The Cost of a Trip from Columbus to Zanesville Based on Current Gas Prices

When planning a trip between Columbus and Zanesville, Ohio, one of the main considerations is the cost of the journey, particularly in terms of fuel expenses. With gas prices constantly changing, it's important to evaluate the various routes and their associated costs to determine the most economical option. In this article, we'll explore the different potential routes between Columbus and Zanesville, highlighting the distance and estimated fuel expenses for each option. By the end, we'll recommend the best route based on current gas prices.

Route 1: I-70 E (62.2 miles)

The most direct route between Columbus and Zanesville is via Interstate 70 East. This route spans approximately 62.2 miles and takes about an hour to drive, depending on traffic conditions. Based on current gas prices in Ohio, which average around $2.80 per gallon, the estimated fuel cost for this route is approximately $14 (assuming a standard vehicle with a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon).

Route 2: US-40 E (76.6 miles)

Another option is to take US-40 East, which is a slightly longer route at approximately 76.6 miles. This route typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes to drive, considering traffic and road conditions. The estimated fuel cost for this route is slightly higher than the I-70 route, coming in at around $15.30 based on current gas prices.

Route 3: OH-16 E (72.8 miles)

For those looking for an alternative route, OH-16 East presents another option. This route covers approximately 72.8 miles and takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes to drive. With current gas prices, the estimated fuel cost for this route is approximately $14.60.

Recommendation: I-70 E

Based on the distance and estimated fuel expenses, the most cost-effective route between Columbus and Zanesville is via Interstate 70 East. Not only is this route the shortest in terms of mileage, but it also has the lowest estimated fuel cost at around $14. Additionally, I-70 typically offers better driving conditions and faster travel times compared to the alternative routes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the recommended route from Columbus to Zanesville based on current gas prices is via Interstate 70 East. With an estimated fuel cost of approximately $14 and a driving time of about 1 hour, this route offers the best balance of affordability and efficiency for travelers making the journey between these two Ohio cities. As gas prices fluctuate, it's important to reevaluate the cost of the trip periodically to ensure the most economical route is chosen.