Driving Cost from Deltona, Florida to Eddyville, Kentucky

A picture depicting a gas pump

Understanding the Cost of a Road Trip from Deltona, Florida to Eddyville, Kentucky: The Impact of Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip from Deltona, Florida to Eddyville, Kentucky can be exciting yet daunting. Besides figuring out the best route, one of the main concerns will be the cost of fuel, especially with fluctuating gas prices. This article will cover the distance and cost of various routes available, factoring in current gas prices, and help you identify the most economical option for your adventure.

Overview of the Trip

Deltona, located in central Florida, is known for its beautiful parks and proximity to the Atlantic coast. Eddyville, on the other hand, lies in the picturesque region of western Kentucky, boasting access to recreational activities, including those around Kentucky Lake. The journey between these two locations spans approximately 635 miles, depending on the route you choose.

Current Gas Prices

Before diving into the various routes available, it’s essential to understand the current gas prices that can significantly affect the trip's overall cost. As of October 2023, the national average gas price hovers around $3.42 per gallon. Keep in mind that prices may vary based on local conditions, fuel quality, and specific station pricing.

Estimating Fuel Efficiency

To calculate expenses more effectively, you must consider your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. For the sake of this article, assume an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon (mpg). This number is realistic for many sedans, though larger vehicles, like SUVs or trucks, may achieve lower mileage.

Route Options and Their Costs

When driving from Deltona to Eddyville, you can choose between several different routes. Below, we will explore three popular routes along with their distances and estimated fuel costs.

Route 1: I-75 N Route

  • Distance: Approximately 635 miles
  • Estimated Time: 9 hours and 45 minutes
  • Route: Take US-17 N from Deltona, merge onto I-4 W, then connect to I-75 N at Wildwood, following I-75 north through Florida, Georgia, and into Kentucky.

Cost Calculation:

  1. Total Mileage: 635 miles
  2. Fuel Efficiency: 25 mpg
  3. Total Gallons: 635 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 25.4 gallons
  4. Fuel Price: $3.42 per gallon
  5. Total Fuel Cost: 25.4 gallons × $3.42 = $87.19

Route 2: I-10 W and I-65 N Route

  • Distance: Approximately 675 miles
  • Estimated Time: 10 hours and 30 minutes
  • Route: Start by taking US-17 N from Deltona, then merge onto I-4 W, followed by I-10 W. Get on I-65 N at Montgomery targeting Nashville before heading west to Eddyville.

Cost Calculation:

  1. Total Mileage: 675 miles
  2. Fuel Efficiency: 25 mpg
  3. Total Gallons: 675 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 27 gallons
  4. Fuel Price: $3.42 per gallon
  5. Total Fuel Cost: 27 gallons × $3.42 = $92.34

Route 3: US-231 N Route

  • Distance: Approximately 660 miles
  • Estimated Time: 10 hours
  • Route: Start out with US-17 N, continue on I-4 W, and then follow US-231 N up through the scenic terrain of the southeastern U.S. before reaching Eddyville.

Cost Calculation:

  1. Total Mileage: 660 miles
  2. Fuel Efficiency: 25 mpg
  3. Total Gallons: 660 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 26.4 gallons
  4. Fuel Price: $3.42 per gallon
  5. Total Fuel Cost: 26.4 gallons × $3.42 = $90.17

Summary of Costs and Recommendations

When weighing the costs based on the three potential routes:

  • I-75 N Route: $87.19
  • I-10 W and I-65 N Route: $92.34
  • US-231 N Route: $90.17

Clearly, the I-75 N Route emerges as the most economical option, saving you about $5.00 compared to the next least expensive route.

Additional Expenses

While fuel will likely be your largest expense, consider potential additional costs, such as:

  • Tolls: Depending on the chosen route, you may face toll costs, especially if traveling through urban areas.
  • Food: Meals on the road can add up. Consider packing snacks and drinks to save money.
  • Accommodation: If you plan to split the trip over two days, factor in lodging costs. Budget options can help minimize this expense.
  • Attractions: If you stop along the way for sightseeing or dining, budget for those experiences as well.

Conclusion

The trip from Deltona, Florida to Eddyville, Kentucky offers various routes to fit your preferences and budget. Based on the current gas prices and estimated fuel costs, choosing the I-75 N route proves to be the most economical choice, with a fuel cost of approximately $87.19. The journey takes around 9 hours and 45 minutes of driving time, allowing plenty of opportunities to enjoy the sights along the way. Overall, the road trip is not only a chance to explore, but it also presents an opportunity to save money while traveling.