Driving Cost from Dover, New Jersey to New Brunswick, New Jersey

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of Traveling from Dover, NJ to New Brunswick, NJ: A Comprehensive Guide

Traveling between Dover, New Jersey, and New Brunswick, New Jersey, can be an enjoyable adventure, especially when considering the different routes, distances, and costs involved. With fluctuating gas prices, knowing the best route and the overall expenses is crucial for planning an efficient trip. In this article, we will explore various routes you can take, estimate the cost based on current gas prices, and recommend the best option for your travel needs.

Current Gas Prices

As of October 2023, the average gas price in New Jersey hovers around $3.50 per gallon. This figure serves as a baseline for calculating travel costs for your trip from Dover to New Brunswick. Before diving into specific routes, it's essential to understand the distance you'll be covering as well as the fuel efficiency of your vehicle.

Estimating Fuel Consumption

When estimating the cost of your trip, consider your vehicle's miles per gallon (MPG) rating. For this article, we'll assume a mid-sized sedan with an average fuel efficiency of 25 MPG. With this in mind, we can calculate the approximate fuel cost for different routes.

Distance Between Dover and New Brunswick

The distance from Dover to New Brunswick is approximately 35 miles, but the distance can vary based on the route chosen. Let’s break down some of the primary routes you can take for this journey.

Route 1: Via I-287 N

  1. Distance: Approximately 37 miles
  2. Estimated Driving Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions.

This route takes you along I-287 N, offering a straightforward and relatively quick ride. Starting from Dover, you will head southeast toward Parsippany, merge onto I-287 N, and head directly toward New Brunswick. With minimal twists and turns, navigating this highway is smooth.

Cost Calculation:

  • Total Gallons Used: 37 miles / 25 MPG = 1.48 gallons
  • Total Fuel Cost: 1.48 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $5.18

Route 2: Via US-46 E and I-95 S

  1. Distance: Approximately 39 miles
  2. Estimated Driving Time: 50 minutes to 1 hour and 15 minutes.

This route heads east on US-46 E and then merges onto I-95 S. It takes you through several suburban landscapes, providing glimpses of local sights. The roads can be busier compared to I-287, particularly during rush hours.

Cost Calculation:

  • Total Gallons Used: 39 miles / 25 MPG = 1.56 gallons
  • Total Fuel Cost: 1.56 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $5.46

Route 3: Via NJ-10 E and I-295 S

  1. Distance: Approximately 42 miles
  2. Estimated Driving Time: 1 hour to 1 hour and 20 minutes.

This route offers a scenic drive but is slightly longer. Starting from Dover, you head east on NJ-10 before merging onto I-295 S and then connecting to highways that lead into New Brunswick. The longer distance can also mean more chances of encountering traffic, especially during peak hours.

Cost Calculation:

  • Total Gallons Used: 42 miles / 25 MPG = 1.68 gallons
  • Total Fuel Cost: 1.68 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $5.88

Route 4: Via NJ-53 S and US-1 S

  1. Distance: Approximately 36 miles
  2. Estimated Driving Time: 40 minutes to 1 hour.

This route takes you from Dover via NJ-53 S and US-1 S, leading to New Brunswick. This is a very popular route and can be less stressful than the others, with fewer highways and a more direct approach.

Cost Calculation:

  • Total Gallons Used: 36 miles / 25 MPG = 1.44 gallons
  • Total Fuel Cost: 1.44 gallons x $3.50/gallon = $5.04

Summary of Cost and Distances

Route Distance (miles) Estimated Cost ($) Estimated Driving Time
Via I-287 N 37 $5.18 45 min - 1 hr
Via US-46 E and I-95 S 39 $5.46 50 min - 1 hr 15 min
Via NJ-10 E and I-295 S 42 $5.88 1 hr - 1 hr 20 min
Via NJ-53 S and US-1 S 36 $5.04 40 min - 1 hr

After analyzing all possible routes, the best route for a combination of cost, distance, and driving time is the Via NJ-53 S and US-1 S option. This route not only offers the lowest fuel cost at approximately $5.04 but also allows for a smoother driving experience. The shorter distance of 36 miles and estimated time of 40 minutes make it an efficient option.

Conclusion

In summary, traveling from Dover, New Jersey, to New Brunswick provides various routes to cater to different preferences and needs. The Via NJ-53 S and US-1 S path stands out as the most economical choice, costing around $5.04 and taking about 40 minutes. Regardless of the route you choose, each trip presents a unique opportunity to explore the suburban landscapes of New Jersey. Happy travels!