Driving Cost from Ballwin, Missouri to Hazelwood, Missouri

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The Cost of a Trip between Ballwin and Hazelwood: A Guide Based on Current Gas Prices

Traveling between two cities isn't always as straightforward as it seems. Depending on your mode of transportation and the route you take, the distance traveled and cost can vary significantly. In this article, we'll explore the various ways to travel from Ballwin to Hazelwood, highlighting the costs and distances involved, with the goal of finding the most economical and efficient option.

Options for Traveling between Ballwin and Hazelwood

There are three main modes of transportation available for traveling between Ballwin and Hazelwood:

  1. Driving: The most direct and convenient mode of transportation is to drive between the two cities.
  2. Public Transportation: If you don't have access to a car or prefer not to drive, you can opt to take public transportation.
  3. Rideshare Services: Finally, there are always the popular rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, which can be convenient if you don't want to worry about parking or driving yourself.

Within these modes of transportation, there are further options available. While driving, you can choose from multiple routes, each taking a different path and distance traveled. Public transportation also has two primary options: the bus or light rail. Rideshare services only have one option, but will vary in cost and driver efficiency.

Driving from Ballwin to Hazelwood

If you're looking to drive between Ballwin and Hazelwood, there are three main routes to choose from:

  1. Via Highway 270: The most direct route follows Highway 270 North and takes approximately 18 minutes to complete the 16-mile journey.
  2. Via I-70: A slightly longer route would take I-70 East to Highway 170 North, which is approximately three miles longer than the Highway 270 route. This route is faster during rush hour due to more express lanes, but it takes approximately 20-25 minutes.
  3. Via Natural Bridge Road: A third option takes drivers through more local roads via 364-West to Natural Bridge Road. This longer route takes approximately 30 minutes, but is scenic.

As far as cost goes, driving is typically the most expensive travel option, but it's the most convenient and offers the most mobility. According to AAA's driving cost calculator, the cost of driving from Ballwin to Hazelwood ranges from $1.53 to $3.82, depending on the make and model of the vehicle, as well as the current cost of gas.

Using Public Transportation from Ballwin to Hazelwood

If you prefer to use public transportation for your journey between Ballwin and Hazelwood, there are two options:

  1. MetroBus: MetroBus Route 58 runs between Ballwin and Hazelwood and costs $2.50 per ride. The trip, which travels primarily on Highway 270, takes approximately 45-50 minutes.
  2. MetroLink: The MetroLink light rail also runs between Ballwin and Hazelwood, but requires a transfer in Downtown St. Louis. The cost per ride is $2.50 with a one-hour transfer, or $7 for an all-day pass. The trip takes approximately 70-80 minutes.

While public transportation is typically less expensive than driving, it can be less convenient due to fixed schedules and limited accessibility. This can be especially true if you're traveling an uncommon route outside of rush hour.

Ridesharing between Ballwin and Hazelwood

If you're looking for a convenient and flexible option, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft can be a good choice. Both services offer rides from Ballwin to Hazelwood, with fares varying depending on the specifics of your ride, including type of vehicle, time of day, demand, and how much you tip.

Using a rideshare service can be more comfortable than public transportation, but it's typically the most expensive option and averages at least $25-30. If you're traveling during peak times, such as rush hour or after events, surge pricing may also apply, making the fares much higher.

The Best Option for Traveling between Ballwin and Hazelwood

Based on the above options, the best mode of transportation between Ballwin and Hazelwood will vary depending on your situation. If you own a car and don't mind driving, this will likely be the most convenient and flexible option. If you don't have a car, or would rather not drive, public transportation can be a great option, depending on the schedule and time required. Finally, if convenience and flexibility are your top priorities, rideshare services can also be a viable option.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several options for traveling between Ballwin and Hazelwood, each with its own pros and cons. Driving is the most convenient but is typically the most expensive. Public transportation is more environmentally friendly but can be less convenient and have more time wasted in waiting for public transit. Finally, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft can provide the most convenient and flexible option but at the greatest cost. Regardless of your choice, knowing the available options will help you make the best decision for your needs and budget.