Driving Cost from Durham, North Carolina to Salisbury, Maryland

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Road Trip: Durham, NC to Salisbury, MD Based on Current Gas Prices

Embarking on a road trip between Durham, North Carolina, and Salisbury, Maryland, offers travelers an exciting way to explore the East Coast's scenic landscapes. This article will break down the cost associated with this journey, examining different routes, fuel expenses, and travel times. The distance between these two locations is approximately 270 miles and may take anywhere from 4 to 5 hours, depending on the chosen route and traffic conditions.

Current Gas Prices and Their Impact on Costs

Before diving into the specifics of each possible route, let’s first look at the current gas prices and how they will impact the overall cost of the trip. As of October 2023, gas prices in North Carolina average around $3.20 per gallon, while Maryland's prices hover around $3.40 per gallon. With gas prices fluctuating, it’s essential to account for this variability when planning your trip.

The average fuel efficiency for most vehicles today lies between 25 to 30 miles per gallon (mpg). For this calculation, we’ll use 27 mpg as an average.

Fuel Cost Calculation

To calculate the fuel cost for the trip, consider the following simple formula:

[ \text \div \text \times \text = \text ]

Using these numbers, we can estimate the fuel cost for our trip:

[ 270 \text \div 27 \text = 10 \text ]

Now with current NC gas prices:

[ 10 \text \times 3.20 = 32 \text ]

Alternatively, if your trip takes you through Maryland and you fill up there:

[ 10 \text \times 3.40 = 34 \text ]

So, expect to spend anywhere between $32 to $34 solely on gas.

Route Options

Traveling from Durham to Salisbury, you have several routes to choose from. Below are three popular options, including their distances and estimated travel times.

Route 1: I-85 N to US-70 E

  • Distance: Approximately 270 miles
  • Estimated Drive Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
  • Route: Begin on I-85 N, merge onto I-40 E, then take US-70 E to US-13 N. Follow signs for Salisbury.

This route is straightforward, takes you through several small towns with options for food and fuel. It’s relatively easy to navigate, and the scenery is pleasant.

Route 2: I-40 E to US-64 E

  • Distance: Approximately 290 miles
  • Estimated Drive Time: 5 hours
  • Route: Start on I-40 E, take US-64 E toward US-13 N. Follow signs to Salisbury.

This route adds some mileage but offers beautiful views, particularly as you travel through rural areas. The additional distance can lead to higher fuel expenses, costing about $34 when calculated as before.

Route 3: I-85 N to I-95 N

  • Distance: Approximately 320 miles
  • Estimated Drive Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
  • Route: From Durham, head north on I-85, then merge onto I-95 N. Continue to follow signs toward Salisbury.

Though this route has a longer distance, it takes you through larger cities such as Richmond, Virginia, which can provide various dining options. The fuel costs here would be around $36.

After considering costs, distances, and travel times, the best route between Durham and Salisbury is Route 1: I-85 N to US-70 E. It offers a balance of efficiency and affordability while keeping the drive enjoyable. The estimated cost of gas for this route is a modest $32, making it budget-friendly for solo travelers or families alike.

Additional Considerations

Tolls

Before embarking on your journey, consider whether you might encounter any tolls along the way. Route choices that include I-95 often have tolls, whereas the recommended Route 1 has minimal if any toll roads, saving you extra expenses.

Meals Along the Route

Food costs can also pile up. The average meal in the southeastern U.S. would cost between $10 to $20 per person, depending on the dining establishment. If you plan to stop for lunch or dinner, calculate an additional $20 to $60 per person for your meal.

Travel companions

Traveling with friends or family members can significantly lessen the strain of fuel costs. Sharing the road trip expenses, including gas and food, can make for a more affordable and enjoyable adventure.

Conclusion

In summary, the road trip from Durham, North Carolina, to Salisbury, Maryland, spans about 270 miles, taking approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes via the recommended I-85 N to US-70 E route. With an estimated fuel cost of $32, this trip allows for budget-friendly exploration while still offering ample opportunities for sightseeing and culinary delights along the way. Buckle up, enjoy the scenic drive, and make lasting memories on this East Coast adventure!