The Cost of a Trip Between Balch Springs, Texas and Sunnyvale, Texas: An Analysis of Gas Prices, Routes and Recommendations
If you're planning a trip between Balch Springs and Sunnyvale in Texas, you're probably wondering about the cost of the trip. The good news is that the cost of gas in Texas is significantly lower than the national average, which can help offset other expenses. However, there are several factors to consider when calculating the cost of a trip, including the distance between the two cities, the route you take, your vehicle's fuel efficiency and current gas prices.
Possible Routes:
To determine the most cost-efficient route between Balch Springs and Sunnyvale, we need to look at possible options. There are three primary routes:
Route 1: Via I-635 E
The first route between Balch Springs and Sunnyvale involves taking I-635 E, as it's the most direct route. It's approximately 12 miles long and should take around 20 to 25 minutes to complete, depending on traffic. This route is recommended if you're in a hurry but may be more expensive since it's the shortest distance.
Route 2: North via US-80 E
The second option is taking US-80 E, approximately 16 miles, which has less traffic and may be a better alternative if you're looking for a more scenic route. It should take around 25 to 30 minutes to complete.
Route 3: South via Texas 161 Toll S
The third option is taking Texas 161 Toll S, approximately 22 miles, which is the longest route and may be more expensive due to the fact it involves toll fees, but it has less traffic. It should take around 30 to 40 minutes to complete.
Calculating Gas Prices:
Next, to determine the cost of the trip, we need to calculate gas prices based on current averages. According to AAA, the average gas prices in Texas are around $2.43 per gallon as of August 2021. However, prices can vary depending on the location and time of day. It's recommended to check gas prices before starting your trip to get the most up-to-date information.
To estimate the cost of gas for different routes, we must consider the distance between the two cities. The following table shows the number of gallons and the approximate cost of gas for each route based on the average fuel efficiency of a sedan car, which averages around 25 miles per gallon.
| Route | Distance (miles) | Number of gallons | Cost of gas (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| I-635 E | 12 | 0.5 | $1.21 |
| US-80 E | 16 | 0.64 | $1.57 |
| Texas 161 Toll S | 22 | 0.88 | $2.14 |
Recommendations:
Based on the table above, the most cost-efficient route would be via I-635 E. Although it's the shortest route, it still has less traffic than the third option, which may reduce the overall time spent on the road. Plus, taking the third option may require toll payments, making it less budget-friendly.
If you're looking for a more scenic route, the second option via US-80 E may be better, but it will cost slightly more.
It's essential to note that gas prices fluctuate frequently and depend on various factors such as the season, demand, and oil supply. Additionally, the car's fuel efficiency also influences fuel costs – the better fuel efficiency, the lower the gas cost.
Conclusion
The cost of a trip between Balch Springs and Sunnyvale in Texas depends on several factors, including the route choice, gas prices, and vehicle fuel efficiency. The most cost-efficient option from a gas perspective would be via I-635 E. However, it is essential to take into account other factors such as traffic, potential toll fees, and time expense. Always remember to check gas prices before your trip to find the most affordable gas station. Overall, the trip should take around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on which route you take, and cost around $1.21 to $2.14 in gas.