, Alabama to Tulsa, Oklahoma? One of the first questions that comes to mind is the cost associated with the travel. There are various routes to take, each with varying distance, gas prices, and other factors. This guide will help you estimate the cost of your trip and choose the best route based on your preferences and budget.

Possible Routes

There are two main routes that you can take to travel from Birmingham to Tulsa:

Route 1 via Memphis, TN and Little Rock, AR

This route involves driving north from Birmingham to Memphis via I-22/I-65/I-40. From Memphis, you’ll head west on I-40 and then take US-67/US-167 to Little Rock. Finally, you’ll drive west on I-40 to reach Tulsa.

Distance

The total distance covered by this route is approximately 805 miles, and the driving time is around 12 hours (without considering stops).

Gas Prices

The gas prices vary along this route, but as of September 2021, you can expect to pay an average of $3.07 per gallon in Alabama, $2.94 per gallon in Tennessee, $3.08 per gallon in Arkansas, and $2.81 per gallon in Oklahoma. Assuming an average vehicle mileage of 25 miles per gallon, you’ll need around 32 gallons of gas for this trip. The total cost of gas comes at around $97.

Route 2 via Nashville, TN and Fort Smith, AR

An alternative route is to drive northeast from Birmingham to Nashville via I-65. From there, you’ll head west on I-40 and then take I-40W and I-540N to reach Fort Smith, AR. Finally, you’ll drive west on I-40 to reach Tulsa.

Distance

The total distance covered by this route is approximately 840 miles, and the driving time is around 13.5 hours (without considering stops).

Gas Prices

The gas prices along this route are similar to the first route, but the distance covered is more significant. Assuming an average vehicle mileage of 25 miles per gallon, you’ll need around 34 gallons of gas for this trip. The total cost of gas comes at around $104.

Choosing the Best Route

Both routes have similar gas prices, but the first route (via Memphis and Little Rock) is around 35 miles shorter and takes less time to drive. However, if you prefer to visit Nashville or have a different preference, you can choose the second route. Consider other factors such as tolls, traffic, and road conditions to make the best choice.

If you’re traveling with a group, you can also consider sharing the driving and expenses by taking turns behind the wheel. This can reduce the burden of driving and make the trip more enjoyable.

Conclusion

Traveling from Birmingham, Alabama to Tulsa, Oklahoma takes around 12 to 13.5 hours and involves driving approximately 805 to 840 miles, depending on the route you choose. The cost of gas is estimated at around $97 to $104, depending on gas prices and your vehicle mileage.

To choose the best route, consider your preferences and other factors such as gas prices, distance, and travel time. Plan your trip well in advance and make sure to have a budget that covers gas, food, lodging, and other expenses.

Have a safe and enjoyable trip!