The Cost of a Trip between Burbank and Walnut: A Comparison Based on Current Gas Prices

If you’re heading from Burbank to Walnut in California, you’re in for a journey full of beautiful scenery and the hustle and bustle of city life. However, like any trip, the cost of getting there can add up. In this article, we’ll break down the different routes you can take and weigh the cost and distance. We’ll also recommend the best route based on current gas prices.

Possible Routes

There are a few different ways to get from Burbank to Walnut, and each route has its own pros and cons. Here are three commonly used routes:

Route 1: I-210 E and CA-57 S (Distance: 35.2 miles)

This is the most straightforward route, taking the I-210 E and CA-57 S for the entire trip. You’ll start in Burbank and head eastward to Pasadena. Once you hit Pasadena, you’ll take the CA-57 S and drive until you reach Walnut. Although this is the shortest distance, it can add up in gas cost and time due to traffic.

Route 2: I-5 S and CA-60 E (Distance: 48.6 miles)

Another option is to start on I-5 S and then switch onto CA-60 E. This route takes you through downtown Los Angeles, offering some beautiful views of the cityscape. However, it’s longer than the previous route and can take more time due to traffic.

Route 3: CA-134 E and I-210 E (Distance: 39.3 miles)

This route includes taking CA-134 E until you reach Pasadena. Once you’re in Pasadena, you’ll take I-210 E and then transfer to CA-57 S until you reach Walnut. This route will take you through the San Rafael Hills and gives you a glimpse of stunning mountain views. However, it can also be longer and potentially more expensive than the other options.

Cost and Distance Comparison

To compare the different routes, we will use data from GasBuddy’s Trip Cost Calculator, which takes into account the distance of the journey and current average gas prices.

Route 1: I-210 E and CA-57 S

Based on current gas prices in the Burbank area, the cost of gas for this trip would be approximately $4.66. With a distance of 35.2 miles, the total cost for the trip, assuming a car with a fuel economy of 25 MPG, would be around $5.92.

Route 2: I-5 S and CA-60 E

With a distance of 48.6 miles, the second route is significantly longer than the first. This distance coupled with current gas prices could mean you are spending more in gas to make the journey. The cost of gas for this trip would be around $6.63. GasBuddy estimates the total cost for the trip, assuming a car with a fuel economy of 25 MPG, would be approximately $8.48.

Route 3: CA-134 E and I-210 E

The third route, through the San Rafael Hills, has a distance of 39.3 miles. The cost of gas for this trip would be about $5.25. Based on GasBuddy’s estimates and assuming a car with a fuel economy of 25 MPG, the total cost for the trip would be around $6.70.

The Best Route

As Orange County Financial Adviser, Satya (2019) notes, the best route for your journey is dependent on the individual traveler’s preference for time spent driving and expense. Based purely on cost data, the first route with a trip cost of $5.92 would be the most cost-efficient.

However, if a shorter time in the car is of higher importance, the third route, which would have you traveling through the San Rafael Hills, would be the better option. If you’re looking to take the longer route with some impressive views of downtown LA, then the second route may be the best choice.

Ultimately, the best route is up to the individual traveler's needs and preferences.

Conclusion

So, there you have it. Three possible routes to get from Burbank to Walnut, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The most cost-effective route is the first route, the shortest distance between the two locations. If you prefer a scenic route or want to avoid traffic congestion, then the second route or the third route may be a better option. Regardless of which route you take, the trip is sure to be filled with stunning sights and enjoyable experiences fitting of a Californian road trip.