Vehicle Cost Tools

How fuel cost is calculated

The formula is straightforward: Gallons = Miles / MPG, then Cost = Gallons x Price per gallon. Cost per mile = Cost / Miles.

Real-world fuel economy varies by driving style, traffic, weather, altitude, and vehicle condition. Highway driving typically yields 15-25% better MPG than city driving. The EPA figures on your window sticker are combined estimates.

Typical annual fuel costs by vehicle type (12,000 miles, $3.50/gallon)

• Economy car (35 MPG): about $1,200/year
• Sedan (28 MPG): about $1,500/year
• SUV (22 MPG): about $1,910/year
• Truck (18 MPG): about $2,333/year
• Full-size SUV (15 MPG): about $2,800/year

A hybrid at 45 MPG cuts that sedan cost to about $933/year. An EV at 3.5 miles/kWh at 15¢/kWh costs about $514/year for the same miles -- compare full ownership costs with our EV vs Gas Calculator.

How to improve your MPG

• Keep tires inflated to the recommended PSI (under-inflation adds 0.2% per psi low)
• Avoid jackrabbit starts and hard braking -- smooth driving saves 10-40% on fuel
• Use cruise control on the highway
• Remove roof racks when not in use (adds aerodynamic drag)
• Service the air filter and use the correct motor oil grade

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I calculate fuel cost for a road trip?

Divide total miles by your MPG to get gallons needed, then multiply by price per gallon. 400 miles / 28 MPG = 14.3 gallons. At $3.50/gallon: $50 for the trip.

How much does the average American spend on gas per year?

About 13,500 miles per year is average. At 25 MPG and $3.50/gallon, that's roughly $1,890/year. This calculator shows your personal estimate based on your actual MPG and miles.

What is a good MPG for a car?

30+ MPG is good for a sedan. 22-28 MPG is typical for an SUV. Trucks average 15-22 MPG. Hybrids hit 40-50 MPG. Anything above 35 MPG is excellent for a non-hybrid gas vehicle.

How do I find my car's actual MPG?

Fill your tank, note the odometer, drive normally, refill and note gallons added. Divide miles driven by gallons added. Or check your trip computer if your car has one, or search your model at fueleconomy.gov.