Driving Cost from Chapel Hill, North Carolina to Hickory, North Carolina

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The Cost of a Trip Between Chapel Hill and Hickory, Based on Current Gas Prices

When planning a trip between Chapel Hill and Hickory, North Carolina, the cost of gas is a significant factor to consider. The distance between the two cities is approximately 100 miles, and there are several possible routes to take. In this article, we will explore the different ways to travel between the two cities and estimate the cost of the trip based on current gas prices.

Route 1: Taking I-40

One of the most direct routes between Chapel Hill and Hickory is taking I-40W. This route is about 103 miles long and typically takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete. Taking this route means avoiding any significant traffic and having a smooth ride. However, like any other highway, this route requires a toll fee, which we will factor in our cost analysis.

Based on AAA's Fuel Gauge Report, the average price of regular gas in North Carolina, as of August 2021, is $2.958 per gallon. Assuming that a car can travel 23 miles per gallon, and the total distance of the trip is 103 miles, a total of 4.5 gallons of gas is needed for the trip. This means that the cost of gas would be approximately $13.31.

Additionally, if you take I-40 West, you will need to pay a toll fee. The North Carolina Turnpike Authority charges a $2.30 toll fee for cars traveling at speeds less than 60 miles per hour and a $1.20 fee for those traveling at speeds over 60 miles per hour. This means that for a vehicle traveling less than 60 miles per hour, the toll fee would be $2.30. Hence, the total cost of travelling using this route would be $15.61.

Route 2: Taking US-64 W and NC-127 N

Another possible route to travel from Chapel Hill to Hickory is using US-64W and NC-127N. This route covers a total distance of approximately 113 miles. Although this route is slightly longer, it is an excellent alternative to using I-40W, especially if you want to avoid any toll fees.

Based on an average of 23 miles per gallon for a car, the total number of gallons required for the trip is approximately 5 gallons. Using the same gas price calculation of $2.958 per gallon, the cost of gas for this route would be $14.79.

Route 3: Combining Highways and Taking a Detour

Another possible route one could take to travel from Chapel Hill to Hickory is by combining several highways and taking a detour. This route is longer than the two previous routes, but you could save money by avoiding the toll roads. Here is an example of such a route;

  • From Chapel Hill, take NC-54 towards Hillsborough.
  • From Hillsborough, take I-85 S.
  • Exit I-85 S on exit 81B towards US-70W and keep left on the ramp.
  • Merge onto US-70 W and continue for approximately five miles.
  • Turn left on NC-16S and continue for approximately 24 miles.
  • Turn right to get on NC-127 N and drive straight towards Hickory.

This route covers a total distance of approximately 131 miles, with a travel time of about 2 hours and 20 minutes. Based on the same gas price of $2.958 per gallon and 23 miles per gallon average gas mileage, the cost of gas for this route would be approximately $17.17.

Conclusion

Considering the cost of gas and toll fees, Route 2, which involves taking US-64W and NC-127N, is the most cost-effective way to travel between Chapel Hill and Hickory. The total cost of gas for this route is $14.79. However, the other routes that we have discussed in this article may be more convenient, depending on specific circumstances.

When considering a trip from Chapel Hill to Hickory, the cost of gas is a critical factor to consider. With the current gas prices in North Carolina, the cost of gas for this trip could range from $14.79 (on Route 2) to $17.17 (on Route 3). Regardless of the route you choose, it is essential to ensure that your vehicle is well maintained, as it reduces the risk of breakdowns, and you end up spending more on the trip.