Driving Cost from Dallas, Texas to McAllen, Texas

A picture depicting a gas pump

Driving From Dallas to McAllen: How Much Will It Cost You?

Planning a road trip from Dallas to McAllen? Great choice! This route not only offers beautiful Texas scenery but also an opportunity to explore various towns along the way. However, before you hit the road, let’s break down the costs based on current gas prices and tolls.

Route 1: The I-35 S Route

The first and most popular route is via I-35 S. This route is direct and relatively easy to navigate.

  • Distance: approximately 600 miles
  • Time: around 8 hours
  • Gas Cost: With gas prices averaging around $3.50 per gallon and a vehicle that gets about 25 miles per gallon, you’ll need about 24 gallons of gas for the trip. This totals to roughly $84 for gas.
  • Toll Costs: If you choose to take the NTTA toll road for a quicker journey, anticipate an additional cost of about $15.

In total, your estimated cost for this route would be around $99.

Route 2: The I-45 S and US-77 S Route

Another viable option is the I-45 S and US-77 S route. This route takes you through some lovely Texas countryside and is slightly less direct.

  • Distance: about 620 miles
  • Time: approximately 8.5 hours
  • Gas Cost: Following the same gas calculations as before, you will use about 25 gallons of gas costing you roughly $87.50.
  • Toll Costs: Avoiding major toll roads on this route can save you some money, as this option generally has lower toll usage. Thus, you may only encounter about $5 in tolls.

So, your total cost for this route would be approximately $92.50.

Route 3: The Scenic Route via TX-36 S

If you have a bit more time and want to enjoy some scenic views, consider taking the TX-36 S route.

  • Distance: around 650 miles
  • Time: about 9 hours
  • Gas Cost: Using the same calculations, expect to spend about $91 on gas, as you’ll need around 26 gallons at the current gas price.
  • Toll Costs: This route is mostly toll-free, so you may not incur any toll costs.

In summary, driving this scenic route would cost you about $91.

Final Thoughts

Regardless of which route you choose, the drive from Dallas to McAllen can be an enjoyable adventure! With costs ranging from $91 to $99, you have affordable options based on your preferences. Always check the latest gas prices and toll rates before your trip, as these can fluctuate. So, pack your bags, grab some snacks, and enjoy the ride! Happy travels!