Driving Cost from Downtown Kansas City, Missouri to Indianapolis, Indiana

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of Driving from Downtown Kansas City, MO to Indianapolis, IN: A Fuel Budget Guide

Planning a road trip from downtown Kansas City, Missouri, to Indianapolis, Indiana, is always exciting. However, understanding the costs involved can help you budget wisely. Let’s explore the different routes you can take, along with the distance, time, and total cost based on current gas prices.

Route 1: Via I-70 E

This is the most direct route and a popular choice among travelers.

  • Distance: Approximately 350 miles
  • Time: About 5 hours and 30 minutes
  • Cost: Approximately $50 for gas

Breakdown:

Starting from downtown Kansas City, you’ll hop on I-70 E and enjoy a scenic drive through Missouri and into Illinois. As of now, current gas prices are around $3.15 per gallon. Assuming your vehicle has an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you would need about 14 gallons of gas for this trip. Thus, multiplying 14 gallons by $3.15 gives you the estimated gas cost of $44.10.

Keep in mind, there are no tolls on this route, making it a budget-friendly option.

Route 2: Via I-64 E

If you prefer a different scenery, consider taking I-64 E through St. Louis before heading northeast.

  • Distance: Approximately 390 miles
  • Time: About 6 hours
  • Cost: Approximately $58 for gas

Breakdown:

This route offers a slight detour through St. Louis, where you might want to grab a meal or see the famous Gateway Arch. Along I-64 E, you will encounter areas with average gas prices around $3.15 per gallon as well. Assuming the same fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, the trip would require around 15.6 gallons of gas, resulting in a total estimated gas cost of $49.14.

However, you’ll also face tolls that could add up to roughly $8 depending on your exact path. This brings your total trip estimate to about $57.14.

Route 3: Scenic Route via US-40 E

For those who enjoy a leisurely drive with plenty of sightseeing, consider taking the scenic route via US-40 E.

  • Distance: Approximately 370 miles
  • Time: About 6 hours and 15 minutes
  • Cost: Approximately $55 for gas

Breakdown:

This route takes you off the interstate and onto smaller highways where you can appreciate the landscapes of Indiana and Missouri. With gas prices maintaining that steady $3.15 per gallon, you would need about 14.8 gallons of gas for a round trip. This gives you a total cost of around $46.62 for gas.

Good news! Unlike Route 2, this scenic path has no tolls, so you can enjoy those beautiful views without worrying about extra costs.

In conclusion, there are several great options for driving from downtown Kansas City to Indianapolis. The route you choose can influence not only your travel time but also how much you spend!

With current gas prices considered, the cost can vary from $44.10 to $58, depending on your chosen route. So buckle up, grab your favorite snacks, and enjoy the journey, knowing your budget is in check! Happy travels!