The Cost of a Trip between Chapel Hill and Charlotte based on Current Gas Prices

Traveling between Chapel Hill and Charlotte, North Carolina, is a common trip for many reasons, including business, leisure, and family visits. The distance between the two cities is approximately 140 miles, with several routes to choose from. Gas prices in North Carolina as of May 2021 are $2.84 per gallon on average, and it is essential to factor in this cost when planning your trip.

Route 1: I-85

One of the most common routes between Chapel Hill and Charlotte involves driving on I-85. This option spans around 140 miles and takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes to cover. Driving on this interstate also helps drivers to avoid heavy traffic, and it is generally the cheaper option since the only cost involved is the gas.

According to Fuel Cost Calculator, driving a car with an average gas mileage of 30 miles per gallon (mpg) would require almost five gallons of gas, translating to approximately $14 for a one-way trip. The cost doubles for a round trip, with the average cost for gas totaling approximately $28.

Route 2: US-70 W and I-85 S

Another option that drivers can use is heading to Charlotte through US-70 W and I-85 S. This option takes slightly longer than I-85, with a total distance of about 145 miles. Driving through US-70 W includes both some small towns and scenic routes, and it may take longer than other routes to reach your destination.

According to Fuel Economy, driving a car with an average mileage of 30 mpg through this route requires over 6 gallons of gas, costing a one-way trip of almost $17 and a total of $34 for a return trip. The distance may be longer, but this option may be ideal for drivers looking to enjoy a mix of city and rural routes.

Route 3: NC-54 W and I-85 S

For drivers looking for a scenic route, heading west through NC-54 W and joining I-85 S is an excellent option. This option spans roughly 137 miles, taking approximately three hours to complete. Because it meanders through several small towns, this route often suffers from heavy traffic during rush hour, adding to the total travel time.

Driving on this route would require about 5 gallons of gas, with a one-way trip costing under $15 and a total of $30 for a round trip. Though it may take longer due to heavy traffic, this route offers picturesque views and may be ideal for drivers looking for landscape variety.

Route 4: I-40W and I-77S

The last option for drivers heading from Chapel Hill to Charlotte is driving through I-40W and connecting to I-77S. This route spans a total of 165 miles and takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes to reach Charlotte. Although this option takes longer and is more expensive, it may be ideal for travelers who want to enjoy the beautiful landscape along the way.

Driving a car with an average gas mileage of 30 mpg would require approximately six and a half gallons of gas, which translates to over $18 for a one-way trip and a total of approximately $37 for a round trip.

Which Route Is the Best?

Choosing the best driving route to use depends on several factors, including the cost, travel time, and individual preferences. Most drivers opt for I-85 due to its relative shorter distance and fewer traffic diversions. However, for drivers who love scenic routes, NC-54 W and I-40W may offer the best options.

The choice of the route to take may also depend on the traffic conditions at the time of travel. During peak hours, some routes may experience heavy traffic, resulting in longer travel times. It is recommendable to check traffic conditions and plan travel times accordingly.

Conclusion

Different routes lead from Chapel Hill to Charlotte, each with different features, costs, and travel times. Despite the variability of these options, the most cost-effective route is through I-85 due to its direct route and cheaper gas costs. Other options such as US-70 W, NC-54 W, and I-40 W are ideal for drivers looking for scenic routes.

When planning a trip between Chapel Hill and Charlotte, always factor in the cost of gas and plan your route accordingly. With the right planning, the trip should be enjoyable, convenient, and well within your budget.