The Cost of a Trip: City of Ithaca, New York, to Columbus, Ohio

Planning a trip from the City of Ithaca, New York, to Columbus, Ohio? Determining the cost of your journey is an essential part of the planning process. With fluctuating gas prices, it's crucial to consider the most cost-effective routes. In this article, we'll analyze different travel options, their distances, and highlight the associated costs. Let's dive into it!

Available Routes and Comparative Costs

Route 1: Via I-90 and I-71

This popular route takes you westward on Interstate 90 (I-90) and southward on Interstate 71 (I-71). Covering a distance of approximately 464 miles, this route is known to be efficient and relatively direct.

Based on current gas prices, let's assume an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon (MPG) and a gas price of $3.00 per gallon. The estimated cost for this route can be calculated as follows:

Cost = (Distance / MPG) * Price per Gallon = (464 miles / 25 MPG) * $3.00 per Gallon = 17.92 gallons * $3.00 per Gallon = $53.76

Route 2: Via I-81 and I-77

If you prefer a slightly longer but potentially more scenic route, you can consider taking Interstate 81 (I-81) southward and then switch to Interstate 77 (I-77) westward towards Columbus. This route covers approximately 486 miles.

Using the same assumptions for fuel economy and gas price, the estimated cost for this route would be:

Cost = (Distance / MPG) * Price per Gallon = (486 miles / 25 MPG) * $3.00 per Gallon = 19.44 gallons * $3.00 per Gallon = $58.32

Route 3: Via I-86 and I-90

For an alternative that takes you through part of Pennsylvania, you can consider this route. Starting off on Interstate 86 (I-86) and proceeding on Interstate 90 (I-90), the total distance is approximately 495 miles.

Again, assuming an average fuel economy of 25 MPG and a gas price of $3.00 per gallon, we can estimate the cost of this route:

Cost = (Distance / MPG) * Price per Gallon = (495 miles / 25 MPG) * $3.00 per Gallon = 19.8 gallons * $3.00 per Gallon = $59.40

Route 4: Via I-86, I-81, and I-71

If you're looking for a longer yet more adventurous route, this option may appeal to you. Starting on Interstate 86 (I-86), you'll transition onto Interstate 81 (I-81), and finally join Interstate 71 (I-71) to head south towards Columbus. This route covers approximately 551 miles.

Using the same calculations as before, the estimated cost for this route would be:

Cost = (Distance / MPG) * Price per Gallon = (551 miles / 25 MPG) * $3.00 per Gallon = 22.04 gallons * $3.00 per Gallon = $66.12

Route Recommendation

Based on the comparative costs and distances of the available routes, it is clear that Route 1, via I-90 and I-71, is the most cost-effective option. With an estimated cost of $53.76, it offers the shortest total distance, saving both time and money. While the difference in cost between the routes may not be substantial, the minimal savings can accumulate over time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, for a trip from the City of Ithaca, New York, to Columbus, Ohio, it is recommended to take Route 1, following Interstate 90 (I-90) and Interstate 71 (I-71). This option offers the most efficient route with the least overall cost. The estimated duration of the trip would depend on factors such as traffic conditions, driving speed, and rest breaks. However, as an approximation, one can anticipate a journey lasting approximately 8 to 10 hours. Safe travels and enjoy your time in Columbus, Ohio!