The Cost of a Trip Between Buffalo, New York and New York, New York: A Complete Guide

Are you planning a trip from Buffalo, New York to New York, New York? If so, one of your main concerns might be the cost of the trip. With different possible routes, it can be a bit overwhelming to determine the cheapest and most efficient way to make your journey. In this guide, we break down the cost of different travel options and recommend the best route to take based on current gas prices.

Driving

Driving from Buffalo to New York City is one of the most popular ways to make the journey. While driving can be a bit time-consuming, it's often the cheapest way to travel, especially if you have a group of people going on the trip. Here are the different driving routes you can take:

Route 1: Via I-90

This is the most straightforward route, and it covers the distance of about 400 miles. The journey takes approximately 7 hours, depending on traffic. Taking the I-90 route involves taking the New York State Thruway, which has a toll fee for long-distance travel. The toll fee calculation is based on your vehicle's class, and it can range from $17 to $49.

Route 2: Via I-86 and I-84

If you're looking for a more scenic route, you can opt to take I-86 and I-84 instead of I-90. This route is longer (approximately 450 miles) but has the advantage of providing a better view of the state's Southern Tier and Hudson Valley regions. With this route, you'll not need to pay any toll fees. However, you should plan to spend approximately 7 to 8 hours traveling.

Route 3: Via Route 17 and I-80

This is the longest route, as it covers the distance of approximately 500 miles. The journey takes approximately 9 hours, depending on traffic. However, this route has the advantage of taking you through parts of upstate New York and Pennsylvania that you might not have seen before. Similar to route 2, there are no toll fees to pay when driving on route 17.

Bus

If you don't own a car or prefer not to drive, taking a bus is another option. Here are the available bus routes from Buffalo to New York City:

Greyhound Bus

One of the most popular bus companies on this route is Greyhound Bus. The fare for an adult ticket ranges from $33 to $53, depending on your chosen package. The journey takes approximately 9 hours, with stops in cities such as Rochester, Syracuse, Binghamton, and others.

Megabus

Megabus is another popular bus company on this route. The fare for an adult ticket ranges from $25 to $60, depending on your chosen seat type, such as standard seats, extra legroom, and others. The journey takes approximately 7 to 9 hours.

Train

Taking a train is the best way to avoid traffic and relax while traveling. Here are the available train options from Buffalo to New York City:

Amtrak train

Amtrak train is the primary operator of this route. The fare for an adult ticket ranges from $32 to $115, depending on your preferred seat type, such as coach class or business class. The journey takes approximately 8.5 hours, with stops in cities such as Syracuse, Utica, and Albany.

Conclusion

After comparing all the options we've provided, the best option for this trip is to drive on Route 1 via I-90. Though it can be time-consuming, it remains the cheapest option when considering other modes of transportation. The journey takes approximately 7 hours, depending on traffic, and you get to enjoy some spectacular views while driving. Ensure that you have enough fuel and cash to cover the toll fees. With the current gas prices, you should expect to spend between $35 and $45 on fuel for the entire journey, depending on your car's fuel economy.

In conclusion, the cost of a trip from Buffalo, New York, to New York City varies depending on the mode of transportation you choose. Consider the distance, travel time, and any additional costs such as toll fees or parking fees when making your travel plans. Regardless of the mode of transportation you choose, ensure you have comfortable clothing, snacks, and anything you may need for the journey ahead. Enjoy the trip!