Road trip cost

How Much Does It Cost to Drive From Seattle to San Francisco?

At 810 miles and roughly 12 hr of driving, the route from Seattle, WA to San Francisco, CA is a long-haul trip. Budget for multiple fuel stops, food, and possibly an overnight stay — gas alone can run well over a hundred dollars depending on your vehicle.

Distance

810 mi

Driving time

12 hr

Avg. fuel (28 MPG)

28.9 gal

Estimate your trip cost

Pre-filled with the Seattle → San Francisco distance.

Distance

miles

Vehicle MPG

mpg

Gas price

$/gal

Passengers

Round trip

Estimated Trip Cost

$0.00

Per Person

$0.00

Gallons

0.00gal

Total miles: 810 (one way).

Fuel cost by vehicle type

Estimated one-way fuel cost at $3.45/gal (US average). Adjust for your local price.

Vehicle	MPG	Gallons	Est. cost
Compact car	35	23.1	$79.84
Sedan	28	28.9	$99.80
SUV	22	36.8	$127.02
Pickup truck	18	45.0	$155.25

Cost at different gas prices

Assuming a 28 MPG sedan over the 810-mile route.

Gas at $3.15/gal

$91.12

one way · ~28.9 gal

Gas at $3.45/gal

$99.80

one way · ~28.9 gal

Gas at $3.85/gal

$111.38

one way · ~28.9 gal

About the drive from Seattle to San Francisco

This 810-mile route between Seattle, WA and San Francisco, CA is one of the more popular drives in the region. Expect roughly 12 hr behind the wheel under normal traffic conditions.

Road trip tips

I-5 south
Two-day trip recommended
Check current gas prices on AAA or GasBuddy before you leave.
Fuel up before entering remote stretches — prices can jump 50¢/gal.
Use cruise control on the highway to improve real-world MPG.

Fuel costs are estimates based on average gas prices and vehicle efficiency. Actual costs may vary based on traffic, weather, terrain, and driving style.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to drive from Seattle to San Francisco?

The drive is about 810 miles and takes roughly 12 hr under normal traffic. Add buffer for stops, construction, and rush hour around either city.

How much gas does the trip use?

In a 28 MPG sedan, expect about 28.9 gallons one way. A 22 MPG SUV would use roughly 36.8 gallons.

What's the typical fuel cost?

At the US average of $3.45/gal, a 28 MPG vehicle costs about $99.80 one way. Round trip roughly doubles that. Use the calculator above for your exact MPG and local gas price.

Is it cheaper to drive or fly?

For one or two people on shorter routes (under ~500 miles), driving is usually cheaper once you factor in airport parking, baggage fees, and rental cars. Flying often wins for solo long-distance trips.