The Cost of Driving from Buffalo, NY to Los Gatos, CA: Based on Current Gas Prices
Have you ever dreamed of taking a road trip from Buffalo, NY to Los Gatos, CA? If so, it's important to know how much it will cost you in terms of gas and toll fees. In this post, we'll break down the cost of driving using different routes so that you can plan accordingly.
Route 1: I-80 W
The first route we'll look at is taking I-80 W. This is the quickest route and stretches across the northern part of the country. The distance from Buffalo to Los Gatos is approximately 2,928 miles and will take you approximately 42 hours of driving time. The cost of gas will vary depending on the current price, but as of August 2021, the average cost per gallon is $3.19. With an estimated average of 27 miles per gallon, this trip will require approximately 108.4 gallons of gas, costing you approximately $345.86.
There are also some tolls to consider on this route. For example, Ohio Turnpike will cost you approximately $16.70, while the Indiana Toll Road will cost you approximately $9.70, bringing the total toll fee to $26.40.
Route 2: I-70 W
Another popular route is I-70 W, which takes you through the Midwest and Rockies. The total distance from Buffalo to Los Gatos using this route is approximately 3,460 miles, and the estimated driving time is approximately 49 hours. The cost of gas for this trip, using the same August 2021 gas prices, will be around $416.07, as you'll need an estimated 130.5 gallons of gas (with the same estimated average of 27 miles per gallon).
As for toll fees, expect to pay about $41.15 on this route, with the most expensive toll being the Pennsylvania Turnpike, which will cost you $24.35.
Route 3: I-90 W and I-80 W
The third and last route we'll look at takes you through the northern and central parts of the country. You'll start on I-90 W and travel down to I-80 W. This may be the longest route, but it offers scenic mountain views. The total distance is approximately 3,076 miles, with an estimated driving time of 44 hours. The cost of gas for this trip, based on August 2021 prices, will be around $369.23 for an estimated 115.6 gallons of gas (again with the same estimated average of 27 miles per gallon).
When it comes to toll fees, they'll cost you approximately $28.70, with the most expensive being the New York State Thruway, which will cost you $11.40.
Conclusion
Overall, driving to Los Gatos from Buffalo is far from a cheap trip, especially when you factor in the cost of gas and toll fees. Based on our research, the cheapest route will cost you approximately $372.26, while the most expensive route will cost you approximately $483.22. Nevertheless, taking a road trip is an adventure that should be enjoyed, so it's important to budget accordingly and not let these costs deter you from experiencing the journey of a lifetime.