The Cost of Driving from Carteret, NJ to Paterson, NJ

Planning a road trip from Carteret, NJ, to Paterson, NJ? Like most travelers nowadays, you’re probably interested in finding the most cost-efficient way to get there. There are several routes you can take to get to your destination, but which one will be the most economical? Let’s take a closer look and break down the cost of driving from Carteret to Paterson, based on current gas prices.

Route 1: The Shortest Route

The shortest route from Carteret to Paterson is a 29-mile trip taking approximately 40 minutes and doesn’t require you to pay any tolls. You’ll take the Garden State Parkway and Interstate 80 West all the way to Paterson. According to AAA’s Daily Fuel Gauge Report, as of August 2021, the average price of gas in New Jersey was around $3.20 per gallon. With an estimated fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon for the average car, the cost of gas one way would be $3.20 × (29 miles ÷ 25 miles per gallon) = $3.74.

Total cost of the trip: $3.74 (one way)

Route 2: The Cheapest Route

Although a bit longer, this route to Paterson via NJ-7 W and NJ-21 N is considerably cheaper than Route 1. The 33-mile trip from Carteret to Paterson includes toll bridges. The Toll for the Garden State Parkway ranges from $1.50 to $3.50 depending on where you enter. The cost of the NJ Turnpike toll from Carteret to Clifton (exit 16W) is around $2.90. The total toll fee for one way is about $6.90. Let’s calculate our gas cost by considering the average gas price and fuel efficiency. The total gas required for this trip would be $4.43.

Total cost of the trip: $11.33 (one way)

Route 3: The Quickest Route

If timing is your biggest concern when driving from Carteret to Paterson, you can take this route via I-95 N and NJ-21 N even though it’s the most expensive of the three routes. The distance is slightly shorter than Route 2 is and is roughly a 34-mile trip that takes about 30 minutes. The total toll fee for one way is roughly $6.90, and the total gas required is around $4.48.

Total cost of the trip: $11.38 (one way)

In summary, the cost of driving from Carteret to Paterson varies significantly depending on the route you take. The cheapest option is Route 2, but it comes with a higher travel time and toll bridge fees. In contrast, the quickest option is Route 3, but it's also the most expensive due to the toll bridge fees and high gas costs. Ultimately, the choice of route boils down to your travel needs and priorities. Whichever route you pick, safe travels and happy driving!