Cost of a Trip between Carlsbad, NM and Albuquerque, NM: Gas Prices and Route Options

Are you planning a trip between Carlsbad and Albuquerque in New Mexico? Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, it's essential to consider the cost of your journey. One of the most significant expenses is gas prices, which fluctuate based on various factors such as the season, location, and global oil prices. In this article, we'll explore the different possible routes and highlight the cost and distance of each one to identify the most economical option for your trip.

Route Options

There are three primary routes to consider when traveling between Carlsbad and Albuquerque: US-285 N, NM-285 N, and I-25 N. Let's look at each one in detail.

US-285 N

US-285 is a U.S. Highway that runs from Sanderson, Texas, to Denver, Colorado, passing through Carlsbad and Albuquerque. This route covers about 340 miles and takes approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the number of stops.

US-285 takes you through some scenic places, such as Lincoln National Forest, which is home to diverse wildlife and recreational activities. However, this route may not be the most economical one, as it involves more distance. The average gas price on US-285 is $2.80 per gallon, and you'll need approximately 10.2 gallons to complete the journey. That amounts to a total gas cost of $28.56 for the trip.

NM-285 N

NM-285 is a state highway that runs parallel to US-285 and connects Carlsbad and Albuquerque. This route covers about 322 miles and takes approximately 6 hours and 15 minutes, depending on traffic and the number of stops.

NM-285 is a more direct route, and you'll pass through some interesting landmarks such as Santa Fe and the Pecos National Historical Park. The average gas price on NM-285 is $2.76 per gallon, and you'll need approximately 9.8 gallons to complete the journey. That amounts to a total gas cost of $27.05 for the trip.

I-25 N

I-25 is an interstate highway that runs from Las Cruces to Cheyenne, passing through Albuquerque and Carlsbad. This route covers about 332 miles and takes approximately 6 hours and 10 minutes, depending on traffic and the number of stops.

I-25 is the most popular and convenient option for travelers. It's relatively fast, and you'll pass through some iconic places such as the Sandia Peak Tramway and the Petroglyph National Monument. The average gas price on I-25 is $2.76 per gallon, and you'll need approximately 9.8 gallons to complete the journey. That amounts to a total gas cost of $27.05 for the trip.

Best Route Option

Based on the cost and distance analysis, the best route for your trip between Carlsbad and Albuquerque is I-25 N. It's the most direct and convenient option, and you'll save some money on gas compared to US-285 N. While NM-285 is also an excellent route, it involves similar costs and may not be as fast as I-25.

Conclusion

Traveling between Carlsbad and Albuquerque can be an enjoyable experience, with various attractions and scenic places to visit along the way. However, it's essential to consider the cost of your trip, particularly gas prices, which can add up quickly. Based on our analysis of the different route options, we recommend taking I-25 N, which is the most economical and efficient route for your journey. Safe travels!