The Cost of a Trip between Boston, MA and Lowell, MA Based on Current Gas Prices

Traveling between Boston, Massachusetts, and Lowell, Massachusetts, can be done by different modes of transportation. Taking into account the distance and current gas prices, we will explore the cost of a trip by car through the different possible routes and compare them, highlighting the most recommended one.

Route Options

Route 1: I-93 N and US-3 N

One of the most common routes to travel from Boston to Lowell is by taking the I-93 N and US-3 N routes. The distance between both cities is about 35 miles, and the estimated travel time is around 45 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic. The current average gas price in Boston is approximately $2.99 per gallon. This means that it would cost around $7.22 for a round-trip in a four-cylinder car. For an eight-cylinder car, it would cost twice as much, around $14.44.

Route 2: I-90 W and I-495 N

Another route to consider is taking the I-90 W and I-495 N. This route is longer, taking approximately one hour and ten minutes to cover the distance of 46 miles between Boston and Lowell. The average gas price using this route is also around $2.99 per gallon. It would cost $8.87 for a round trip in a four-cylinder car and twice as much, $17.74, for an eight-cylinder car.

Route 3: I-93 N and Lowell Connector

The I-93 N and Lowell Connector route can be an option for travelers heading to Lowell from Boston. The distance between both cities using this route is about 34 miles, which may take around 50 to 55 minutes. The cost of gas per gallon remains the same, around $2.99, meaning that it would cost $7.13 for a four-cylinder car round trip, and $14.26 for an eight-cylinder car.

Route 4: MA-2 W and US-3 N

Finally, the MA-2 W and US-3 N route may also be an option that travelers can consider. The distance is about 32 miles, which may take around 50 to 55 minutes, and the current gas price is around $2.99 per gallon. The estimated cost of a round trip for a four-cylinder car would be around $7.02, twice of which, $14.04, for an eight-cylinder car.

Recommended Route

After comparing and analyzing the cost of each route, it is suggested that the best route to take from Boston to Lowell would be the I-93 N and US-3 N, as it has the shortest distance and travel time among all the options. It would also be the most cost-effective choice, with a round trip cost of approximately $7.22 for a four-cylinder car and $14.44 for an eight-cylinder one.

Conclusion

In conclusion, traveling between Boston and Lowell offers different routes that travelers can choose from. The most cost-effective and efficient option is typically the I-93 N and US-3 N route, as it has the shortest distance and travel time among all the options. The round-trip cost using this route for a four-cylinder car is approximately $7.22, while it will cost around $14.44 for an eight-cylinder one. The choice of route will depend primarily on the traveler's mode of transport, budget, and available time. As such, it is recommended to use the above information as a guide to make an informed decision.