Cost Analysis of a Road Trip from Delaware, Ohio to Wharton Township, Pennsylvania Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a road trip can present travelers with a variety of choices and costs to consider. This article breaks down the potential routes from Delaware, Ohio, to Wharton Township, Pennsylvania, and calculates the trip cost based on current gas prices.
Current Gas Prices
Before diving into routes and costs, let’s first take a look at the current average gas prices. As of October 2023, the national average gas price sits around $3.50 per gallon. Gas prices can fluctuate, so travelers should check current prices before embarking on their journey. For the sake of this analysis, we will use $3.50 as the baseline fuel cost.
Distance and Driving Time
The distance from Delaware, Ohio, to Wharton Township, Pennsylvania, is approximately 120 miles. Depending on traffic conditions and the selected route, the total driving time generally ranges from 2 to 3 hours.
Route Options
Travelers have several options to consider when driving from Delaware, Ohio, to Wharton Township, Pennsylvania. Here, we will explore three main routes and provide details regarding their distance, estimated driving time, and costs.
Route 1: Via US-23 N and I-70 E
- Distance: Approximately 120 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Gas Consumption: This route generally incurs a fuel efficiency of about 25 miles per gallon.
Cost Calculation:
- Total miles: 120 miles
- Gallons of gas used: 120 miles / 25 mpg = 4.8 gallons
- Total gas cost: 4.8 gallons x $3.50 = $16.80
This route offers a direct path with minimal navigation and avoids busy city traffic, making it a favorable choice for road trippers.
Route 2: Via I-71 N and I-76 E
- Distance: Approximately 127 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Gas Consumption: This route will likely show slightly less fuel efficiency due to potential stop-and-go traffic, averaging about 24 miles per gallon.
Cost Calculation:
- Total miles: 127 miles
- Gallons of gas used: 127 miles / 24 mpg = 5.29 gallons
- Total gas cost: 5.29 gallons x $3.50 = $18.50
While this route can take longer due to city traffic and more stops, it provides travelers with opportunities to visit interesting landmarks along the way.
Route 3: Via US-23 N and PA-30 E
- Distance: Approximately 135 miles
- Estimated Driving Time: 3 hours
- Gas Consumption: This route averages about 26 miles per gallon.
Cost Calculation:
- Total miles: 135 miles
- Gallons of gas used: 135 miles / 26 mpg = 5.19 gallons
- Total gas cost: 5.19 gallons x $3.50 = $18.17
This route passes through scenic landscapes but can take longer due to winding roads and rural traffic.
Comparison of Routes
Here’s a summary table comparing the three routes:
| Route | Distance (miles) | Estimated Time | MPG | Total Gas Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US-23 N and I-70 E | 120 | 2h 15m | 25 | $16.80 |
| I-71 N and I-76 E | 127 | 2h 45m | 24 | $18.50 |
| US-23 N and PA-30 E | 135 | 3h | 26 | $18.17 |
Based on this analysis, Route 1 (US-23 N and I-70 E) not only is the quickest but also offers the lowest fuel cost, making it the most efficient choice for your trip from Delaware, Ohio to Wharton Township, Pennsylvania.
Final Recommendations
Taking into consideration the distance, driving time, and fuel costs, Route 1 appears to be the best option for travelers. It provides a straightforward drive with the least time on the road while also being economical.
Conclusion
Traveling from Delaware, Ohio, to Wharton Township, Pennsylvania, offers a pleasant journey of approximately 120 miles. Taking around 2 hours and 15 minutes using Route 1 (US-23 N and I-70 E), this route stands out for its directness and cost-efficiency, estimated at $16.80 for gas. Whether you are heading for a weekend retreat or a family visit, this trip promises stunning Midwest landscapes and smooth roads. Check current gas prices and your vehicle's fuel efficiency before hitting the road to ensure a more precise budget. Happy travels!