Comparing Gas Prices and Fuel Range Across the U.S.
When it comes to gas prices, where you live can make a big difference in how far your dollar goes. But here’s a question every American driver has probably asked at some point: How far can I actually drive on $50 worth of gas?
This article breaks it down by state, comparing average gas prices and showing how many miles you can travel on a $50 fuel budget in 2025. Whether you’re planning a road trip, budgeting for commuting, or just curious how your state compares, we’ve crunched the numbers for you.
How We Calculated the Distance
To calculate how far you can drive on $50 of gas in each state, we used:
- Average gas price per state (as of June 2025)
- Average vehicle fuel efficiency: 25 miles per gallon (MPG), based on current U.S. fleet average
- Formula:
($50 ÷ Avg Price per Gallon) × 25 MPG = Total Miles
This gives a simple apples-to-apples comparison of how much road you can cover with $50 at the pump.
State-by-State: Miles You Can Drive on $50 of Gas
| State | Avg Gas Price ($/gal) | Miles on $50 |
|---|---|---|
| California | $4.85 | 258 miles |
| Washington | $4.70 | 266 miles |
| Nevada | $4.23 | 295 miles |
| Oregon | $4.35 | 287 miles |
| Illinois | $3.95 | 316 miles |
| New York | $3.82 | 327 miles |
| Arizona | $3.78 | 330 miles |
| Michigan | $3.74 | 334 miles |
| Colorado | $3.69 | 339 miles |
| Florida | $3.47 | 360 miles |
| Ohio | $3.38 | 370 miles |
| Georgia | $3.29 | 380 miles |
| Texas | $3.20 | 391 miles |
| Mississippi | $3.15 | 397 miles |
| Missouri | $3.12 | 401 miles |
These prices reflect the average cost of regular gasoline in June 2025, sourced from AAA and EIA data.
What Affects Your Real Driving Range?
1. Gas Prices
The biggest factor is obviously the local cost per gallon. Drivers in California or Washington get significantly fewer miles per dollar than drivers in Missouri or Mississippi.
2. Fuel Economy
Your actual MPG may vary. Trucks and SUVs may only get 15–20 MPG, while hybrid vehicles can exceed 50 MPG. That means your real driving range on $50 may be higher or lower depending on your car.
3. Driving Conditions
City driving, idling in traffic, frequent acceleration, or driving uphill all reduce MPG. Highway driving typically offers better fuel efficiency.
FAQ
How much gas do I get for $50 in California?
At $4.85/gallon, you’ll get just over 10.3 gallons, which translates to about 258 miles in a 25 MPG vehicle.
Which state gives you the most miles for $50?
Missouri, with its low gas price of $3.12/gallon, gives you roughly 401 miles on $50.
How far can an electric car go on $50?
Electric vehicles don’t use gas, but for comparison:
- $50 of electricity can often charge an EV enough to drive 600–1,000 miles, depending on rates and model.
Check out our upcoming EV comparison post for exact state-by-state electricity vs gas cost breakdowns.
Planning a Road Trip? Know Your Budget
If you’re planning a cross-country journey or just want to see how far you can stretch $50, here’s a reference:
- $50 of gas in the South or Midwest might get you 380–400 miles, enough for long scenic drives or interstate travel.
- $50 in coastal states like California or Oregon might limit you to under 300 miles, better for shorter city hops.
Final Thoughts
Your $50 doesn’t go the same distance in every state. If you’re living in or traveling through states with high gas taxes and prices, expect shorter range. Meanwhile, drivers in the Midwest and South can stretch every dollar significantly further.
