Driving Cost from Durham, North Carolina to Norfolk, Virginia

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Cost of a Trip from Durham, North Carolina to Norfolk, Virginia: A Comprehensive Guide to Route Options Based on Current Gas Prices

Traveling from Durham, North Carolina, to Norfolk, Virginia, offers a rich experience filled with scenery, history, and local flavors. This article examines various routes for the journey, costs associated with each based on current gas prices, and reasons why one route might be preferable over the others.

Overview of the Trip

The distance between Durham, NC, and Norfolk, VA, is approximately 160 miles, but your mileage may vary based on the route you choose. As of October 2023, gas prices in North Carolina hover around $3.20 per gallon, while prices in Virginia are roughly $3.10 per gallon. This article will explore three primary routes: the most direct route, a scenic route via Highway 258, and a longer scenic route that travels through the Outer Banks.

Route 1: The Most Direct Route via I-85 and I-664

This route offers the quickest travel time and is generally favored by those looking to minimize driving time.

Distance and Travel Time

  • Distance: Approximately 160 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: About 2 hours and 45 minutes with normal traffic

Cost Breakdown

To calculate the cost of gas for this route, we consider the average fuel efficiency of a vehicle. For this example, we'll assume a vehicle that gets 25 miles per gallon.

  • Gas Needed: 160 miles / 25 mpg = 6.4 gallons
  • Total Cost of Gas: 6.4 gallons * $3.20 (NC gas price) = $20.48

Highlights of the Route

  • The route mainly utilizes I-85 S and I-664, which provides an efficient path across the Virginia state line.
  • Minimal scenic views, as the highway is often lined with trees and commercial developments.

Best For

This route is perfect for travelers who prioritize speed and minimal stops. It appeals to business travelers or those who wish to arrive in Norfolk quickly.

Route 2: Scenic Route via Highway 258

For travelers seeking a more leisurely drive with views of quaint southern towns and beautiful landscapes, this route is ideal.

Distance and Travel Time

  • Distance: Approximately 175 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: Around 3 hours and 30 minutes

Cost Breakdown

Following the same fuel efficiency calculation as above:

  • Gas Needed: 175 miles / 25 mpg = 7 gallons
  • Total Cost of Gas: 7 gallons * $3.20 (average NC gas price) = $22.40

Highlights of the Route

  • The scenic route takes you through charming towns such as Kinston and Washington, NC.
  • Travelers can stop at local diners or cafes, making it a great choice for those wanting to experience local southern culture.
  • This route also allows for picturesque views of rural farmlands and rivers.

Best For

This route is ideal for tourists and those who prefer leisure over speed. Families and solo travelers will enjoy the hospitality of small-town North Carolina.

Route 3: Extended Scenic Route via the Outer Banks

For those who have time to spare, this longer route offers a unique opportunity to experience North Carolina's breathtaking Outer Banks.

Distance and Travel Time

  • Distance: Approximately 210 miles
  • Estimated Travel Time: About 4 hours and 30 minutes

Cost Breakdown

Using the previous fuel efficiency assumptions:

  • Gas Needed: 210 miles / 25 mpg = 8.4 gallons
  • Total Cost of Gas: 8.4 gallons * $3.20 (average NC gas price) = $26.88

Highlights of the Route

  • This route takes you through coastal areas and offers views of the Atlantic Ocean.
  • You can stop at popular tourist attractions like the Wright Brothers National Memorial and Cape Hatteras.
  • The route presents an opportunity to explore local seafood markets and restaurants.

Best For

This extended route is perfect for vacationers and families who want to blend sightseeing with travel. It allows for multiple stops and an enhanced trip experience.

Comparing Routes: Which is the Best Option?

When deciding the best route from Durham to Norfolk, consider the trade-offs between travel time, cost, and experience.

  • Most Direct Route: If you are pressed for time, the direct route via I-85 and I-664 will save you gas and limit travel time.
  • Scenic Route: Travelers looking for a break from highway monotony will appreciate the Highway 258 route, offering a mix of small-town charm and southern hospitality.
  • Extended Scenic Route: The Outer Banks route is best for individuals and families wanting a vacation experience rather than just transportation.

Based on the comparative distance, travel time, and costs involved, the scenic route via Highway 258 emerges as the best option for balance between leisure and time efficiency.

Conclusion

A trip from Durham, NC, to Norfolk, VA, can vary significantly based on the route chosen, with the most direct path taking about 2 hours and 45 minutes and costing approximately $20.48 in gas. In contrast, the scenic route via Highway 258 might take around 3 hours and 30 minutes, costing about $22.40, offering a pleasant mix of speed and scenery. Regardless of your choice, this journey is an opportunity to enjoy North Carolina and Virginia's beautiful landscapes, history, and culture while making memorable stops along the way.