Toll roads, also called turnpikes, are a common feature across many states, allowing drivers to access faster or more direct routes in exchange for a fee. Typically, states use the collected money to pay for highway maintenance and to create new roads.
However, not all toll roads are created equal, and some can be quite costly, depending on the state and route. Below, we explore the most expensive toll roads in Delaware, Texas, Florida, and Virginia, shedding light on what drivers can expect to pay and alternative routes to help avoid toll fees.
Delaware: Small State, Big Tolls
- Delaware Turnpike (I-95 Toll Plaza): Up to $4 for passenger vehicles. This busy north-south route connects Baltimore and Philadelphia, with high traffic ensuring tolls are always in effect.
- State Route 1: Up to $3 for passenger vehicles (one-way). Delaware’s main toll road is especially costly during peak travel times, such as summer weekends.
- Delaware Memorial Bridge: $5 for passenger vehicles. Only northbound drivers pay the toll to cross this critical link between Delaware and New Jersey.
Texas: Big Roads, Big Prices
- SH 130 (Segments 5 & 6): Up to $12.88 for passenger vehicles (full route). A popular relief route for avoiding Austin traffic, SH 130 comes at a high cost for its convenience.
- North Texas Tollway Authority (Sam Rayburn Tollway): $8.61 for passenger vehicles (full route). This tollway is essential for Dallas commuters but adds up quickly.
- Dallas North Tollway: $7.36 for passenger vehicles (full route). This route north of Dallas is another costly option for daily commuters.
Florida: Sunshine and Pricey Toll Roads
- Florida’s Turnpike: Up to $22.59 for passenger vehicles (full route). Stretching from Miami to Central Florida, this toll road offers speed at a premium price.
- Alligator Alley (I-75): $3.25 for passenger vehicles (one-way). Connecting Naples and Fort Lauderdale, this stretch offers a direct route across the Everglades.
- Beachline Expressway (SR 528): Up to $6 for passenger vehicles (full route). Connecting Orlando and Cocoa Beach, this road is often used by tourists heading to Florida’s Space Coast.
Virginia: Historic Routes with Modern Tolls
- Dulles Greenway: Up to $6.05 for passenger vehicles (one-way). This route connects Leesburg to Dulles Airport, with higher prices during peak hours.
- I-66 Express Lanes: Variable pricing up to $40 during peak congestion. A dynamic toll system makes this one of the most expensive routes during rush hour.
- Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel: $21 for passenger vehicles (one-way during peak hours). This impressive bridge-tunnel complex connects Virginia Beach to the Eastern Shore.
Affordable Alternatives: Routes with the Least Expensive Toll Roads
While some toll roads are unavoidable, there are often alternative routes for budget-conscious travelers. These options may take a bit longer or involve more traffic, but they can save significant money.
Delaware
- US Route 13: Runs parallel to I-95 and offers a toll-free option through most of Delaware.
- State Route 9: Provides a scenic, toll-free alternative along the Delaware River.
Texas
- US Highway 183: An alternative to SH 130, offering a toll-free option from Austin to Seguin.
- I-35: Though congested, this is a toll-free route parallel to SH 130 and the Dallas North Tollway.
Florida
- US Highway 1: A slower but toll-free alternative to Florida’s Turnpike.
- State Road 520: Avoids the Beachline Expressway (SR 528) for trips between Orlando and Cocoa Beach.
Virginia
- US Highway 50: A toll-free alternative to the Dulles Greenway.
- I-95 HOV Lanes: Free for vehicles with two or more passengers during designated times.
Safety Tips for Highway Driving
Driving on interstates requires attentiveness, as higher speeds and heavy traffic demand quick reactions. Maintain a safe following distance, check mirrors frequently, and avoid distractions like using your phone.
Learn more safe driving strategies with the DriveSafe Online Defensive Driving Course. One hour of learning could save your life.
Patrick M. is Editorial Director for the always expanding DriveSafe Online library of courses. With over two decades of experience developing award-winning training, he now focuses on innovating online driver safety training. Pulling from his background in journalism, he steers the wheel behind the creation of top-tier content that promotes a better journey—whether on the digital highway of learning or the real roads we travel every day.