The Cost of Driving From Athens, Ohio to Royal Oak, Michigan Based on Current Gas Prices

As road trips go, driving from Athens, Ohio to Royal Oak, Michigan is not one of the more challenging routes. Nevertheless, there are different routes you can take, and each varies slightly in terms of distance, time, and cost.

Route 1: Through Columbus, OH and Toledo, OH

One popular route takes you through some of Ohio's bigger cities. You'll start on the US-33 in Athens, take the OH-664 exit towards Logan, then head towards Columbus on the US-33, which becomes the I-270. From there, you'll pick up the I-75 and head north towards Toledo. Once there, you'll exit onto the I-280 and cross over into Michigan.

This route is approximately 285 miles long, and without traffic, it should take you around 4 hours and 47 minutes to complete. Along the way, you'll cross tolls at the Ohio Turnpike, which is $12.25 in total. With current gas prices at around $2.75 per gallon, you can expect to pay around $43 for gas.

Route 2: Through Columbus and Detroit

An alternative route takes you through Columbus and Detroit. From Athens, you'll take the US-33 towards Columbus, then head north on the I-71 towards Mansfield, OH. From Mansfield, you'll head east on the US-30, cross into Michigan, and continue towards Detroit on the I-94. From there, you'll take the I-75 North to Royal Oak.

This route is approximately 347 miles long and without traffic, should take you around 5 hours and 42 minutes to complete. You'll cross tolls at the Ohio Turnpike, which is $12.25 in total, and the Blue Water Bridge, which is $4. At current gas prices, you can expect to pay around $55 for gas.

Route 3: Through Indianapolis and Fort Wayne

If you'd like to see more of Indiana, you can go through Indianapolis and Fort Wayne. From Athens, you'll start north on the US-33, then take the I-70 West to Indianapolis. From Indianapolis, you'll take the I-69 Northeast to Fort Wayne, and from there, you can head north on the I-69 up into Michigan.

This route is approximately 397 miles long, and without traffic, should take you around 6 hours and 32 minutes to complete. You'll cross tolls at the Indiana Toll Road, which is $9 in total, and at the Ohio Turnpike, which is $12.25 in total. With current gas prices, you can expect to pay around $63 for gas.

Final thoughts

While each route has its own merits, ultimately, the decision will come down to your personal preferences. Whether you choose a shorter, more direct route or a longer, more scenic approach, the cost will vary slightly based on gas prices and tolls. However, with careful planning and these estimated costs, you can have a fun and affordable road trip from Athens, Ohio to Royal Oak, Michigan.