Driving Cost from Amherst, Massachusetts to Trumbull, Connecticut

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The Cost of a Trip Between Amherst, Massachusetts and Trumbull, Connecticut

Traveling between Amherst, Massachusetts and Trumbull, Connecticut can be an exciting journey, particularly if you are interested in exploring the scenic beauty of the New England region. However, before embarking on this trip, it is crucial to consider the cost implications, particularly with regards to fuel prices. In this article, we will break down the different possible routes, highlight the cost and distance of each one, and ultimately recommend the most cost-effective and efficient route.

Routes and Distances

There are primarily three major routes that can be taken when traveling between Amherst, Massachusetts and Trumbull, Connecticut. Each route presents its own unique advantages, but it is important to consider the cost and distance associated with each option.

  1. The I-91 Route (99.9 miles): This is the most direct route, taking you south on Interstate 91. Starting in Amherst, Massachusetts, you will head south on I-91 for approximately 70 miles until you reach Hartford, Connecticut. At Hartford, you will need to merge onto I-84 East and continue on this route for around 20 miles until you reach Trumbull.

  2. The Scenic Route (115.4 miles): If you have some extra time and appreciate picturesque landscapes, this route may be perfect for you. Starting in Amherst, Massachusetts, you will head east on Route 9 for about 9 miles until you reach Northampton. At Northampton, you will connect to Route 5 and travel south for approximately 18 miles until you reach Holyoke. From Holyoke, you will then take Route 202 south for 34 miles until you reach Hartford, Connecticut. Finally, you will need to merge onto I-84 East and travel for around 25 miles until you arrive in Trumbull.

  3. The Amherst Bypass Route (120.3 miles): This route is slightly longer but offers the advantage of bypassing the heavily congested areas of Hartford. Starting in Amherst, Massachusetts, you will head south on Route 116 for approximately 16 miles until you reach Deerfield. At Deerfield, you will then need to connect to Route 5 and travel south for around 35 miles until you reach Windsor Locks. From Windsor Locks, you will merge onto I-91 South for 32 miles until you reach Meriden. At Meriden, you will need to switch onto Route 15 South and continue for 7 miles until you reach the city of New Haven. Finally, you will take Route 15 South for another 23 miles until you arrive in Trumbull.

Fuel Costs

Fuel costs can significantly impact the overall cost of your trip. It is essential to consider the current gas prices and calculate the approximate expenses for each route.

According to recent data, the average gas price in Massachusetts is around $2.80 per gallon, while in Connecticut, it hovers around $2.95 per gallon. To estimate the fuel expenses for your trip, you can use the following calculations:

  1. The I-91 Route: With a distance of 99.9 miles, assuming an average vehicle fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you would need approximately 4 gallons of gas for this route. At the current average gas price of $2.80 per gallon in Massachusetts, the fuel cost would be around $11.20. In Connecticut, for the remaining 29.9 miles, you would require approximately 1.2 gallons, resulting in a fuel cost of roughly $3.54 at the average price of $2.95 per gallon. Thus, the total fuel cost for this route would be approximately $14.74.

  2. The Scenic Route: With a distance of 115.4 miles, assuming the same average vehicle fuel efficiency, you would need approximately 4.6 gallons of gas. In Massachusetts, the fuel cost would be around $12.88, while in Connecticut, for the remaining 15.4 miles, you would require approximately 0.6 gallons, resulting in a fuel cost of roughly $1.77. Thus, the total fuel cost for this route would be approximately $14.65.

  3. The Amherst Bypass Route: With a distance of 120.3 miles, assuming the same average vehicle fuel efficiency, you would need approximately 4.8 gallons of gas. In Massachusetts, the fuel cost would be around $13.44, while in Connecticut, for the remaining 20.3 miles, you would require approximately 0.8 gallons, resulting in a fuel cost of roughly $2.36. Thus, the total fuel cost for this route would be approximately $15.80.

Recommendation

Based on the cost analysis, it is evident that the most cost-effective route between Amherst, Massachusetts and Trumbull, Connecticut is the I-91 Route. While the Scenic Route offers picturesque landscapes, the additional distance and slightly higher fuel costs make it less economical. The Amherst Bypass Route, on the other hand, bypasses Hartford congestion but is longer and also slightly more expensive in terms of fuel consumption.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when traveling between Amherst, Massachusetts and Trumbull, Connecticut, the route that offers the optimal balance between cost and efficiency is the I-91 Route. With a total distance of 99.9 miles and a fuel cost of approximately $14.74, this route presents a cost-effective solution for your journey. As always, it is advisable to keep an eye on the current gas prices and adjust your estimates accordingly to ensure an accurate representation of the costs involved. Safe travels!