Driving Cost from Durham, North Carolina to New Orleans, Louisiana

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of Driving from Durham, NC to New Orleans, LA: What You Need to Know!

Embarking on a road trip from Durham, North Carolina, to New Orleans, Louisiana is an exciting adventure that promises to be filled with sights, sounds, and delicious cuisine. However, before you rev up your engine, it’s important to consider the costs associated with this journey. In this post, we’ll explore various routes, along with the distances, time, and fuel expenses involved.

Route 1: The Most Direct Highway Route

For those looking for the quickest way to get to the Big Easy, the most direct route is via I-85 S and I-10 W.

  • Distance: Approximately 600 miles
  • Time: Expect to spend about 9 hours on the road
  • Cost: Assuming the average gas price is around $3.50 per gallon, and your vehicle averages 25 miles per gallon, you’ll need about 24 gallons of gas. This brings your fuel cost to around $84.

Additionally, there are no major tolls on this route, making it a straightforward and cost-effective option.

Route 2: The Scenic Route through Atlanta

If you prefer a more scenic journey, consider taking I-85 S through Atlanta before heading west on I-10. This route offers a taste of Southern hospitality and beautiful landscapes.

  • Distance: Approximately 650 miles
  • Time: You should plan for about 10 hours of driving
  • Cost: With the average gas price at $3.50 per gallon and a vehicle that gets 25 miles per gallon, you will need about 26 gallons of gas, making your fuel cost around $91.

Again, there are minimal tolls on this route, allowing you to focus on the sights without worrying about extra expenses.

Route 3: The Coastal Detour

For the adventurous at heart, the coastal route via US-17 S will take you along beautiful waterfronts before connecting back to I-10 W. This route is perfect for those wanting to soak in some coastal charm.

  • Distance: Approximately 700 miles
  • Time: This trip could take about 11 hours
  • Cost: With gas prices remaining consistent at $3.50 per gallon and your vehicle averaging 25 miles per gallon, you’ll use around 28 gallons of gas, resulting in a total fuel cost of about $98.

However, be mindful that there may be a few tolls depending on your exact path, but they usually remain quite reasonable.

Final Thoughts

Deciding on the best route from Durham to New Orleans depends on your preferences—whether it’s time efficiency, scenic views, or coastal vibes. Remember, current gas prices can fluctuate, so always check for the most accurate figures before your journey.

Regardless of which route you choose, you're in for an adventure filled with rich culture, delicious food, and memorable experiences. Happy travels!