Driving Cost from California to Nebraska

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Trip between California and Nebraska

Traveling from California to Nebraska can be a long and tedious journey but if you are looking to experience the beauty of the country, there are several routes that you can take. Whether you are driving for a vacation or relocating, the cost of the trip is one of the most important factors that you must consider. This article will explore the different possible routes from California to Nebraska and highlight the cost and distance of each one.

Factors That Affect the Cost of the Trip

There are several factors that determine the cost of a trip from California to Nebraska. Some of the factors include:

  • Gas prices
  • Distance
  • Type of vehicle
  • Lodging costs
  • Food and beverage costs

The cost of the trip also depends on the route that you take. Different routes have different tolls, gas prices and distances. Below are some of the popular routes that you can take from California to Nebraska.

Route 1: California to Nebraska via I-80 E

One of the popular routes that people use to travel from California to Nebraska is via I-80 E. This route will take you through Reno, Salt Lake City, and Cheyenne. The distance between California and Nebraska via I-80 E is approximately 1475 miles and it takes around 23 hours to complete the journey.

To calculate the gas cost of this trip, you need to consider the gas prices in different states. For purposes of calculation, let us assume that your vehicle gives you an average of 20 miles per gallon.

  • California: Gas prices in California average $3.62 per gallon. If you are driving a car with a 20-gallon tank, it would cost you $72.40 to fill up.
  • Nevada: Gas prices in Nevada average $3.27 per gallon. If you are driving a car with a 20-gallon tank, it would cost you $65.40 to fill up.
  • Utah: Gas prices in Utah average $3.15 per gallon. If you are driving a car with a 20-gallon tank, it would cost you $63.00 to fill up.
  • Wyoming: Gas prices in Wyoming average $3.35 per gallon. If you are driving a car with a 20-gallon tank, it would cost you $67.00 to fill up.
  • Nebraska: Gas prices in Nebraska average $3.11 per gallon. If you are driving a car with a 20-gallon tank, it would cost you $62.20 to fill up.

The total gas cost for this trip would be approximately $330.

Route 2: California to Nebraska via I-15 N and I-80 E

Another popular route to travel from California to Nebraska is via I-15 N and I-80 E. This route passes through Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, and Cheyenne. The distance between California and Nebraska via I-15 N and I-80 E is approximately 1600 miles and the journey can take up to 25 hours.

The gas cost of this trip will depend on gas prices in different states. Assuming that you are driving the same vehicle as in Route 1, below is a breakdown of the gas prices:

  • California: $3.62 per gallon for a total of $72.40 to fill up.
  • Nevada: $3.27 per gallon for a total of $65.40 to fill up.
  • Utah: $3.15 per gallon for a total of $63.00 to fill up.
  • Wyoming: $3.35 per gallon for a total of $67.00 to fill up.
  • Nebraska: $3.11 per gallon for a total of $62.20 to fill up.

The total gas cost for this trip would be approximately $330.

Route 3: California to Nebraska via I-40 E, I-35 N and I-80 E

This route is a longer option for those who are up for the adventure. It takes you through Flagstaff, Albuquerque, Kansas City, and Omaha. The distance between California and Nebraska via I-40 E, I-35 N and I-80 E is approximately 2000 miles and the journey can take up to 30 hours.

The gas cost of this trip will depend on gas prices in different states. Assuming that you are driving the same vehicle, below is a breakdown of the gas prices:

  • California: $3.62 per gallon for a total of $72.40 to fill up.
  • Arizona: Gas prices in Arizona average $3.35 per gallon. If you are driving a car with a 20-gallon tank, it would cost you $67.00 to fill up.
  • New Mexico: Gas prices in New Mexico average $3.30 per gallon. If you are driving a car with a 20-gallon tank, it would cost you $66.00 to fill up.
  • Texas: Gas prices in Texas average $2.70 per gallon. If you are driving a car with a 20-gallon tank, it would cost you $54.00 to fill up.
  • Oklahoma: Gas prices in Oklahoma average $3.01 per gallon. If you are driving a car with a 20-gallon tank, it would cost you $60.20 to fill up.
  • Nebraska: Gas prices in Nebraska average $3.11 per gallon. If you are driving a car with a 20-gallon tank, it would cost you $62.20 to fill up.

The total gas cost for this trip would be approximately $382.

Which Route is the Best?

The best route to take when traveling from California to Nebraska will depend on several factors such as your budget, time, and preference for the scenic route. If you have ample time, Route 3 will give you the opportunity to explore the beauty of several states. However, if you are in a hurry and want to get to Nebraska quickly, Route 1 or Route 2 are good options.

Conclusion

Traveling from California to Nebraska can be an exciting adventure. The cost of the trip will depend on several factors such as gas prices, distance, type of vehicle, and lodging and food costs. Above all, the route you take is a crucial determinant of the final cost of the trip. It is important to consider the different options highlighted in this article and choose the one that will give you value for your money and time. Whatever route you choose, make sure to enjoy the adventure and take in the beautiful scenery along the way.