Road Trip from Ann Arbor to Jamestown: Cost Analysis Based on Gas Prices
Are you planning a road trip from Ann Arbor to Jamestown, but wary of how much it's going to cost you? Don't worry, because we've done the math for you! In this post, we'll take a look at the different routes you can take, their distance, time it takes to travel the route, gas prices, and toll prices. So, let's dive right in!
Route 1: I-69 and I-75, via Cincinnati, OH
This route is the shortest of the three, spanning approximately 550 miles. However, it also involves the most tolls, which can add up quickly. You'll need to carry some cash to cover the toll amounts, which can be found in the table below. Based on the average gas prices as of July 2021 ($3.10 per gallon), the total cost of gas for this route is around $83.
| Location | Toll Amount |
|---|---|
| Michigan Toll Road | $8.10 |
| Ohio Turnpike | $15.25 |
| I-PASS tolls in Illinois (if applicable) | $12.75 |
| Indiana Toll Road | $13.30 |
| West Virginia Turnpike | $2.90 |
| Total Tolls | $52.30 |
Assuming an average driving speed of 65 miles per hour, you can expect to reach your destination in about 8 hours and 45 minutes.
Route 2: I-80 and I-77, via Cleveland, OH
This route adds some extra miles to your trip, at a distance of approximately 580 miles. However, it is significantly cheaper, with a total cost of gas at around $75 based on the same average gas prices. There is only one toll on this route, which is the Ohio Turnpike with a cost of $15.25.
With an average driving speed of 65 miles per hour, you can expect to reach Jamestown in about 9 hours and 10 minutes.
Route 3: I-96, I-69, and I-77, via Flint and Cleveland
This route is the longest, spanning approximately 655 miles. It is the most scenic, with several historic landmarks and natural features to observe along the way. The total cost of gas for this route is around $94. There is only one toll on this route, which is the Ohio Turnpike with a cost of $15.25.
Assuming an average speed of 65 miles per hour, you can expect to reach your destination in about 10 hours and 10 minutes.
Conclusion
After analyzing the three routes and their respective distances, time, and costs, it's clear that Route 2, through Cleveland, is the best option for drivers who want to save on gas and tolls. However, Route 3 offers the most scenic route, and may be preferred by those who want to make several stops along the way. No matter which route you choose, make sure to bring along snacks, drinks, and good music to make the most of your road trip!