Road Tripping from Atlanta, Georgia to Portland, Oregon: The Cost Analysis based on Current Gas Prices

Are you planning a cross-country road trip from Atlanta, Georgia to Portland, Oregon? It will be fun, adventurous, and an opportunity to catch up with friends or family. However, before you embark on this long-distance journey, it's important to understand the driving alternatives available, the distance, time, and cost. Below is an extensive cost analysis based on current gas prices to help you plan and budget your upcoming trip.

The Northern Route: Atlanta to Portland through the Midwest

This route covers approximately 2,600 miles, depending on your exact starting point in Atlanta. Driving through the Midwest takes you through scenic routes and famous landmarks like the Gateway Arch in St. Louis and Mount Rushmore in South Dakota. The journey is a total of about 38 hours of constant driving, which can be broken down into five to seven days of driving depending on how much you want to stop along the way and take in the sceneries.

Assuming your vehicle takes about 20 miles per gallon (MPG) and gas prices are relatively constant with an average rate of $2.50 per gallon in the Midwest, the total fuel cost for this route is approximately $325. If you opt to take the flawless I-80W route, you will incur toll fees that vary by state. From Ohio to Illinois, you'll part with an approx $74.60, while Illinois to Nebraska will set you back around $46.70. Wisconsin and Wyoming have no toll fees. Therefore, be prepared to pay at least $121 in toll fees to complete this route.

The Middle Route: Atlanta to Portland through the Rockies

This route is approximately 2,300 miles, with a slightly shorter driving time than the Northern Route, but it carries its fair share of breathtaking landscapes. You'll pass through the Rockies and trace part of the historical Oregon Trail. Expect to see beautiful sites like the Yellowstone National Park, the Grand Teton National Park, and the Columbia River Gorge.

Driving through the Rockies takes approximately 35 hours, which roughly translates to 5-6 days of driving, assuming you travel between 5 to 8 hours a day. With no toll fees on this route, fuel costs account for almost all of the expenses. So at an average gas price of $2.50 per gallon that means the total fuel cost is approximately $287.

The Southern Route: Atlanta to Portland through the Southwest

This route covers a distance of 2,590 miles and takes approximately 40 hours of constant driving time. As it passes through the Southwest, you'll enjoy the breathtaking scenic drive from Amarillo to Albuquerque, see the Grand Canyon's beauty, visit Lake Powell in Utah, and enjoy the salt flats of Utah's Bonneville.

Assuming you travel in a car that averages about 20 MPG and gas prices remain about $2.50 per gallon, the total fuel cost for this route is approximately $325. Additionally, you'll be expected to pay approximately $90 in toll fees when passing through Texas, Florida and Colorado.

Conclusion

In conclusion, your final cost on the road trip from Atlanta to Portland is subject to a variety of factors such as lodging, food, and any unexpected expenses. However, one thing is evident from our analysis; the cost of driving is highly dependent on the route you take and your vehicle's fuel economy. While you're on the road, it is worth keeping close tabs on your driving and speeding habits as well as maintaining your vehicle to maximize fuel efficiency and keep your gas expenses in check.

The choice of route depends on what you're looking to see, trip duration, and most importantly, how much you're willing to spend. With this guide, you can now decide which option suits your preferences and budget before embarking on a fantastic cross-country road trip. Bon voyage!