Driving Cost from Danville, California to Santa Rosa, California

A picture depicting a gas pump

Estimating the Cost of a Trip from Danville, California, to Santa Rosa, California: A Comprehensive Guide

Traveling from Danville to Santa Rosa offers a picturesque journey through Northern California. Planning this trip efficiently can help you save on transportation costs, especially with fluctuating gas prices. This article provides a detailed look at various routes, distances, inherent costs based on current gas prices, and recommendations for the best route to take.

Route Options

Route 1: I-680 North to I-80 West

The most direct route between Danville and Santa Rosa involves taking I-680 North to I-80 West.

Distance: Approximately 90 miles
Estimated Travel Time: About 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours (without traffic)

Cost Breakdown

  1. Gas Consumption: If we assume an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon (mpg) for a standard vehicle, the total gallons used for this trip would be about 3.6 gallons (90 miles / 25 mpg).
  2. Current Gas Prices: As of October 2023, the average gas price in California is approximately $5.50 per gallon.
  3. Total Gas Cost: The cost of gas for this route would be roughly $19.80 (3.6 gallons x $5.50).

Route 2: I-680 North to CA-12 West

Another option entails taking I-680 North and then transitioning to CA-12 West toward Santa Rosa.

Distance: Approximately 95 miles
Estimated Travel Time: Roughly 2 hours (depending on traffic)

Cost Breakdown

  1. Gas Consumption: Using the same average fuel economy of 25 mpg, the trip would consume approximately 3.8 gallons (95 miles / 25 mpg).
  2. Current Gas Prices: Again, considering gas prices at $5.50 per gallon.
  3. Total Gas Cost: The estimated cost would be about $20.90 (3.8 gallons x $5.50).

Route 3: I-580 West to I-680 North

A more scenic option includes traveling from Danville via I-580 West, connecting to I-680 North.

Distance: Approximately 93 miles
Estimated Travel Time: About 1 hour 50 minutes to 2 hours (traffic can significantly affect this duration)

Cost Breakdown

  1. Gas Consumption: Following the same mpg standards, this route consumes approximately 3.7 gallons (93 miles / 25 mpg).
  2. Current Gas Prices: Maintaining the standard $5.50 per gallon.
  3. Total Gas Cost: The projected cost for this route is about $20.35 (3.7 gallons x $5.50).

Route 4: I-580 West to CA-37 West

An alternative route travels through I-580 West to CA-37 West before heading north.

Distance: Approximately 100 miles
Estimated Travel Time: Estimated at 2 hours 10 minutes, accounting for potential highway assistance services.

Cost Breakdown

  1. Gas Consumption: Based on a 25 mpg assumption, you'll utilize about 4 gallons (100 miles / 25 mpg).
  2. Current Gas Prices: At $5.50 per gallon.
  3. Total Gas Cost: The total for this route would reach about $22.00 (4 gallons x $5.50).

Summary of Costs and Distances

Route Distance (miles) Estimated Travel Time Total Gas Cost
I-680 North to I-80 West 90 1 hr 45 min - 2 hr $19.80
I-680 North to CA-12 West 95 2 hr $20.90
I-580 West to I-680 North 93 1 hr 50 min - 2 hr $20.35
I-580 West to CA-37 West 100 2 hr 10 min $22.00

After weighing the routes as discussed, the best option for drivers traveling from Danville to Santa Rosa is to take the I-680 North to I-80 West. This route offers the most direct path, potentially lower fuel costs, and minimizes total travel time.

Conclusion

Driving from Danville to Santa Rosa provides a sleek experience through Northern California's scenic vistas. The preferred route along I-680 North to I-80 West covers approximately 90 miles and costs about $19.80 in gas, making it both an affordable and efficient choice for this trip. Plan for about 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours of driving time, factoring in potential traffic delays. Whether you're visiting for leisure or business, this route promises a straightforward and enjoyable journey.