What's the Cost of Driving from Bakersfield, California to Albuquerque, New Mexico?

Are you planning a road trip from Bakersfield, California to Albuquerque, New Mexico? You may be wondering what the cost of the trip would be based on current gas prices. In this blog post, we’ll explore the different routes and the costs associated with each route.

Route 1: The Straight Route

The most direct route to Albuquerque from Bakersfield is via I-40 E, which runs for approximately 741 miles. The estimated travel time is about 11 hours, depending on traffic. Gas prices may vary along the route, but currently, gas prices in California and Arizona are around $3.50 per gallon, while in New Mexico, it is around $2.80 per gallon. With an average gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon and a total distance of 741 miles, you can expect to pay around $111.15 for gas for this route.

Route 2: The Scenic Route

If you’re looking for a scenic drive to Albuquerque with more sightseeing opportunities, you can take the I-15 S and I-40 E route as well. This route runs for approximately 944 miles and may take up to 14 hours, depending on traffic. Although this route is longer, it offers more sightseeing opportunities, such as the Grand Canyon. Gas prices may vary along the route, but currently, gas prices in California and Arizona are around $3.50 per gallon, while in New Mexico, it is around $2.80 per gallon. With an average gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon and a total distance of 944 miles, you can expect to pay around $141.60 for gas for this route.

Route 3: The Toll Road Route

Another option is the Toll Road Route, which goes through the 241, 261, and 133 toll roads and then connects with I-10 E and I-25 N to Albuquerque. This route runs for approximately 980 miles and may take up to 14 hours, depending on traffic. The toll road costs around $26.25. Gas prices may vary along the route, but currently, gas prices in California are around $3.50 per gallon, and in New Mexico, it is around $2.80 per gallon. With an average gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon and a total distance of 980 miles, you can expect to pay around $161.28 for gas for this route.

Conclusion

So, how much does it cost to drive from Bakersfield, California to Albuquerque, New Mexico? The answer varies depending on which route you take, gas prices, and toll costs along the way. The straight route is the most cost-efficient, with a gas cost of $111.15; the scenic route is a bit more costly with a gas cost of $141.60; the toll road route is the most expensive, with a gas cost of $161.28 and a toll road cost of $26.25. Whatever route you choose, we hope that our guide will help you budget your road trip accordingly. Safe travels!