Driving Cost from Deltona, Florida to Merritt Island, Florida

A picture depicting a gas pump

Estimating the Cost of a Trip from Deltona to Merritt Island, Florida Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip in Florida can be both exciting and daunting, particularly when it comes to understanding the costs involved. Traveling from Deltona to Merritt Island offers picturesque views and plenty of opportunities to explore. However, before hitting the road, it's essential to consider gas prices, distances, and possible routes to ensure a smooth journey. In this article, we'll break down the various routes, their costs, and suggest the best path to take for your trip.

Understanding Gas Prices

As of now, the average gas price in Florida hovers around $3.50 per gallon, but it can fluctuate based on location and market dynamics. Let's assume your vehicle averages 25 miles per gallon (mpg), a reasonable estimate for many cars today. Given this information, you can easily calculate your expected gas costs for the trip.

Calculating Gas Costs

  1. Distance Calculation: The distance between Deltona and Merritt Island is approximately 50 miles, depending on your selected route.
  2. Gas Consumption: With a fuel efficiency of 25 mpg, you will consume about 2 gallons of gas for the one-way trip.
  3. Cost of Gas: At $3.50 per gallon * 2 gallons, your estimated gas cost for a one-way trip is approximately $7.00. Round trip, that would double to about $14.00.

Understanding these fundamental calculations gives you a clearer picture of the monetary investment required to complete your journey.

Route Options from Deltona to Merritt Island

Deltona, positioned in Volusia County, offers various routes to Merritt Island, a barrier island located in Brevard County. Here are three popular routes, highlighting their distances and estimated travel times.

Route 1: FL-408 E and I-95 S

  • Distance: Approximately 52 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: About 1 hour
  • Cost: Approximately $14.00 round trip

This route takes you along the FL-408 E through Orlando, a major highway that connects you swiftly to the I-95 S. This route is relatively traffic-efficient but may experience delays during peak travel hours due to its proximity to Orlando.

Route 2: FL-46 E to I-95 S

  • Distance: Approximately 54 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: About 1 hour and 10 minutes
  • Cost: Approximately $14.00 round trip

Taking FL-46 E leads you through the scenic landscapes of East Volusia and into the less populated areas of Brevard County before merging onto I-95 S. This route offers a nice balance of urban and rural scenery but may add ten extra minutes compared to Route 1.

Route 3: US-1 S

  • Distance: Approximately 60 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: About 1 hour and 30 minutes
  • Cost: Approximately $16.80 round trip

If you prefer a longer scenic drive, you might consider US-1 S which takes you along the Indian River Lagoon. This route features beautiful waterfront views and unique stops but adds extra time and distance to your journey.

Considering the distances, travel times, and overall scenic experience, Route 1: FL-408 E and I-95 S stands out as the best choice. It strikes an excellent balance between efficiency and cost-effectiveness, allowing you to reach Merritt Island quickly while minimizing fuel expenses.

Additional Costs to Consider

While gas may be the most significant expense for your road trip, additional costs could arise. Here are a few factors to consider:

Tolls

The FL-408 E might incur toll charges, which can add anywhere from $0.50 to $3.00 depending on your starting point and route choice. Keep this in mind when budgeting for your trip.

Food and Beverages

Depending on your travel schedule, you may want to factor in the cost of meals or snacks on the road. Budget an additional $10 to $20 per person if you plan to stop for food, especially if you're traveling with a family.

Attractions and Activities

Merritt Island offers numerous attractions such as the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge and the Kennedy Space Center. Entrance fees may apply, so budget accordingly if you plan to stop and enjoy these experiences.

Conclusion

Traveling from Deltona, Florida, to Merritt Island provides an enjoyable experience awash with scenic views and charming surroundings. By taking Route 1, you complete the journey in approximately 1 hour, making it the fastest and most cost-effective option. Expect to pay around $14.00 for the round trip with an additional budget for tolls, food, and attractions. Overall, the combination of swift travel and beautiful landscapes makes this trip a must-do for anyone looking to explore Florida's East Coast.