The Cost of Driving from Austin, Texas to Phoenix, Arizona: A Guide Based on Current Gas Prices

Are you planning a road trip from Austin, Texas to Phoenix, Arizona? If so, you may be wondering about the cost of driving this distance. In this blog post, we will explore different routes, distance, time, and cost based on current gas prices, so you can plan your trip accordingly.

Route 1: Interstate 10

The most direct route from Austin to Phoenix is taking Interstate 10. The distance is approximately 1,080 miles and it takes around 16 hours without any stops. This route goes straight through San Antonio, El Paso, and Tucson.

The cost of driving on this route is based on current gas prices, which as of May 2021, is around $2.80 per gallon. So, assuming your car gets 25 miles per gallon, you will need about 43 gallons of gas to reach Phoenix.

The total cost of gas for this route would be around $121. Additionally, there are several tolls on this route that can cost around $40, which would bring the total cost of driving on this route to around $161.

Route 2: US-290 W and I-10 W

Another option is to take US-290 W and I-10 W, which is a little longer but might be more scenic. This route is about 1,146 miles and takes around 18 hours without any stops.

The cost of driving on this route with the same gas prices as above would require approximately 46 gallons of gas, costing around $129. There are no tolls on this route, so the total cost of driving on this route would be around $129.

Route 3: US-83 S and I-10 W

If you prefer a less crowded route and more scenic drive, you can also opt for US-83 S and I-10 W. This route is about 1,219 miles and takes around 20 hours without stops.

Assuming the same gas prices, you would require approximately 49 gallons of gas, costing around $137. There are no tolls on this route, so the total cost of driving on this route would be around $137.

Route 4: Texas Hill Country and Big Bend

If you have some extra time and want to experience the natural beauty of Texas Hill Country and Big Bend National Park, you can take Route 4, which is the longest route.

This route is about 1,402 miles and takes around 22 hours without stops. This route is really scenic and takes you through cities like Fredericksburg, Alpine, and Marfa.

Assuming the same gas prices, you would require approximately 56 gallons of gas, costing around $157. There are no tolls on this route, so the total cost of driving on this route would be around $157.

Conclusion

There are many different routes you can take on your road trip from Austin, Texas to Phoenix, Arizona. The cost of driving ultimately depends on several variables, such as gas prices, tolls, and distance. Based on current gas prices, the cost of driving from Austin, Texas, to Phoenix, Arizona can range from $121 to $157, depending on the route you choose. Safe travels!