Driving Cost from Cincinnati, Ohio to Tucson, Arizona

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The Cost of a Trip between Cincinnati, Ohio and Tucson, Arizona

Traveling from Cincinnati, Ohio to Tucson, Arizona provides an opportunity to witness the stunning diversity of the American landscape. Whether a casual road trip or a planned vacation, it is crucial to estimate the expenses involved in such a long-distance journey. One of the major factors that determine the cost of a trip is the price of gasoline. This article will explore the various possible routes between Cincinnati and Tucson and analyze the associated costs and distances, based on current gas prices.

Route 1: The Southerly Trek through I-40

One of the most popular routes from Cincinnati to Tucson is a journey along Interstate 40, a scenic and iconic highway in the United States. This path spans approximately 1,900 miles and takes about 29 hours, considering continuous driving with minimal stops. Here is a breakdown of the essential costs along this route:

Distance:

  • Cincinnati, OH to Amarillo, TX: 960 miles
  • Amarillo, TX to Tucson, AZ: 940 miles

Gas Prices:

According to the current national average gas price of $2.85 per gallon, and considering the average vehicle fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, the average cost of gas for this route would be approximately:

  • Cincinnati, OH to Amarillo, TX: 960 miles / 25 miles per gallon * $2.85 per gallon = $110.88
  • Amarillo, TX to Tucson, AZ: 940 miles / 25 miles per gallon * $2.85 per gallon = $109.68

Total Gas Cost:

The total gas cost for this route would be:

  • Total = $110.88 + $109.68 = $220.56

Route 2: The Direct Path through I-70 and I-44

For those looking to take a more direct path, an alternative route to Tucson involves driving on Interstate 70 and then I-44. Although shorter in distance, this option still spans around 1,750 miles and takes roughly 27 hours of driving. Here is a breakdown of the costs associated with this route:

Distance:

  • Cincinnati, OH to St. Louis, MO: 335 miles
  • St. Louis, MO to Tulsa, OK: 420 miles
  • Tulsa, OK to Amarillo, TX: 340 miles
  • Amarillo, TX to Tucson, AZ: 655 miles

Gas Prices:

Using the same gas price and fuel efficiency as mentioned earlier, the average cost of gas for each leg of this route would be approximately:

  • Cincinnati, OH to St. Louis, MO: 335 miles / 25 miles per gallon * $2.85 per gallon = $38.34
  • St. Louis, MO to Tulsa, OK: 420 miles / 25 miles per gallon * $2.85 per gallon = $48.24
  • Tulsa, OK to Amarillo, TX: 340 miles / 25 miles per gallon * $2.85 per gallon = $38.88
  • Amarillo, TX to Tucson, AZ: 655 miles / 25 miles per gallon * $2.85 per gallon = $74.76

Total Gas Cost:

The total gas cost for this route would be:

  • Total = $38.34 + $48.24 + $38.88 + $74.76 = $200.22

Route 3: The Scenic Trail through the Southern Route

For the adventurous souls seeking to embark on a more scenic journey, a southern route could be an intriguing option. This path spans over 2,200 miles and potentially offers breathtaking landscapes along the way. Although significantly longer in distance compared to the previous routes, this route can be a delight for those who prioritize experiences over time. Here is an overview of the costs associated with this route:

Distance:

  • Cincinnati, OH to Mississippi River: 350 miles
  • Mississippi River to Amarillo, TX: 725 miles
  • Amarillo, TX to Tucson, AZ: 940 miles

Gas Prices:

Based on the same gas price and fuel efficiency as mentioned earlier, the average cost of gas for each leg of this route would be approximately:

  • Cincinnati, OH to Mississippi River: 350 miles / 25 miles per gallon * $2.85 per gallon = $40.20
  • Mississippi River to Amarillo, TX: 725 miles / 25 miles per gallon * $2.85 per gallon = $83.16
  • Amarillo, TX to Tucson, AZ: 940 miles / 25 miles per gallon * $2.85 per gallon = $109.68

Total Gas Cost:

The total gas cost for this route would be:

  • Total = $40.20 + $83.16 + $109.68 = $232.04

Best Route Recommendation

Considering the cost, distance, and driving time, the most favorable route from Cincinnati, Ohio to Tucson, Arizona would be Route 2: The Direct Path through I-70 and I-44. This route provides a good balance between distance and cost, allowing travelers to save on gas expenses while still experiencing the beauty of the American landscape.

Conclusion

Embarking on a journey from Cincinnati, Ohio to Tucson, Arizona offers an exciting adventure through the heart of America. While the exact duration of the trip can vary depending on driving times and potential breaks, all of the mentioned routes take around 27 to 29 hours. For travelers concerned about the cost of the trip, choosing the most feasible and economical route is essential. After analyzing the different paths and estimating gas expenses based on the current average price, it is clear that Route 2: The Direct Path through I-70 and I-44 is the most cost-effective option. So, buckle up, hit the road, and enjoy the incredible landscapes as you make your way through the heartlands of the United States.