Driving Cost from Dartmouth, Massachusetts to Essex, Massachusetts

A picture depicting a gas pump

Trip Cost Analysis: Dartmouth, MA to Essex, MA Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip can be both exciting and daunting, especially when it comes to budgeting and finding the most cost-effective routes. If you are set to drive from Dartmouth, Massachusetts to Essex, Massachusetts, understanding the different routes available and their associated costs can help you manage your expenses. In this article, we delve into the various routes, calculate the journey's costs based on current gas prices, and identify the optimal travel option.

Current Gas Prices

As of October 2023, the price of gasoline averages around $3.50 per gallon in Massachusetts. To assess the cost of your trip, we will consider the fuel efficiency of your vehicle. For this analysis, we’ll assume an average car fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon. This allows us to calculate the total fuel costs for the trip based on the distance of each route.

Route Overview

There are several route options you can take to travel from Dartmouth to Essex. Below, we detail the three most common routes, their distances, and the estimated fuel costs.

Route 1: I-195 E and I-95 N

Distance: Approximately 64 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Fuel Cost Calculation:

  1. Calculate gallons of gas required:
    ( \text \div \text = 64 \div 25 = 2.56 \text )

  2. Calculate total fuel cost:
    ( \text \times \text = 2.56 \times 3.50 = $8.96 )

Summary: This route is primarily highway driving and is generally the fastest option.

Route 2: MA-24 N and MA-128 N

Distance: Approximately 66 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Fuel Cost Calculation:

  1. Calculate gallons of gas required:
    ( \text \div \text = 66 \div 25 = 2.64 \text )

  2. Calculate total fuel cost:
    ( \text \times \text = 2.64 \times 3.50 = $9.24 )

Summary: This route takes you through more suburban areas, which may be slower due to traffic, but it is a viable alternative.

Route 3: MA-140 N and Route 133 E

Distance: Approximately 70 miles
Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Fuel Cost Calculation:

  1. Calculate gallons of gas required:
    ( \text \div \text = 70 \div 25 = 2.8 \text )

  2. Calculate total fuel cost:
    ( \text \times \text = 2.8 \times 3.50 = $9.80 )

Summary: This route features more local roads, which may result in a more scenic but lengthier drive.

Comparison of Routes

Here’s a quick comparison summarizing the costs and distances of each route:

Route Distance (miles) Estimated Travel Time Fuel Cost
I-195 E and I-95 N 64 1 hour 30 minutes $8.96
MA-24 N and MA-128 N 66 1 hour 30 minutes $9.24
MA-140 N and Route 133 E 70 1 hour 45 minutes $9.80

After evaluating the routes based on distance, travel time, and fuel costs, we recommend taking Route 1: I-195 E and I-95 N. This route not only provides the quickest drive (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes), but it also offers the lowest fuel cost of $8.96, making it the most economical choice.

Additional Considerations

While fuel and distance are critical factors in trip planning, it’s vital to consider other variables such as potential tolls, road conditions, traffic patterns, and weather forecasts that may impact your travel experience. Occasionally, heavy traffic can lead to delays, especially during rush hours or on weekends. Checking local traffic reports can help you avoid unnecessary holdups.

Additionally, consider packing some snacks and drinks for the journey to ensure comfort along the way. A well-prepared traveler often enjoys the experience more, regardless of the route taken.

Conclusion

Driving from Dartmouth, Massachusetts to Essex, Massachusetts offers travelers several route options. With Route 1, which stretches approximately 64 miles and costs around $8.96 in gas, providing the best balance of efficiency and cost-effectiveness, it clearly stands out as the optimal choice. The journey will take about 1 hour and 30 minutes, allowing you to enjoy a pleasant and straightforward trip. Whether you are visiting family, exploring the areas around Essex, or just taking a day trip, this route provides a seamless travel experience.