The Cost of Driving From Charlotte, North Carolina to North Charleston, South Carolina

Are you planning a road trip from Charlotte to North Charleston? Whether you're heading down for a weekend getaway or just visiting friends and family, it's always good to know what to expect in terms of distance, time, and of course, cost. In this blog post, we'll break down the different routes you can take, their distances, time estimates, and most importantly, the cost based on current gas prices. So put on your seatbelts, and let's hit the road!

Route 1: I-77 S and I-26 E

Distance: Approximately 210 miles Time: Around 3.5 hours

This is the most direct route from Charlotte to North Charleston. You'll first hop on I-77 S, which will take you south towards Columbia, South Carolina. Then, you'll seamlessly transition onto I-26 E which leads directly to North Charleston. This route is the fastest and usually the preferred choice for those looking to reach their destination in the shortest time possible.

Gas Prices: As of our research, the average gas price in North Carolina and South Carolina is around $2.75 per gallon.

Cost: Assuming your vehicle gets an average of 25 miles per gallon and gas prices at $2.75 per gallon, the total cost of gas for this route would be approximately $58 round trip.

Please note that tolls are not applicable on this route.

Route 2: US-74 E and SC-9 S

Distance: Approximately 240 miles Time: Approximately 4.5 hours

For those looking to enjoy a scenic drive with a bit more flexibility, this alternative route may be a good fit. You'll begin by taking US-74 E, also known as Independence Boulevard, as it winds its way towards the east. Once you cross into South Carolina, you'll transition onto SC-9 S, which will eventually lead you down to North Charleston.

Gas Prices: As mentioned earlier, the average gas price in North Carolina and South Carolina is around $2.75 per gallon.

Cost: Following the same assumptions as the previous route, this alternative route would cost you approximately $66 round trip in gas expenses.

Tolls are not applicable on this route either.

Route 3: I-85 S and SC-9 S

Distance: Approximately 245 miles Time: About 4.5 hours

Another route option is to take I-85 S, which will guide you south toward Greenville, South Carolina. From there, you can transition onto SC-9 S and continue on your way to North Charleston. While this route is slightly longer in terms of distance compared to the first two options, it offers some variety in scenery and an opportunity to explore different parts of South Carolina.

Gas Prices: Again, the average gas price in North Carolina and South Carolina is around $2.75 per gallon.

Cost: Based on our previous assumptions, driving this route would amount to approximately $67 round trip for gas expenses.

Just like the other two routes, no tolls are applicable on this option.

Conclusion

Whether you choose the shortest, quickest route or opt for a more scenic journey, driving from Charlotte to North Charleston is an adventure worth taking. With gas prices around $2.75 per gallon, you can estimate your round trip cost based on the distance and your vehicle's fuel efficiency. Remember to also consider other expenses such as tolls, snacks, and any potential detours. So buckle up, enjoy the drive, and make lasting memories on your road trip!