The drive from Memphis to Atlanta takes approximately 6h 0min, covering 385 miles via I-22. Under normal conditions, expect to spend around $44 on gas.
Travel time can vary — during peak hours, weekends, or holidays, the journey may take 8–9+ hours. For the fastest trip, leave early morning (before 7 AM) or travel on weekday evenings.
Traffic Estimate
🟢 Light traffic
5h 6m
🔵 Typical
6h 0min
🔴 Heavy traffic
8h 42m
Traffic is usually worst during weekday rush hours (7–9 AM, 4–7 PM) and holiday weekends.
Trip Details
Distance385 miles (619 km)
Drive Time6h 0min
RouteI-22
Best TimeWeekday mid-day
Fuel Costs
Gas (30 mpg)~12.8 gallons
Est. Cost$44
Route Tips: I-22
Plan rest stops every 2-3 hours on longer drives. Check traffic conditions before departure and keep your tank above quarter-full.
This trip can typically be done on a single tank of gas.
Best Time to Drive from Memphis to Atlanta
For a long drive like Memphis to Atlanta, plan to depart early in the morning. This lets you cover most of the distance before afternoon traffic builds up. Consider breaking the trip with a lunch stop midway.
🟢 Best:Weekday mid-day
🔴 Avoid:Rush hour (4-7 PM)
Driving vs Flying
🚗 Driving
6h 0min
~$44 gas
✈️ Flying
3h 16m
~$80–$150 flight
✈️ Flying is faster when you factor in airport time. Flight time is ~46 min but add ~2.5 hours for check-in, security, and boarding.
All Travel Options
🚗 Drive
6h 0min
~$44
🚌 Bus
8h 33m
~$31–$69
🚂 Train
7h 0m
~$46–$116
Estimated times and prices. Bus/train availability varies by route. Driving gives the most flexibility for stops and schedules.
Suggested Stops
Popular cities along the route for rest, food, or fuel:
📍 Birmingham
📍 Chattanooga
📍 Nashville
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to drive from Memphis to Atlanta?
The drive from Memphis to Atlanta takes approximately 6h 0min covering 385 miles via I-22. Actual time may vary based on traffic, weather, and road conditions.
How much does gas cost for Memphis to Atlanta?
At 30 MPG and $3.50/gallon, expect to spend approximately $44 on gas for this 385-mile trip. You'll need about 12.8 gallons of fuel.
What is the best time to drive from Memphis to Atlanta?
Weekday mid-day to avoid heavy traffic. Weekday mornings before 7 AM or evenings after 7 PM typically have less congestion.
Are there tolls on the Memphis to Atlanta route?
Yes, expect approximately $11 in tolls along this route. Consider getting a Peach Pass transponder for faster toll payment.
