The Cost of a Trip Between Ashburn, Virginia and Cooksville, Maryland

Introduction

Planning a trip between Ashburn, Virginia and Cooksville, Maryland? One crucial factor to consider is the cost of transportation. With current gas prices fluctuating, it’s essential to assess the different routes available and estimate the expenses involved. In this article, we will explore the various routes, highlight their respective costs and distances, and recommend the best route for your journey.

Route Options

Route 1: Taking the I-495 S and I-270 S (Distance: 61 miles)

If you choose to take the I-495 S and then the I-270 S, you will traverse approximately 61 miles. This route involves taking several turnpikes in Virginia and Maryland. Let’s break down the cost of gas and the distance for each state:

1. Virginia:

   • Distance: Approximately 20 miles (excluding any local travel within Ashburn)
   • Gas prices: As of recent data, gas prices in Virginia average around $2.75 per gallon.
   • Fuel efficiency: Assuming your vehicle gets approximately 25 miles per gallon
   • Calculation: 20 miles ÷ 25 miles per gallon × $2.75 per gallon = $2.20

2. Maryland:

   • Distance: Approximately 41 miles (excluding any local travel within Cooksville)
   • Gas prices: As of recent data, gas prices in Maryland average around $2.85 per gallon.
   • Fuel efficiency: Assuming your vehicle gets approximately 25 miles per gallon
   • Calculation: 41 miles ÷ 25 miles per gallon × $2.85 per gallon = $4.65

Total Cost: $2.20 (Virginia) + $4.65 (Maryland) = $6.85

Route 2: Utilizing the Ronald Reagan Washington National Parkway (Distance: 54 miles)

Another feasible route is to take the Ronald Reagan Washington National Parkway. This route spans approximately 54 miles and offers scenic views along the way. Let’s calculate the expenses involved:

1. Virginia:

   • Distance: Approximately 30 miles (excluding any local travel within Ashburn)
   • Gas prices: As of recent data, gas prices in Virginia average around $2.75 per gallon.
   • Fuel efficiency: Assuming your vehicle gets approximately 25 miles per gallon
   • Calculation: 30 miles ÷ 25 miles per gallon × $2.75 per gallon = $3.30

2. Maryland:

   • Distance: Approximately 24 miles (excluding any local travel within Cooksville)
   • Gas prices: As of recent data, gas prices in Maryland average around $2.85 per gallon.
   • Fuel efficiency: Assuming your vehicle gets approximately 25 miles per gallon
   • Calculation: 24 miles ÷ 25 miles per gallon × $2.85 per gallon = $2.74

Total Cost: $3.30 (Virginia) + $2.74 (Maryland) = $6.04

Route 3: Opting for the MD-28 W and MD-97 N (Distance: 48 miles)

Choosing the MD-28 W and MD-97 N route will take you approximately 48 miles, making it the shortest distance among the three options. Let’s calculate the expenses involved:

1. Virginia:

   • Distance: Approximately 18 miles (excluding any local travel within Ashburn)
   • Gas prices: As of recent data, gas prices in Virginia average around $2.75 per gallon.
   • Fuel efficiency: Assuming your vehicle gets approximately 25 miles per gallon
   • Calculation: 18 miles ÷ 25 miles per gallon × $2.75 per gallon = $1.98

2. Maryland:

   • Distance: Approximately 30 miles (excluding any local travel within Cooksville)
   • Gas prices: As of recent data, gas prices in Maryland average around $2.85 per gallon.
   • Fuel efficiency: Assuming your vehicle gets approximately 25 miles per gallon
   • Calculation: 30 miles ÷ 25 miles per gallon × $2.85 per gallon = $3.42

Total Cost: $1.98 (Virginia) + $3.42 (Maryland) = $5.40

Recommended Route and Conclusion

After assessing the three possible routes based on cost and distance, the recommended route considering the current gas prices is Route 3. Opting for the MD-28 W and MD-97 N will not only save you some cents but also take you through a relatively shorter distance.

Embarking on this journey took approximately 48 miles. Taking into account factors such as traffic and breaks, the length of the trip could vary. However, with an average driving speed of 60 miles per hour, the trip is estimated to take around 48 minutes.

When planning a trip from Ashburn, Virginia to Cooksville, Maryland, it's vital to consider the cost of transportation. By selecting Route 3, utilizing the MD-28 W and MD-97 N, you can enjoy a shorter distance and potentially save some money on gas expenses. Remember to regularly check gas prices and adjust your calculations accordingly for the most accurate estimation. Safe travels!