What is the exact distance from New Orleans to Houston?

The driving distance from New Orleans to Houston is 561 kilometers (349 miles). The straight-line distance is 511 km.

How long does it take to drive from New Orleans to Houston?

The estimated driving time from New Orleans to Houston is 5.5 hours under normal traffic conditions. This can vary based on traffic, road conditions, and your driving speed.

What is the fastest route from New Orleans to Houston?

The fastest route is typically 561km and takes about 5.5 hours. This route is optimized for time and usually uses major highways and roads.

Are there alternative routes from New Orleans to Houston?

Yes, we provide up to 2 different route options including the fastest route, shortest distance route, and alternative paths that may offer different scenery or avoid certain road types.

Does the route from New Orleans to Houston include tolls?

Yes, some routes from New Orleans to Houston may include toll roads. Check the detailed route information below for specific toll road indicators.

Can I get turn-by-turn directions from New Orleans to Houston?

While we provide the route overview and key information, for detailed turn-by-turn directions, we recommend using the route data with your preferred GPS navigation app or mapping service.

New Orleans to Houston Distance

349 miles•561 km•5.5 hours

Driving distance and route information from New Orleans, United Statesto Houston, United States. Compare multiple routes and get detailed travel information.

⭐

FASTEST ROUTE

348.55 mi

(560.93 km)

⏱️5h 27m

Via Canal Street, South Claiborne Avenue

Canal Street → South Claiborne Avenue

🛣️ 70% Highway💰 Tolls

📏

SHORTEST ROUTE

360.54 mi

(580.24 km)

⏱️6h 2m

Via Canal Street, South Claiborne Avenue

Canal Street → South Claiborne Avenue

🛣️ 70% Highway💰 Tolls

📏 Straight-line distance: 318 miles (511 km)

See crow flies distance →

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Complete Driving Guide: New Orleans to Houston

Essential Route Information

TOTAL DISTANCE

349 mi

561 kilometers

DRIVING TIME

5.5 hours

330 minutes

FUEL ESTIMATE

47 L

$70 cost

📍 Route Overview

Starting PointNew Orleans, Louisiana

DestinationHouston, Texas

Route Options2 available routes

Countries Crossed1 country

Time Zone ChangesCheck local times

🚗 Driving Details

Average Speed102 km/h

Straight-line Distance511 km

Route Efficiency91%

Toll RoadsYes - Budget required

Ferry CrossingsNo ferries

Compare All Routes from New Orleans to Houston

Route Type	Distance	Drive Time	Avg Speed	Tolls
⭐ Fastest Route	349 mi (561 km)	5.5 hours	103 km/h	✅ Yes
Alternative 1	361 mi (580 km)	6 hours	96 km/h	✅ Yes

Complete Journey Overview: New Orleans to Houston

The road journey from New Orleans to Houston spans approximately 349 miles (561 kilometers), making it a long-distance drive that typically requires 5.5 hours of continuous driving under normal traffic conditions.

This route connects Louisiana, United States with Texas, United States, traversing through various regions within United States. The journey offers 2 distinct routing options, each with unique advantages in terms of distance, time, or scenic value.

The most efficient route from New Orleans to Houston follows major highways and arterial roads, maintaining an average speed of approximately 102 km/h. This route has been optimized for speed, though it includes toll roads that require payment.

🗺️ Travel Planning Essentials

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Fuel Planning: Expect to use approximately 14 gallons (47 liters) of fuel for this 349 mile journey. Plan fuel stops every 250-300 miles.

✓

Rest Stops: For safety, plan a 15-minute break every 2 hours of driving. Total journey with breaks: 6.3 hours.

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Best Travel Times: Avoid peak traffic hours (7-9 AM and 5-7 PM) in major cities along your route for optimal travel time.

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Weather Check: Monitor weather conditions along the entire route, especially during winter months or rainy seasons.

💰 Cost Estimation Guide

Fuel Cost (approximate)$49

Toll Costs$17

Vehicle Wear (per mile)$87

Total Trip Cost$153

* Costs are estimates based on average fuel prices and vehicle maintenance. Actual costs may vary.

Alternative Transportation Options

🚗

By Car

5.5 hours

349 miles

✈️

By Plane

0.6 hours flight

511 km direct

🚌

By Bus

7.2 hours

Multiple stops

🚂

By Train

Check availability

Scenic route