How Much Does it Cost to Drive from Arlington, Virginia to Washington DC Based on Current Gas Prices?

If you're planning to drive from Arlington, Virginia to Washington, District of Columbia, you'll want to know how much it costs. Sure, using public transportation is an option, but sometimes there's nothing like a good old fashioned road trip. Here's a breakdown of the costs based on current gas prices.

Route 1: I-395 N

One of the most straightforward routes to take is I-395 N. It's the highway that takes you straight into DC, making it a popular choice for commuters and tourists alike.

Distance: 5.3 miles
Time: 10 minutes
Gas Required: 0.2 gallons
Gas Price (as of August 2021): $2.85/gallon
Total Gas Cost: $0.57
Tolls: None
Total Cost: $0.57

I-395 N is a quick and easy route without any tolls, so the cost is just about the gas needed to get you there.

Route 2: George Washington Memorial Parkway

For a more scenic route, the George Washington Memorial Parkway is a lighter-traffic alternative. It takes you along the Potomac River and past beautiful vistas and historical landmarks.

Distance: 8.7 miles
Time: 20 minutes
Gas Required: 0.3 gallons
Gas Price (as of August 2021): $2.85/gallon
Total Gas Cost: $0.86
Tolls: None
Total Cost: $0.86

The George Washington Memorial Parkway is a bit longer, but still relatively easy on the wallet. The beautiful scenery more than makes up for the added minutes on the road.

Route 3: I-66 E and US-50 E

Taking I-66 E and US-50 E is a bit more complicated of a route but can be a good choice if you're looking to avoid heavier traffic on other highways, especially during rush hour.

Distance: 7.8 miles
Time: 20 minutes
Gas Required: 0.3 gallons
Gas Price (as of August 2021): $2.85/gallon
Total Gas Cost: $0.86
Tolls: $1.00
Total Cost: $1.86

The cost for gas is about the same as Route 2, but you'll need to factor in an additional toll fee of $1.00. This route does take a bit longer due to heavier traffic, so plan accordingly.

Route 4: Arlington Blvd

Lastly, Arlington Blvd is an option that offers a more direct route through Arlington, though it may be busier during peak hours.

Distance: 7.5 miles
Time: 20 minutes
Gas Required: 0.3 gallons
Gas Price (as of August 2021): $2.85/gallon
Total Gas Cost: $0.86
Tolls: None
Total Cost: $0.86

Arlington Blvd is a bit longer than Route 1 but is still a quick and easy option with no tolls to factor in.

Conclusion

Whether you're taking a scenic drive or a direct route, driving from Arlington to DC is relatively inexpensive when based on current gas prices. Keep these routes and costs in mind when planning your next trip to our nation's capital!