Calculating the Cost of a Trip from Dunstable to Medford, Massachusetts Based on Current Gas Prices

Traveling between Dunstable and Medford, Massachusetts, offers a blend of scenic landscapes, historical significance, and vibrant communities. However, before embarking on this journey, it’s essential to calculate the associated costs, especially in terms of fuel expenses. In this article, we will explore different routes for your trip, evaluate their distances, estimate fuel costs based on current gas prices, and recommend the best option.

Overview of Distances and Routes

The distance between Dunstable and Medford, as the crow flies, is about 25 miles. However, road distances can vary based on the route taken. A few common routes include:

1. Route 3 to I-93 South
2. Route 3 to I-95 South
3. Route 113 to I-93 South

Let’s break down each route in detail to understand their distance, travel time, and estimated fuel costs.

Route 1: Route 3 to I-93 South

Using Route 3 to connect to I-93 South constitutes one of the most direct paths to Medford.

• Distance: 30.5 miles
• Estimated Travel Time: 35-40 minutes (without traffic)
• Fuel Efficiency: Based on an average vehicle fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon.

Given the current average gas price of $3.50 per gallon in Massachusetts, here’s how to calculate the cost of fuel for this route:

[ \text = 30.5 \text ] [ \text = \frac{30.5 \text}{25 \text} = 1.22 \text ] [ \text = 1.22 \text \times 3.50 \text{ dollars/gallon} = 4.27 \text ]

Route 2: Route 3 to I-95 South

Another option involves taking Route 3 to I-95 South, providing a slightly longer trip but potentially less congestion depending on the time of day.

• Distance: 32 miles
• Estimated Travel Time: 40-45 minutes (without traffic)
• Fuel Efficiency: Maintaining the same 25 mpg.

Let’s do the math using the same gas price:

[ \text = 32 \text ] [ \text = \frac{32 \text}{25 \text} = 1.28 \text ] [ \text = 1.28 \text \times 3.50 \text{ dollars/gallon} = 4.48 \text ]

Route 3: Route 113 to I-93 South

Another route to consider is taking Route 113, which leads to I-93 South. This route offers a more rural landscape but can consume a bit more time.

• Distance: 33 miles
• Estimated Travel Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour (without traffic)
• Fuel Efficiency: Again, we assume 25 mpg.

Calculating the costs here yields:

[ \text = 33 \text ] [ \text = \frac{33 \text}{25 \text} = 1.32 \text ] [ \text = 1.32 \text \times 3.50 \text{ dollars/gallon} = 4.62 \text ]

Summary of Cost and Distance

Route	Distance (miles)	Estimated Cost ($)	Estimated Time (minutes)
Route 3 to I-93 South	30.5	4.27	35-40
Route 3 to I-95 South	32	4.48	40-45
Route 113 to I-93 South	33	4.62	45-60

Recommendations for the Best Route

After evaluating the distances, travel times, and fuel costs associated with each route, Route 3 to I-93 South emerges as the best option. Not only does it offer the shortest distance and lowest fuel cost, but it also navigates through a relatively feasible highway system that typically experiences less congestion, especially during peak hours. This route ensures that you spend less time on the road and more time enjoying what Medford has to offer.

Conclusion

Traveling from Dunstable to Medford, Massachusetts, results in a relatively straightforward drive that spans approximately 30.5 miles. The estimated travel time is around 35 to 40 minutes under normal conditions. The cost of fuel along the best route, using current gas prices, amounts to about $4.27, making it an affordable trip. Choosing Route 3 to I-93 South not only minimizes travel time and expenses but also ensures a smooth and pleasant journey. Enjoy the drive and the rich experiences waiting for you in Medford!