Driving Cost from Des Moines, Iowa to Jefferson City, Missouri

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Budgeting Your Road Trip: Driving from Des Moines, Iowa to Jefferson City, Missouri

Planning a road trip can bring both excitement and a bit of stress, especially when it comes to budgeting for gas. If you're heading from Des Moines, Iowa, to Jefferson City, Missouri, it’s essential to understand how much this adventure will cost you. Let's break down a couple of popular routes, along with the distances, times, and gas expenses you can expect, all based on current gas prices.

Route 1: The I-35 & I-70 Route

The first option is to take I-35 S and I-70 E. This route is straightforward and generally preferred for its direct approach.

  • Distance: Approximately 205 miles
  • Time: Around 3 hours and 15 minutes
  • Gas Cost: With the average gas price hovering around $3.30 per gallon and your vehicle averaging about 25 miles per gallon, you'll spend roughly $26.40 on gas for this trip.

It's a scenic drive, especially as you cruise through the rolling hills of Missouri, making it pleasant for the eyes as well as the wallet!

Route 2: The US-63 Route

For a slightly longer journey, consider the US-63 S route. This route takes you through some beautiful countryside and charming small towns.

  • Distance: About 230 miles
  • Time: Roughly 4 hours
  • Gas Cost: At the same gas price of $3.30 per gallon, if you maintain a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, expect to spend around $30.60 on gas.

This route adds a little more travel time, but it might be worth it if you’re interested in exploring some local hotspots or taking a break in nature.

Additional Costs

Though both routes are primarily highway driving, keep in mind there might be minor tolls or unexpected expenses. The I-35 & I-70 route doesn’t have any tolls, while the US-63 route is also toll-free. However, it's always good to check the latest road conditions and potential detours.

Summary

To wrap things up, both routes from Des Moines to Jefferson City offer their unique flavors. Choosing the route that suits your style and budget will make your journey much more enjoyable. You can expect to pay between $26.40 and $30.60 on gas, depending on the road you choose. Regardless of which path you take, happy travels! Enjoy every moment of your trip!