The Cost of a Trip Between Arlington and Fall River: Navigating Gas Prices

Gas prices have always been a nightmare for travelers, particularly for those who have to cover long distances. A road trip from Arlington, Massachusetts to Fall River, Massachusetts is an interesting adventure that many people undertake. However, the cost of gas often dictates the routes and modes of transportation used. In this article, we will explore the different routes available and their costs based on current gas prices.

The Distance Between Arlington and Fall River

Before looking at the different routes available, it is essential to determine the distance between the two towns. Arlington is located in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, while Fall River is situated in Bristol County, Massachusetts. The shortest distance between these two towns is approximately 56 miles and takes 1 hour and 10 minutes via I-95 S. However, this has to be adjusted according to several factors such as traffic, weather, and possible redirection due to construction.

Possible Routes and Their Costs

If you are planning to travel between Arlington and Fall River, three main routes are available. The three routes are quite distinct and offer unique scenery and experiences. They are also different in length and the cost required.

Route 1: Using I-95 S

This is the shortest route from Arlington to Fall River, taking approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. The length of this route is approximately 56 miles, and it cuts through cities such as Wellesley, Attleboro, and Providence. Gas prices determine the cost of travel along this route, and according to AAA's Gas Price Calculator, the current gas price per gallon in Arlington is roughly $2.90. If your vehicle achieves 25 miles per gallon, you'll need to spend approximately $13.12 on gas for a single trip, plus the toll charges along the route.

Route 2: Using I-90 W and I-495 S

This is actually the longest and slowest route from Arlington to Fall River. The length of this route is approximately 80 miles, excluding toll charges. It takes approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes to cover this distance. The good thing about this route is that it is cheaper on gas, despite being longer. According to AAA's Gas Price Calculator, the current gas price per gallon in Arlington is roughly $2.90. If your vehicle achieves 25 miles per gallon, you'll need to spend approximately $18.56 on gas for a single trip. However, toll fees vary depending on several factors such as the size of the vehicle, time of day, and whether you have an E-Z pass. There are several tolls along this route, and travelers should make sure to factor this into their budget.

Route 3: Using MA-24 S

The third and final route from Arlington to Fall River follows MA-24 S. This route is approximately 70 miles long, excluding toll charges, and takes approximately 1 hour and 34 minutes. It is a moderately priced route that offers a mix of cities, towns, and scenic views. Gas prices will again determine the cost of travel along this route. According to AAA's Gas Price Calculator, the current gas price per gallon in Arlington is roughly $2.90. If your vehicle achieves 25 miles per gallon, you'll need to spend approximately $16 on gas for a single trip. Again, remember the toll fees along this route, and make sure to include them in your budget.

Best Route

The best route for travelers from Arlington to Fall River would be using I-95 S. This is because it is the shortest and easiest route, with the least chance of getting lost. Though it may not be the cheapest route, it's still relatively inexpensive compared to the other routes. The cost of gas will be a crucial factor, and travelers should expect to spend around $13.12 on gas (plus toll charges) for a single trip.

Conclusion

In conclusion, navigating gas prices in relation to traveling from Arlington, Massachusetts to Fall River, Massachusetts can be a challenge. However, with careful planning and knowledge of the different routes, travelers can make informed decisions that are cost-effective. Among the three routes highlighted, I-95 S appears to be the most viable. So pack your bags, ensure your vehicle meets safety standards, carefully plan your route, and have a safe and enjoyable trip.