Fuel Cost Calculator
Estimate the fuel cost of any trip from distance and MPG.
Quick answer
Trip fuel cost is distance ÷ fuel economy × price per unit — for example, miles ÷ miles-per-gallon × price-per-gallon. Better fuel economy and steadier driving cut the cost more than small changes in distance.
Trip fuel cost
$37.50
Fuel needed
10.7 gal
Cost per mile
$0.13
Per person
$37.50
The trip-cost formula
Cost = distance ÷ MPG × price per gallon. A 300-mile trip at 28 MPG and $3.50 gas burns about $37.50 — roughly 12.5 cents per mile in fuel alone. Highway MPG typically beats the window-sticker combined figure; loaded roof racks and 80 mph erase it.
Fuel is half the story
The IRS mileage rate (70¢/mile for 2025) approximates the true cost of driving including depreciation, tires, and maintenance — about five times the pure fuel cost. For comparing driving vs. flying, the full figure is the honest one.
Frequently asked questions
- How does the Fuel Cost Calculator work?
- Trip fuel cost is distance ÷ fuel economy × price per unit — for example, miles ÷ miles-per-gallon × price-per-gallon. Better fuel economy and steadier driving cut the cost more than small changes in distance.
- Is the Fuel Cost Calculator free to use?
- Yes. The Fuel Cost Calculator is completely free, runs entirely in your browser, and requires no account or sign-up. Your inputs never leave your device.
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