Driving Cost from Bloomington, Indiana to Chapel Hill, North Carolina

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Trip Between Bloomington, Indiana and Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Traveling by car can be an excellent way to explore the United States, but it can be challenging to determine the cost of a trip. Factors such as gas prices, the distance of the journey, and possible tolls can all impact how much it costs to travel. In this article, we'll explore the cost of a road trip from Bloomington, Indiana and Chapel Hill, North Carolina so that you can better plan your travels.

The Different Possible Routes

Before we jump into the cost of a trip between Bloomington, Indiana, and Chapel Hill, North Carolina, it's essential to consider the different routes you could take. There are different directions to get to Chapel Hill like the Eastern and Southern route.

  • Eastern Route: Going east from Bloomington, Indiana to the Eastern coastal states is around 700 miles. The route goes through Columbus, OH, Charleston, WV, Richmond, VA, Raleigh, NC, and then head West to Chapel Hill, NC. The road goes through some of the fundamental highways such as I-64, I-77, and I-40.
  • Southern Route: Another option is to go South through Tennessee, Tennessee through Knoxville will lead to Asheville and then Chapel Hill. From Bloomington, the route heads through Evansville, Nashville, to reach Chapel Hill via Asheville.

Both routes may be viable, but the Southern Route may provide more scenic views compared to the Eastern route that goes through the freeway.

Cost and Distance

To calculate the estimated cost of the trip, you need to consider some factors. One of these factors is the average gas prices per gallon. As we move towards 2021, the average gas prices are averaging about $2.36, which is unpredictable but should be similar to the following year.

When traveling via the Eastern route or through West Virginia, the costs may range from $97 to $120 (based on a fuel rate of $2.36/gallon). You will encounter a mileage of 600 to 700 miles, and with a car traveling 30 miles per gallon, the cost may vary.

The Southern route, on the other hand, may have a distance 50-120 miles longer but may offer more picturesque views. Driving through the mountains and valleys of Tennessee can be an experience worth considering. From Indiana, the total mileage may be 680 to 750 miles, and the costs range from $95 to $125, considering a fuel rate of $2.36/gallon.

Furthermore, additional expenses such as tolls and pit-stops must also be taken into consideration. Whichever route you choose, it's always a good idea to budget for these expenses.

Suppose you're looking for a more picturesque route. In that case, the Southern Route is the recommended route since it provides a more scenic journey through the southern United States. However, if you're in a rush or mostly care about getting from point A to point B, then the Eastern route is probably the fastest.

Ultimately, choosing between the two routes depends on your preference for a scenic journey.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are two popular routes between Bloomington, Indiana, and Chapel Hill, North Carolina. The Eastern route and the Southern route not only have different advantages but also cost differences. With prices varying based on fuel rates and additional expenses like tolls and pit-stops, planning your travel path may take some research.

Regardless of which route you choose, you're in for an exciting road trip that can last anywhere from ten hours to five days. Take a map, a charged phone, and some snacks, and buckle up for an excellent adventure.