How Much Does it Cost to Drive from California to Utah with Current Gas Prices?

If you're planning a road trip from California to Utah, you may be wondering how much it will cost you. Gas prices can vary significantly, and the cost of tolls can add up quickly. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the cost of driving from California to Utah based on current gas prices.

Route 1: Interstate 15

The most direct route from California to Utah is via Interstate 15. This route covers a distance of approximately 540 miles and takes about 8 hours to drive. According to current gas prices, the cost of driving this route is roughly $85 – based on an average gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon and a gas price of $4.25 per gallon.

If you take the time to divide the cost of gas, it breaks down to around $42.50 per person, for a vehicle with two people. If you plan to travel during peak times, be sure to factor in tolls, as some areas have toll roads that can add to your overall trip cost.

Route 2: US-395 N and I-80 E

Another option is to head north on US-395, then east on I-80, which takes you through Reno and Salt Lake City. This route covers a distance of approximately 760 miles and takes about 12 hours to drive. The cost of driving this route would be around $120 based on current gas prices.

Using the same gas mileage (25 mpg) and gas prices ($4.25/gallon) as before, the cost of driving this route breaks down to roughly $60 per person for a vehicle with two people. Keep in mind that depending on your route, you may encounter toll roads, so factor in those prices as well.

Route 3: US-50 E

A third option is to take US-50 east, which is known as the "Loneliest Road in America." This scenic route stretches across Nevada and Utah and covers a distance of approximately 780 miles. The cost of driving this route would be around $125 based on current gas prices with an average gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon and gas prices of $4.25 per gallon.

When you calculate the potential sharing of this trip with another person for the gas cost, it would be around $62.50 for two passengers in a vehicle. Be aware that this route is largely rural, and you may not encounter many toll roads along the way.

Conclusion

The cost of driving from California to Utah can vary depending on the route you take, gas prices, and toll fees. If you're looking to save money, taking the most direct route via I-15 is likely the most cost-effective option. However, you should take the time to explore other routes if you're looking for a more scenic drive. Additionally, keeping an eye on current gas prices and calculating your trip cost ahead of time can help you budget accordingly. Safe travels!