Driving Cost from Duck, North Carolina to Montauk, New York

A picture depicting a gas pump

Estimating the Cost of a Trip from Duck, North Carolina to Montauk, New York Based on Current Gas Prices

Traveling from Duck, North Carolina to Montauk, New York, offers a delightful mix of scenic coastal drives, charming towns, and diverse landscapes. However, one significant factor in planning your journey will be understanding the cost implications, particularly regarding gas prices. Below, we break down possible routes, their distances, estimated travel times, and current gas costs to help you understand your expenses when setting out on this adventure.

Overview of the Trip

The distance between Duck, NC, and Montauk, NY, is approximately 600 miles when taking the most direct route. Depending on which route you choose, travel costs may significantly change based on fuel efficiency, current gas prices, and driving conditions. With the national average gas price hovering around $3.30 per gallon as of October 2023, we will estimate fuel costs based on different vehicle fuel economies.

Route Options

Travelers have multiple options when navigating between Duck and Montauk. Let’s examine three primary routes: the Direct Route via U.S. Route 64 and Interstate 95, the Coastal Route along U.S. Route 158 and NY Route 27, and the Scenic Route through U.S. Route 264 and I-295.

1. Direct Route via U.S. Route 64 and I-95

Distance: Approximately 600 miles
Estimated Travel Time: About 10 hours
Estimated Fuel Cost:

For vehicles achieving 25 miles per gallon (mpg):

  • $3.30 average gas price per gallon.
  • Total fuel needed: 600 miles / 25 mpg = 24 gallons.
  • Total fuel cost: 24 gallons x $3.30 = $79.20.

This route leads you straight up from Duck, taking U.S. Route 64 and then merging onto I-95 north. You will travel through Virginia, Maryland, and Delaware before crossing into New Jersey and onto New York. This road is well-maintained and generally has a higher speed limit, which may shorten your travel time.

2. Coastal Route via U.S. Route 158 and NY Route 27

Distance: Approximately 625 miles
Estimated Travel Time: About 11 hours
Estimated Fuel Cost:

For vehicles getting 25 mpg:

  • Total fuel needed: 625 miles / 25 mpg = 25 gallons.
  • Total fuel cost: 25 gallons x $3.30 = $82.50.

This route is more scenic as it follows the coastline more closely. You will traverse the Outer Banks, skirting the Atlantic Ocean, and enjoy picturesque views along U.S. Route 158. After reaching New Jersey, you can take the Garden State Parkway, connecting to New York, where you’ll make your way to Montauk via NY Route 27. While this route may take slightly longer, the beautiful scenery compensates for the additional time.

3. Scenic Route via U.S. Route 264 and I-295

Distance: Approximately 650 miles
Estimated Travel Time: About 12 hours
Estimated Fuel Cost:

For vehicles achieving 25 mpg:

  • Total fuel needed: 650 miles / 25 mpg = 26 gallons.
  • Total fuel cost: 26 gallons x $3.30 = $85.80.

This route offers picturesque drives through various small towns, combining highways and backroads. Starting from Duck, you would initially head west towards U.S. Route 264 and then connect to I-295 before eventually pointing northward towards Montauk. Enjoying quaint views of rural North Carolina and southern Virginia makes this a beautiful drive despite its longer distance.

Given all three options, the Direct Route via U.S. Route 64 and I-95 stands out as the best choice. It boasts the shortest travel distance and estimated fuel cost, making it a practical decision for most travelers. Additionally, this route generally provides good road conditions and faster speeds, allowing for a more efficient trip. While enjoying the scenic beauty of the coastal drive may tempt some, the efficiency of the direct route ultimately offers more time to enjoy the destination rather than spending it on the road.

Additional Cost Considerations

While fuel prices form the bulk of your trip expenses, a few more costs may factor into your total outlay. Here are several potential additional costs to keep in mind:

  1. Tolls: Depending on the route chosen, you may incur toll fees. Coastal routes tend to have more toll roads, especially if you take the Garden State Parkway in New Jersey.

  2. Food: Plan for meals along the way. If you budget $10 to $15 per person per meal and anticipate three meals over the course of a day-long trip, this could add an additional $30 to $45 per person.

  3. Accommodation: If your trip spans more than one day, you should consider lodging costs. Prices can range from budget motels ($70 to $120) to upscale hotels ($200 and up) depending on your preferences.

  4. Activities: If you plan on engaging in fun activities or sightseeing along the route, set aside funds accordingly.

  5. Incidentals: It’s also prudent to have extra money on hand for unforeseen circumstances like vehicle issues or emergency stops.

Conclusion

Traveling from Duck, North Carolina, to Montauk, New York, provides a beautiful opportunity to witness a patchwork of eastern coastal landscapes and charming towns. By selecting the most efficient route—the Direct Route via U.S. Route 64 and I-95—travellers can expect to travel approximately 600 miles in about 10 hours with an estimated fuel cost of around $79.20. Whether you seek coastal charm or the direct route, your adventure awaits!