Driving Cost from Durham, North Carolina to Tulsa, Oklahoma

A picture depicting a gas pump

Driving from Durham to Tulsa: Cost Breakdown Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip from Durham, North Carolina to Tulsa, Oklahoma? You've come to the right place! Today, we’ll dive into the cost of this journey based on current gas prices, explore different routes you can take, and help you make an informed decision about your travel plans. Let’s hit the road!

Route 1: I-40 W (The Direct Route)

The most straightforward route is via I-40 W. This route is popular because it offers a quicker and more direct journey to Tulsa. Here’s a breakdown of this route:

  • Distance: Approximately 750 miles

  • Estimated Time: Roughly 11 hours

  • Gas Cost: Assuming a gas price of $3.40 per gallon and an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon:

    [ \text = \frac{750 \text}{25 \text} = 30 \text ]

    [ \text = 30 \text \times 3.40 \text{ dollars/gallon} = $102 ]

Additionally, this route does not include any major tolls, making it a budget-friendly choice.

Route 2: I-85 S and I-40 W (A Scenic Alternative)

If you prefer to enjoy some scenic views along the way, consider taking I-85 S before merging onto I-40 W. This route adds a bit of distance but can be an enjoyable experience.

  • Distance: Approximately 800 miles

  • Estimated Time: About 12 hours

  • Gas Cost: Using the same gas prices and mileage calculations:

    [ \text = \frac{800 \text}{25 \text} = 32 \text ]

    [ \text = 32 \text \times 3.40 \text{ dollars/gallon} = $108.80 ]

This route also has some minor tolls, potentially adding $20 to your trip. Nevertheless, it can be worth it for the scenery!

Route 3: I-95 S to I-40 W (The Long Way Around)

For those who want to take a more extended journey that gives you a chance to visit several states, consider taking I-95 S to connect with I-40 W. This route is not only longer but also offers unique stops along the way.

  • Distance: Approximately 850 miles

  • Estimated Time: Around 14 hours

  • Gas Cost: Once again applying our gas price calculations:

    [ \text = \frac{850 \text}{25 \text} = 34 \text ]

    [ \text = 34 \text \times 3.40 \text{ dollars/gallon} = $115.60 ]

This route may include tolls that could run you about $15, which still keeps your overall costs manageable for a little adventure.

Final Thoughts

No matter which route you choose for your road trip from Durham to Tulsa, it’s clear that knowing the distances, estimated travel times, and costs will help you plan better. With current gas prices hovering around $3.40 per gallon, estimating your trip expenses becomes a simple task.

Whether you’re making it a quick drive or savoring the journey with scenic views, safe travels and happy motoring!