Driving Cost from Des Moines, Iowa to Waterloo, Iowa

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of Driving from Des Moines, Iowa to Waterloo, Iowa: Making the Most of Your Trip

Are you planning a driving trip from Des Moines to Waterloo? It’s a beautiful drive that showcases the charm of Iowa. However, understanding the cost of your journey can help you budget better. With current gas prices hovering around $3.50 per gallon, let’s breakdown the travel routes, their distances, estimated travel times, and the total costs involved.

Route 1: US-20 East

One of the most popular routes is taking US-20 East. This scenic path lets you enjoy the picturesque Iowa landscape as you drive.

  • Distance: 90 miles

  • Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes

  • Cost:

    To calculate the cost, we can use the average fuel economy of a standard vehicle, which is about 25 miles per gallon. For this trip:

    • You’ll need about 3.6 gallons of gas.
    • At $3.50 per gallon, your total will come to approximately $12.60.

Additionally, this route doesn't incur any tolls, which keeps your travel expenses down!

Route 2: I-80 East and US-63 North

If you prefer a faster journey, consider taking I-80 East and then connecting to US-63 North. This route is slightly different but still efficient.

  • Distance: 100 miles

  • Time: 1 hour and 40 minutes

  • Cost:

    Using the same average fuel economy, your gas requirements will be similar. You will need about 4 gallons of gas for this route.

    • At $3.50 per gallon, you’re looking at a total cost of $14.00.

Again, this route is toll-free, making it easy on the wallet!

Route 3: Scenic Backroads via IA-5

For those who love the open roads and a scenic view, you can take the backroads via IA-5. This route is perfect for those who want to connect with nature and enjoy a leisurely drive.

  • Distance: 95 miles

  • Time: 1 hour and 50 minutes

  • Cost:

    Following the same calculations based on distance, you’ll utilize about 3.8 gallons of gas.

    • This means you’ll spend about $13.30 on fuel at $3.50 per gallon.

Keep in mind that although this route takes a bit longer, the views can be well worth it!

Conclusion

When planning your road trip from Des Moines to Waterloo, knowing the costs associated with each route is essential. The three routes mentioned above provide excellent options depending on whether you prioritize time or scenery. While gas prices are currently at $3.50 per gallon, you can choose the route that fits your budget and your travel style best.

Happy travels, and enjoy the journey through the heart of Iowa!