The Cost of a Trip Between Canton, Ohio and Columbus, Ohio Based on Current Gas Prices

If you're planning a trip from Canton, Ohio to Columbus, Ohio, you're in for a treat! This route is filled with beautiful scenery, historical landmarks, and delicious food options. But before you embark on your journey, it's important to understand the cost associated with this trip, particularly with the fluctuating gas prices. In this article, we will break down the different possible routes and highlight the cost and distance of each one, recommend the best route, and conclude with some insight on the trip.

Understanding Gas Prices

Gas prices are incredibly volatile, and as a driver, you're likely to experience the increase or decrease in prices from time to time, especially if you're travelling long distances. But how exactly can gas prices affect the cost of our trip? To put it simply, the cost of gas may vary by location or on the specific day you're planning to travel.

For this article, we will be using the current average gas price in Canton, Ohio, and Columbus, Ohio, as a standard metric. As of August 2021, the average gas price in Canton, Ohio, is around $3.10/gallon, while Columbus, Ohio, is around $3.20/gallon.

The Different Possible Routes

Before we dive into the cost and distance of each route, it's important to understand that there are various routes to get from Canton, Ohio, to Columbus, Ohio. Some drivers may prefer shorter or faster routes, while others may prefer routes with scenic views or more rest stops. Below we will outline three potential routes and provide some details on each one.

Route 1: I-77 S

The first and most direct route is to take Interstate 77 South (I-77 S). The total distance is around 130 miles, and with normal traffic conditions, it can take around two hours and 15 minutes. This route is suitable if you're in a hurry and don't want to make many stops along the way.

However, it's important to note that there aren't many rest stops or food options along this route, so it's advisable to fill up your gas tank and grab some food before hitting the highway. The cost of this route may vary depending on your car's fuel efficiency and the current gas prices. But based on the average gas price listed above, the total cost may range from $20 to $24.

Route 2: OH-62 E and I-77 S

The second route option is to take OH-62 E and connect with I-77 S. This route might be a bit longer, with a total distance of 140 miles, but it's more scenic and may have a few rest stops along the way. The estimated travel time is around two hours and 30 minutes.

While this route may take slightly longer, it could save you money on gas as it goes through some rural towns with lower gas prices. Based on the current average gas price, the total cost may range from $20 to $22.

Route 3: I-71 S

The third and final option is to take I-71 S. This route is the longest, with a total distance of 155 miles. But it's also a more scenic route with more rest stops and food options. The estimated travel time is around two hours and 45 minutes.

One major benefit of taking this route is that it goes through Columbus's downtown area, making it more convenient for travellers heading to that area. However, the extra miles may mean more gas consumption and a higher total cost. Based on the current average gas price listed above, the total cost may range from $23 to $27.

The Best Route and Conclusion

After considering the cost and distance of each possible route, we recommend taking Route 2. It's not only a cost-effective route, but it's also a more scenic route with a few rest stops and food options along the way, making it a more comfortable ride.

Overall, regardless of which route you choose, it's essential to keep an eye on the current gas prices and plan accordingly. By doing this, you may save a few extra dollars on your trip to Columbus, Ohio. Safe travels!