Driving Cost from Columbia, South Carolina to Aberdeen, Mississippi

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Trip between Columbia, South Carolina and Aberdeen, Mississippi at Current Gas Prices

Introduction

Traveling from Columbia, South Carolina to Aberdeen, Mississippi can be an exciting journey. With a distance of approximately 380 miles, the trip offers the opportunity to explore the scenic beauty of the Southeastern United States. However, it's important to consider the cost of the trip, especially with fluctuating gas prices. In this article, we will examine the different possible routes for this trip, highlighting the cost and distance of each one, and recommend the best route based on current gas prices.

Possible Routes

Route 1: I-20 W and I-59 N

This route takes you through Birmingham, Alabama, and covers a distance of approximately 410 miles. While the longer distance may not seem ideal, I-20 and I-59 are major highways that offer relatively smooth and uncongested travel. Gas prices in Alabama are typically lower than in South Carolina, which can help offset the extra miles.

Route 2: I-26 W and I-20 W

This route takes you through Augusta, Georgia, and covers a distance of approximately 400 miles. Although the distance is similar to Route 1, gas prices in Georgia may be slightly higher than in Alabama. However, the roads in Georgia are well-maintained, and the drive is generally pleasant.

Route 3: I-77 N and I-40 W

This route takes you through Asheville, North Carolina, and covers a distance of approximately 430 miles. While the distance is longer compared to the other routes, the drive through the mountains of North Carolina can be scenic and enjoyable. However, gas prices in North Carolina can vary, so it's essential to consider this factor.

Cost and Distance Analysis

To calculate the cost of the trip, we will consider the average gas prices in each state and the fuel efficiency of a typical vehicle. According to AAA's gas price averages, as of the time of writing, the average gas prices in each state are as follows:

  • South Carolina: $2.94/gallon
  • Georgia: $3.08/gallon
  • North Carolina: $3.02/gallon
  • Alabama: $2.95/gallon Using these gas prices, along with the average fuel efficiency of a vehicle (24.7 miles per gallon), we can calculate the cost of the trip for each route.

Route 1: I-20 W and I-59 N

With a distance of approximately 410 miles, the trip would require approximately 16.6 gallons of gas, resulting in a total cost of $48.74. This calculation is based on the average gas prices in Alabama.

Route 2: I-26 W and I-20 W

With a distance of approximately 400 miles, the trip would also require approximately 16.2 gallons of gas, resulting in a total cost of $49.97. This calculation is based on the average gas prices in Georgia.

Route 3: I-77 N and 1-40 W

With a distance of approximately 430 miles, the trip would require approximately 17.5 gallons of gas, resulting in a total cost of $52.85. This calculation is based on the average gas prices in North Carolina.

Based on the cost analysis, Route 1 (I-20 W and I-59 N) offers the most economical option for this trip, with the lowest cost of approximately $48.74 for gas. While it is slightly longer in distance, the difference in gas prices in Alabama can make a significant impact on the overall cost of the trip.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the best route for a trip from Columbia, South Carolina to Aberdeen, Mississippi is Route 1, which takes you through Alabama. The trip would require approximately 410 miles of travel and could be completed with an estimated cost of $48.74 for gas. With current gas prices taken into consideration, this route offers the most cost-effective option for travelers. Additionally, the smooth travel experience and lower gas prices in Alabama make Route 1 the recommended choice for this journey. Safe travels!