Driving Cost from Bethlehem, Pennsylvania to Buffalo, New York

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The Cost of a Road Trip from Bethlehem, Pennsylvania to Buffalo, New York

The distance between Bethlehem, Pennsylvania and Buffalo, New York is approximately 295 miles. A road trip between these two cities can be affordable or expensive depending on the route you take, mode of transportation, and the current gas prices. This article breaks down the different route options, estimated costs, and recommendations for the best possible journey.

Route Options

There are different routes that one can take when traveling from Bethlehem to Buffalo, considering the distance, traffic, and weather conditions. Some of the most recommended routes include;

Route 1: Via I-81 North and I-90 West

This is the most direct route to take, where one uses I-81 going north from Bethlehem, PA, and joins I-90 going west towards Buffalo, NY. The I-81 route covers approximately 260 miles, while I-90 adds an extra 35 miles, making the total distance approximately 295 miles. The estimated driving time on this route is 5 hours, depending on traffic.

Route 2: Via I-78, I-81, and I-90

One can also opt to travel via I-78 East from Bethlehem, PA, and then join I-81 North towards Scranton, PA. From Scranton, continue along I-81 and then get onto I-90 West towards Buffalo, NY. The I-78 route covers approximately 70 miles, while I-81 adds another 144 miles, and I-90, an extra 35 miles, making the total distance approximately 249 miles. The estimated driving time on this route is 4 hours and 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Route 3: Via I-476 and I-90

This route involves taking I-476, also known as the Pennsylvania Turnpike Northeast Extension, from Bethlehem, PA. Continue along I-476 and then join I-90 West towards Buffalo, NY. The estimated distance using this route is approximately 308 miles. The estimated driving time on this route is 5 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Gas Prices and Cost Estimates

Gas prices play a crucial role in determining the overall cost of the trip. When estimating the cost, it is essential to consider the average price of fuel, vehicle fuel efficiency, and the total distance covered.

According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), the average gas price in Pennsylvania is $2.90 per gallon, while the average price in New York is $3.02 per gallon. These prices change frequently, especially during weekends and holidays. It is essential to check the current prices before embarking on the journey.

Using the different route options above, we can estimate the approximate fuel cost for the entire trip based on current gas prices. Assuming that the vehicle's fuel efficiency is 25 miles per gallon and that the total distance traveled is 295 miles, the fuel cost estimates for a round trip are as follows;

  • Route 1 (via I-81 North and I-90 West): $43.56
  • Route 2 (via I-78, I-81, and I-90): $39.24
  • Route 3 (via I-476 and I-90): $46.96

Note that these costs are only estimates and are subject to change based on gas prices, fuel efficiency, and the distance covered.

Considering the distance and estimated costs, the most recommended route to use when traveling from Bethlehem, PA, to Buffalo, NY, is Route 2 (via I-78, I-81, and I-90). This route covers the shortest distance and has the lowest fuel cost estimates, making it the most affordable option for travelers.

It is also important to note that this route has fewer toll roads compared to Route 3, which can substantially reduce the overall cost of the trip.

Conclusion

In conclusion, traveling from Bethlehem, Pennsylvania to Buffalo, New York, can be affordable or expensive, depending on the route you take and the current gas prices. It is recommended that travelers use Route 2 (via I-78, I-81, and I-90) to minimize costs and avoid toll roads where possible.

Before traveling, it is essential to check the current gas prices and plan your trip accordingly. The estimated driving time for this route is 4 hours and 45 minutes, although this may vary depending on traffic and weather conditions. With proper planning, one can enjoy a comfortable and affordable road trip between these two cities.