Commute Cost Calculator
How much does your daily commute really cost in fuel?
Your Commute
Daily
£5.11
Weekly
£25.57
Monthly
£102
Yearly
£1,227
Details
7,200 miles
818 litres
0.8p
Understanding Your Commute Fuel Cost
The average UK commute is roughly 10 miles each way, but many drivers cover considerably more. At current fuel prices, a 15-mile commute in a typical 40 MPG petrol car costs around £6-£8 per day -- adding up to well over £1,500 a year. For longer commuters doing 30 miles each way, that figure can easily double.
What makes commuting costs tricky is how invisible they become. A few pounds each day does not feel like much, but over 48 working weeks it represents a substantial chunk of your take-home pay. This calculator helps you see the true picture by breaking the numbers down into daily, weekly, monthly and annual totals, accounting for your actual mileage, fuel economy and the price you pay at the pump.
Understanding your commute costs also helps you make smarter decisions about where you fill up. Saving just 3p per litre on your regular fill-up could mean £50-£80 back in your pocket each year -- and that is before considering whether a more fuel-efficient vehicle or hybrid working arrangement could cut the bill further.
Average UK Commute
10 miles
Average commute each way
~£1,500
Average annual fuel spend
£200/yr
Potential saving by shopping around
Tips to Reduce Your Commute Fuel Cost
Small changes to how you drive and where you refuel can shave hundreds of pounds off your annual fuel bill. The tips below are ranked by impact, starting with the easiest wins.
Shop around on price
A 4-5p/litre saving adds up to £100+ per year.
Check tyre pressures
Under-inflated tyres cut fuel economy by up to 3%.
Smooth driving style
Gentle acceleration saves 20-30% on fuel.
Reduce weight
Remove roof racks and boot clutter when not needed.
Hybrid working
One WFH day saves 20% of your commute fuel bill.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the average UK commute cost in fuel?
Based on the average UK commute of around 10 miles each way, five days a week, a typical petrol car (40 MPG) costs roughly £1,000-£1,200 per year in fuel at current prices. Diesel drivers often see slightly lower per-mile costs thanks to better fuel economy, though diesel itself is usually a few pence more expensive per litre.
Is diesel cheaper per mile than petrol?
In most cases, yes. Diesel engines typically achieve 15-20% better fuel economy than their petrol equivalents, which more than offsets the higher pump price. However, the gap has narrowed in recent years, and for short urban commutes a petrol or hybrid vehicle may work out cheaper overall when you factor in maintenance and purchase costs.
How can I reduce my commute fuel costs?
The most impactful changes are shopping around for cheaper fuel, maintaining correct tyre pressures, adopting a smoother driving style and reducing unnecessary weight in the car. Combining these habits can cut your fuel bill by 10-15% with no change to your routine. For bigger savings, consider car-sharing, switching to an electric or hybrid vehicle, or negotiating remote working days.