Driving Cost from Denton, Texas to University Park, Texas

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Trip from Denton to University Park: A Comprehensive Guide Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip can be an exciting yet daunting task, especially when it comes to estimating costs. One of the most significant expenses you may encounter is fuel. This article will detail the costs associated with a trip from Denton, Texas, to University Park, Texas, based on current gas prices. We will explore different routes, calculate expenses, and help you choose the most efficient option for your journey.

Overview of the Route

The distance between Denton and University Park is approximately 40 miles. Depending on the route you choose, the travel time may vary significantly. Here we will analyze several potential routes and provide cost estimates based on current gas prices, which, at the time of writing, are averaging around $3.50 per gallon.

Route Options

Route 1: Interstate 35E South

  1. Description: This route takes you on I-35E South, a direct and often busy highway.
  2. Distance: Approximately 40 miles.
  3. Travel Time: About 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on traffic conditions.
  4. Cost Calculation:
    • Fuel Efficiency: Assuming an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon for your vehicle.
    • Total Gas Needed: 40 miles / 25 MPG = 1.6 gallons.
    • Total Fuel Cost: 1.6 gallons x $3.50 per gallon = $5.60.

Route 2: Texas State Highway 121

  1. Description: This alternative route takes you through more scenic back roads, including parts of SH 121.
  2. Distance: Approximately 45 miles.
  3. Travel Time: About 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes.
  4. Cost Calculation:
    • Fuel Efficiency: Assuming the same fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon.
    • Total Gas Needed: 45 miles / 25 MPG = 1.8 gallons.
    • Total Fuel Cost: 1.8 gallons x $3.50 per gallon = $6.30.

Route 3: Dallas North Tollway

  1. Description: This route uses the Dallas North Tollway, a faster toll road that bypasses much of the city traffic.
  2. Distance: Approximately 42 miles.
  3. Travel Time: About 35 to 50 minutes.
  4. Cost Calculation:
    • Fuel Efficiency: Assuming the same fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon.
    • Total Gas Needed: 42 miles / 25 MPG = 1.68 gallons.
    • Total Fuel Cost: 1.68 gallons x $3.50 per gallon = $5.88.
    • Toll Costs: Expect to pay around $3.00-$5.00 in tolls, bringing the total cost to approximately $8.88 - $10.88.

Route 4: Local Roads

  1. Description: Avoiding highways and using local roads, this indirect route navigates through smaller towns.
  2. Distance: Approximately 50 miles.
  3. Travel Time: About 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes.
  4. Cost Calculation:
    • Fuel Efficiency: Maintaining the same average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon.
    • Total Gas Needed: 50 miles / 25 MPG = 2 gallons.
    • Total Fuel Cost: 2 gallons x $3.50 per gallon = $7.00.

Summary of Costs

To summarize the potential costs for each route:

Route Description Distance (miles) Total Gas Needed (gallons) Total Fuel Cost Additional Costs Estimated Total Cost
Interstate 35E South 40 1.6 $5.60 $0 $5.60
Texas State Highway 121 45 1.8 $6.30 $0 $6.30
Dallas North Tollway 42 1.68 $5.88 $3.00-$5.00 $8.88-$10.88
Local Roads 50 2.0 $7.00 $0 $7.00

Recommendation of the Best Route

After evaluating all the options, the Dallas North Tollway emerges as the best route for your trip from Denton to University Park. Although it has toll costs, its shorter travel time and relatively competitive fuel cost make it an attractive option. This route reduces the likelihood of traffic delays often associated with Highway 35E, while still offering a smooth and efficient journey.

Conclusion

Traveling from Denton to University Park involves considering both cost and time. Based on current gas prices and route options, choosing the Dallas North Tollway offers a balanced approach, providing a quicker trip with reasonable fuel expenses. Expect to spend approximately $8.88 to $10.88, including tolls, for the journey. This route delivers a travel time of about 35 to 50 minutes, making it an efficient choice for reaching your destination in a timely manner.