The Cost of Driving From Carmel Valley, California to Portland, Oregon

Looking to plan a road trip from Carmel Valley, California to Portland, Oregon? Choosing the right route can make all the difference in driving costs. With current gas prices and tolls taken into account, we've outlined the most affordable and time-efficient routes for your journey.

Route 1: I-5N

The most direct route takes you north on Interstate 5, covering a distance of approximately 690 miles. The estimated travel time for this route is 11 hours and 30 minutes. At the current average gas price of $3.40 per gallon, the cost of gas for this trip would be approximately $120, assuming your car gets 25 miles per gallon.

Tolls are not a factor on this route.

Route 2: US-101N and I-5N

If you're looking for a scenic drive, taking US-101N will bring you along the Pacific coastline before rejoining I-5N. This route covers a distance of approximately 795 miles with an estimated travel time of 13 hours and 30 minutes. At the current average gas price of $3.40 per gallon, the cost of gas for this trip would be approximately $150, assuming your car gets 25 miles per gallon.

Tolls are not a factor on this route.

Route 3: I-5N and I-205N

For a slightly longer route but with less traffic, consider taking I-5N up to Portland and then taking I-205N. This route covers a distance of approximately 725 miles and has an estimated travel time of 12 hours and 30 minutes. At the current average gas price of $3.40 per gallon, the cost of gas for this trip would be approximately $130, assuming your car gets 25 miles per gallon.

Tolls on this route include the Portland-area bridge tolls, which can range from $2 to $20 depending on the bridge.

Route 4: US-101N, OR-22E, and I-5N

If you want to experience more of Oregon's scenery, another option is to take US-101N and then OR-22E over the Cascades before rejoining I-5N. This route covers a distance of approximately 805 miles with an estimated travel time of 14 hours. At the current average gas price of $3.40 per gallon, the cost of gas for this trip would be approximately $155, assuming your car gets 25 miles per gallon.

Tolls are not a factor on this route.

No matter which route you choose, it's important to account for the cost of gas, tolls (if applicable), and any necessary overnight stays. With these routes and costs in mind, you can easily plan and budget for your road trip from Carmel Valley to Portland. Happy travels!