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Fuel Cost Calculator

Estimate the fuel cost for a trip based on distance, fuel economy and fuel price.

Your Details

Overview

A fuel cost calculator helps you estimate how much a trip may cost based on your distance, vehicle fuel economy, fuel price and whether the cost is split with other passengers. It is useful for road trip planning, commuting estimates and comparing travel options.

How it works

The calculator estimates fuel used by dividing the trip distance by your vehicle's fuel economy. It then multiplies the fuel used by the fuel price to estimate the total fuel cost. If you enter passengers sharing the cost, it divides the total fuel cost equally among everyone, including you.

How to use this calculator

  1. 1Enter your total trip distance.
  2. 2Add your vehicle's average fuel economy in miles per gallon.
  3. 3Enter the current fuel price per gallon.
  4. 4Enter how many extra passengers will share the cost.
  5. 5Review the estimated fuel needed, total fuel cost and cost per person.

Example Calculation

Trip Distance

180

Vehicle Fuel Economy

30

Fuel Price

$4

Extra Passengers Sharing Cost

2

Total Fuel Cost

$22.80

For a 180 mile trip at 30 mpg with fuel priced at $3.80 per gallon, the estimated fuel use is 6 gallons and the total fuel cost is about $22.80. Split between 3 people, the cost is about $7.60 each.

Frequently asked questions

What does this fuel cost calculator estimate?

It estimates the fuel needed for a trip, the total fuel cost and the cost per person if the expense is shared.

Does this calculator include tolls or parking?

No. It only estimates fuel cost based on distance, fuel economy and fuel price.

What fuel economy should I enter?

Use your vehicle's typical real-world average mpg if you know it. If not, use a recent average from your dashboard or trip records.

Can I use this for commuting?

Yes. You can enter your one-way or round-trip distance to estimate commuting fuel costs.

Why is my real fuel cost different from the estimate?

Actual fuel cost can vary due to traffic, driving style, road conditions, vehicle load, weather and changes in fuel prices.

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Assumptions and warnings

Assumptions

  • Fuel economy stays roughly consistent across the whole trip.
  • Fuel price is assumed to remain the same for all fuel purchased.
  • Results are estimates and do not include tolls, parking, maintenance or other travel costs.