The Cost of a Trip Between Concord and Amherst, Massachusetts Based on Current Gas Prices

When planning a trip between Concord and Amherst, Massachusetts, one of the factors to consider is the cost of fuel. With gas prices fluctuating regularly, it’s important to weigh the cost of different routes to ensure you’re getting the best deal. In this article, we’ll explore the cost of a trip between Concord and Amherst, highlighting the different possible routes and their associated costs based on current gas prices. We’ll also recommend the best route for budget-conscious travelers.

Possible Routes and Their Costs

Route 1: I-90 West

The most direct route between Concord and Amherst is to take I-90 West. This route covers approximately 90 miles and takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to drive. Based on current gas prices, the average cost for a vehicle with a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon (mpg) and gas priced at $3.00 per gallon, the estimated fuel cost for this route is around $30 one way.

Route 2: I-495 West to I-290 West

Another route to consider is taking I-495 West to I-290 West. This route covers approximately 95 miles and takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes to drive. Based on current gas prices, the estimated fuel cost for this route, using the same vehicle and gas prices as before, is also around $30 one way.

Route 3: Scenic Route through MA-2 West

For those looking to take a more scenic route, MA-2 West is an option. This route covers approximately 100 miles and takes around 2 hours to drive. Due to the winding nature of this route, the fuel efficiency may decrease slightly, resulting in an estimated fuel cost of around $35 one way based on current gas prices.

Route 4: Combination of Scenic Routes

Some travelers may opt to take a combination of scenic routes to break up the drive. This could include a mix of MA-2 West and other local roads. While this may add to the distance and time of the trip, the estimated fuel cost varies depending on the specific roads chosen.

Recommended Route

Based on the estimated fuel costs and driving times, the most cost-effective route between Concord and Amherst is Route 1: I-90 West. Not only is this route the most direct, but it also offers the best balance of distance and fuel efficiency. With a fuel cost of around $30 one way and a driving time of 1 hour and 30 minutes, it’s the most practical choice for budget-conscious travelers.

Conclusion

When considering the cost of a trip between Concord and Amherst, it’s important to account for the fluctuating prices of gas. By analyzing the different possible routes and their associated costs, travelers can make an informed decision on the most cost-effective route based on current gas prices.

After taking into consideration the current gas prices and the estimated fuel costs for each route, the recommended route for budget-conscious travelers is Route 1: I-90 West. Not only does this route offer a reasonable fuel cost of around $30 one way, but it also provides a relatively short driving time of 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it the most practical choice for a cost-effective trip between Concord and Amherst.