Driving Cost from Columbus, Ohio to Providence, Rhode Island

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The Cost of a Trip Between Columbus, Ohio and Providence, Rhode Island Based on Current Gas Prices

Traveling from Columbus, Ohio to Providence, Rhode Island can be an exciting adventure, but it's important to consider the cost of the trip, especially with fluctuating gas prices. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes for this journey and highlight the cost and distance of each one. By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of the most cost-effective route and be better prepared for your upcoming trip.

Possible Routes

Route 1: I-71 N and I-90 E - 850 miles

The first route begins with taking I-71 N from Columbus, Ohio and then merging onto I-90 E towards Providence, Rhode Island. This route is the most direct, offering a distance of approximately 850 miles and an estimated driving time of 13 hours and 30 minutes. However, with its length, the cost of gas should be factored in.

Route 2: I-70 E and I-76 E - 930 miles

Another possible route is to take I-70 E from Columbus, Ohio and then merge onto I-76 E towards Providence, Rhode Island. This route is slightly longer, spanning approximately 930 miles and taking around 14 hours and 30 minutes to drive. Again, the cost of gas for this longer route should be considered.

Route 3: Scenic Route - I-80 E - 1,000 miles

For those looking for a more scenic drive, an alternative route is taking I-80 E, which offers stunning views but also stretches the journey to around 1,000 miles. This route can take around 15 hours and 30 minutes to complete, and the additional miles will impact the cost of gas.

The Cost of the Trip

Analyzing the cost of the trip between Columbus, Ohio and Providence, Rhode Island based on current gas prices is essential for proper budgeting. With the national gas price averaging around $3.00 per gallon, and considering the average car's gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon, we can calculate the approximate cost for each route.

  • Route 1: At a distance of 850 miles and an average gas price of $3.00 per gallon, the estimated cost for gas would be around $102.00.

  • Route 2: The longer distance of 930 miles would result in a higher gas cost, bringing it to approximately $111.60 based on the same gas price.

  • Route 3: Opting for the scenic route with a distance of 1,000 miles would increase the gas cost even further, reaching around $120.00.

These estimated costs are based on a single journey, so it's important to consider the total cost for a round trip. Additionally, fluctuations in gas prices and a car's gas mileage can affect the overall expenses.

After considering the distance, driving time, and cost of gas for each route, Route 1 (I-71 N and I-90 E) stands out as the most cost-effective option. While it may not be the shortest in terms of miles, it offers a good balance of distance and cost, with an estimated gas expense of $102.00 based on current prices.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the most cost-effective route between Columbus, Ohio and Providence, Rhode Island is via I-71 N and I-90 E. This route spans approximately 850 miles and can take around 13 hours and 30 minutes to drive. With the current gas prices factored in, the estimated cost for gas is around $102.00 for a one-way trip. By considering the cost of the trip in advance, travelers can better prepare for their journey and enjoy a more budget-friendly travel experience.