The Cost of a Trip between Chattanooga, Tennessee and Worcester, Massachusetts based on Current Gas Prices
Introduction
Planning a road trip involves careful consideration of various factors such as distance, time, and, of course, cost. One of the crucial elements to consider when calculating the expenses of a trip is the cost of fuel. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes between Chattanooga, Tennessee, and Worcester, Massachusetts, and analyze the cost and distance for each route. Based on current gas prices, we will recommend the most economical option, ensuring a budget-friendly journey.
Possible Routes
Route 1: Taking I-75 N and I-90 W (via Detroit, Michigan)
The first possible route to consider is to head north on I-75 from Chattanooga, Tennessee, and then connect to I-90 W, passing through Detroit, Michigan. Let's delve into the specifics of this route:
Distance:
- Chattanooga, Tennessee to Detroit, Michigan: Approximately 540 miles
- Detroit, Michigan to Worcester, Massachusetts: Approximately 650 miles
Total Distance:
- Chattanooga, Tennessee to Worcester, Massachusetts: Approximately 1,190 miles
Fuel Cost:
To calculate the fuel cost for this route, we will consider the average gas price in each state along the route and the fuel efficiency of an average car (25 miles per gallon).
Estimated fuel cost from Chattanooga, Tennessee to Worcester, Massachusetts: [ (Distance / Fuel Efficiency) * Gas Price ]
Considering the average gas price in July 2021:
- Tennessee: $2.80 per gallon
- Kentucky: $2.98 per gallon
- Indiana: $3.16 per gallon
- Michigan: $3.13 per gallon
- Ohio: $3.10 per gallon
- Pennsylvania: $3.18 per gallon
- New York: $3.22 per gallon
- Massachusetts: $3.29 per gallon
Let's calculate the fuel cost for this route using the provided gas prices:
Fuel cost from Chattanooga, Tennessee to Worcester, Massachusetts: [ (540 / 25) * 2.80 + (650 / 25) * 3.13 = $59.04 + $83.12 = $142.16 ]
Route 2: Taking I-75 N, I-94 E, and I-90 E (via Chicago, Illinois)
The second alternative route is to travel north on I-75 from Chattanooga, Tennessee, and then connect to I-94 E, passing through Chicago, Illinois. We will then join I-90 E to reach Worcester, Massachusetts. Let's explore the details of this route:
Distance:
- Chattanooga, Tennessee to Chicago, Illinois: Approximately 650 miles
- Chicago, Illinois to Worcester, Massachusetts: Approximately 960 miles
Total Distance:
- Chattanooga, Tennessee to Worcester, Massachusetts: Approximately 1,610 miles
Fuel Cost:
To calculate the fuel cost for this route, we will consider the average gas price in each state along the route and the fuel efficiency of an average car (25 miles per gallon).
Let's calculate the fuel cost for this route using the provided gas prices:
Fuel cost from Chattanooga, Tennessee to Worcester, Massachusetts: [ (650 / 25) * 2.80 + (960 / 25) * 3.22 = $72.32 + $124.48 = $196.80 ]
Route 3: Taking I-75 N, I-71 N, I-76 E, and I-90 E (via Akron, Ohio)
Another possible route is to drive north on I-75 from Chattanooga, Tennessee, and then connect to I-71 N. We will then take I-76 E and finally join I-90 E, passing through Akron, Ohio, before reaching Worcester, Massachusetts. Here are the specifics of this route:
Distance:
- Chattanooga, Tennessee to Akron, Ohio: Approximately 500 miles
- Akron, Ohio to Worcester, Massachusetts: Approximately 610 miles
Total Distance:
- Chattanooga, Tennessee to Worcester, Massachusetts: Approximately 1,110 miles
Fuel Cost:
To calculate the fuel cost for this route, we will consider the average gas price in each state along the route and the fuel efficiency of an average car (25 miles per gallon).
Let's calculate the fuel cost for this route using the provided gas prices:
Fuel cost from Chattanooga, Tennessee to Worcester, Massachusetts: [ (500 / 25) * 2.80 + (610 / 25) * 3.22 = $56.00 + $79.76 = $135.76 ]
Recommended Route
After analyzing the various routes in terms of distance and fuel cost, we recommend Route 3 as the most economical option. This route, which involves taking I-75 N, I-71 N, I-76 E, and I-90 E, presents the shortest total distance of approximately 1,110 miles and the lowest estimated fuel cost of $135.76, considering the current gas prices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when planning a journey from Chattanooga, Tennessee to Worcester, Massachusetts, it is crucial to consider the cost of fuel along with the distance. By selecting Route 3, which includes taking I-75 N, I-71 N, I-76 E, and I-90 E, travelers can complete the trip with a total distance of approximately 1,110 miles and an estimated fuel cost of $135.76. It is worth noting that these calculations are based on current gas prices and the fuel efficiency of an average car. However, road conditions, traffic, and personal preferences may impact the actual cost and duration of the journey. Safe travels!