How Long Is the Drive from Phoenix to New Orleans?
The drive from Phoenix to New Orleans takes approximately 28h 26min, covering 1707 miles via I-10. Under normal conditions, expect to spend around $199 on gas.
Travel time can vary — during peak hours, weekends, or holidays, the journey may take 39–40+ hours. For the fastest trip, leave early morning (before 7 AM) or travel on weekday evenings.
Traffic Estimate
🟢 Light traffic
24h 10m
🔵 Typical
28h 26min
🔴 Heavy traffic
41h 14m
Traffic is usually worst during weekday rush hours (7–9 AM, 4–7 PM) and holiday weekends.
Trip Details
Distance1707 miles (2747 km)
Drive Time28h 26min
RouteI-10
Best TimeMid-morning (9-11 AM)
Fuel Costs
Gas (30 mpg)~56.9 gallons
Est. Cost$199
Route Tips: I-10
Stretches coast-to-coast from LA to Jacksonville. Desert sections in Arizona/New Mexico can be monotonous — bring plenty of water.
You'll likely need 4 fuel stops along the way.
Best Time to Drive from Phoenix to New Orleans
For a long drive like Phoenix to New Orleans, 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:Mid-morning (9-11 AM)
🔴 Avoid:Rush hour (4-7 PM)
Driving vs Flying
🚗 Driving
28h 26min
~$199 gas
✈️ Flying
5h 55m
~$256–$597 flight
✈️ Flying is faster when you factor in airport time. Flight time is ~3h 25m but add ~2.5 hours for check-in, security, and boarding.
All Travel Options
🚗 Drive
28h 26min
~$199
🚌 Bus
37h 56m
~$137–$307
🚂 Train
31h 2m
~$205–$512
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:
📍 Boerne
📍 Fair Oaks Ranch
📍 Lago Vista
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to drive from Phoenix to New Orleans?
The drive from Phoenix to New Orleans takes approximately 28h 26min covering 1707 miles via I-10. Actual time may vary based on traffic, weather, and road conditions.
How much does gas cost for Phoenix to New Orleans?
At 30 MPG and $3.50/gallon, expect to spend approximately $199 on gas for this 1707-mile trip. You'll need about 56.9 gallons of fuel.
What is the best time to drive from Phoenix to New Orleans?
Mid-morning (9-11 AM) to avoid heavy traffic. Weekday mornings before 7 AM or evenings after 7 PM typically have less congestion.
Are there tolls on the Phoenix to New Orleans route?
Yes, expect approximately $50 in tolls along this route. Check with the local toll authority for transponder options to speed up toll payment.
