Fuel Cost Calculator
Calculate fuel costs for trips, compare vehicle efficiency, and plan your travel budget with accurate MPG calculations and cost projections.
Fuel Cost Calculator
Calculate fuel costs for trips, compare vehicle efficiency, and plan your travel budget
Trip Information
Typical Fuel Efficiency by Vehicle Type
Current Fuel Prices (Example)
About Fuel Costs
• MPG: Miles per gallon - higher is better
• Fuel Efficiency: Affects total cost significantly
• Distance: Longer trips = higher fuel costs
• Fuel Price: Varies by location and fuel type
Fuel Efficiency Tips
Common Use Cases
Understanding Fuel Costs and Efficiency
What is MPG?
MPG stands for "Miles Per Gallon" and measures how far a vehicle can travel on one gallon of fuel. Higher MPG values indicate better fuel efficiency, meaning you can travel further with less fuel consumption.
Understanding your vehicle's MPG helps you calculate fuel costs accurately and make informed decisions about trips, vehicle purchases, and fuel budgeting.
Factors Affecting Fuel Costs
Key Cost Factors:
• Distance: Longer trips = higher fuel costs
• MPG: Lower efficiency = higher costs
• Fuel Price: Varies by location and type
• Driving Conditions: Traffic, weather, terrain
• Vehicle Load: Weight affects efficiency
Fuel Cost Calculation Formula
• Fuel Consumption = Distance ÷ MPG
• Fuel Cost = Fuel Consumption × Fuel Price
• Cost per Mile = Fuel Price ÷ MPG
• Total Cost = (Distance × 2 ÷ MPG) × Fuel Price (for round trips)
How to Use the Fuel Cost Calculator
Enter Trip Distance
Input the distance of your trip in miles. You can use online mapping tools or your vehicle's odometer to determine the exact distance.
Input Fuel Efficiency
Enter your vehicle's MPG rating. You can find this in your owner's manual, on the vehicle's window sticker, or by calculating it from recent fuel-ups.
Set Fuel Price
Input the current fuel price per gallon. Check local gas stations or use fuel price apps to get the most current rates in your area.
Choose Trip Type
Select whether this is a one-way or round trip. Round trips will double the distance and fuel costs for accurate total expense calculations.
Review Results
View your calculated fuel costs, consumption, and extended projections. The calculator provides step-by-step explanations of all calculations.
Fuel Cost Calculation Examples
Example 1: Daily Commute
You commute 25 miles each way to work in a car that gets 28 MPG, with gas at $3.50/gallon.
Example 2: Road Trip
You're planning a 300-mile road trip in an SUV that gets 22 MPG, with gas at $3.75/gallon.
Example 3: Fuel Efficiency Comparison
Comparing two vehicles for a 100-mile trip with gas at $3.50/gallon.
Understanding Vehicle Fuel Efficiency
Compact and Economy Cars
Typically achieve 30-40 MPG in city driving and 35-45 MPG on highways. These vehicles are designed for fuel efficiency and are ideal for daily commuting and city driving.
Best for: Daily commuting, city driving, fuel-conscious buyers
Sedans and Family Cars
Usually get 25-35 MPG combined. They offer a good balance between fuel efficiency, comfort, and practicality for families and longer trips.
Best for: Family transportation, business use, moderate efficiency needs
SUVs and Crossovers
Range from 20-30 MPG depending on size and engine. Larger SUVs typically get lower MPG due to increased weight and aerodynamic drag.
Best for: Family needs, cargo space, all-weather capability
Trucks and Large Vehicles
Typically achieve 15-25 MPG. These vehicles prioritize power and capability over fuel efficiency, making them suitable for work and heavy-duty applications.
Best for: Work applications, towing, heavy hauling
Hybrid and Electric Vehicles
Hybrids typically get 45-60 MPG, while electric vehicles can achieve 100+ MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent). These offer the best fuel efficiency but may have higher upfront costs.
Best for: Maximum fuel efficiency, environmental consciousness, long-term savings
Strategies to Reduce Fuel Costs
Vehicle Maintenance
- • Keep tires properly inflated
- • Regular oil changes and tune-ups
- • Clean air filters
- • Fix engine problems promptly
Driving Habits
- • Avoid rapid acceleration and braking
- • Use cruise control on highways
- • Maintain steady speeds
- • Reduce unnecessary idling
Trip Planning
- • Combine multiple errands
- • Choose efficient routes
- • Avoid traffic congestion
- • Consider carpooling options
Vehicle Selection
- • Choose appropriate vehicle size
- • Consider hybrid options
- • Compare MPG ratings
- • Factor in total cost of ownership
Environmental Impact Considerations
Carbon Footprint: Higher MPG vehicles produce fewer emissions per mile, reducing your environmental impact and contributing to cleaner air quality.
Long-term Savings: While fuel-efficient vehicles may cost more initially, they often provide significant savings over time through reduced fuel costs.
Alternative Transportation: Consider public transportation, biking, or walking for short trips to further reduce fuel consumption and costs.