The Cost of a Trip between Brookline and Plymouth: Analyzing the Different Routes
If you're planning a trip between Brookline and Plymouth, one of the most important factors to consider is the cost of transportation. The route you choose can have a significant impact on your expenses, especially when it comes to gas prices. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the different possible routes for this trip and analyze their costs and distances. We'll also recommend the best route based on various factors.
Possible Routes
Before we dive into the specifics of each route, let's take a look at the general directions and distances for a trip between Brookline and Plymouth. Both towns are located in Massachusetts, with Brookline to the northeast and Plymouth to the southeast. The most direct route between these two towns is to take Interstate 93 South and then switch to Route 3 South before reaching Plymouth. However, there are several possible variations of this route depending on your starting location and preferred method of transportation.
Route 1: Interstate 93 South and Route 3 South
The first and most straightforward route between Brookline and Plymouth involves taking Interstate 93 South and then switching to Route 3 South. This route covers a distance of approximately 46 miles and takes about 55 minutes to complete without traffic. To get onto Interstate 93, you can take Storrow Drive West from Brookline and then follow signs for 93 South. Once you're on 93, continue driving until you reach exit 7 in Braintree. From there, get onto Route 3 South and continue driving until you reach Plymouth.
Gas Prices: According to GasBuddy, the average gas price in Brookline is currently $2.87 per gallon, while the average price in Plymouth is $2.93 per gallon. Based on the distance of this route and an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, the estimated cost of gas for this trip is around $11.60 one way.
Route 2: Route 128 South and Route 3 South
Another possible route to consider is to take Route 128 South and then switch to Route 3 South. This route covers a total distance of approximately 50 miles and takes about 1 hour to complete without traffic. To get onto Route 128, you can take Route 9 West from Brookline and then follow signs for 128 South. Once you're on 128, continue driving until you reach exit 15 for Route 3 South. From there, get onto Route 3 South and continue until you reach Plymouth.
Gas Prices: According to GasBuddy, the average gas price in Brookline is currently $2.87 per gallon, while the average price in Plymouth is $2.93 per gallon. Based on the distance of this route and an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, the estimated cost of gas for this trip is around $12.50 one way.
Route 3: Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority
If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) operates several commuter rail lines that connect Boston (including Brookline) to Plymouth. This route involves taking the Green Line D branch from Brookline to North Station in Boston and then transferring to the Kingston/Plymouth Line on the MBTA commuter rail. This trip takes about 2 hours and costs around $13.50 one way. However, keep in mind that the commuter rail schedules may vary depending on the time of day and day of the week.
Recommended Route
Based on the distance, travel time, and cost of gas, we recommend taking Route 1: Interstate 93 South and Route 3 South. This route covers the shortest distance while still being relatively easy to navigate, and the estimated cost of gas is the lowest among the three routes. Of course, traffic conditions may vary depending on when you're traveling, so make sure to check for any potential delays before setting out. It's also worth noting that taking public transportation like the MBTA can be a good option for those who don't want to drive or deal with parking in a busy city like Boston.
Conclusion
Overall, the cost of a trip between Brookline and Plymouth can vary depending on the route you choose and the mode of transportation you prefer. However, by analyzing the distance and gas prices for each route, we can recommend taking Route 1: Interstate 93 South and Route 3 South as the most cost-effective and efficient option. With an estimated cost of $11.60 one way in gas, this route covers a distance of approximately 46 miles and takes about 55 minutes to complete without traffic. Whether you're planning a day trip or a longer stay, knowing the different routes and their costs can help you make the most of your budget and time.