The Cost of a Trip between Columbia, South Carolina and Marietta, Georgia

When planning a trip from Columbia, South Carolina to Marietta, Georgia, one of the major factors that travelers often consider is the cost. With current gas prices fluctuating, it’s important to weigh the cost of each potential route and make an informed decision. In this article, we’ll explore the different possible routes, highlight the cost and the distance of each one, and recommend the best route to take.

Route Options and Cost Analysis

Route 1: I-20 West

The most direct route from Columbia, South Carolina to Marietta, Georgia is to take I-20 West. This route covers a distance of approximately 218 miles and takes around 3.5 to 4 hours to complete. With a current average gas price of $2.50 per gallon, and an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, the total cost for this route would be approximately $87.20 for a round trip.

Route 2: I-20 West to I-520 West

Another option is to take I-20 West and then switch to I-520 West before joining I-20 again. This route covers a slightly longer distance of approximately 222 miles and takes around 3.5 to 4 hours to complete. With the same average gas price and fuel efficiency, the total cost for this route would be approximately $88.80 for a round trip.

Route 3: I-26 West

A slightly longer but alternative route is to take I-26 West. This route covers a distance of approximately 252 miles and takes around 4 to 4.5 hours to complete. With the same average gas price and fuel efficiency, the total cost for this route would be approximately $100.80 for a round trip.

Route 4: Back Roads

For those looking for a more scenic route, there are also back roads that can be taken, such as US-1 or US-378. These routes cover a longer distance of approximately 275 miles and take around 5 to 6 hours to complete. With the same average gas price and fuel efficiency, the total cost for these routes would be approximately $110 for a round trip.

Recommended Route

Based on the cost analysis and the distance of each route, the most cost-effective and time-efficient route for a trip from Columbia, South Carolina to Marietta, Georgia is I-20 West. This route offers a good balance between distance, time, and cost, making it the optimal choice for most travelers.

When factoring in the current gas prices and the average fuel efficiency of a vehicle, taking I-20 West for the trip is the most economical option. Additionally, the relatively shorter distance and travel time compared to the other routes make it a practical choice for those looking to minimize their overall travel expenses.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when considering the cost of a trip between Columbia, South Carolina and Marietta, Georgia, it’s important to weigh the cost and distance of each route. With the current gas prices in mind, taking I-20 West is the most cost-effective and time-efficient route for most travelers. By opting for this route, travelers can expect to spend approximately $87.20 for a round trip, covering a distance of 218 miles in 3.5 to 4 hours.

Overall, the recommended route not only offers a reasonable cost but also provides a relatively shorter travel time, making it the optimal choice for those planning a trip between these two destinations. With careful consideration and planning, travelers can make the most of their journey while keeping the cost in check.