The Cost of Driving from Desert Hot Springs to Murrieta: How Much Will Your Trip Set You Back?
Planning a road trip from Desert Hot Springs, California, to Murrieta? You're not alone! This drive takes you through some beautiful Southern California landscapes, and it’s always good to know how much it will cost before you head out. In this post, we'll break down the expenses based on current gas prices, tolls, and different routes you can take.
Route 1: I-10 West to I-215 South
One of the most straightforward routes is taking I-10 West to I-215 South. This route offers a smooth drive and relatively light traffic.
- Distance: Approx. 60 miles
- Time: About 1 hour 10 minutes (depending on traffic)
- Estimated Fuel Cost: Based on current gas prices averaging around $5.00 per gallon and a vehicle that gets 25 miles per gallon, the fuel cost for this route is approximately $12.00.
Summary of Route 1
- Distance: 60 miles
- Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Cost: $12.00
Route 2: I-10 West to Riverside Freeway (SR-91)
Another popular route includes taking I-10 West and then merging onto the Riverside Freeway (SR-91). This option can sometimes have more traffic, but it also gives you the chance to see diverse scenery.
- Distance: Approximately 63 miles
- Time: About 1 hour 20 minutes
- Estimated Fuel Cost: Using the same gas prices and fuel efficiency, you can expect to spend around $12.60 on gas.
Summary of Route 2
- Distance: 63 miles
- Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Cost: $12.60
Route 3: I-10 West to SR-60 West (with Tolls)
For those who prefer a quicker journey, taking I-10 West to SR-60 West is another viable option, although you may encounter some tolled areas.
- Distance: 61 miles
- Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
- Estimated Fuel Cost: Again, using the same average gas prices, the fuel cost is roughly $12.20.
- Toll Cost: Expect to pay around $2.50 in tolls, depending on your exact route.
Summary of Route 3
- Distance: 61 miles
- Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Cost: $12.20 (fuel) + $2.50 (tolls) = $14.70 total
Final Comparison
Here’s a quick overview of all three routes:
| Route | Distance | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Route 1: I-10 West to I-215 South | 60 miles | 1 hour 10 minutes | $12.00 |
| Route 2: I-10 West to SR-91 | 63 miles | 1 hour 20 minutes | $12.60 |
| Route 3: I-10 West to SR-60 West (with Tolls) | 61 miles | 1 hour 15 minutes | $14.70 |
So, as you consider your options to drive from Desert Hot Springs to Murrieta, remember that your choice of route can affect not only your travel time but also your overall expenses. Now that you’re armed with this information, pack your snacks, grab your favorite playlist, and enjoy your trip! Safe travels!