The Cost of Driving from Anaheim to Sacramento: A Comparison of Routes

Are you planning a road trip from the sunny city of Anaheim to the bustling capital of California, Sacramento? Embarking on a new adventure is always exciting, but being well-informed about the journey can ensure a smooth and budget-friendly experience. In this blog post, we will help you compare different routes, their distance, estimated time, and the cost associated with each route, taking into account the current gas prices and toll fees. So buckle up and let's dive in!

Route 1: The Scenic Coastal Drive

For those who love breathtaking ocean views and aim for the most picturesque route, taking the US-101 N is an excellent option. This route stretches for approximately 562 miles and takes around nine hours of driving, depending on traffic and breaks.

To get an accurate estimate of the cost, let's consider the current gas prices in California, which average around $4.15 per gallon. Assuming your vehicle achieves an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you'll need to fill up your tank 22.48 gallons of gas for the entire journey. This means your total fuel cost for the round trip will be approximately $93.36. Keep in mind that tolls are not applicable for this route.

Route 2: The Quick and Efficient Highway Drive

If scenic views aren't your priority and you're looking for a more direct route, taking the I-5 N is your best bet. This freeway offers a faster journey, covering approximately 379 miles in around six hours and fifteen minutes of driving, barring any congestion or pit stops.

Calculating the fuel cost for this route follows the same process. With gas prices hovering at $4.15 per gallon, and factoring in a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you'll require about 15.16 gallons of gas one way, resulting in a fuel cost of approximately $62.88 for the round trip. Fortunately, there are no tolls to account for along this route.

Route 3: The Inland Adventure

If you're feeling adventurous and wish to explore the beauty of inland California, taking the CA-99 N is a fantastic choice. This route covers approximately 405 miles and takes around six hours and forty-five minutes to complete, assuming there are no unexpected delays along the way.

Considering the same fuel efficiency and gas prices, you'll need about 16.2 gallons of gas for one way, resulting in a round trip cost of approximately $67.23. Similar to Route 2, there are no tolls that you need to budget for on this journey.

Conclusion

No matter which route you choose, driving from Anaheim to Sacramento will surely be an adventure to remember. The total cost of your trip will largely depend on the gas prices at the time, your vehicle's fuel efficiency, and any toll roads you encounter. With approximate round trip fuel costs ranging from $62.88 to $93.36, you can make an informed decision based on your priorities, time constraints, and budget.

Remember to check for any road updates or constructions before you hit the road, as they may affect your estimated time of arrival. Safe travels and enjoy your trip from Anaheim to Sacramento!