The Cost of a Trip between Buffalo and Village of Webster: A Guide Based on Current Gas Prices
Traveling between Western New York and the Rochester area can be a frequent necessity for work or pleasure, but the cost of gas and tolls can add up quickly. Here is a guide to the different possible routes, their distance, and cost based on current gas prices.
The Route
There are a few different routes to take between Buffalo and the Village of Webster, with varying degrees of convenience and expense.
Route 1: I-90 East
This route is the most direct way to get from Buffalo to Webster and involves taking the New York State Thruway (I-90) east towards Rochester. There is one toll plaza on this route, which is the Williamsville toll barrier, costing $1.00 for passenger vehicles. The distance between Buffalo and Webster is about 77 miles.
Route 2: I-490 East
This route, also known as the Southern Tier Expressway, is a good option for those looking to save a little money on tolls and gas. The route involves taking I-90 east to the I-490 exit towards Rochester. There are no tolls on this section of I-490. The distance between Buffalo and Webster is about 81 miles.
Route 3: Route 20A East
For those looking to avoid the toll roads altogether, Route 20A is an option, but it can take significantly longer than the previous two routes. The route involves taking Route 400 south to Route 20A east, which eventually turns into Route 65. There are no tolls on this route. The distance between Buffalo and Webster is about 103 miles.
The Cost
Gas prices are constantly fluctuating, so it’s important to factor in the current prices when estimating the cost of a trip.
Gas Prices as of August 2021
As of August 2021, the average gas price in Buffalo is $3.20 per gallon, while the average gas price in Rochester is $3.14 per gallon. These prices may vary slightly depending on the neighborhood or gas station chosen.
Route 1: I-90 East
Assuming a passenger car gets 25 miles per gallon (mpg), it would take approximately 3.08 gallons of gas to travel the 77 miles from Buffalo to Webster. The estimated cost of gas would be $9.86 ($3.20 x 3.08 gallons).
Route 2: I-490 East
The distance between Buffalo and Webster along Route 2 is about 81 miles. Assuming the same 25 mpg, it would take approximately 3.24 gallons of gas, which would cost about $10.37 ($3.20 x 3.24 gallons).
Route 3: Route 20A East
This route is a bit longer, with a distance of about 103 miles. Assuming the same 25 mpg, it would take about 4.12 gallons of gas, which would cost about $13.18 ($3.20 x 4.12 gallons).
The Toll Costs
Toll rates can also add up during a trip. Here is a breakdown of the tolls on each route.
Route 1: I-90 East
The only toll plaza on this route is the Williamsville toll barrier, which costs $1.00 for passenger vehicles.
Route 2: I-490 East
There are no tolls on this section of I-490.
Route 3: Route 20A East
There are no tolls on this route.
The Conclusion
Based on current gas prices, the most cost-effective route to take between Buffalo and Webster is I-90 East, despite the $1.00 toll at the Williamsville barrier. This route would cost about $10.86. Route 2, while a close second, is slightly more expensive due to the lack of tolls but slightly longer distance. Route 3 is the longest and most expensive, but may be worth considering for the scenery or for taking a more leisurely pace.
Overall, the difference in cost between the routes is not huge, and the choice between them may ultimately come down to factors like time, convenience, or preference for a particular type of road. It’s important to consider the current gas prices and tolls when deciding on a route, but also to keep in mind that these costs can vary over time. Safe travels!