Calculating Your Trip: The Cost of Traveling from Denville to Cherry Hill, NJ
Planning a trip from Denville to Cherry Hill, New Jersey involves more than just selecting the perfect playlist for your drive. It also means understanding the distance between the two locations, the various routes you can take, and, most importantly, how much the journey will cost you in gas. Current gas prices fluctuate regularly, which makes it essential to track these costs as you prepare for your trip. This article provides a breakdown of different routes, their distances, estimated gas expenses, and a recommendation for the best driving path.
Overview of Distance and Driving Time
Before delving into the different routes and their costs, it’s essential to understand how far Denville is from Cherry Hill. The straight-line distance is approximately 40 miles. However, the actual driving distance varies depending on the route chosen, typically falling between 48 and 60 miles, with travel times ranging between 50 minutes to over an hour based on traffic conditions.
Current Gas Prices
As of October 2023, gas prices in New Jersey average around $3.50 per gallon. While gas prices can fluctuate due to various factors such as location, season, and global oil prices, this average provides a reasonable basis for our trip cost calculations. Furthermore, we will consider that most vehicles average about 25 miles per gallon.
Suggested Routes
Here are three different routes that you can take when driving from Denville to Cherry Hill:
Route 1: I-80 East to I-287 South
Distance: Approximately 58 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
This route starts by taking Denville's local roads to I-80 East, leading you to I-287 South. You will then follow I-287 South until it merges with I-295 South, eventually leading you toward Cherry Hill. This road is well-maintained and relatively straightforward. Expect moderate traffic, especially during peak commuting hours.
Cost Analysis:
- Total Distance: 58 miles
- Fuel Efficiency: 25 miles per gallon
- Total Gallons Needed: ( \frac{58}{25} = 2.32 ) gallons
- Estimated Cost: 2.32 gallons × $3.50/gallon = $8.12
Route 2: I-287 South to Route 70 East
Distance: Approximately 54 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 1 hour 3 minutes
Begin by taking Denville's local roads to I-287 South. Continue on I-287 until you reach Route 70 East. After this, you will drive through several small towns before arriving in Cherry Hill. This route can be scenic, with suburban views, but keep an eye on speed limits through residential areas.
Cost Analysis:
- Total Distance: 54 miles
- Fuel Efficiency: 25 miles per gallon
- Total Gallons Needed: ( \frac{54}{25} = 2.16 ) gallons
- Estimated Cost: 2.16 gallons × $3.50/gallon = $7.56
Route 3: I-80 East to NJ Turnpike South
Distance: Approximately 48 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 50 minutes
Take the local roads to I-80 East, then merge onto the New Jersey Turnpike South. This is the most direct route and typically experiences lighter traffic compared to I-287. The New Jersey Turnpike is a toll road, so remember to factor in additional expenses for tolls.
Cost Analysis:
- Total Distance: 48 miles
- Fuel Efficiency: 25 miles per gallon
- Total Gallons Needed: ( \frac{48}{25} = 1.92 ) gallons
- Estimated Cost: 1.92 gallons × $3.50/gallon = $6.72
- Tolls: Estimated tolls can range from $3 to $8, depending on the entry and exit points. For this route, anticipate around $5 for a one-way trip.
Summary of Costs
Route Comparison Table
| Route | Distance (miles) | Gallons Needed | Gas Cost | Toll Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| I-80 East to I-287 South | 58 | 2.32 | $8.12 | $0 | $8.12 |
| I-287 South to Route 70 East | 54 | 2.16 | $7.56 | $0 | $7.56 |
| I-80 East to New Jersey Turnpike South | 48 | 1.92 | $6.72 | $5 | $11.72 |
Recommendation for Best Route
Based on the above analysis, the second route, I-287 South to Route 70 East, emerges as the best option. It not only keeps costs low at approximately $7.56 but also provides a smooth driving experience with scenic views. Moreover, this route balances distance and traffic conditions effectively. Although it might take a few extra minutes compared to the quickest route, the minimal increase in gas expenses makes it the ideal choice for both budget and enjoyment.
Conclusion
The journey from Denville to Cherry Hill can be a pleasant and cost-effective trip with the right planning. After analyzing different routes, it becomes clear that taking I-287 South to Route 70 East is the most economical and enjoyable path. This route, approximately 54 miles long, allows you to travel comfortably while spending around $7.56 on gas. With an estimated driving time of about 1 hour and 3 minutes, you can look forward to a delightful road trip filled with picturesque views of New Jersey's suburban landscape. Enjoy your adventure!