The Cost of a Trip between Bucksport, Maine and Rochester, New Hampshire: Navigating Gas Prices

Introduction

When planning a trip, one of the first things we often consider is the cost. However, with fluctuating gas prices and various commuting routes, it can be challenging to determine the most cost-effective option. In this article, we'll explore the different possible routes between Bucksport, Maine, and Rochester, New Hampshire, and highlight the cost and distance of each one.

Route 1: I-95 S and Maine Turnpike

The first route is perhaps the most direct one, taking the I-95 S and Maine Turnpike. The distance between the two cities via this route is 173 miles, and it takes approximately three hours to complete the trip.

To determine the estimated cost of this route, we'll use AAA's gas prices for September 2021 in Maine and New Hampshire. As of writing, the average gas price in Maine is $3.11 per gallon, while in New Hampshire, it is slightly cheaper at $3.06 per gallon.

Assuming a car that has a gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon, a trip that covers 173 miles would require 6.92 gallons of gas. To calculate the total cost of the trip, we multiply this number by the average gas price in each state. In Maine, 6.92 gallons of gas would cost $21.50, while in New Hampshire, it would be $21.14. Therefore, the total estimated cost of this trip is approximately $42.64.

Route 2: US-1 S and NH-16 S

Another route option is to take US-1 S and NH-16 S. This route is slightly longer, covering a distance of 193 miles, but could potentially save you a few dollars on gas.

To calculate the estimated cost of this route, we'll use the same gas prices and mileage as the previous example. With a distance of 193 miles, a car with 25 miles per gallon would use 7.72 gallons of gas. This trip's total estimated cost would, therefore, be $24.01 in Maine and $23.56 in New Hampshire, coming to a total estimated cost of $47.57.

Route 3: US-1 S and I-95 S

The third route option is to take US-1 S and connect to I-95 S. This route is longer than the first route, covering a distance of 200 miles. It would take approximately three hours and twenty minutes to complete this trip.

For gas prices and mileage, we'll still use the same numbers as the previous examples. A car with 25 miles per gallon would use 8 gallons of gas to cover 200 miles. The total estimated cost of this trip would be $24.88 in Maine and $24.44 in New Hampshire, making the total estimated cost approximately $49.32.

Conclusion

After considering the different route options and their respective costs, the best route would be Route 1, taking the I-95 S and Maine Turnpike. This route is the most direct and has the shortest distance between the two cities. Although it might be slightly more expensive, the difference isn't substantial, and you'll save time.

In summary, the total estimated cost of a trip between Bucksport, Maine, and Rochester, New Hampshire, ranges from approximately $42.64 to $49.32. The exact cost might vary from person to person, depending on factors such as their car's gas mileage and driving habits. It's always a good idea to consider gas prices when planning a trip and choosing the most cost-effective route.