Driving from Los Angeles to New York City is the ultimate American road trip. You pass deserts, mountains, farmlands, and big cities. You see the country change around you. It feels like freedom on wheels.
But let’s get real.
If you’re planning a coast-to-coast drive, the biggest cost you need to think about is fuel. And depending on your car, that cost can be small… or not.
We picked 10 popular vehicles, from fuel-efficient sedans to gas-hungry trucks and EVs, and calculated exactly how much it would cost to drive across the country using today’s average gas and electricity prices.
Route Details
- Start: Los Angeles, California
- End: New York City, New York
- Distance: 2,789 miles
- Typical route: I-15 → I-70 → I-80
- Driving style: Highway cruising, steady 70 mph, 2 people and light luggage
Fuel Price Assumptions
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Gas price (regular) | $3.22 per gallon |
| Electricity price (EVs) | $0.164 per kWh |
All prices are national averages as of June 2025.
Fuel Cost: 10 Cars Across America
| Vehicle | Type | MPG or mi/kWh | Fuel Used | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Ioniq 6 | EV | 4.2 mi/kWh | 664 kWh | $109 |
| Tesla Model 3 RWD | EV | 4.0 mi/kWh | 697 kWh | $115 |
| Honda Civic | Gas | 42 MPG | 66.4 gal | $214 |
| Toyota Camry | Gas | 39 MPG | 71.5 gal | $231 |
| Toyota RAV4 Hybrid | Hybrid | 38 MPG | 73.4 gal | $237 |
| Subaru Outback | Gas | 33 MPG | 84.5 gal | $272 |
| Ford Explorer | Gas | 27 MPG | 103.3 gal | $333 |
| Jeep Wrangler Unlimited | Gas | 25 MPG | 111.6 gal | $360 |
| Ford F-150 4WD | Gas | 24 MPG | 116.2 gal | $375 |
| Chevrolet Tahoe | Gas | 20 MPG | 139.5 gal | $450 |
EV costs assume residential charging. Public fast-charging may increase the total by 20 to 30 percent.
What the Numbers Say
- Electric vehicles come out cheapest. The Hyundai Ioniq 6 and Tesla Model 3 complete the entire trip for just over $100.
- Hybrids like the RAV4 Hybrid offer solid savings while giving you the freedom to fuel up anywhere.
- Full-size SUVs and trucks cost the most. The Chevy Tahoe burns through nearly $450 in gas for the trip.
- A small difference in fuel economy makes a big difference in cost. Just moving from a Wrangler to a Civic saves you around $150.
How to Lower Your Road Trip Fuel Cost
Here are a few tips that work no matter what you drive:
- Fill up in cheaper states. Fuel taxes vary. For this route, avoid filling up in Pennsylvania.
- Check tire pressure regularly. Low pressure cuts MPG fast.
- Remove roof boxes and racks. They create drag and kill highway efficiency.
- For EVs, book hotels with free charging. Overnight Level 2 charging can save you $20 to $40 per stop.
Final Thoughts
Driving across the country is unforgettable. Whether you do it in an efficient hybrid, a road-hungry truck, or an electric car, knowing your fuel cost ahead of time helps you plan smarter and avoid surprises.
To get real-time gas prices, fuel tax maps, and fuel cost calculators by state, visit usgasprice.com – the smart way to save before and during your trip.
