Cost of Driving from Bakersfield to San Francisco: A Comprehensive Guide

If you're planning a road trip from Bakersfield to San Francisco, it's important to keep in mind the cost of the journey. Gas prices and toll fees can add up quickly, especially for longer distances. In this guide, we’ll break down the most popular routes between these two cities and the estimated cost of each.

Route 1: I-5 N to I-580W (The Fastest Route)

The fastest way to get from Bakersfield to San Francisco is by taking I-5 N to I-580W. The distance for this route is 288 miles, and without any stops, it takes approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes to arrive in San Francisco.

The cost of gas for this route can vary depending on the type of vehicle you have and gas prices. As of August 2021, the average price for a gallon of gas in California is $4.20. With this in mind, the estimated cost for gas alone is around $45.60. Additionally, there is one toll on this route which costs $5, bringing the total cost of the journey to around $50.60.

Route 2: CA-99N to I-205W to I-580W (The Scenic Route)

If you want to take a more scenic route, another option is to take CA-99N to I-205W to I-580W. This route is slightly longer at 311 miles, but the drive time is similar to Route 1. The benefit of this route is the beautiful countryside scenery during the drive.

Like before, the cost of gas for this trip will depend on gas prices and your vehicle. The estimated cost of gas alone for this route is around $52.68. There is one toll on this route which costs $5, bringing the total cost of the trip to around $57.68.

Route 3: CA-46W to US-101N to I-580W (The Slow and Steady Route)

The third option is to take CA-46W to US-101N to I-580W. This route is the longest at 372 miles and typically takes around 6 hours to complete.

Although this route is longer and slower, it can also be the most budget-friendly. The estimated cost of gas alone for this route is around $63.36. There are also two tolls on this route which cost a total of $10, bringing the total cost of the trip to around $73.36.

Conclusion

There are several routes to consider when driving from Bakersfield to San Francisco. While the fastest and most direct route is often the most appealing, taking a more scenic route can make the journey more enjoyable. No matter which route you choose, it is important to keep in mind the trip's cost. By knowing the distance, time, and estimated cost of gas and tolls, you can better prepare for your journey and have a more enjoyable experience. Happy travels!