The Cost of Driving From Dubuque, Iowa to Decatur, Georgia: Let’s Break It Down!

Planning a road trip from Dubuque, Iowa to Decatur, Georgia? You'll want to take a close look at your route and expenses. Today, we're diving into the costs involved, especially focusing on gas prices, tolls, and how long each route will take you. Buckle up and let’s hit the road!

Route 1: I-35 S and I-20 E

The most straightforward route takes you along I-35 S and I-20 E. This is a popular choice for many travelers because it’s relatively direct and has ample amenities along the way.

Distance: Approximately 620 miles
Time: Expect about 9 hours of drive time, depending on traffic and stops.
Gas Cost: Assuming current gas prices are around $3.50 per gallon and your vehicle gets 25 miles per gallon, you’ll need about 25 gallons of gas. This brings your total gas cost to approximately $87.50.
Tolls: Good news! This route does not have any significant tolls, so you can save a bit of cash.

In summary, if you choose this route, you'll spend around $87.50 on gas with no tolls. It’s a solid option for most road trippers!

Route 2: I-80 E and I-75 S

Another popular option is to take I-80 E, and then you switch to I-75 S. This route provides a scenic drive through some lovely landscapes, which might be worth the extra time.

Distance: Approximately 650 miles
Time: This journey typically takes around 10 hours.
Gas Cost: With the same gas prices of $3.50 per gallon and a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you’ll use about 26 gallons of gas. So, your gas cost would come to around $91.00.
Tolls: This route includes some tolls, especially in certain sections of Ohio and Georgia, which can run up to $10.

To recap, choosing this route could cost you around $91.00 for gas, plus an additional $10 for tolls, totaling $101.00.

Route 3: I-70 E and I-75 S

For those looking for a more leisurely and scenic drive, consider taking the I-70 E and then heading south on I-75. While it may be longer in distance, the charm of the countryside makes it a delightful journey.

Distance: Approximately 680 miles
Time: This route will likely take about 11 hours to complete.
Gas Cost: Again, at $3.50 per gallon, and assuming a fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, you’ll need about 27 gallons. This equates to approximately $94.50 in gas expenses.
Tolls: Similar to the previous option, there may be some tolls that could add up to another $10.

In conclusion, if you opt for this picturesque route, expect to spend about $94.50 on gas, plus around $10 in tolls, bringing your grand total to $104.50.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right route and understanding the costs involved can significantly enhance your driving experience. Whether you’re heading straight to Decatur or taking the scenic route, prepare for a delightful journey with a comprehensive understanding of what to expect financially. With this guide, you’ll be better equipped to plan your road trip from Dubuque to Decatur. Safe travels!