Driving Cost from Dallas, Texas to Austin, Texas

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Real Cost of Driving from Dallas to Austin: Road Trip Budgets Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip from Dallas to Austin? Whether you’re headed to enjoy the music scene, savor some Texas BBQ, or soak up the local culture, it’s essential to know what your trip will cost. Gas prices fluctuate regularly, but let’s break down the expenses based on current averages and different routes.

Route 1: I-35 South

Let’s begin with the most straightforward and popular route—taking I-35 South. This route covers approximately 195 miles and typically takes about 3 hours to drive, depending on traffic conditions.

Now, let’s get into the numbers! The average gas price in Texas is around $3.15 per gallon, and your vehicle's fuel efficiency will greatly influence your total cost. For a car that gets 25 miles per gallon, you will need roughly 7.8 gallons of fuel for the trip. Doing the math:

  • Fuel Cost: 7.8 gallons x $3.15 = $24.57
  • Toll Cost: Approximately $0 on I-35

In total, for the I-35 route, you’ll spend about $24.57 and spend around 3 hours on the road.

Route 2: US-75 South to US-84 West

If you’re looking for a slightly scenic alternative, consider taking US-75 South to US-84 West. This route spans around 215 miles and can take approximately 3.5 to 4 hours. Keep in mind that travel time can increase due to construction or road conditions.

Calculating the fuel cost here: with the same vehicle efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you will need about 8.6 gallons for the extra miles.

  • Fuel Cost: 8.6 gallons x $3.15 = $27.09
  • Toll Cost: $2 on US-75

For this route, your total cost becomes $29.09 with a travel time of 3.5 to 4 hours.

Route 3: Loop 1604

For those wanting to avoid the tolls altogether and enjoy a more leisurely ride, the Loop 1604 route is an excellent choice. This route is longer, clocking in at approximately 220 miles and taking about 4 hours of drive time.

Using the same fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you will need around 8.8 gallons for the journey.

  • Fuel Cost: 8.8 gallons x $3.15 = $27.72
  • Toll Cost: $0 on Loop 1604

Hence, traveling via Loop 1604 would total approximately $27.72 with a time investment of around 4 hours.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, driving from Dallas to Austin offers several routes with different costs and time commitments. Here’s a quick summary:

  • I-35 South: 195 miles, $24.57, 3 hours
  • US-75 South to US-84 West: 215 miles, $29.09, 3.5 to 4 hours
  • Loop 1604: 220 miles, $27.72, 4 hours

So, pack your bags, fill up your tank, and hit the road. No matter which route you choose, you’re in for a fantastic journey through the heart of Texas!