The Cost of a Trip Between Canton and Haverhill, Massachusetts: Exploring the Best Route and the Current Gas Prices
Are you planning a trip between Canton and Haverhill, Massachusetts? Whether it is for work, leisure, or personal reasons, the cost of the trip can add up quickly, especially if you are driving. With gas prices constantly changing and several possible routes to choose from, it can be challenging to estimate how much you will need to spend. Fortunately, we have researched and analyzed the different options to provide you with a comprehensive guide. In this article, we will look at the various routes available, their respective distances, the current gas prices, and recommend the best option for your budget and schedule.
Possible Routes
When it comes to traveling from Canton to Haverhill, there are three primary routes you can follow:
- Route 95N to Route 93N
- Route 128N to Route 93N
- Route 93N all the way
Each route has its advantages and disadvantages, including the distance, traffic, and tolls involved. Let's take a closer look at each option.
Route 95N to Route 93N
The first route involves taking Route 95N from Canton and later merging onto Route 93N towards Haverhill. This option is approximately 42 miles long and takes approximately 50 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
The primary advantage of this route is the lack of tolls, which can save you some money. However, it also means that it might attract more traffic, particularly during rush hours, which can significantly impact your travel time. Additionally, parts of this route can be congested, especially when approaching major cities like Boston.
Route 128N to Route 93N
The second route involves taking Route 128N, also known as the "Yankee Division Highway," from Canton and later merging onto Route 93N. This option is approximately 44 miles long and takes about one hour, depending on traffic conditions.
The primary advantage of this route is that it provides an alternative to Route 95N and may have less traffic during rush hours. It also passes through several scenic towns and tourist attractions, such as Lexington and Concord, that you may find interesting to visit. However, it does come with a significant disadvantage: tolls. Specifically, the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority charges tolls from Weston to Peabody, which can add up to $6.70 each way.
Route 93N All the Way
The third and final route involves taking Route 93N all the way from Canton to Haverhill. This option is approximately 46 miles long and takes around one hour and ten minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
The primary advantage of this route is that it is the most direct path between the two towns and requires no merging on or off other highways. This means that it may be the fastest option, especially during peak hours. However, it also includes the expensive Tobin Bridge Toll Plaza, which charges $2.50 for cars each way, adding $5 to your travel costs.
Current Gas Prices
The cost of a trip depends heavily on the current gas prices. Unfortunately, predicting fuel costs can be challenging, as they can change daily or even hourly. However, it is still possible to estimate the average cost based on data from reliable sources.
According to AAA's Daily Fuel Gauge Report, as of May 17, 2021, the average price of regular gas in Massachusetts is $2.92 per gallon, while premium and diesel fuel cost an average of $3.26 and $2.94 per gallon, respectively. Keep in mind that fuel prices may vary depending on the location, brand, and other factors.
Based on these numbers, we can estimate the fuel cost based on the distance of each route and an average car gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon (MPG). We will use a midsize car like the Toyota Camry 2021 for our calculations, assuming that gas prices and driving conditions are consistent.
Route 95N to Route 93N
- Distance: 42 miles
- Estimated fuel consumption: 1.68 gallons.
- Fuel cost: $4.90 (1.68 x $2.92 per gallon)
Route 128N to Route 93N
- Distance: 44 miles
- Estimated fuel consumption: 1.76 gallons.
- Fuel cost: $5.14 (1.76 x $2.92 per gallon) + tolls (if applicable)
Route 93N all the way
- Distance: 46 miles
- Estimated fuel consumption: 1.84 gallons.
- Fuel cost: $5.38 (1.84 x $2.92 per gallon) + tolls (if applicable)
Note that the fuel cost estimates are based on perfect driving conditions and average cars. In practice, your actual fuel consumption may vary depending on factors such as weather, terrain, traffic, and driving habits. Always consider having extra money aside in case of unforeseen circumstances, and make sure your car is in good condition before embarking on a long trip.
The Best Route
With the above information, it is easy to compare the cost and distance of each route. But which one should you choose? The answer depends on your priorities and preferences.
If you are in a hurry and want the shortest possible time, we recommend Route 93N all the way, as this is the most direct and least congested path. However, if you want to save some money on tolls and explore some charming New England towns along the way, you may prefer Route 128N to Route 93N, which is less crowded and offers some scenic routes. If you want to avoid traffic and do not mind taking a bit longer to reach your destination, Route 95N to Route 93N may be the best option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, estimating the cost of a trip between Canton and Haverhill, Massachusetts, can be challenging, but with proper planning and research, you can make informed decisions. By understanding the different routes available, the current gas prices, and other relevant factors such as tolls, traffic, and mileage, you can choose the best path that fits your budget and schedule. We hope this guide has provided you with valuable insights and helped you plan your trip more efficiently. Safe travels!