Driving Cost from Burlington, Massachusetts to Framingham, Massachusetts

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The Cost of Traveling Between Burlington and Framingham in 2021

Are you planning a trip from Burlington to Framingham and wondering how much it will cost you? You’ve come to the right place! In this article, we’ll explore the different ways of traveling between these two cities and the cost of each option based on current gas prices. We’ll also recommend the best route for a smooth and affordable journey.

Possible routes

There are two main ways of traveling from Burlington to Framingham: driving or taking public transportation. Let’s discuss each of these options and the different routes that you can take.

Driving

Driving is perhaps the most convenient way of traveling between Burlington and Framingham as it offers more flexibility and allows you to travel at your own pace. There are two main routes that you can take for this trip:

  • Route 128 and the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90): This is the most direct route and covers a distance of approximately 25 miles. You’ll start by taking Route 128 South to I-90 West and exit at Framingham. This route has tolls, which can cost up to $5.65 one way for passenger vehicles.
  • Route 20: This route goes through nearby towns like Waltham, Weston, and Wayland, covering a distance of approximately 20 miles. While it is longer than the first route, it is toll-free, which can save you some money.

Public Transportation

If you prefer not to drive or don’t have access to a car, you can take public transportation between Burlington and Framingham. The options available are:

  • The commuter rail: This is operated by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) and runs between North Station in Boston and Worcester. You can take the Lowell Line from the Burlington Station to the Framingham Station. The fare for a one-way trip is $7.25 and the journey takes approximately 35-40 minutes.
  • The bus: Greyhound and Peter Pan bus lines both offer service between Burlington and Framingham. The fare for a one-way trip ranges between $10 and $15, depending on the time and schedule.

The Cost of Each Option

Now that we’ve discussed the different routes, let’s take a look at the cost of each option based on current gas prices. As of August 2021, the average gas price in Massachusetts is $3.05 per gallon.

Driving

Using the first route, which is the most direct but has tolls, you’ll need to pay $5.65 in tolls each way, bringing the total to $11.30. Assuming your vehicle gets 25 miles per gallon and you drive a total of 50 miles (25 miles each way), you’ll need 2 gallons of gas, which will cost you $6.10, based on the average gas price.

Therefore, the total cost of driving via the first route would be $17.40. On the other hand, taking the second route, which is toll-free and covers a distance of 40 miles, would require 1.6 gallons of gas, which will cost you $4.88. So, the total cost of driving via the second route would be $4.88.

Public Transportation

If you decide to take the commuter rail, you’ll pay $7.25 for a one-way trip. If you use the bus, you’ll pay $10 to $15 for a one-way trip, depending on the schedule and provider.

Based on the cost and distance, we recommend taking Route 20 if you’re driving between Burlington and Framingham. While it is longer than the first route, it is toll-free, which can significantly reduce the cost of your trip. Additionally, taking the commuter rail is an affordable public transportation option, especially if you’re not driving.

Conclusion

In conclusion, traveling between Burlington and Framingham can be affordable, whether you choose to drive or take public transportation. If you plan to drive, taking Route 20 can help you save money on tolls, while the commuter rail is an excellent public transportation option, costing only $7.25 for a one-way trip. Regardless of the option you choose, you’ll be able to enjoy a smooth and comfortable journey between these two cities.