The Cost of Driving from Detroit, Michigan to Anaheim, California Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip from Detroit to Anaheim? Whether you're moving, visiting family, or just on a great adventure, it’s crucial to know how much it will cost before you hit the road. With gas prices fluctuating, let’s break down the estimated expenses for your journey. We’ll explore a few popular routes, and along the way, we’ll highlight the distance, travel time, and the overall cost based on current gas prices.

Route 1: I-70 W to I-15 S

Starting off, one of the most straightforward routes takes you on I-70 W and then merges onto I-15 S. This is a busy route, but it offers plentiful amenities along the way.

• Distance: Approximately 2,050 miles
• Time: Around 30 hours of driving time
• Gas Cost: Based on an average gas price of $3.80 per gallon and an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, your gas cost will be around $260.

Additionally, there are no major toll roads on this route, which helps keep your travel expenses lower.

Route 2: I-80 W to I-15 S

If you want to explore a bit further north, another popular choice is taking I-80 W down through the Midwest before heading south towards California. This scenic route gives you the opportunity to see some beautiful landscapes but adds a little distance to your trip.

• Distance: Approximately 2,220 miles
• Time: About 33 hours of driving time
• Gas Cost: Using the same calculations as above, your gas cost here would be around $285.

This route includes a few toll roads, particularly around the Chicago area, which might add an extra $20 to $30 in toll expenses, depending on your chosen path.

Route 3: I-90 W to I-15 S

Lastly, if you want a more leisurely drive, you might consider taking I-90 W. This route is slightly more scenic but also the longest in terms of mileage.

• Distance: Approximately 2,300 miles
• Time: Roughly 35 hours of driving time
• Gas Cost: With the same average gas price of $3.80 per gallon, you’re looking at around $308 for fuel.

Keep in mind that this route also has some tolls, particularly if you traverse through areas like Ohio and Pennsylvania. You should budget an additional $25 for those tolls.

Summary of Costs

When making your way from Detroit to Anaheim, it’s essential to weigh your options and plan your route wisely. Here's a quick recap of your estimated costs:

1. I-70 W to I-15 S:

   • Distance: 2,050 miles
   • Time: 30 hours
   • Gas Cost: $260

2. I-80 W to I-15 S:

   • Distance: 2,220 miles
   • Time: 33 hours
   • Gas Cost: $285 + tolls

3. I-90 W to I-15 S:

   • Distance: 2,300 miles
   • Time: 35 hours
   • Gas Cost: $308 + tolls

As you gear up for your journey, making informed choices about your route can help ease travel stress and keep your budget intact. Happy driving and safe travels!