The Cost of Driving From Austin, Texas to New Orleans, Louisiana Based on Current Gas Prices

Are you planning a road trip from Austin, Texas to New Orleans, Louisiana? It's a great way to explore new places, try new foods, and take a break from your everyday routine. However, before you hit the road, it's important to know how much the trip will cost you, especially when it comes to gas prices and toll fees. In this blog post, we'll break down the cost of driving from Austin to New Orleans based on different routes.

Route 1: Taking I-10 E

If you take the shortest route from Austin, Texas to New Orleans, Louisiana, which is via I-10 E, you'll have to cover a distance of approximately 512 miles. The estimated driving time is about 8 hours and 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Based on current gas prices, let's assume that you'll be driving an average fuel-efficient car that gets about 25 miles per gallon on the highway. At the average gas price of $2.51/gallon, you'll need to fill up your tank four times, at an estimated cost of $127. Additionally, this route has a toll fee of $6.50, meaning the total cost of driving from Austin to New Orleans via I-10 E is approximately $133.50.

Route 2: Driving via US-90 E

Another route you can take to get to New Orleans from Austin is going through US-90 E. This route may be a bit longer than I-10 E, but it's a great way to experience more of the beautiful countryside. The total distance of this route is approximately 550 miles, and the driving time is roughly 9 hours and 30 minutes.

Using our assumed fuel efficiency and gas prices, you'll need to fill your tank up about 5 times on this route. The total gas cost will be about $158.75. Additionally, this route has a toll fee of $29, making the total cost of driving via US-90 E approximately $187.75.

Route 3: Taking TX-71 E and I-59 S

If you don't mind taking a more scenic route, you can opt to use TX-71 E and I-59 S to get to New Orleans. While this route is longer than the first two routes at about 620 miles, it is a great option if you want to explore some of the small towns in between or you want a change of scenery. The driving time for this route is approximately 10 hours.

Using our assumed fuel efficiency and gas prices, you'll need to fill your tank up about 6 times on this route. The total gas cost will be about $190.6. Additionally, this route has a toll fee of $5.50, making the total cost of driving via TX-71 E and I-59 S approximately $196.10.

Conclusion

While the cost of driving from Austin, Texas to New Orleans, Louisiana may vary based on factors such as car efficiency and traffic conditions, it's essential to have a rough estimate of how much you'll be spending on gas and toll fees. The above routes provide various options you can explore to get to your destination, depending on the amount of time you have and what you want to see along the way. Remember to prepare your car in advance, pack some snacks and water to keep you energized, and enjoy the journey!