Driving Cost from Durham, North Carolina to Los Angeles, California

A picture depicting a gas pump

Road Trip on a Budget: Driving from Durham, NC to Los Angeles, CA Based on Current Gas Prices

Dreaming of a road trip from Durham, North Carolina, to sunny Los Angeles, California? You're not alone! This journey promises stunning landscapes, diverse cultures, and unforgettable experiences. However, before you hit the road, it's crucial to understand the costs involved. Let's break it down by exploring a few popular routes, complete with distance, time, and costs for gas and tolls.

Route 1: Interstate 20 (I-20)

One of the most common routes is via Interstate 20. This route takes you across the southern states, providing a comfortable drive with plenty of rest stops.

Distance and Time

  • Distance: Approximately 1,100 miles
  • Time: About 16 hours

Costs

Assuming a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon and current gas prices averaging $3.50 per gallon, here’s how the costs break down:

  • Total gallons of gas needed: 44 gallons
  • Total gas cost: $154

While this route has a few toll roads, they are minimal, averaging around $10 overall. Thus, the total cost for this route would be approximately $164.

Route 2: Interstate 40 (I-40)

Opting for Interstate 40 offers a scenic view of the landscapes as you traverse through states like Tennessee, Arkansas, and New Mexico. It’s a fantastic choice for those who love nature!

Distance and Time

  • Distance: Approximately 1,250 miles
  • Time: Around 18 hours

Costs

If you’re driving a vehicle that gets about 25 miles per gallon, your gas cost calculations would look like this:

  • Total gallons of gas needed: 50 gallons
  • Total gas cost: $175

This route has fewer tolls, but you might encounter initial costs, totaling roughly $5. Therefore, the total cost for this route would be about $180.

Route 3: Northern Route via Interstate 70 (I-70)

For those seeking a more adventurous journey, the northern route along Interstate 70 offers breathtaking sights. However, keep in mind this route involves higher elevations and can be slower in winter.

Distance and Time

  • Distance: Approximately 1,400 miles
  • Time: Roughly 21 hours

Costs

Calculating the fuel for this distance with the same vehicle efficiency:

  • Total gallons of gas needed: 56 gallons
  • Total gas cost: $196

This route may also have some tolls, which can add up to about $20. Thus, the total cost for this route would end up being approximately $216.

Conclusion

Knowing the costs associated with your road trip can help you budget effectively. Whether you choose the southern route on I-20, the beautiful I-40, or the adventurous I-70, each journey has its unique charm and experience.

To sum up:

  • I-20: 1,100 miles, 16 hours, $164
  • I-40: 1,250 miles, 18 hours, $180
  • I-70: 1,400 miles, 21 hours, $216

So, which route will you take on your epic adventure from Durham to Los Angeles? Wherever you go, enjoy the ride! 🚗🌅