Understanding the Costs of a Trip from Dallas, Texas to Rowlett, Texas Based on Current Gas Prices
Traveling between Dallas and Rowlett, two prominent cities located in the heart of Texas, is a journey that many residents undertake frequently. With current gas prices fluctuating, it is essential to understand the costs involved in making the trip. This article breaks down the different routes available, their distances, costs based on gas prices, and provides recommendations for the best route.
Overview of the Trip
The distance between Dallas and Rowlett is approximately 20 miles when traveling by car. This relatively short jaunt makes for an average drive time of about 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. As of October 2023, the average gas price in Texas hovers around $3.30 per gallon. Given that the trip is brief, planning can maximize your efficiency and minimize your costs.
Route Options
When planning your trip from Dallas to Rowlett, several routes are available. Below are a few options, detailing their distances, approximate travel times, and fuel costs.
Route 1: via I-30 E
- Distance: 20 miles
- Estimated Time: 30-35 minutes
- Fuel Cost: Approximately $2.64
This route takes you via Interstate 30 East. You start on Interstate 35E and merge onto I-30 E, which leads directly to Rowlett. This route offers a comfortable drive and, given its relatively short distance, maintains a decent speed provided there is minimal traffic.
To calculate the fuel cost, assume your vehicle has an average mileage of 24 miles per gallon (MPG). Dividing the total distance by the MPG yields approximately 0.83 gallons of fuel required for the trip. Multiplying by the current gas price of $3.30 provides a total estimated fuel cost of about $2.64.
Route 2: via Lyndon B Johnson Freeway (I-635 E)
- Distance: 22 miles
- Estimated Time: 35-40 minutes
- Fuel Cost: Approximately $2.75
Another option involves taking Lyndon B Johnson Freeway, also known as I-635 E. This route is a little longer but still a straightforward option. You can take exit 12A to merge onto I-30 E toward Greenville and continue until you reach Rowlett.
If you calculate the fuel cost for this route, it similarly requires a bit more fuel due to the additional mileage. Again, with an MPG of 24, you would need approximately 0.92 gallons for the trip. Thus, multiplying by the gas price gives you a total cost of about $2.75.
Route 3: via PGBT (President George Bush Turnpike)
- Distance: 24 miles
- Estimated Time: 40-45 minutes (includes potential tolls)
- Fuel Cost: Approximately $2.94
The President George Bush Turnpike (PGBT) is another alternative route. The PGBT might be appealing for drivers hoping to avoid stop-and-go traffic typical of the downtown areas. However, it does include tolls that could add additional costs, depending on the time of day.
In terms of fuel usage, you would require slightly more gas than the previous routes due to the extra distance. Following the same calculations, you would need about 1.00 gallon, leading to an estimated fuel cost of about $3.30.
Evaluating the Costs of Each Route
Crime rates, construction zones, and weather conditions can generally affect travel times and the overall experience of a trip. In light of our current $3.30 per gallon gas prices, driving efficiency and route choice are crucial to minimizing fuel expenses.
| Route | Distance | Estimated Time | Fuel Cost Estimation |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-30 E | 20 miles | 30-35 minutes | $2.64 |
| I-635 E | 22 miles | 35-40 minutes | $2.75 |
| PGBT (via toll) | 24 miles | 40-45 minutes | $2.94 |
Recommended Route
After analyzing the different options, the best route from Dallas to Rowlett is the I-30 E option. It offers the shortest distance and travel time, resulting in the lowest fuel cost. This route allows you to experience a seamless journey, while saving both time and money.
Conclusion
Your upcoming trip between Dallas and Rowlett showcases a blend of convenience and affordability. The best route, via I-30 E, spans approximately 20 miles and takes around 30-35 minutes, ensuring you arrive at your destination without fuss. Given the current gas prices of about $3.30 per gallon, you can expect to spend around $2.64 on fuel for this journey. Overall, planning your route not only leads to efficiency in travel but also keeps your travel budget in check. Safe travels!