The Cost of a Trip from Denton, Texas to Frankston, Texas: An In-Depth Analysis

Planning a road trip from Denton, Texas, to Frankston, Texas, can be an exciting adventure. However, understanding the costs involved, especially in today's fluctuating gas prices, plays a vital role in shaping your travel plans. This article dives into various routes you can take, the associated costs based on current gas prices, and recommends the best option for your journey.

Understanding the Basics

Before discussing the routes and costs, let’s establish the distance between Denton and Frankston. The cities are approximately 115 miles apart, making them accessible via a couple of different routes. The primary factors contributing to the cost of your trip will be gas prices, your vehicle's fuel efficiency, and potential toll costs.

Current Gas Prices

As of now, gas prices in Texas average around $3.20 per gallon. This average can fluctuate, so it’s always wise to check local prices before hitting the road. For the purposes of this analysis, we'll use this average rate for calculated costs.

Vehicle Mileage

The costs incurred during your trip will depend significantly on your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. To provide accurate cost estimations, consider these average fuel efficiency rates:

Fuel-Efficient Vehicle (30 MPG): Commonly a compact car that uses less fuel.
Standard Vehicle (25 MPG): Typically, mid-sized sedans or SUVs.
Larger Vehicle (20 MPG): Full-sized SUVs or trucks.

Using these averages, we will break down the costs based on different routes.

Route Options

Route 1: I-35E to US-175 E

Distance: Approximately 115 miles
Estimated Drive Time: About 2 hours

Journey Overview: Start on I-35E South, then transition to US-175 E through Dallas, and finally connect to TX-155 N towards Frankston.
Cost Calculation:
- Fuel for 30 MPG Vehicle:
  - Total gallons needed: 115 miles ÷ 30 MPG = 3.83 gallons
  - Total cost: 3.83 gallons × $3.20 = $12.26
- Fuel for 25 MPG Vehicle:
  - Total gallons needed: 115 miles ÷ 25 MPG = 4.6 gallons
  - Total cost: 4.6 gallons × $3.20 = $14.72
- Fuel for 20 MPG Vehicle:
  - Total gallons needed: 115 miles ÷ 20 MPG = 5.75 gallons
  - Total cost: 5.75 gallons × $3.20 = $18.40

Notes: Expect moderate traffic especially around Dallas. This route is direct but can be busy during rush hours.

Route 2: Alternate Route via US-75 S

Distance: Approximately 127 miles
Estimated Drive Time: About 2 hours and 10 minutes

Journey Overview: Take I-35E to US-75 S toward Corsicana, and then merge onto TX-155 N to Frankston.
Cost Calculation:
- Fuel for 30 MPG Vehicle:
  - Total gallons needed: 127 miles ÷ 30 MPG = 4.23 gallons
  - Total cost: 4.23 gallons × $3.20 = $13.54
- Fuel for 25 MPG Vehicle:
  - Total gallons needed: 127 miles ÷ 25 MPG = 5.08 gallons
  - Total cost: 5.08 gallons × $3.20 = $16.24
- Fuel for 20 MPG Vehicle:
  - Total gallons needed: 127 miles ÷ 20 MPG = 6.35 gallons
  - Total cost: 6.35 gallons × $3.20 = $20.32

Notes: This route is slightly longer and can involve more rural traffic but is generally less congested.

Route 3: TX-175 W via I-20 E

Distance: Approximately 125 miles
Estimated Drive Time: About 2 hours and 5 minutes

Journey Overview: Depart from Denton on I-35E, then merge onto I-20 E, followed by TX-155 N towards Frankston.
Cost Calculation:
- Fuel for 30 MPG Vehicle:
  - Total gallons needed: 125 miles ÷ 30 MPG = 4.17 gallons
  - Total cost: 4.17 gallons × $3.20 = $13.38
- Fuel for 25 MPG Vehicle:
  - Total gallons needed: 125 miles ÷ 25 MPG = 5 gallons
  - Total cost: 5 gallons × $3.20 = $16.00
- Fuel for 20 MPG Vehicle:
  - Total gallons needed: 125 miles ÷ 20 MPG = 6.25 gallons
  - Total cost: 6.25 gallons × $3.20 = $20.00

Notes: This an alternative route that may provide a picturesque view and a calming drive through East Texas.

Cost Summary for the Best Route

After analyzing the costs associated with each route, Route 1 (I-35E to US-175 E) stands out as the best option due to its direct distance and reasonable fuel costs.

Summary of Costs for Route 1

Vehicle Type	Total Cost
Fuel-Efficient (30 MPG)	$12.26
Standard (25 MPG)	$14.72
Larger (20 MPG)	$18.40

Conclusion

Traveling from Denton, Texas, to Frankston, Texas, with a focus on cost-efficiency, takes about 2 hours using Route 1 (I-35E to US-175 E). This route balances distance, travel time, and economical fuel costs. Depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency, you could spend anywhere from $12.26 to $18.40 on gas alone. As you embark on this journey, consider checking real-time traffic conditions to enhance your travel experience. Safe travels!