The Cost of a Trip between Birmingham and Bessemer: Navigating the Best Route

If you're planning a trip from Birmingham, Alabama to Bessemer, Alabama, it's important to consider the route you take and the cost associated with it. By assessing the potential options, you can make an informed decision about how to get there without breaking the bank. In this article, we'll explore the various routes available and their cost and distance, providing advice on the best way to travel between these two cities.

The Different Routes and Their Cost

The most common route to travel from Birmingham to Bessemer is via I-20 W. This interstate highway stretches across the southern region of the United States, making it an easy way to get from one city to another. However, with the recent hike in gas prices, you may be wondering how much this option will cost.

According to GasBuddy, the average gas price in Alabama as of August 2021 is $2.85 per gallon. The distance between Birmingham and Bessemer via I-20 W is approximately 16.5 miles, which takes about 20 minutes to drive. With an average vehicle fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, this route will cost you around $3.42 in fuel expense if your car gets 25 miles per gallon.

Another option available is via I-459 S, which is more costly but may save you time if you're traveling from northern Birmingham. At nearly 20 miles, this route is slightly longer than the I-20 W option, but it avoids the heavier traffic congestion oftentimes experienced with the latter. According to GasBuddy, the current average gas price in Alabama is $2.85 per gallon. If your vehicle has a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, driving from Birmingham to Bessemer via I-459 S will cost you approximately $4.13.

The third and last route option is via US-11 S. At nearly 22 miles, this route is the longest but can be worth it in certain situations. This route is ideal for those who want to avoid the interstate system and prefer a scenic route with local shops and eateries along the way. However, with higher gas costs, driving via US-11 S will cost you about $4.78 with an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon.

The Best Route to Take

When assessing the above options, the choice of which route to take is dependent on a few factors. The first question that comes to mind is how much time do you have, and what are your priorities? If you have limited time and want to get there as quickly as possible, I-459 S may be your best option. This route can get you to Bessemer in about 25-30 minutes, depending on the traffic.

If you have a bit more flexibility and want to explore the local scene, driving via US-11 S may be your preferred option. This route offers plenty of local attractions and sights to see along the way, in addition to the standard scenery you'll pass through on any route.

Lastly, if you want to get to your destination as quickly as possible but avoid the heavy traffic congestion that comes with I-20 W, driving via I-459 S may be the most efficient way to go. This route will offer you a good compromise between time and expense, getting you to Bessemer without taking too much out of your pocket.

Conclusion

The most important thing to consider when looking at the cost of a trip between Birmingham and Bessemer is to find the route that aligns best with your needs. Whether it's speed or cost efficiency, or the desire for a leisurely scenic drive, there is no blanket answer. It's up to you to weigh the costs and benefits of each option to make the best decision. Regardless of your choice, you can be on your way to Bessemer in just a few minutes, with plenty of attractions and scenery to enjoy along the way.