The Cost of a Trip Between Birmingham, Alabama and Irondale, Alabama: Navigating Gas Prices in 2021

Traveling between Birmingham, Alabama and Irondale, Alabama can be a quick and easy trip, but the cost of gas can eat into your budget. With gas prices fluctuating frequently in 2021, it's important to consider the different routes available to you and gauge the cost and distance of each to find the most cost-effective option.

Route 1: I-20 E

The most direct route from Birmingham to Irondale is via Interstate 20 East. The journey is just under 10 miles and should take around 15 minutes without traffic. According to AAA's Daily Fuel Gauge Report, the average gas price in Alabama in late August 2021 was around $2.89. A typical car will get around 25 miles per gallon on the highway, which means gas for this trip will cost around $1.16.

Total Cost: $1.16

Route 2: US-78 E

Another option is to take US-78 East. This route is longer than I-20 by around 4 miles but could be more efficient depending on traffic. The journey is around 13 miles and will take approximately 20 minutes. Based on the previous gas price and gas efficiency, the estimated cost of gas for this route is $1.55.

Total Cost: $1.55

Route 3: AL-119 N

AL-119 North is a third option to travel between Birmingham and Irondale. This route is the longest of the three, covering nearly 15 miles but has the potential to avoid city traffic. The trip usually takes about 25 minutes, and the cost of gas will be around $2.07.

Total Cost: $2.07

Recommendation: I-20 E

The best option for travelers who are looking for the fastest and most cost-effective route is I-20 East. This route is the shortest and is fastest with fewer potential disruptions from traffic. It is also the most gas-efficient of all three, making it the most cost-effective for travelers.

Conclusion

Overall, the cost of traveling between Birmingham and Irondale depends on the route that you choose. While all the routes above have slightly different mileage and individual costs, they all take about the same amount of time. For those traveling on a budget, it's advisable to choose the most economical route. Based on the routes' total costs mentioned above and gas prices in Alabama, I-20 E is the cheapest option of the three, costing only $1.16. Additionally, the route is quick and efficient, making it the most desirable path. When planning your next trip between Birmingham and Irondale, consider topography, weather conditions, and the routes mentioned above. Doing so should help make your trip hassle-free and budget-friendly.