Driving Cost from Downtown Kansas City, Missouri to St. Louis, Missouri

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of Driving from Downtown Kansas City to St. Louis: What You Need to Know

Planning a drive from Downtown Kansas City, Missouri to St. Louis, Missouri? It’s an exciting journey that can take you through some beautiful stretches of the Show-Me State. In this blog post, we will break down the costs, routes, and travel times so you can hit the road without any surprises. With gas prices fluctuating, let’s dive right into the details!

Route 1: I-70 East

Distance: Approximately 250 miles
Time: About 3 hours and 45 minutes
Estimated Gas Cost: $35 (based on current gas prices of $3.50 per gallon)

Taking I-70 East is the most direct route to St. Louis from Kansas City. This highway provides a smooth drive, weaving through small towns and beautiful countryside. With a fuel-efficient vehicle, you’ll average about 25 miles per gallon, consuming around ten gallons of gas for this trip.

While you won’t encounter any tolls on this route, don’t forget to factor in any rest stops or snacks along the way. Overall, it’s a straightforward journey, perfect for a solo adventure or a family trip!

Route 2: I-44 South

Distance: Approximately 290 miles
Time: About 4 hours and 30 minutes
Estimated Gas Cost: $42 (gas prices at $3.50 per gallon)

If you’re looking for a scenic drive, take I-44 South, which might be a bit longer but offers some charming views. This route will take you through Joplin and other delightful towns along the way. However, you’ll spend more on gas for this trip, averaging around 12 gallons, making it more costly than I-70.

Don’t forget, you may encounter a couple of small tolls along I-44, totaling approximately $3.50. Even with the extra time and cost, the picturesque landscapes might be a worthy trade-off for those who appreciate a scenic detour.

Route 3: US-40 East

Distance: Approximately 260 miles
Time: About 4 hours
Estimated Gas Cost: $37 (based on $3.50 per gallon)

Lastly, consider US-40 East if you prefer a mix of rural charm and highway speed. This route is slightly longer than I-70 but could be quicker depending on traffic conditions. You’ll still rely on the same fuel efficiency, using about 11 gallons of gas.

Plus, the drive is relatively low on tolls; you may encounter one small toll that may cost less than a dollar. This option could be perfect for road-trippers looking for a bit of everything.

Conclusion

In summary, you have a few excellent options for your driving adventure from Downtown Kansas City to St. Louis. To recap:

  • I-70 East: 250 miles, 3 hours and 45 minutes, $35
  • I-44 South: 290 miles, 4 hours and 30 minutes, $42 (plus tolls)
  • US-40 East: 260 miles, 4 hours, $37 (minimal tolls)

Always remember to check current gas prices and road conditions before heading out. Whichever route you choose, driving from Kansas City to St. Louis offers the chance to experience the best of Missouri’s highways. Safe travels, and enjoy the journey!