The Cost of Driving From Austin, Texas to Sacramento, California

Planning a road trip can be exciting, but there are also a lot of factors to consider. One of the main concerns is the cost of gas and tolls. In this post, we'll explore different routes from Austin, Texas to Sacramento, California, and consider the distance, time, and cost of each.

Route 1: The Southern Route

Driving west on I-10 through Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California is the southernmost option for this road trip. This route covers approximately 1,900 miles and takes around 29.5 hours to complete. Based on an average gas price of $2.80 per gallon and a car that gets 28 miles per gallon, you can expect to spend around $200 on gas. Additionally, there are several tolls along the way with varying prices, so it's important to budget accordingly.

Route 2: The Central Route

The central route takes you northwest on I-35, through Oklahoma, Kansas, Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, Nevada, and finally California. This route covers approximately 2,077 miles and takes around 31 hours to complete. Based on the same gas prices and car efficiency as the southern route, you can expect to spend around $230 on gas. There are a few tolls to watch out for on this route as well.

Route 3: The Northern Route

The northern route takes you west on I-40 and then north on I-5, through Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, and California. This route covers approximately 2,266 miles and takes around 35 hours to complete. Based on the same gas prices and car efficiency, you can expect to spend around $260 on gas. There are a few tolls on this route as well, but they are less frequent than the other two routes.

Final Thoughts

When planning a road trip, the cost of gas and tolls can add up quickly. Choosing a route that fits your budget and preferences is crucial. Based on our analysis, the southern route is the shortest and cheapest option. However, the northern route offers a scenic drive through the Southwest and Coast. Consider your priorities and choose the route that works best for you. Safe travels!