Cost of a Trip between Charleston, South Carolina and Augusta, Georgia: Explore the Different Routes

Are you planning a trip between Charleston, South Carolina and Augusta, Georgia? The distance between these two cities is approximately 132 miles, and depending on the route you choose, you can expect to spend anywhere from $20 to $50 on gas alone. In this article, we’ll explore the different routes available, highlight the cost and distance of each one, and recommend the best route.

Route 1: I-26 W and I-20 W

The first and most direct route from Charleston to Augusta is to take Interstate 26 West and then switch to Interstate 20 West towards Augusta. The total distance covered is approximately 140 miles, and it will take you around 2 hours and 20 minutes depending on the traffic. You will need to cross the Savannah River to enter Augusta, and this means that you might have to pay toll fees. The average gas price in Charleston according to AAA Fuel Gauge Report is $2.60 per gallon, while the average cost in Augusta is $2.49 per gallon. Based on these prices, you can expect to spend around $22 to $55 on gas depending on your car's gas mileage.

Route 2: I-26 W, SC-19, and I-20 W

Another option from Charleston to Augusta is to take Interstate 26 West to SC-19 and then connect to Interstate 20 West towards Augusta. This route is slightly longer than the first one, covering around 152 miles, but it is less busy and can offer a more scenic drive. The estimated driving time is just under 3 hours. The cost of gas for this route based on the current average prices is between $23 and $58.

Route 3: US-78 W and I-20 W

If you prefer to take a more scenic route, you can take US-78 West from Charleston towards Augusta and then connect to Interstate 20 West. This route is approximately 187 miles long and will take you around 4 hours and 23 minutes depending on your driving speed. The scenery along the way is worth the extra time, and you can expect to spend around $28 to $70 on gas.

Route 4: US-17 S, I-95 S, US-278 W, and SC-125 N

For a more relaxed drive with beautiful views, take US-17 South from Charleston to I-95 South, then exit onto US-278 W towards Augusta. Finally, take SC-125 N to reach your final destination. This route is the longest with a total distance of around 207 miles, and it will take around 5 hours to complete. However, along the way, you will witness beautiful views of the coast and scenic countryside. The estimated cost of gas for this route is between $30 to $75.

Which is the Best Route?

The best route between Charleston and Augusta largely depends on your preference for gas expenses, driving time, and scenery. If you are in a hurry and want to get to Augusta in the shortest time, the I-26 W and I-20 W route is your best option. However, if you have some extra time, prefer to save on toll fees, and want to enjoy some gorgeous views while driving, the US-78 W and I-20 W route is the perfect choice.

Conclusion

In summary, there are several ways that you can travel from Charleston, South Carolina, to Augusta, Georgia, each with advantages and challenges. The I-26 W and I-20 W route is the shortest and the quickest, while the US-78 W and I-20 W route takes longer but offers more scenic views. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your priorities, but with our guide, you can make an informed decision that suits your needs. Safe travels!