Budgeting Your Road Trip: Driving from Durham, NH to Framingham, MA
Planning a road trip from Durham, New Hampshire, to Framingham, Massachusetts? Let’s break down the costs so you can hit the road without worrying about your budget. Given the current average gas price of around $3.50 per gallon, we’ll explore a few different routes, taking into account distance, travel time, and tolls. Buckle up for some numbers!
Route 1: I-95 S and I-495 S
One of the most straightforward routes takes you south via I-95 S and I-495 S. This option covers a distance of approximately 75 miles.
- Distance: 75 miles
- Estimated Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Gas Cost:
To determine gas costs, let's assume your vehicle averages 25 mpg. You will need about 3 gallons of gas for this trip. At $3.50 per gallon, your total gas cost will be roughly $10.50.
- Toll Costs: Depending on the time of day and traffic, you can expect to pay around $3.00 in tolls.
So, for Route 1, your total estimated cost comes to $13.50.
Route 2: US-4 W and I-495 S
If you prefer a more scenic route, consider taking US-4 W and then merging onto I-495 S. This option offers beautiful views along the way but adds a bit of distance.
- Distance: 80 miles
- Estimated Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Gas Cost:
Again, with the average fuel economy of 25 mpg, you will require around 3.2 gallons of gas. At $3.50 per gallon, this will set you back about $11.20.
- Toll Costs: Fortunately, this route doesn’t involve any tolls! So that’s a bonus for your budget.
Ultimately, for Route 2, the total estimated cost would be $11.20.
Route 3: I-93 S and I-495 S
For those who want to get into the city a bit quicker, you might want to consider I-93 S and then onto I-495 S. This route is popular, especially for commuters.
- Distance: 73 miles
- Estimated Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Gas Cost:
With 25 mpg, your vehicle will consume about 2.92 gallons of gas for this leg of the journey. Thus, your gas cost will be around $10.22 at current prices.
- Toll Costs: This route typically incurs about $6.00 in tolls, especially if you use the express lanes near Boston.
Adding it up, Route 3 will cost you approximately $16.22.
Conclusion
As you can see, the costs of driving from Durham, NH to Framingham, MA can range quite a bit depending on which route you choose. The most cost-effective option is Route 2, with a total of $11.20, while Route 1 comes in next at $13.50. Route 3, while potentially the fastest, leaves you with a total cost of $16.22.
Whichever route you pick, enjoy your travels! Just remember to hit the road with a full tank and a friendly playlist. Safe travels!