The Real Cost of a Trip Between Bolton and Boston in the Age of High Gas Prices

Are you planning a trip to Boston from Bolton, Massachusetts? Whether it’s for business or leisure travel, your first question is likely, “How much will it cost me?” Gas prices have been steadily climbing, so it’s important to consider fuel costs as you plan your trip. But just how much does it cost to drive from Bolton to Boston and what route should you take? In this article, we’ll break down the cost of different routes and recommend the most cost-effective option.

Exploring Possible Routes

The most direct route from Bolton to Boston is via I-495 and I-90 E. This route covers a distance of approximately 42 miles, which theoretically should take you about 45 minutes to an hour to drive. However, this route is also the most congested and will likely take longer due to traffic.

Another option is to take Route 2 and I-95 S. This route is approximately 49 miles long and would take around 55-65 minutes to complete. However, it’s worth noting that Route 2 can be as congested, if not more so, than I-495, particularly during peak hours.

For those who prioritize a scenic route, a third option is to take Route 117 E and I-90 E. This route covers approximately 42 miles and would take around 55-65 minutes to drive. While this route may take longer than the direct route, it is considered to be one of the most scenic roads in Massachusetts, passing through charming towns like Stow, Littleton, and Concord.

The Cost of Each Route

To calculate the cost of each route, we assumed that we were driving a mid-size sedan with a fuel efficiency of 30 miles per gallon and the current average gas price in Massachusetts of $2.91 per gallon.

The I-495 and I-90 E route would cost approximately $5.01 in fuel costs one-way, $10.02 round-trip. Meanwhile, the Route 2 and I-95 S route would cost $5.79 one-way, $11.58 round-trip. Finally, the scenic Route 117 E and I-90 E route would cost $5.01 one-way, $10.02 round-trip.

While the difference in cost may not be significant, it’s still important to consider fuel efficiency and the cost of gas when planning your trip.

The Best Route

Considering both fuel cost and travel time, the most cost-effective route for the Bolton to Boston trip is I-495 and I-90 E. Although Route 2 and I-95 S may be shorter in distance, it can take significantly longer depending on traffic. Additionally, the scenic Route 117 E and I-90 E may be more enjoyable, but it takes about the same amount of time as the direct I-495 and I-90 E route and could lead you through small towns and heavy traffic.

Conclusion

In the end, there are a few routes to choose from if you’re planning a trip from Bolton to Boston. While the cost of fuel varies slightly, we found that the I-495 and I-90 E route is the most cost-effective option when considering both fuel costs and travel time. This route may not be the most scenic or most direct, but it is the most practical for those who want to save money and avoid heavy traffic. We hope that this article has helped you calculate the cost of your trip, and we wish you a safe and enjoyable journey!