Driving Cost from Danvers, Massachusetts to Lynn, Massachusetts

A picture depicting a gas pump

Understanding the Cost of a Trip from Danvers to Lynn, Massachusetts: A Gas Price Perspective

Traveling between Danvers and Lynn, Massachusetts, can be both a convenient and educational experience. With several routes to choose from, the overall cost of the trip largely depends on current gas prices, distance, and your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. This article explores various routes, calculates potential fuel costs, and helps you determine the best option for your journey.

Current Gas Prices

As of October 2023, the average price for gas in Massachusetts hovers around $3.58 per gallon. However, prices may fluctuate slightly depending on the specific area and service station. For the sake of this calculation, we’ll use this average gas price to analyze costs across different routes.

Calculating Costs: Fuel Efficiency Matters

To assess the costs effectively, we’ll assume an average vehicle fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon (MPG), which is typical for many cars on the road. This means that every gallon of gas will allow a car to cover 25 miles. Using these parameters, we will calculate the travel costs for each route between Danvers and Lynn.

Route Options

Let’s identify and discuss the most common routes from Danvers to Lynn.

Route 1: I-95 S to MA-1A N

  • Distance: Approximately 20 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: 25-30 minutes (depending on traffic)

This route involves taking I-95 South, merging onto I-93 South, and then connecting to MA-1A N. It's a simplified highway route that covers smooth, major roadways.

Fuel Cost Calculation:

  1. Distance: 20 miles
  2. Gallons Needed: 20 miles ÷ 25 MPG = 0.8 gallons
  3. Cost: 0.8 gallons × $3.58/gallon = $2.86

Route 2: MA-128 N to MA-1A N

  • Distance: Approximately 21 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: 30-35 minutes

This route takes you to MA-128 N, providing a slightly longer, yet perhaps more scenic drive. It runs past various landscapes before connecting with MA-1A N.

Fuel Cost Calculation:

  1. Distance: 21 miles
  2. Gallons Needed: 21 miles ÷ 25 MPG = 0.84 gallons
  3. Cost: 0.84 gallons × $3.58/gallon = $3.01

Route 3: MA-62 W and Local Roads

  • Distance: Approximately 19 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: 35-40 minutes

The final option takes a mix of MA-62 W and local roads, offering an alternative route that may be less congested but may also have varying speed limits and traffic lights.

Fuel Cost Calculation:

  1. Distance: 19 miles
  2. Gallons Needed: 19 miles ÷ 25 MPG = 0.76 gallons
  3. Cost: 0.76 gallons × $3.58/gallon = $2.72

Comparative Overview of Costs

Route Distance (miles) Gallons Needed Fuel Cost ($)
I-95 S to MA-1A N 20 0.8 2.86
MA-128 N to MA-1A N 21 0.84 3.01
MA-62 W and Local Roads 19 0.76 2.72

Best Route Recommendation

Among the routes analyzed, the best choice would be Route 3: MA-62 W and Local Roads due to its lowest fuel cost of $2.72 and shortest distance of 19 miles. While it may take a bit longer in terms of travel time due to local streets, the cost advantage makes it an economical option, especially for budget-conscious travelers.

Additional Considerations

Tolls

None of the routes mentioned incur tolls, which adds to their affordability. However, if you consider alternative routes through nearby toll roads (for example, if you decide to venture toward Peabody), you should account for the additional costs associated with the tolls.

Time of Day and Traffic

Travel time can increase significantly based on the time of day. Rush hour, typically between 7 AM and 9 AM and again from 4 PM to 6 PM, may cause delays, prompting drivers to take alternate routes. Consider planning your trip outside these peak times for a more streamlined experience.

Scenic Views

If you have a bit more time, taking the longer route (MA-128 N) can afford you beautiful views of the regional landscape, especially as you drive close to the coastline near Lynn. Scenic drives often enhance the experience, making them well worth the extra fuel cost.

Vehicle considerations

Lastly, the choice of vehicle plays a substantial role in travel costs. An electric vehicle might not incur gas costs, but charging costs need to be added. If you happen to own a hybrid or other fuel-efficient vehicle, your costs could potentially decrease, allowing you to pick a lengthier route without compromising significantly on expenses.

Conclusion

Driving from Danvers to Lynn is budget-friendly, especially if you choose the right route. The most economical option—MA-62 W and Local Roads—offers a travel distance of 19 miles and an estimated fuel cost of $2.72. This route may take around 35-40 minutes but provides satisfactory savings compared to others. Overall, it’s an efficient way to travel, maintaining a happy balance between cost and convenience. Whether for pleasure, work, or running errands, you can enjoy a relatively affordable journey across the North Shore of Massachusetts.