#Calculating the Cost of a Trip between Carteret, New Jersey and Toms River, New Jersey
When planning a trip between two cities, it’s essential to consider various route options and their associated costs. In this article, we will explore the cost of a trip between Carteret, New Jersey, and Toms River, New Jersey, using different routes. We will analyze factors such as distance, fuel costs, and time, among others, to help you choose the best option for your journey.
##Route Options
Route 1 – Garden State Parkway:
The Garden State Parkway is a popular option when traveling to Toms River, NJ. This route is 39.4 miles long and takes about 45 minutes without traffic. However, during peak hours, this route can take up to an hour, so plan accordingly.
The cost of traveling this route will depend on your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and the current gas prices. If driving a car with a 25-mile per gallon (MPG) fuel efficiency and gas prices at $3.00 per gallon, a one-way drive from Carteret to Toms River would cost approximately $5.70.
Route 2 – NJ Turnpike:
Another significant route to consider when planning your trip is the NJ Turnpike. This toll road boasts fast movement between the two cities since it’s designed to reduce traffic congestion. The NJ Turnpike is 52.5 miles long and takes about an hour without traffic. During rush hour, it can take up to 90-minutes to travel this route.
The cost of traveling this route is more than Garden State Parkway since it consists of four toll gates. When traveling from Carteret to Toms River, you will pay a total of $13.85 in tolls. In addition to this, the fuel cost would be the same as on Route 1, adding up to $5.70. So, the total cost for driving from Carteret to Toms River would be approximately $19.55 via the NJ Turnpike.
Route 3 – Route 35 and Route 18:
This route is a good option when looking for a more scenic drive. Taking Route 35 south to Route 18 will connect you to Toms River. This route is 41.5 miles long and takes about 60 minutes without traffic. However, during rush hour, it can take 90 minutes of travel time.
Since this route does not contain any toll gates, the only cost incurred would be the fuel cost. Following our assumptions, a one-way drive from Carteret to Toms River would be approximately $5.70 when using this route.
Route 4 – Route 1 and Route 9:
Driving from Carteret to Toms River using Route 1 and Route 9 is another good option. Often, this route will be the slowest, but it has some unique features that other routes do not offer. The distance covered on this route is 38.5 miles and takes about 52 minutes without traffic. Although it can take up to 90 minutes during peak periods.
This route does not include any toll gates, but it does have some red lights and some slower speed limits. Therefore, the same calculations apply, and a one-way trip from Carteret to Toms River would be approximately $5.70 in fuel costs.
Choosing the Best Route
When selecting the best route to travel to Toms River from Carteret, you need to consider your priorities. If you’re in a rush and can afford the toll costs, the NJ Turnpike is the best option. Moreover, if you’re not worried about time, Route 1 and Route 9 offer a more diverse drive with plenty of interesting sights. Lastly, if you want to avoid toll costs and traffic delays, Route 35 and Route 18 is a good pick.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several ways to get from Carteret, NJ to Toms River, NJ, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Using Route 1, Route 35, Route 9, or the Garden State Parkway can ensure a stress-free and enjoyable journey, depending on your priorities. Although each route incurs different costs, the fuel charge of approximately $5.70 remains constant, and whether it's worth paying the toll prices is entirely up to you.
After reviewing all of the route options, we recommend that you pick the Garden State Parkway when looking for the most budget-friendly option. It’s the least expensive and most direct route, and with 45 minutes of drive time, you’ll save time without breaking the bank.