Driving Cost from Chattanooga, Tennessee to Columbia, Missouri

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Trip Between Chattanooga, Tennessee and Columbia, Missouri: Navigating Gas Prices

Introduction

Planning a road trip can be an exciting adventure, but it's important to consider the cost of such an escapade. In this article, we will explore the cost of a trip between Chattanooga, Tennessee and Columbia, Missouri, taking into consideration the fluctuating gas prices we encounter today. By examining different possible routes, calculating the distance and cost for each, we can ultimately recommend the best route for a budget-friendly journey. So buckle up, adjust your mirrors, and let's hit the road!

Possible Routes and Their Costs

Route 1: I-24 W and I-55 N

The first possible route begins with taking Interstate 24 West from Chattanooga to Saint Louis, Missouri, and then connecting to Interstate 55 North to Columbia, Missouri. This path spans around 475 miles and typically takes around 7 hours and 30 minutes to complete.

To estimate the cost of this journey, we need to consider the current gas prices. As of August 2021, the average price of gasoline in Tennessee is $2.85 per gallon, while in Missouri it stands at $2.75 per gallon. The average mileage of a car on the highway is approximately 25 miles per gallon.

Using these figures, we can calculate the number of gallons needed for the trip: 475 miles divided by 25 miles per gallon equals 19 gallons. Multiplying the number of gallons by the average price per gallon in Tennessee, we get the fuel cost for the first leg of the journey: 19 gallons multiplied by $2.85 equals $54.15.

Once we reach Missouri, we will need to refuel for the second leg of the journey. Taking into account the average price per gallon in Missouri, the estimated cost for this leg will be: 19 gallons multiplied by $2.75 equals $52.25. Therefore, the total cost for Route 1 will be $54.15 + $52.25 = $106.40.

Route 2: US-231 N and US-50 W

The second possible route involves taking US-231 North from Chattanooga to Murfreesboro, Tennessee, and then continuing on to Columbia, Missouri via US-50 West. This route spans approximately 490 miles and takes around 8 hours and 30 minutes to complete, depending on traffic conditions.

Let's calculate the cost of this journey following the same method applied previously. Considering the average gas prices of $2.85 per gallon in Tennessee and $2.75 per gallon in Missouri, we estimate the number of gallons needed based on the mileage of 490 miles divided by 25 miles per gallon, which equals 19.6 gallons.

Multiplying the number of gallons by the average price per gallon in Tennessee, we find the fuel cost for the first leg: 19.6 gallons multiplied by $2.85 equals $56.04. After crossing into Missouri, the estimated cost for the second leg will be: 19.6 gallons multiplied by $2.75 equals $53.90. Thus, the total cost for Route 2 amounts to $56.04 + $53.90 = $109.94.

Route 3: I-65 N and I-70 W

Our third and final possible route involves taking Interstate 65 North from Chattanooga through Nashville, Tennessee, and then connecting to Interstate 70 West to Columbia, Missouri. This option covers approximately 515 miles and typically takes around 8 hours and 45 minutes to complete.

Calculating the cost for this route follows the same procedure as the previous two. With the average gas prices of $2.85 per gallon in Tennessee and $2.75 per gallon in Missouri and assuming a mileage of 515 miles divided by 25 miles per gallon, we estimate the number of gallons needed to be 20.6 gallons.

Multiplying the number of gallons by the average price per gallon in Tennessee gives us the fuel cost for the first leg: 20.6 gallons multiplied by $2.85 equals $58.71. Upon entering Missouri, we can estimate the cost for the second leg: 20.6 gallons multiplied by $2.75 equals $56.65. Therefore, the total cost for Route 3 will amount to $58.71 + $56.65 = $115.36.

Determining the Best Route

Now that we have analyzed the different routes and their respective costs for gas, let's determine the most budget-friendly option for our trip between Chattanooga, Tennessee, and Columbia, Missouri.

  • Route 1 (I-24 W and I-55 N) has an estimated cost of $106.40.
  • Route 2 (US-231 N and US-50 W) has an estimated cost of $109.94.
  • Route 3 (I-65 N and I-70 W) has an estimated cost of $115.36.

Based on the calculations, Route 1 proves to be the most cost-effective option for this journey. While the difference may seem minimal, every dollar saved can contribute to other travel expenses or even serve as a pleasant surprise during your trip.

Conclusion

Embarking on a road trip between Chattanooga, Tennessee, and Columbia, Missouri allows you to marvel at the diverse landscapes and experience the freedom of the open road. By examining the cost of gas along with different possible routes, we can determine the most economical choice.

After our analysis, Route 1 emerged as the recommended route, with an estimated cost of $106.40. This route encompasses a distance of approximately 475 miles and takes around 7 hours and 30 minutes to complete. Keep in mind that these figures are subject to change due to fluctuating gas prices and traffic conditions, so it's always a good idea to check for real-time updates before your journey.

Remember, hitting the road is not just about reaching your destination; it's about the memories made, the hidden gems discovered, and the sense of adventure that comes with each mile traveled. So fasten your seatbelt, turn up the music, and enjoy every moment of your journey from Chattanooga to Columbia!