The Cost of a Trip Between Cedar Rapids, Iowa and Minneapolis, Minnesota: A Guide to the Best Route to Take Based on Current Gas Prices

Are you planning a trip from Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Minneapolis, Minnesota and wondering about the cost and the best route to take? This guide will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision based on current gas prices.

Possible Routes

There are two main routes to get from Cedar Rapids to Minneapolis:

Route 1: I-35

The first possible route is to take I-35, which is the most direct route and covers a distance of about 249 miles. This route takes you through Albert Lea and Owatonna before arriving in Minneapolis.

Route 2: US-52 and I-90

The second possible route is to take US-52 and I-90, which is slightly longer at 276 miles. This route takes you through Rochester and Winona before arriving in Minneapolis.

Cost of Each Route

The cost of the trip will depend on several factors, including the distance of the route, the efficiency of your vehicle, and the current gas prices.

According to GasBuddy, the current average gas price in Cedar Rapids is $2.93 per gallon, while in Minneapolis it is $2.96 per gallon.

Route 1: I-35

Assuming an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, we can calculate the cost of the trip using the following formula:

Cost = (Distance ÷ Miles per Gallon) × Gas Price

Using this formula, the cost of the trip from Cedar Rapids to Minneapolis via I-35 would be:

(249 ÷ 25) × 2.93 = $29.05

Route 2: US-52 and I-90

Using the same formula and assuming the same fuel efficiency, the cost of the trip from Cedar Rapids to Minneapolis via US-52 and I-90 would be:

(276 ÷ 25) × 2.93 = $32.24

As you can see, the cost of the trip via I-35 is slightly cheaper than via US-52 and I-90.

Best Route

Based on cost and efficiency, the best route to take from Cedar Rapids to Minneapolis would be via I-35. Not only is it slightly shorter, but it is also cheaper, with estimated fuel costs of $29.05 compared to $32.24 via US-52 and I-90.

However, it is important to note that other factors such as road conditions, traffic, and personal preferences may also influence which route you choose to take.

Conclusion

In summary, the cost of a trip from Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Minneapolis, Minnesota will depend on several factors, including the distance of the route, the efficiency of your vehicle, and the current gas prices.

Based on current gas prices, the most cost-effective and efficient route would be via I-35, with an estimated fuel cost of $29.05. It is, however, important to consider other factors when planning your trip, such as road conditions and traffic.

Ultimately, whichever route you choose, the journey from Cedar Rapids to Minneapolis should take around four to five hours, depending on traffic conditions along the way.