MPG Calculator

Calculate miles per gallon from miles driven and gallons used. See cost per mile.
mi
gal
$/gal

MPG

30.0

Cost per Mile

$0.14

Comparison

Your MPG30.0
Gas Cost/Mile$0.14
EV Cost/Mile (avg)$0.04
Annual Gas (12K mi)$1,640.00
Annual EV (12K mi)$480.00
Potential EV Savings$1,160.00

Use the MPG Calculator above to calculate your results. Enter your values and see instant results — all calculations run in your browser.

Disclaimer: This calculator is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, financial, or legal advice. Results are estimates based on the information you provide and current rates. Always consult a qualified tax professional or financial advisor for advice specific to your situation.

How It Works

Our 2026 MPG Calculator helps you understand your vehicle's fuel efficiency by determining miles per gallon (MPG) and the cost per mile. With rising fuel prices – projected to average around $4.15 per gallon for regular unleaded in 2026 – knowing your MPG is crucial for budgeting and identifying potential issues with your vehicle. This tool empowers you to make informed decisions about your driving habits and vehicle maintenance, potentially saving you hundreds of dollars annually.

The calculation is straightforward: MPG is determined by dividing the total miles driven by the number of gallons consumed. To find the cost per mile, we then divide the total cost of the fuel by the total miles driven. For instance, if you drive 300 miles on 10 gallons of gas that cost $41.50, your MPG would be 30, and your cost per mile would be $0.138.

When using the calculator, ensure you're inputting accurate data. Filling your tank completely each time you record gallons used provides the most precise results, as partial fills can skew your average. Remember that factors like aggressive driving, heavy loads, and improper tire inflation can significantly reduce your MPG, so consider these variables when evaluating your vehicle's performance.

Example: Calculating Fuel Efficiency for a Road Trip

  1. 1 You just completed a 450-mile road trip. You started with a full tank and refilled 15 gallons of regular unleaded gas at a total cost of $62.25 (assuming $4.15/gallon in 2026).
  2. 2 MPG = 450 miles / 15 gallons = 30 MPG. Cost per mile = $62.25 / 450 miles = $0.138 per mile.
  3. 3 Your vehicle achieved 30 miles per gallon, and each mile driven cost you approximately $0.138.
  4. 4 Understanding this data allows you to compare your vehicle's performance against its EPA rating, identify if your car is performing less efficiently than expected, or project future fuel costs for similar trips.

Source: DOE · Last updated: April 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I calculate my car's MPG?
Fill your tank completely, reset the trip odometer, drive normally until you need fuel again, then fill up and note the gallons. Divide the miles driven by gallons used. For example, 300 miles on 10 gallons equals 30 MPG.
Why is my actual MPG lower than the EPA rating?
EPA ratings are measured under controlled lab conditions. Real-world driving includes aggressive acceleration, highway speeds above 50 mph, cold weather, short trips, A/C use, and cargo weight, all of which reduce fuel economy by 10-25%.
What is a good MPG for a car in 2026?
Average new car fuel economy is about 28 MPG combined. A compact sedan gets 30-40 MPG, hybrids achieve 45-55 MPG, and full-size trucks average 18-24 MPG. Anything above 30 MPG combined is considered good for a non-hybrid.

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