California Budget Guide
California is the most expensive state on Route 66. Gas, food, and lodging all cost significantly more than the Midwest states. Here's how to plan your budget for every travel style.
1Budget Traveler — $100–150/day
Camp at Joshua Tree or Mojave Preserve ($15-25/night) or use budget motels in Barstow/Victorville ($60-80). Eat at classic diners — Emma Jean's ($8-12), In-N-Out ($8), and taco trucks ($5-8). Gas averages $4.50-5.50/gallon — significantly more than other Route 66 states. Many of the best stops (Bottle Tree Ranch, Roy's Motel, Chain of Rocks equivalent) are free.
2Mid-Range — $200–250/day
Budget motels or mid-range hotels ($100-150/night). Mix of sit-down restaurants and casual dining ($40-60/day for food). Paid attractions like Calico Ghost Town ($8), California Route 66 Museum (free donation), and Fair Oaks Pharmacy malts ($6-10). This covers a comfortable road trip without splurging.
3Comfortable — $300+/day
Stay at boutique hotels in Pasadena ($200+) and ocean-view rooms in Santa Monica ($300+). Fine dining at The Sycamore Inn ($50-80/person) and Chez Jay ($40-60/person). Add unique experiences like the Rose Bowl Flea Market ($20 early bird), Norton Simon Museum ($15), and Pacific Park rides.
4California-Specific Costs
Gas: $4.50-5.50/gallon (30-40% more than Oklahoma/Missouri). Parking: Free in desert towns, $10-20 in Pasadena/Santa Monica. Tolls: None on Route 66 alignment. Tipping: 18-20% standard. Hotel tax: 12-14% in most cities, higher in Santa Monica.
lightbulbPro Tips
Fill up in Arizona before crossing to California — gas is $1-2/gallon cheaper.
In-N-Out Burger is a California institution and cheaper than most Route 66 diners.
Santa Monica parking tip: meter parking on side streets 3+ blocks from the pier is much cheaper.
Pack a cooler for the Mojave crossing — zero food options for 150 miles.