Driving Cost from Detroit, Michigan to Tulsa, Oklahoma

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Road Trip: Detroit to Tulsa Based on Current Gas Prices

Traveling from Detroit, Michigan, to Tulsa, Oklahoma, can be an exhilarating adventure. With rich cultural experiences, varied landscapes, and unique attractions along the way, this road trip should certainly be on your travel list. However, before hitting the road, it's essential to understand the costs involved—especially concerning gas prices. In this article, we will explore the different routes, their distances, costs, and ultimately recommend the best path for your journey.

Understanding Gas Prices

Before diving into the specifics of the routes, let’s discuss current gas prices. As of October 2023, gas prices in the United States average around $3.50 per gallon. This figure may vary depending on location and fluctuating market conditions. However, for the purposes of this calculation, we will use this average price. The efficiency of your vehicle plays a significant role in determining fuel costs, so we will factor in several common vehicle types.

Fuel Cost Calculation

To estimate the total fuel cost, we need to determine the mileage of your vehicle. Here’s how vehicle fuel efficiency commonly breaks down:

  • Compact Car (30 MPG): Our calculations will assume you drive an efficient vehicle that can achieve around 30 miles per gallon.
  • Mid-Sized SUV (25 MPG): This vehicle often falls into a more average category for family travels.
  • Full-Sized Truck (20 MPG): Given its less favorable fuel economy, this vehicle type will draw more from your budget.

To compute your fuel expenses, we will first calculate the total distance, then divide by the vehicle's miles per gallon (MPG) to find out how many gallons you need. Finally, we multiply the gallons by the average gas price.

Route 1: I-69 S / I-70 W / I-44 S

Distance and Overview

The first route takes you via I-69 S to I-70 W and then I-44 S. This path covers approximately 760 miles and typically takes around 11 hours and 30 minutes, accounting for regular stops and traffic conditions.

Fuel Cost Breakdown

  1. Compact Car (30 MPG):

    • Total Gallons: 760 miles / 30 MPG = 25.33 gallons
    • Total Cost: 25.33 gallons x $3.50 = $88.66

  2. Mid-Sized SUV (25 MPG):

    • Total Gallons: 760 miles / 25 MPG = 30.4 gallons
    • Total Cost: 30.4 gallons x $3.50 = $106.40

  3. Full-Sized Truck (20 MPG):

    • Total Gallons: 760 miles / 20 MPG = 38 gallons
    • Total Cost: 38 gallons x $3.50 = $133.00

Route 2: I-75 S / I-40 W

Distance and Overview

The second route utilizes I-75 S and then connects to I-40 W, covering about 730 miles. This route is slightly shorter to Tulsa, requiring 11 hours on average under ideal driving conditions.

Fuel Cost Breakdown

  1. Compact Car (30 MPG):

    • Total Gallons: 730 miles / 30 MPG = 24.33 gallons
    • Total Cost: 24.33 gallons x $3.50 = $85.16

  2. Mid-Sized SUV (25 MPG):

    • Total Gallons: 730 miles / 25 MPG = 29.2 gallons
    • Total Cost: 29.2 gallons x $3.50 = $102.20

  3. Full-Sized Truck (20 MPG):

    • Total Gallons: 730 miles / 20 MPG = 36.5 gallons
    • Total Cost: 36.5 gallons x $3.50 = $127.75

Route 3: I-96 W / I-70 W / I-44 S

Distance and Overview

This third option involves I-96 W, I-70 W, and I-44 S, offering a similar distance to shorter routes. This route measures about 775 miles and can take up to 11 hours and 45 minutes on average.

Fuel Cost Breakdown

  1. Compact Car (30 MPG):

    • Total Gallons: 775 miles / 30 MPG = 25.83 gallons
    • Total Cost: 25.83 gallons x $3.50 = $90.41

  2. Mid-Sized SUV (25 MPG):

    • Total Gallons: 775 miles / 25 MPG = 31 gallons
    • Total Cost: 31 gallons x $3.50 = $108.50

  3. Full-Sized Truck (20 MPG):

    • Total Gallons: 775 miles / 20 MPG = 38.75 gallons
    • Total Cost: 38.75 gallons x $3.50 = $135.63

Route Recommendations

After examining the three routes, Route 2 (I-75 S / I-40 W) emerges as the best option for travelers. Here’s why:

  • Shortest Distance: At 730 miles, this route is the most direct to Tulsa.
  • Cost-Effective Performance: Fuel costs for compact cars are the lowest at $85.16.
  • Travel Time: It offers the quickest travel time, averaging approximately 11 hours.

Summary of Costs

Route Distance Compact Car Cost Mid-Sized SUV Cost Full-Sized Truck Cost
I-69 S / I-70 W / I-44 S 760 miles $88.66 $106.40 $133.00
I-75 S / I-40 W 730 miles $85.16 $102.20 $127.75
I-96 W / I-70 W / I-44 S 775 miles $90.41 $108.50 $135.63

Conclusion

The road trip from Detroit to Tulsa showcases not only the thrill of travel but also the importance of understanding costs beforehand. Opting for the I-75 S / I-40 W route allows you to cover 730 miles in roughly 11 hours, making it not just the most economical choice but also the fastest. This trip presents beautiful landscapes and exciting stops along the way, cementing a memorable journey that balances adventure and smart budgeting.