The Cost of Driving from Beltsville to Columbia, MD based on Current Gas Prices

Do you need to go from Beltsville, Maryland to Columbia, Maryland? There are multiple routes to choose from, each with their own advantages and costs. In this post, we'll break down the cost and time of each route based on current gas prices and tolls.

Route 1 - Taking I-95 S

The simplest and most direct route is to take I-95 S. This route has a distance of approximately 26 miles and takes around 30 minutes to complete, depending on traffic. The estimated cost of gas for this route is around $2.20 based on current gas prices and your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Unfortunately, this route is not toll-free. The cost of the toll on this route will depend on the day and time you travel, as well as the type of vehicle you are driving. If you are driving a standard car on a weekday, the toll for this route is around $2.10. If you are driving during peak hours (such as rush hour), the toll can increase to around $4.20 each way.

Route 2 - Taking I-295 S

If you prefer to avoid tolls, another option is to take I-295 S. This route has a distance of approximately 30 miles and takes around 40 minutes to complete, depending on traffic. The estimated cost of gas for this route is around $2.70 based on current gas prices and your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

The advantage of this route is that it's toll-free, saving you around $4.20 each way in tolls. However, this route is slightly longer and will take around 10-15 minutes longer depending on traffic conditions.

Route 3 - Taking the Back Roads

If you have some extra time and want to take the scenic route, you can take the back roads to Columbia. This route has a distance of approximately 36 miles and takes around 50 minutes to complete, depending on traffic and road conditions. The estimated cost of gas for this route is around $3.20 based on current gas prices and your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

This route takes you through suburban neighborhoods and small towns, offering a unique perspective of Maryland. However, this route is the longest and slowest option, so it's best to plan accordingly if you choose this route.

Conclusion

No matter which route you choose, there will be some cost involved in your trip from Beltsville to Columbia. By considering the distance, time, gas prices, and tolls of each route, you can make the best decision for your needs and budget. Safe travels!