The Cost of a Trip from Atlantic Highlands to Stafford Township, New Jersey

Planning a trip between Atlantic Highlands and Stafford Township in New Jersey? One of the crucial aspects to consider is the cost of the journey, specifically the price of gasoline. With fluctuating gas prices, it's important to have a clear understanding of the potential expenses involved. In this article, we will explore the various routes available, the distances, and the projected costs based on current gas prices. By the end, you'll have the information you need to make an informed decision on the most cost-effective route.

Route Options

Before delving into the costs and distances, let's examine the two most commonly used routes for traveling between Atlantic Highlands and Stafford Township.

Route 1: Garden State Parkway

The first route is via the Garden State Parkway. Known for its direct and efficient path, the Garden State Parkway offers a seamless drive between the two towns. To begin your journey, you can access the Parkway from Route 36 in Atlantic Highlands. The Parkway stretches for about 58 miles, passing through scenic areas and providing some mesmerizing views of the landscape. The exit that leads to Stafford Township is Exit 63.

Route 2: Route 9

If you prefer a more leisurely drive or want to explore the towns along the way, Route 9 is an excellent alternative. This route takes you along the coastline and allows for a more relaxed experience. Starting in Atlantic Highlands, you can conveniently travel south on Route 36 and then connect to Route 9. Although the distance is slightly longer than the Garden State Parkway, it provides an opportunity to experience the beauty of the shore towns.

Cost Analysis

With our route options laid out, let's dive into the projected costs considering the current gas prices. The average cost of regular unleaded gasoline in New Jersey is $2.80 per gallon at the time of writing.

Garden State Parkway

Considering the distance of approximately 58 miles via the Garden State Parkway, we can estimate the amount of gasoline necessary to cover the entire route. Assuming an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon for a regular car, we can calculate the total gallons required:

Total gallons required = Distance / Fuel efficiency
Total gallons required = 58 miles / 25 miles per gallon
Total gallons required = 2.32 gallons

Multiplying the total gallons by the current gas price:

Total cost = Total gallons required * Gas price per gallon
Total cost = 2.32 gallons * $2.80 per gallon
Total cost = $6.496 (approximately $6.50)

Therefore, for a one-way trip via the Garden State Parkway, the estimated cost of gasoline would be around $6.50.

Route 9

Next, let's calculate the projected cost for driving from Atlantic Highlands to Stafford Township via Route 9. With this route being slightly longer, assuming a distance of around 65 miles, the fuel consumption will be slightly higher as well.

Using the same average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon:

Total gallons required = Distance / Fuel efficiency
Total gallons required = 65 miles / 25 miles per gallon
Total gallons required = 2.6 gallons

Multiplying the total gallons by the current gas price:

Total cost = Total gallons required * Gas price per gallon
Total cost = 2.6 gallons * $2.80 per gallon
Total cost = $7.28

Therefore, for a one-way trip via Route 9, the estimated cost of gasoline would be approximately $7.28.

Recommendation: The Most Cost-Effective Route

Based on the cost analysis, it is evident that the Garden State Parkway offers a more cost-effective option compared to Route 9. While the difference may seem minimal (around $0.78), over multiple trips throughout the year, this difference can significantly add up. Additionally, the Garden State Parkway offers a shorter distance, making it a more time-efficient choice. However, if the opportunity to explore shore towns and enjoy a more scenic drive is appealing to you, Route 9 provides an excellent alternative.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a trip from Atlantic Highlands to Stafford Township heavily depends on the selected route and the current gas prices. The Garden State Parkway, with a distance of approximately 58 miles, is estimated to cost around $6.50 for a one-way trip. Meanwhile, Route 9, at a distance of approximately 65 miles, is projected to cost around $7.28. Both routes offer their advantages, with the Garden State Parkway being more cost-effective and time-efficient, while Route 9 provides a scenic drive along the beautiful New Jersey coastline. Regardless of the chosen route, both provide an enjoyable journey between Atlantic Highlands and Stafford Township.