Driving Cost from Des Moines, Iowa to Kentwood, Michigan

A picture depicting a gas pump

How Much Will It Cost to Drive From Des Moines, Iowa to Kentwood, Michigan Based on Current Gas Prices?

Planning a road trip from Des Moines, Iowa, to Kentwood, Michigan? It's always exciting to hit the open road, but it's essential to consider the cost of travel, especially gas prices. Currently, the average gas price in Iowa hovers around $3.00 per gallon, and Michigan isn’t far behind at about $3.25 per gallon. With that in mind, let's explore a couple of different routes for your trip, taking into account the distance, time, and cost.

Route 1: I-80 E to I-69 N

This popular route stretches about 325 miles and typically takes around 5 hours without traffic. First, you’ll hop on I-80 E, then switch to I-69 N as you approach Michigan. This route offers a straightforward drive through scenic landscapes, with several rest stops along the way.

Cost Breakdown

  • Distance: 325 miles
  • Time: 5 hours
  • Gas Cost: Based on an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you will need approximately 13 gallons of gas. At an average price of $3.00 per gallon, your total gas cost will be around $39.00.
  • Toll Costs: Thankfully, this route doesn’t have any significant tolls.

So, if you take this route, you'd likely spend about $39.00 in gas, making it a budget-friendly option!

Route 2: I-35 N to I-96 E

Another fun route is to take I-35 N, connecting to I-96 E as you near Grand Rapids. This journey is slightly longer, covering 360 miles and taking about 5 hours and 30 minutes to drive. This path features more highways and can add some interesting views along the way.

Cost Breakdown

  • Distance: 360 miles
  • Time: 5 hours and 30 minutes
  • Gas Cost: With a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you’ll use about 14.4 gallons of gas. At $3.00 per gallon, you should expect to spend approximately $43.20 on gas.
  • Toll Costs: Similar to the first route, this option does not require any major toll fees.

By choosing this route, your total gas expenditure will be approximately $43.20.

Conclusion

In summary, while both routes from Des Moines to Kentwood are relatively similar in time, your total gas costs will differ. The I-80 E to I-69 N route will set you back around $39.00, whereas the I-35 N to I-96 E path will cost approximately $43.20.

No matter which route you choose, driving through the Midwest always holds its own charm. With a bit of planning, you can enjoy a picturesque trip while keeping your expenses in check. Happy travels!