The Cost of a Trip From Syracuse to North Tonawanda: A Comparison of Routes and Gas Prices
When planning a trip from Syracuse to North Tonawanda, one of the key considerations is the cost of gas. With gas prices fluctuating, it’s important to be strategic when choosing a route to minimize expenses. This article will compare the cost and distance of different routes from Syracuse to North Tonawanda and provide recommendations for the most cost-effective option.
Route 1: I-90 W
The most direct route from Syracuse to North Tonawanda is via I-90 W, a highway that spans across New York. The total distance of this route is approximately 150 miles, and it takes around 2.5 hours to complete the journey. With current gas prices at an average of $2.80 per gallon, a vehicle with a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon will require approximately 6 gallons of gas for this trip, resulting in a total cost of $16.80 for one-way travel.
Route 2: I-90 W and I-690 W
Another option is to take I-90 W and then switch to I-690 W before merging back onto I-90 W. This route adds a few extra miles to the journey, with a total distance of approximately 160 miles. The additional mileage will require approximately 6.4 gallons of gas, adding an extra cost of $1.12, bringing the total cost for this route to $17.92 for one-way travel.
Route 3: NY-5 W
For a more scenic route, travelers can opt to take NY-5 W, which runs parallel to the I-90. While this route adds additional distance, it provides an opportunity to explore the countryside along the way. The total distance for this route is approximately 180 miles, and it takes around 3 hours to reach North Tonawanda. With current gas prices, this journey will require approximately 7.2 gallons of gas, resulting in a total cost of $20.16 for one-way travel.
Route 4: NY-5 W and NY-77 N
An alternative scenic route is to take NY-5 W and then switch to NY-77 N before merging back onto I-90 W. This route takes travelers through picturesque small towns and countryside, offering a more relaxed and enjoyable drive. However, the total distance for this route is approximately 190 miles, and it takes around 3.5 hours to complete the journey. With current gas prices, this route will require approximately 7.6 gallons of gas, resulting in a total cost of $21.28 for one-way travel.
Recommended Route
After comparing the costs and distances of the different routes, the most cost-effective option for the trip from Syracuse to North Tonawanda is via I-90 W. This route is the shortest and most direct, with the lowest gas expenses. While the scenic routes may offer a more enjoyable drive, they require additional time and money in gas expenses. Therefore, for those primarily concerned with minimizing the cost of the trip, taking I-90 W is the optimal choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cost of a trip from Syracuse to North Tonawanda via I-90 W is $16.80 for one-way travel, based on current gas prices. This route spans approximately 150 miles and takes around 2.5 hours to complete. By carefully considering the different routes and the associated gas expenses, travelers can make an informed decision to ensure a cost-effective journey. With this knowledge, planning a trip from Syracuse to North Tonawanda can be both budget-friendly and efficient.