The Cost of a Trip between Long Beach and Medford Based on Current Gas Prices
Introduction
Planning a trip between two cities involves many factors, one of which is the cost of transportation. For travelers wishing to journey between Long Beach, New York and Medford, New York, determining the most cost-effective route is crucial. Gas prices play a significant role in calculating the expenses of a road trip, and staying informed about current rates can help in making an optimal choice. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes between Long Beach and Medford, highlighting the cost and distance of each option based on current gas prices.
Route 1: Southern State Parkway and Sunrise Highway
The first route we will consider is taking the Southern State Parkway and Sunrise Highway. This is a commonly chosen path, offering a direct and efficient journey. From Long Beach, head west on the Park Avenue and make your way to the Southern State Parkway. Freely flowing, this highway provides a smooth ride towards Suffolk County, passing through towns like West Babylon and Islip. Once you reach the end of the Southern State Parkway, merge onto Sunrise Highway, which will lead you directly to Medford.
Distance:
The total distance of this route is approximately 40 miles.
Gas Prices:
As gas prices change frequently, staying updated is vital for obtaining accurate information. At the time of writing, the average gas price in Long Beach is $2.75 per gallon, while in Medford, it is slightly lower at $2.69 per gallon.
Considering an average mileage of 25 miles per gallon for a regular car, the estimated cost of gas for this route can be calculated. With a distance of 40 miles, you would require around 1.6 gallons of gasoline to complete the journey between Long Beach and Medford. Multiplying the fuel consumption by the current gas price, we find that the cost of this route is approximately $4.40.
Route 2: Ocean Parkway and William Floyd Parkway
Another viable route to consider is using the Ocean Parkway and William Floyd Parkway. This path is less direct compared to the Southern State Parkway and Sunrise Highway combination, but it offers a scenic drive along the coastline before turning inland towards Medford.
To follow this route, start by heading west on the Park Avenue from Long Beach, just like in Route 1. After reaching the end of Park Avenue, turn left onto Park Boulevard and continue until you reach the entrance to the Ocean Parkway. This picturesque route hugs the south shore of Long Island, providing breathtaking views of the ocean. Once you reach the end of Ocean Parkway, turn right onto William Floyd Parkway and continue straight until you reach Medford.
Distance:
The total distance of this route is approximately 37 miles.
Gas Prices:
Considering the same average gas prices mentioned earlier, the cost of traveling from Long Beach to Medford via Ocean Parkway and William Floyd Parkway can be determined.
With a mileage of 25 miles per gallon and a distance of 37 miles, you would require around 1.48 gallons of gasoline. Multiplying the fuel consumption by the current gas price, we find that the cost of this route is approximately $3.99.
Route 3: Southern State Parkway and Patchogue-Medford Road
Our third option involves taking the Southern State Parkway again, but this time diverting onto Patchogue-Medford Road instead of continuing onto Sunrise Highway. This route offers an alternative for those who might prefer a change of scenery while still reaching their destination efficiently.
Begin by heading west on the Park Avenue from Long Beach, just like in the previous routes. Continue on Park Avenue until you reach the Southern State Parkway, and then head east towards Patchogue. At Exit 52, exit the Southern State Parkway and merge onto Waverly Avenue. After a short distance, turn right onto Patchogue-Medford Road and follow it until you reach Medford.
Distance:
The total distance of this route is approximately 38 miles.
Gas Prices:
Applying the same average gas prices mentioned earlier and using an expected mileage of 25 miles per gallon, the cost of traveling from Long Beach to Medford via the Southern State Parkway and Patchogue-Medford Road can be calculated.
With a distance of 38 miles, you would require around 1.52 gallons of gasoline. Multiplying the fuel consumption by the current gas price, we find that the cost of this route is approximately $4.08.
Conclusion
After considering the different possible routes between Long Beach and Medford, it is clear that each option has its unique characteristics and costs. Based on current gas prices, the cost of the trip through the Southern State Parkway and Sunrise Highway is approximately $4.40, while the route via Ocean Parkway and William Floyd Parkway costs around $3.99. Lastly, the journey along the Southern State Parkway with a diversion onto Patchogue-Medford Road stands at approximately $4.08.
In terms of the most cost-effective route, the cheapest option is the journey via Ocean Parkway and William Floyd Parkway, which offers a pleasant coastal drive while saving a few cents on gas. However, personal preferences, traffic conditions, and the desire for scenic routes might influence travelers to choose alternative options.
Regardless of the chosen route, the journey between Long Beach and Medford can typically be completed within one hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. It is crucial to consider real-time traffic updates to avoid delays and make the most efficient use of time.
Before embarking on any road trip, it is essential to check for the latest gas prices, as they are subject to change. Remember, these cost calculations are estimated based on the time of writing and may not reflect future prices accurately.
Whether you decide to take the direct Southern State Parkway and Sunrise Highway route, enjoy the coastal drive via Ocean Parkway and William Floyd Parkway, or opt for the scenic detour via the Southern State Parkway and Patchogue-Medford Road, plan your journey ahead, take necessary precautions, and enjoy your trip between Long Beach and Medford. Safe travels!