The Cost of a Trip Between Buffalo, New York and Brampton, Ontario

If you're planning a trip between Buffalo, New York and Brampton, Ontario, you'll want to consider the cost of the journey - and gas prices are a big factor. In this article, we'll break down the different routes you can take between these two cities, highlighting the distance and cost of each one. We'll also recommend the best route based on your priorities - whether that's cost, time, or convenience.

Route 1: The QEW

The most common route between Buffalo and Brampton is via the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW) - a major highway that runs along the shores of Lake Ontario. This route takes you through Hamilton, Burlington, and Mississauga, before arriving in Brampton. The distance between Buffalo and Brampton via the QEW is approximately 109 miles.

At current gas prices, a one-way trip along the QEW would cost about $15.06 USD in a vehicle that gets 30 miles per gallon. This assumes a gas price of $1.15 CAD per litre in Ontario and $2.80 USD per gallon in New York.

Route 2: The 407 ETR

If you're willing to pay a toll, you can take the 407 ETR - a privately-owned toll highway that runs from Burlington to Pickering. The 407 ETR is known for being a faster route than the QEW, since it bypasses many of the towns and cities along the way. However, toll charges can add up quickly.

The distance between Buffalo and Brampton via the 407 ETR is approximately 97 miles. The cost of the tolls varies depending on the time of day and the day of the week. On weekdays during rush hour, tolls can be as high as $35 CAD for a one-way trip. However, if you travel during off-peak times, tolls can be as low as $8 CAD.

Assuming a toll of $20 CAD each way, the cost of a round-trip journey on the 407 ETR would be approximately $56.40 USD in a vehicle that gets 30 miles per gallon.

Route 3: The Peace Bridge

If you're looking for a scenic route, you can cross the border at the Peace Bridge - a historic bridge that spans the Niagara River between Buffalo and Fort Erie, Ontario. This route takes you through Niagara Falls and along the Niagara Parkway, before connecting with the QEW in St. Catharines.

The distance between Buffalo and Brampton via the Peace Bridge is approximately 132 miles. However, this route can be slower than the QEW, due to traffic in Niagara Falls and along the Niagara Parkway.

Assuming you take the QEW for the majority of the journey, a round-trip journey via the Peace Bridge would cost approximately $24.10 USD in a vehicle that gets 30 miles per gallon.

Recommendation: The QEW

Based on cost and travel time, the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW) is the best route between Buffalo and Brampton. While it may not be the fastest or most scenic route, it is the most economical - costing just $15.06 USD each way in gas.

If you're in a hurry, the 407 ETR can save you time - but you'll pay a hefty toll for the privilege. And if you're looking for a leisurely drive, the Peace Bridge route can be a nice option - but be prepared for slower travel times and potential traffic delays.

Conclusion

A trip between Buffalo, New York and Brampton, Ontario can be affordable and convenient - as long as you choose the right route. The QEW is the most cost-effective option, while the 407 ETR can save you time (at a price). The Peace Bridge offers a scenic alternative, but may be slower. Ultimately, the choice is up to you. Safe travels!