Driving Cost from Dartmouth, Massachusetts to Stoughton, Massachusetts

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The Cost of Traveling from Dartmouth to Stoughton, Massachusetts: A Comprehensive Guide Based on Current Gas Prices

Taking a trip between Dartmouth and Stoughton, Massachusetts, can be both exciting and efficient. Whether you are making the drive for business, visiting friends, or exploring new areas, understanding the cost of your journey is essential. This article breaks down the different routes you can take, the gas prices you'll encounter, and the overall costs associated with your trip. By the end, you’ll be well-equipped to choose the best route while managing your expenses effectively.

Current Gas Prices and Vehicle Efficiency

Before diving into the routes, it is crucial to examine the current gas prices in Massachusetts. As of now, the average price for regular gasoline hovers around $3.50 per gallon. However, prices can fluctuate by location and availability.

Determining your vehicle's fuel efficiency (miles per gallon) will significantly impact your travel costs. Let’s assume you drive a mid-size sedan, which averages about 30 miles per gallon. For larger vehicles like SUVs or trucks, that number may decrease to around 20 miles per gallon, leading to higher fuel costs for the trip.

Distance Between Dartmouth and Stoughton

The distance between Dartmouth and Stoughton is approximately 35 miles by road. This distance can vary slightly depending on the route selected.

Route Options

Let’s explore three different routes you might consider for your trip from Dartmouth to Stoughton.

Route 1: The Direct Route via MA-24 N

  • Distance: Approximately 35 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: 40 minutes
  • Fuel Cost: $6.15 (for a vehicle with 30 MPG)

Starting from Dartmouth, you can take MA-140 N to reach MA-24 N, which will lead you directly to Stoughton. This route is straightforward and mostly consists of highway driving, allowing you to maintain a consistent speed. With an average gas price of $3.50, here’s how the math breaks down:

  1. Distance: 35 miles
  2. Gallons used (for a vehicle with 30 MPG): 35 miles / 30 MPG = 1.17 gallons
  3. Total cost of gas: 1.17 gallons x $3.50 = $4.10

For vehicles with a lower fuel efficiency, like an SUV with 20 MPG, the fuel cost is higher.

  1. Gallons used: 35 miles / 20 MPG = 1.75 gallons
  2. Total cost of gas: 1.75 gallons x $3.50 = $6.12

Overall, this direct route is efficient and cost-effective, making it a solid choice for most travelers.

Route 2: Scenic Route via US-6 E and I-95 N

  • Distance: Approximately 42 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: 50 minutes
  • Fuel Cost: $7.00 (for a vehicle with 30 MPG)

For those who prefer a scenic drive, consider the route through US-6 E and I-95 N. This route meanders through more picturesque landscapes but adds a few extra miles to your trip.

Using the same average gas price:

  1. Gallons used (for a vehicle with 30 MPG): 42 miles / 30 MPG = 1.40 gallons
  2. Total cost of gas: 1.40 gallons x $3.50 = $4.90

For larger vehicles with a fuel efficiency of about 20 MPG, the cost will be higher:

  1. Gallons used: 42 miles / 20 MPG = 2.10 gallons
  2. Total cost of gas: 2.10 gallons x $3.50 = $7.35

While this route is slightly longer and more expensive, it can offer a pleasant driving experience with nice views and interesting stops along the way.

Route 3: The Long Route via I-195 W and I-495 N

  • Distance: Approximately 50 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: 60 minutes
  • Fuel Cost: $8.75 (for a vehicle with 30 MPG)

For those willing to embark on a longer journey, the route via I-195 W and I-495 N is an option. This route takes you through regional highways and has more potential delays due to suburban traffic.

Calculating the gas cost for this route:

  1. Gallons used (for a vehicle with 30 MPG): 50 miles / 30 MPG = 1.67 gallons
  2. Total cost of gas: 1.67 gallons x $3.50 = $5.85

For larger vehicles:

  1. Gallons used: 50 miles / 20 MPG = 2.50 gallons
  2. Total cost of gas: 2.50 gallons x $3.50 = $8.75

This route is less efficient, both in terms of distance and time, making it less ideal unless you have specific attractions along the way you wish to visit.

Recommendations for the Best Route

Taking all factors into account—distance, time, and cost—the best route from Dartmouth to Stoughton is the direct route via MA-24 N. It offers the most efficient travel experience, with minimal gas costs and the shortest time on the road. The scenic and longer routes, while enjoyable, add unnecessary distance and expense for travelers looking for a quick and straightforward commute.

Conclusion

The journey from Dartmouth to Stoughton is a manageable trip of approximately 35 miles, taking around 40 minutes. Utilizing the most efficient route, you'll spend about $4.10 on gas if you're driving a vehicle that averages 30 miles per gallon. Whether you choose to take the direct route or explore more scenic paths, planning your trip around current gas prices will undoubtedly enhance your experience and help you manage your travel budget effectively. Drive safe and enjoy the beautiful Massachusetts landscape!