Driving Cost from Davenport, Iowa to Murfreesboro, Tennessee

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The Cost of a Road Trip: Davenport, Iowa to Murfreesboro, Tennessee Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip can often involve juggling schedules, sightseeing, and budgeting, but one of the most critical components to keep in mind is the cost of travel. When embarking on a journey from Davenport, Iowa, to Murfreesboro, Tennessee, gas prices, distances covered, and the routes taken all significantly influence your overall expenses. This article explores possible routes, evaluating their costs, distances, and times to help you find the most economical path for your journey.

Understanding the Basics

Before we delve into the specifics, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with some key information. Davenport, Iowa, sits in the Quad Cities, while Murfreesboro, Tennessee, lies just southeast of Nashville. The distance between the two cities is approximately 460 to 480 miles, depending on the chosen route. According to current gas prices—averaging around $3.50 per gallon—understanding the routes and calculating your fuel costs is vital for budget-conscious travel.

Route Options

Two primary routes typically offer the best balance of distance and travel time between Davenport and Murfreesboro. Below, we’ll explore these options in detail.

Route 1: I-74 S and I-65 S

Distance: Approximately 460 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 7 hours
Approximate Gas Cost: $55.50 (based on 25 MPG)

This route takes you through scenic areas of Illinois and Indiana before heading south into Kentucky and Tennessee. Here’s a breakdown of the journey:

  1. Depart from Davenport, taking I-74 S.
  2. Merge onto I-65 S, which leads straight into Nashville.
  3. Exiting to reach Murfreesboro via local roads.

Cost Analysis

Calculating the gas cost involves estimating your vehicle's miles per gallon (MPG). For instance, if your vehicle averages 25 MPG, you will require approximately 18.4 gallons of gas for a 460-mile trip. Multiplying that by the gas price of $3.50 results in an estimated cost of $64.40. However, this varies based on the actual MPG, driving habits, and stops.

Route 2: I-80 E and I-65 S

Distance: Approximately 480 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 7 hours 30 minutes
Approximate Gas Cost: $63.60 (based on 25 MPG)

This alternate route takes travelers further east before descending into Tennessee. Here’s how it breaks down:

  1. Start on I-80 E from Davenport, then merge onto I-74 S.
  2. Continue along I-65 S towards Nashville.
  3. Exit onto local roads to reach Murfreesboro.

Cost Analysis

Following the same MPG and gas price calculations as above, this route costs about $67.20 in fuel, making it a slightly more expensive option due to the extra miles. The additional time on the road also potentially adds costs in terms of food and other travel necessities.

Choosing the Best Route

When choosing between Route 1 and Route 2, consider both cost and time. Route 1, which is shorter in distance and takes about 30 minutes less travel time, offers a more economical option, coming in at an estimated $64.40. Route 2’s additional distance and time contribute to a higher fuel cost estimate of around $67.20.

Factors Beyond Mileage

While cost and distance are critical in decision-making, don’t forget other factors that might influence your route choice. Traffic conditions, weather forecasts, and rest stop locations all play a role in the overall experience. Route 1 offers substantial opportunities for pit stops at various attractions and dining options along I-65.

Additional Expenses

Consider additional expenses beyond gas. Here are some potential costs you might encounter:

  • Food: Depending on the length of the trip, expect to spend between $20 and $40 per person on meals. If you stop for three meals on a one-day trip, this can add up quickly.

  • Lodging: If you plan on breaking the trip into two days, factor in hotel costs, which typically range from $75 to $150 per night.

  • Tolls: Ensure to check if your chosen route involves toll roads. Some drivers might encounter tolls on I-74 in Illinois.

Attractions: If you plan to stop and see local attractions or neighborhoods along the way, consider budgeting a little extra for admission costs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the trip from Davenport, Iowa to Murfreesboro, Tennessee offers two viable route options, each with different costs and travel times. The I-74 S to I-65 S route stands out as the best choice, offering a shorter distance of about 460 miles and estimated gas costs of approximately $64.40. Overall, plan for a travel time of roughly 7 hours, not accounting for additional stops or delays. Whether traveling for leisure or business, understanding the costs involved will ensure a smoother and more enjoyable journey.