Driving Cost from Doylestown, Pennsylvania to Toms River, New Jersey

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Road Trip from Doylestown, Pennsylvania to Toms River, New Jersey: A Gas Budgeting Guide

Traveling from Doylestown, Pennsylvania to Toms River, New Jersey, can be an exciting escape from the everyday grind. As you anticipate your road trip, one of the most important factors to consider is the cost, especially gas prices. This article will analyze the distance, routes, fuel consumption, and total expenses associated with this journey, helping you better budget for your trip.

Overview of Distance and Travel Time

The straight-line distance between Doylestown and Toms River is approximately 50 miles. However, the actual driving distance varies based on the route you choose. On average, you can expect the trip to take between 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions and your driving style.

Current Gas Prices

Before diving into the route options, understanding current gas prices is essential. As of October 2023, gas prices in Pennsylvania hover around $3.50 per gallon and in New Jersey, around $3.25 per gallon. These prices can fluctuate depending on location, time, and national trends.

For our calculations, let’s work with an average fuel economy for standard vehicles, which is about 25 miles per gallon.

Route Options

Route 1: I-95 N and Garden State Parkway

The most direct and popular route between Doylestown and Toms River is via I-95 N and Garden State Parkway.

  1. Distance: Approximately 60 miles
  2. Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic.

Cost Calculation:

  • Total distance: 60 miles
  • Fuel Economy: 25 miles per gallon
  • Gallons of gas required: 60 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 2.4 gallons
  • Gas cost: 2.4 gallons × $3.50 (average gas price in PA) = $8.40

However, since you will be refueling in New Jersey, calculate it instead with the New Jersey gas price:

  • Gas cost in NJ: 2.4 gallons × $3.25 = $7.80

Route 2: US-1 S

Another option is taking the US-1 S route, which passes through important towns and offers scenery along the way.

  1. Distance: Approximately 55 miles
  2. Estimated Travel Time: Around 2 hours

Cost Calculation:

  • Total distance: 55 miles
  • Fuel Economy: 25 miles per gallon
  • Gallons of gas required: 55 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 2.2 gallons
  • Gas cost (in NJ): 2.2 gallons × $3.25 = $7.15

Route 3: I-295 S

The I-295 S route is a longer trip but can be less congested, especially during peak travel times.

  1. Distance: Approximately 70 miles
  2. Estimated Travel Time: About 2 hours to 2.5 hours.

Cost Calculation:

  • Total distance: 70 miles
  • Fuel Economy: 25 miles per gallon
  • Gallons of gas required: 70 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 2.8 gallons
  • Gas cost (in NJ): 2.8 gallons × $3.25 = $9.10

Comparing the Routes

Route Distance (miles) Estimated Time Gas Cost (NJ)
I-95 N & Garden State Pkwy 60 1.5 - 2 hours $7.80
US-1 S 55 ~2 hours $7.15
I-295 S 70 2 - 2.5 hours $9.10

By comparing distance, travel time, and gas cost, the US-1 S route emerges as the least costly option, while I-95 N & Garden State Parkway is the most popular for its efficiency.

However, if you want to minimize travel time even further while keeping costs reasonable, the I-95 N and Garden State Parkway remains a solid choice with slight increased gas expense compensating for a relatively short travel time.

Additional Costs to Consider

When budgeting for your trip, gas isn't the only expense to anticipate. You should also consider food, tolls, and potential miscellaneous charges.

  1. Food: If you plan to stop for lunch or drinks on the way, budget around $10-$20 per person, depending on your preference.
  2. Tolls: Using the Garden State Parkway may incur tolls. Expect to pay anywhere from $1 to $7 based on entry and exit points.
  3. Miscellaneous Costs: Parking fees in Toms River or any activities you plan to participate in during your trip.

Final Budget Estimate

Here’s an example calculation assuming one traveler using the US-1 S route:

  • Gas Cost: $7.15
  • Food Costs: $15
  • Tolls: $5
  • Miscellaneous: $10

Total Estimated Cost for One Traveler: $37.15

Conclusion

Your road trip from Doylestown, Pennsylvania, to Toms River, New Jersey, can be undertaken with relative ease, offering stunning landscapes and a plethora of small-town charm along the way. Opting for the US-1 S route can save you a few dollars compared to other options and keeps travel time manageable. On average, expect the trip to take around 2 hours, providing ample time for a leisurely getaway. Regardless of the route you choose, plan and enjoy your trip!