The Cost of a Road Trip from Apponaug, Rhode Island to Worcester, Massachusetts in 2021
Are you planning a road trip from Apponaug, Rhode Island to Worcester, Massachusetts? Perhaps you’re wondering how much it will cost you in gas money. In this article, we’ll break down the cost of this particular road trip so that you can budget accordingly.
Route Options
There are three main routes you can take from Apponaug to Worcester:
1. I-90 W
This route is the fastest, with a total distance of approximately 63 miles. Taking I-90 W typically takes 1 hour and 9 minutes in normal traffic conditions. This route involves taking highway tolls in Massachusetts, which can cost around $7, depending on the vehicle.
2. I-295 S and I-95 S
If you prefer to avoid the Massachusetts Turnpike tolls, you can opt for this route. The total distance is around 70.3 miles and will take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. However, I-295 has a toll as well, costing $3.75 for a passenger car. This route has several exits that can lead to other cities, such as Providence and Pawtucket, allowing you to take a detour and explore other places on the way.
3. RI-146 S and I-290 W
This route has a total distance of approximately 51.1 miles, making it the shortest of the three main routes. It takes about 1 hour to complete, making it the second-fastest option. This route requires no tolls, making it a budget-friendly alternative.
Gas Prices and Cost
The cost of your road trip will depend on the current gas prices, your vehicle’s fuel efficiency, and the distance you will travel. Here are the current gas prices in Rhode Island and Massachusetts as of May 2021:
- Rhode Island: $2.89 per gallon
- Massachusetts: $2.90 per gallon
Using the official fuel economy website, let’s compare the projected costs of each route based on the popular vehicle types commonly used for road trips, assuming an average fuel consumption rate:
| Vehicle Type | I-90 W | I-295 S and I-95 S | RI-146 S and I-290 W |
|---|---|---|---|
| Midsize Car | $6.60 | $7.19 | $5.26 |
| SUV | $7.92 | $8.63 | $6.30 |
| Pickup Truck | $8.46 | $9.18 | $6.70 |
Best Route Recommendation
From the above table, we can see that taking RI-146 S and I-290 W is the most economical option. Not only is it the shortest of the three routes, but it also has no tolls. Since RI-146 is also a more scenic route than the highways, you'll also have a chance to admire some lovely scenery along the way.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best route you should take is the RI-146 S and I-290 W and avoid the tolls on the Massachusetts Turnpike. It is the shortest distance and also the cheapest overall in gas costs. The time you spend on the road can also be used to explore other cities and towns in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. Safe travels!