Driving Cost from Detroit, Michigan to St. Louis, Missouri

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of Driving from Detroit to St. Louis: A Guide Based on Current Gas Prices

Are you gearing up for a road trip from Detroit, Michigan, to St. Louis, Missouri? Whether you're heading to visit family, check out the Gateway Arch, or explore the vibrant music scene in St. Louis, it's essential to get a grasp on the travel costs involved—especially with today's fluctuating gas prices. In this post, we'll break down a couple of popular routes, highlighting the distance, time, and estimated fuel expenses so you can budget accordingly.

Route 1: I-70 W

This route is a well-traveled path that many avid road trippers prefer. Starting from Detroit, you’ll take Interstate 75 South, and then merge onto I-70 West toward St. Louis.

  • Distance: Approximately 600 miles
  • Time: Approximately 9 hours
  • Gas Prices: With the current average gas price hovering around $3.50 per gallon, and considering your vehicle’s fuel efficiency is around 25 miles per gallon, you’ll need approximately 24 gallons for the trip. Thus, you could expect to spend about $84 on gas.
  • Toll Costs: There are generally no tolls on this route, which means more savings for treats along the way!

Taking this route also allows you to enjoy multiple pit stops in charming towns like Indianapolis, and it’s a pretty straightforward drive with minimal complications.

Route 2: I-75 S to I-64 W

Another option to consider involves a different scenic drive. You’ll start on I-75 South as well, but instead of heading straight to I-70, you will take I-64 West in Kentucky.

  • Distance: Approximately 630 miles
  • Time: Approximately 10 hours
  • Gas Prices: Using the same gas price of $3.50 per gallon and the same fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you’ll need about 25.2 gallons. This results in an estimated spend of around $88 on gas for the trip.
  • Toll Costs: Depending on your chosen path through Kentucky, there may be a few minor tolls, which could add about $10 to your overall expenses.

This route offers beautiful views of the Bluegrass region and some unique spots to explore, making it a great option if you’re into sightseeing.

Final Thoughts

To sum it up, driving from Detroit to St. Louis is not only about the destination; it's also about the journey. While you can expect to spend around $84 to $88 on gas alone depending on your route, taking the scenic paths can truly make your trip more enjoyable. Just remember to check the most current gas prices before you hit the road, and factor in any tolls you might encounter along the way.

Pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy your adventure to St. Louis! Happy travels!