Fuel Cost Calculator
Calculate annual fuel costs and the cost of any specific trip from miles, MPG, and gas price. Compare two vehicles to see lifetime fuel cost difference — over 5 years, a 5-MPG gap typically costs $3 000–5 000.
Fuel Cost Calculator
Annual, monthly and per-trip fuel cost in one place.
How It Works
Fuel cost = (Miles ÷ MPG) × Gas price. The math is simple, but compounding effects over the life of the car make small MPG differences significant. The calculator also handles unit conversion (MPG to L/100km, US to UK gallons) for international users.
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter annual miles driven.
- Enter combined MPG (use EPA estimate or your actual real-world average).
- Enter local gas price per gallon.
- The calculator returns annual and 5-year fuel cost.
- Switch to "compare two cars" mode to see lifetime fuel cost gap.
Worked Example
Reference Table
Cost per mile by typical vehicle type at $3.60/gallon. Multiply by your annual miles for yearly cost.
| Vehicle type | Typical combined MPG | $1.50 / mile cost @ $3.60 gas |
|---|---|---|
| Hybrid sedan (Prius) | 52 MPG | $0.069 per mile |
| Compact petrol (Civic) | 36 MPG | $0.100 per mile |
| Midsize sedan (Camry) | 32 MPG | $0.113 per mile |
| Compact SUV (CR-V, RAV4) | 30 MPG | $0.120 per mile |
| Midsize SUV (Highlander) | 25 MPG | $0.144 per mile |
| Full-size pickup (F-150) | 22 MPG | $0.164 per mile |
| Heavy-duty truck (Ram 2500) | 16 MPG | $0.225 per mile |
| Performance V8 | 18 MPG | $0.200 per mile |
| EV @ home charging | $0.04/mi (equivalent ~110 MPG) | $0.040 per mile |
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between EPA combined MPG and real-world MPG?
EPA combined is a weighted average of standardized city/highway tests. Real-world results are typically 10–20% lower for gas cars and 15–30% lower for hybrids and EVs (especially in cold weather).
How do I convert MPG to L/100km?
L/100km = 235.21 ÷ MPG. So 30 MPG = 7.8 L/100km. Or 9 L/100km = 26 MPG. Note: this is US gallons. UK gallons are 20% bigger; UK MPG = US MPG × 1.2.
Is premium fuel worth it for fuel economy?
Only if your car requires it. Engines tuned for premium gain 1–3% MPG and 5–10% power on premium. Engines designed for regular gain almost nothing — premium's 50¢/gallon premium ($600+/year) is wasted.
How can I improve my real-world MPG?
Tire pressure at placard spec: +1–2%. Smooth acceleration: +5–10%. Reduce highway speed from 80 to 65 mph: +15–20%. Remove roof boxes/racks when not in use: +5–10%. Clean engine air filter: +1–2%.
Does ethanol-free gas give better MPG?
Yes, about 3–5% better because ethanol has lower energy density than gasoline. But ethanol-free is usually 30–50¢ more per gallon — the MPG gain doesn't cover the price premium for most drivers.
