Cost Analysis for a Road Trip from Davenport, Iowa to Stonecrest, Georgia Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a road trip can be exhilarating yet challenging. One of the most critical aspects of any journey is understanding the costs involved, especially when it comes to fuel expenses. In this article, we will explore various routes from Davenport, Iowa, to Stonecrest, Georgia, evaluate the distance, estimate fuel costs based on current gas prices, and identify the best route for your trip.
Overview of the Route
The distance between Davenport, Iowa, and Stonecrest, Georgia, is approximately 590 miles, depending on the route taken. Each route offers unique landscapes, attractions, and potential delays, which can affect travel time and fuel consumption. As of now, the average gas price in the United States is around $3.60 per gallon; however, this can fluctuate based on location and time. For this analysis, we will estimate fuel costs assuming a vehicle that averages 25 miles per gallon (MPG).
Route Options
Route 1: I-80 E to I-75 S
Distance: ~590 miles
Estimated Travel Time: ~8 hours
Take Interstate 80 East from Davenport, then merge onto Interstate 75 South via I-75 S toward Atlanta, Georgia. This route passes through cities like Peoria, Illinois; Louisville, Kentucky; and ultimately Atlanta before heading east to Stonecrest.
Cost Estimation:
- Total mileage: 590 miles
- Gasoline consumption: 590 miles / 25 MPG = 23.6 gallons
- Total fuel cost: 23.6 gallons x $3.60/gallon = $85.00
Route 2: I-74 E to I-65 S to I-85 S
Distance: ~640 miles
Estimated Travel Time: ~9 hours
Begin your trip by taking Interstate 74 East before merging with Interstate 65 South, which will lead you to Interstate 85 South. This route takes you through Indiana and down through the Central Alabama region before reaching Stonecrest.
Cost Estimation:
- Total mileage: 640 miles
- Gasoline consumption: 640 miles / 25 MPG = 25.6 gallons
- Total fuel cost: 25.6 gallons x $3.60/gallon = $92.16
Route 3: I-80 E to I-75 S via I-285
Distance: ~605 miles
Estimated Travel Time: ~8.5 hours
Start on I-80 East and connect to I-75 South through the scenic route of Atlanta. Before arriving in Stonecrest, you will circle around I-285, which offers a glimpse of beautiful Atlanta views. This route is slightly longer in terms of distance but gives you opportunities to explore the areas around Atlanta.
Cost Estimation:
- Total mileage: 605 miles
- Gasoline consumption: 605 miles / 25 MPG = 24.2 gallons
- Total fuel cost: 24.2 gallons x $3.60/gallon = $87.12
Route 4: I-280 S to I-65 S to I-85 S (Scenic)
Distance: ~670 miles
Estimated Travel Time: ~10 hours
Begin this route by taking I-280 South, eventually merging with I-65 South toward Montgomery, Alabama. Following this scenic route leads you to Stonecrest through beautiful landscapes, especially around the Alabama countryside.
Cost Estimation:
- Total mileage: 670 miles
- Gasoline consumption: 670 miles / 25 MPG = 26.8 gallons
- Total fuel cost: 26.8 gallons x $3.60/gallon = $96.48
Comparison of Costs and Recommendations
| Route | Distance | Estimated Travel Time | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-80 E to I-75 S | 590 miles | ~8 hours | $85.00 |
| I-74 E to I-65 S to I-85 S | 640 miles | ~9 hours | $92.16 |
| I-80 E to I-75 S via I-285 | 605 miles | ~8.5 hours | $87.12 |
| I-280 S to I-65 S to I-85 S (Scenic) | 670 miles | ~10 hours | $96.48 |
After analyzing the routes based on both distance and fuel cost, Route 1 (I-80 E to I-75 S) emerges as the best choice. It offers the shortest driving distance at 590 miles and the lowest estimated gas cost at $85.00. This option also allows for a reasonable travel time of about 8 hours, minimizing time spent on the road while maximizing value for your money.
Conclusion
Traveling from Davenport, Iowa, to Stonecrest, Georgia, offers a mixture of scenic views, cultural experiences, and the excitement of a long drive. The recommended route via I-80 E to I-75 S is not only the shortest but also the most cost-effective, taking approximately 8 hours and costing around $85 in gas. Whether you are traveling solo or with family, this road trip provides an excellent opportunity to explore the heart of America while making lasting memories.