Driving Cost from Dallas, Texas to Tucson, Arizona

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of Driving from Dallas to Tucson: Planning Your Trip Based on Today's Gas Prices

Planning a road trip from Dallas, Texas, to Tucson, Arizona? You're in for a treat! With some stunning landscapes and charming towns along the way, it's a journey worth taking. However, understanding the costs associated with your trip is crucial, especially considering gas prices can fluctuate. In this blog post, we'll break down two popular driving routes, complete with distance, time, and cost, so you can hit the road with confidence.

Route 1: The Southern Route via I-10

One of the most direct routes from Dallas to Tucson is taking Interstate 10. This established path offers a smooth drive while allowing you to enjoy some scenic views along the way.

  • Distance: Approximately 600 miles
  • Time: Roughly 9 hours
  • Gas Prices: As of October 2023, the average gas price in Texas is around $3.40 per gallon. Given that your vehicle averages about 25 miles per gallon, you'll be looking at approximately 24 gallons of gas. This translates to a cost of around $82.50 just for fuel.

Tolls along I-10 are minimal; in fact, you may not encounter any significant tolls on this route, which helps keep your expenses lower. Therefore, your total cost for this journey will be approximately $82.50 for gas, not including any food or lodging expenses.

Route 2: The Scenic Route via US-87 and I-10

If you're looking for a slightly longer, but more scenic drive, consider taking US-87 before merging onto I-10. This route introduces you to the beauty of the Texas countryside before you dive into the high desert views of Arizona.

  • Distance: About 630 miles
  • Time: Approximately 10 hours
  • Gas Prices: With the same average gas price of $3.40 per gallon and a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you'll need around 25.2 gallons of gas. This means you'll spend around $85.50 on fuel for this route.

Just like the first route, tolls remain low; however, you might encounter some small toll roads depending on your exact path. Therefore, you can expect a total cost of around $85.50, again, excluding any stops for food or lodging.

Summary of Costs and Options

To sum it up, your road trip cost from Dallas to Tucson will depend largely on which route you choose.

  • Route 1 (I-10):

    • Distance: 600 miles
    • Time: 9 hours
    • Gas Cost: $82.50

  • Route 2 (US-87 and I-10):

    • Distance: 630 miles
    • Time: 10 hours
    • Gas Cost: $85.50

Both routes have their charms, and the final choice will depend on your travel preferences. Happy road tripping, and enjoy the journey from the Lone Star State to the sunny skies of Arizona! Safe travels!