Driving Cost from Annapolis, Maryland to Potomac, Maryland

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of Driving From Annapolis, Maryland to Potomac, Maryland

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or just want to explore a new town, taking a road trip can be an exciting adventure. If you're considering driving from Annapolis, Maryland to Potomac, Maryland, you may be wondering about the cost. From current gas prices to tolls along the way, let's break down the cost of this trip based on different routes, distance, time, and expenses.

Route 1: The Direct Route via I-495 N and I-270 N

One of the most common routes from Annapolis to Potomac is to take I-495 N (Capital Beltway) and then connect to I-270 N. This route covers a distance of approximately 70 miles and can take around 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

Considering that the average gas price in Maryland is currently $2.89 per gallon, and assuming your car gets an average of 25 miles per gallon, the estimated gas cost for this route would be:

  • Distance: 70 miles
  • Cost per mile: $2.89 / 25 miles = $0.1156
  • Total gas cost: 70 miles * $0.1156 = $8.09

Additionally, there is a toll to consider along this route. As of now, the toll for using I-495 in Maryland is $4.00 for cars. So, the total cost of this route, including gas and toll, would be $12.09.

Route 2: The Scenic Journey via MD-4 S and MD-5 S

For those who prefer a more scenic drive, an alternative route is to take MD-4 S towards Upper Marlboro and then connect to MD-5 S towards D.C. before eventually merging onto I-495 N. This route covers a longer distance of approximately 75 miles but can still be completed within 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

Using the same gas price and fuel efficiency calculations as before, the estimated gas cost for this scenic route would be:

  • Distance: 75 miles
  • Cost per mile: $2.89 / 25 miles = $0.1156
  • Total gas cost: 75 miles * $0.1156 = $8.67

When taking this route, you will also encounter the same toll of $4.00 for using I-495. Therefore, the total cost of this route, including gas and toll, would amount to $12.67.

Route 3: Heading West via US-50 W and I-495 N

Another option is to head west on US-50 W towards Washington, D.C. and then merge onto I-495 N. This route covers a distance of approximately 65 miles and can take around 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

Using the same gas price and fuel efficiency calculations, the estimated gas cost for this route would be:

  • Distance: 65 miles
  • Cost per mile: $2.89 / 25 miles = $0.1156
  • Total gas cost: 65 miles * $0.1156 = $7.51

As with the previous routes, the toll for using I-495 remains the same at $4.00. Therefore, the total cost of this route, including gas and toll, would be $11.51.

Conclusion

When planning a trip from Annapolis, Maryland to Potomac, Maryland, it's important to consider the cost of driving. Each route discussed above has its own distance, travel time, and expenses. Depending on your preferences and traffic conditions, you can choose the most suitable option for your journey.

  • Route 1: 70 miles, $12.09, 1.5 hours
  • Route 2: 75 miles, $12.67, 1.5 hours
  • Route 3: 65 miles, $11.51, 1.5 hours

Remember, gas prices and tolls are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check for updates before hitting the road. Safe travels and enjoy your trip from Annapolis to Potomac!