The Cost of Driving from Charlottesville, Virginia to Auburn, Alabama
Are you planning a road trip from Charlottesville, Virginia to Auburn, Alabama? It's always a good idea to plan ahead and take into account the cost of your trip. Here, we'll break down the different routes available, their distances, driving times, and estimated costs based on current gas prices. So buckle up and let's hit the road!
Route 1: I-85 South
Our first route takes us on the well-known I-85 South. This 696-mile journey will take approximately 10 hours and 30 minutes to complete, depending on traffic conditions and your driving speed.
- Distance: 696 miles
- Driving Time: ~10 hours and 30 minutes
At the time of writing, gas prices in the Charlottesville area average around $2.65 per gallon. With fuel economy differing from vehicle to vehicle, let's estimate an average of 25 miles per gallon (mpg) for this trip.
Now, to calculate the estimated cost, we divide the total distance by the average mpg and multiply it by the current gas price:
696 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 27.84 gallons
27.84 gallons × $2.65 per gallon = $73.78
Please note that this calculation is based on gas prices alone and does not take into account any tolls that may be encountered on the trip.
Route 2: I-81 South & I-40 West
Our next option takes a slightly longer scenic route, combining I-81 South with I-40 West. This 707-mile journey will take approximately 10 hours and 40 minutes to complete.
- Distance: 707 miles
- Driving Time: ~10 hours and 40 minutes
Again, using the same average gas price and fuel economy, let's calculate the estimated cost:
707 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 28.28 gallons
28.28 gallons × $2.65 per gallon = $74.97
Keep in mind that tolls may still apply on some sections of this route, so be sure to have some cash or a toll transponder handy.
Route 3: US-29 South & US-231 South
For those who prefer to take a more scenic and leisurely drive, we have another option. Using US-29 South and US-231 South, this route covers a distance of 717 miles and will take roughly 11 hours and 15 minutes.
- Distance: 717 miles
- Driving Time: ~11 hours and 15 minutes
Calculating the estimated cost using the same parameters:
717 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 28.68 gallons
28.68 gallons × $2.65 per gallon = $75.93
While this route avoids any major toll roads, it's always a good idea to be prepared and bring some extra cash for potential minor tolls or unexpected road fees.
Conclusion
In summary, the cost of driving from Charlottesville, Virginia to Auburn, Alabama can vary depending on the route you choose, gas prices, and any tolls encountered along the way. Based on current gas prices, estimated costs for the three routes are as follows:
- I-85 South: $73.78
- I-81 South & I-40 West: $74.97
- US-29 South & US-231 South: $75.93
Keep in mind that gas prices fluctuate, so it's always a good idea to check the latest prices before setting off on your road trip. Safe travels!