How Much Does It Cost to Drive from Alexandria, VA to Raleigh, NC?

If you're planning a road trip from Alexandria, Virginia to Raleigh, North Carolina, you might be wondering how much it will cost you to drive there. In this post, we're going to break down the cost for each route, including gas prices and tolls, so you can get a better idea of what to expect.

Route 1: I-95 S

The most direct route from Alexandria to Raleigh is via I-95 S. This route is approximately 279 miles in distance and will take you around 4 hours to complete. According to GasBuddy, the current average gas price in Virginia is around $2.30 per gallon, while the average price in North Carolina is around $2.15 per gallon.

Based on these prices and the average fuel efficiency of a car at 25 miles per gallon, the total cost of gas for this trip would be around $33.12. Additionally, you will encounter tolls in Maryland and Virginia, which can range from $4 to $10 depending on the time of day and whether you use a transponder or pay cash.

Route 2: US-29 S and US-501 S

Another route you can take is via US-29 S and US-501 S. This route is longer, at approximately 306 miles, but it might be a good option if you want to avoid tolls and traffic. According to GasBuddy, the current average gas price along this route is around $2.35 per gallon.

Based on these prices and the average fuel efficiency of a car at 25 miles per gallon, the total cost of gas for this trip would be around $35.28.

This route will take you around 5 hours and 15 minutes to complete. However, keep in mind that you might encounter rush hour traffic in Greensboro, so plan accordingly.

Route 3: I-81 S and I-77 S

A third option is to take I-81 S and I-77 S. This route is the longest, at approximately 365 miles, but it might be a good option if you want to enjoy scenic views along the way. According to GasBuddy, the current average gas price along this route is around $2.30 per gallon.

Based on these prices and the average fuel efficiency of a car at 25 miles per gallon, the total cost of gas for this trip would be around $43.80. This route will take you around 6 hours and 30 minutes to complete.

Keep in mind that you will also encounter tolls on this route, which can range from $1 to $13 depending on where you enter and exit the toll road.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of driving from Alexandria, Virginia to Raleigh, North Carolina will depend on which route you take, as well as the current gas and toll prices. If you want to take the most direct route, via I-95 S, you can expect to spend around $33.12 on gas and tolls. If you want to avoid tolls, you can take US-29 S and US-501 S, which will cost you around $35.28 in gas. Finally, if you want to enjoy scenic views, you can take I-81 S and I-77 S, which will cost you around $43.80 in gas and tolls.

No matter which route you take, be sure to budget for unexpected expenses such as food, lodging, and emergencies. Happy travels!