Driving Cost from Deerfield, New Hampshire to Morgantown, West Virginia

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Budgeting Your Journey: Cost Analysis for a Trip from Deerfield, New Hampshire to Morgantown, West Virginia Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip from Deerfield, New Hampshire, to Morgantown, West Virginia, involves more than just finding scenic routes and cool pit stops. It's essential to consider the costs associated with fuel, especially in a time when gas prices fluctuate. In this article, we will explore different possible routes for this journey, analyze the cost based on current gas prices, and recommend the best route based on distance and fuel efficiency.

Overview of the Trip

The distance from Deerfield, New Hampshire, to Morgantown, West Virginia, is approximately 635 miles, depending on the specific route taken. The estimated driving time ranges between 10 to 12 hours under normal conditions, adding in necessary stops for fuel, food, and rest. As of October 2023, gas prices average around $3.50 per gallon nationally.

Major Routes

Route 1: I-95 S to I-81 S

  1. Distance: Approximately 635 miles
  2. Estimated Driving Time: About 10.5 hours
  3. Estimated Fuel Consumption: 25 miles per gallon (mpg)

Fuel Cost Calculation:

  • Total gallons needed: 635 miles / 25 mpg = 25.4 gallons
  • Total fuel cost: 25.4 gallons × $3.50/gallon = $88.90

Route 1 starts on I-95 S from Deerfield, leading you through Massachusetts and Connecticut. You’ll then connect to I-81 S, which offers a scenic journey through the beautiful Appalachian Mountains. The roads are generally well-maintained, and traffic tends to be moderate outside of urban areas.

Route 2: I-93 S to I-84 W and I-81 S

  1. Distance: Approximately 625 miles
  2. Estimated Driving Time: About 11 hours
  3. Estimated Fuel Consumption: 25 mpg

Fuel Cost Calculation:

  • Total gallons needed: 625 miles / 25 mpg = 25 gallons
  • Total fuel cost: 25 gallons × $3.50/gallon = $87.50

This route takes you south on I-93 before merging onto I-84 W through Connecticut. You will then connect to I-81 S. One advantage of this route is that it bypasses major traffic hotspots in Boston, which can add significant travel time.

Route 3: US-4 W to I-89 S to I-91 S to I-84 W

  1. Distance: Approximately 645 miles
  2. Estimated Driving Time: About 11.5 hours
  3. Estimated Fuel Consumption: 25 mpg

Fuel Cost Calculation:

  • Total gallons needed: 645 miles / 25 mpg = 25.8 gallons
  • Total fuel cost: 25.8 gallons × $3.50/gallon = $90.30

This alternative route starts on US-4 W before connecting to I-89 S and then merging into I-91 S toward Hartford. Afterward, it follows I-84 W toward Scranton and connects to I-81 S. While the distance is slightly longer, this route offers a more picturesque experience, perfect for those looking to enjoy nature along the way.

Route 4: I-95 S to I-78 W to I-81 S

  1. Distance: Approximately 620 miles
  2. Estimated Driving Time: About 10 hours
  3. Estimated Fuel Consumption: 25 mpg

Fuel Cost Calculation:

  • Total gallons needed: 620 miles / 25 mpg = 24.8 gallons
  • Total fuel cost: 24.8 gallons × $3.50/gallon = $86.80

This route takes you on I-95 S to I-78 W, which provides a relatively direct path through Pennsylvania into Morgantown. As the fastest route, it will save you some time on the road but may expose you to higher traffic levels, especially near urban areas.

Comparing Costs and Distances

Route Distance (miles) Estimated Time (hours) Fuel Cost ($)
I-95 S to I-81 S 635 10.5 88.90
I-93 S to I-84 W to I-81 S 625 11 87.50
US-4 W to I-89 S to I-91 S 645 11.5 90.30
I-95 S to I-78 W to I-81 S 620 10 86.80

Upon reviewing the options, you can see that Route 2 (I-93 S to I-84 W to I-81 S) and Route 4 (I-95 S to I-78 W to I-81 S) offer the shortest distances, as well as reasonable fuel costs and driving times. However, Route 4 may have less traffic while delivering the fastest point-to-point travel time.

Best Route Recommendation

Based on the analysis, the best choice for a trip from Deerfield to Morgantown is Route 4 (I-95 S to I-78 W to I-81 S). It provides a distance of 620 miles, an estimated driving time of 10 hours, and the lowest fuel cost of about $86.80. This route minimizes potential delays due to traffic and overall drive times, making it an efficient option for your travel plans.

Conclusion

Traveling from Deerfield, New Hampshire, to Morgantown, West Virginia, is a journey of approximately 620 miles, taking about 10 hours if you choose Route 4. With an estimated fuel cost of $86.80 based on current gas prices, this route offers the best balance of distance, time, and affordability. So pack your bags, fill up your tank, and hit the road for a memorable adventure!