The Cost of Driving From Charlotte, North Carolina to Key West, Florida

Are you planning a road trip from Charlotte, North Carolina to Key West, Florida? It's a fantastic idea! The open road, palm trees, and beautiful beaches await you. But before you hit the road, it's essential to budget for the trip. In this blog post, we'll break down the cost of driving to Key West based on current gas prices, toll fees, and different route options.

Route 1: The Coastal Adventure

Distance: 897 miles | Time: ~14 hours

If you're up for a scenic coastal drive, this route will be perfect for you. Starting from Charlotte, take I-77 South until you reach I-26 East near Columbia, South Carolina. Follow I-26 East until you reach I-95 South near Orangeburg. Continue on I-95 South until you finally arrive in Key West.

Gas prices along the way may vary, but on average, you can expect to pay around $2.50 per gallon. With an average gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon, you'll need approximately 36 gallons of gas for this route. So, the estimated cost for gas would be $90 (36 gallons x $2.50 per gallon). Additionally, be prepared to encounter tolls during this route, which can amount to around $25.

Route 2: The Inland Express

Distance: 775 miles | Time: ~12 hours

If you prefer a more direct route, the inland express option might be your best bet. Start from Charlotte and take I-85 South until you reach Atlanta, Georgia. From there, merge onto I-75 South and continue until you reach Florida's Turnpike. Once on the turnpike, head south until you reach Key West.

Again, the gas prices along this route will fluctuate, but estimating an average of $2.50 per gallon, you'll need approximately 31 gallons of gas given a 25-mile-per-gallon average. This means the estimated cost for gas would be around $77.50 (31 gallons x $2.50 per gallon). As for tolls, expect to pay approximately $20 throughout this route.

Route 3: The Quick Connection

Distance: 665 miles | Time: ~11 hours

For those seeking the fastest option, this route will get you to Key West in no time. Start from Charlotte and take I-85 South until you reach Atlanta, Georgia. From there, take I-185 South to Columbus, then merge onto US-319 South and continue until you reach the Florida state line. Follow FL-363 South until you reach I-10 West, then make your way onto US-231 South. Finally, merge onto US-231 South/I-10 West and follow it until you reach US-98 West, which will take you straight to Key West.

Using the same average gas prices mentioned earlier, you'll need around 27 gallons of gas for this route (27 gallons x $2.50 per gallon) equating to an estimated cost of $67.50. As for tolls, anticipate spending approximately $15 for this route.

Whichever route you choose, please remember that gas prices and toll fees can fluctuate, so it's always a good idea to check for current gas prices and toll fees before you hit the road.

Now that you have a clearer picture of the different routes, distances, time estimates, and costs involved, you can plan your road trip to Key West accordingly. Safe travels and enjoy your amazing adventure from Charlotte, North Carolina, to the dreamy beaches of Key West, Florida!