The Cost of a Trip Between Boston and Brockton: How Gas Prices Affect Your Wallet

A trip between Boston and Brockton is a common commute for many Massachusetts residents, and choosing the best route can have a significant impact on the cost of the trip. With gas prices fluctuating frequently, it can be difficult to plan a budget-friendly route that won't drain your wallet. In this article, we'll break down the different possible routes between Boston and Brockton, highlight the cost and distance of each one, and recommend the best route for your next trip.

Route 1: I-93 and MA-24 South

One of the most direct routes between Boston and Brockton is via I-93 and MA-24 South. This route begins in downtown Boston and takes you through Quincy towards Brockton. The total distance on this route is approximately 27 miles, with an estimated travel time of around 35 minutes. However, due to the heavy traffic on I-93 during peak hours, the travel time can vary significantly.

In terms of cost, this route requires driving through several tolls. Starting from Boston's downtown area, you'll need to pay a $1.50 toll for the Northeastern Extension of the Massachusetts Turnpike. Next, you'll have to pay another $3.50 toll for the southbound ramp to I-93. As you approach the I-93 and MA-24 interchange, you'll encounter another toll of $1.50. Finally, as you head towards Brockton, you'll have to pay a $0.55 toll at Exit 18 on MA-24 South.

Adding up all the toll fees, this route will cost you a total of $7.05 (assuming you have an E-ZPass transponder). However, if you have to take this route during peak traffic hours, you may end up spending more on gas as a result of idling in traffic.

Route 2: I-95 and MA-24 South

Another possible route between Boston and Brockton is via I-95 and MA-24 South. This route bypasses downtown Boston and follows a more easterly path along the coast, passing through Quincy and Braintree before reaching Brockton. The total distance on this route is approximately 34 miles, with an estimated travel time of around 40 minutes.

In terms of cost, this route requires fewer tolls than Route 1. Starting from Boston's downtown area, you'll need to pay a $1.50 toll for the Northeastern Extension of the Massachusetts Turnpike. However, you'll avoid the $3.50 toll for the southbound ramp to I-93 by taking I-95 instead. As you approach the I-95 and MA-24 interchange, you'll encounter a $1.50 toll. Finally, as you head towards Brockton, you'll have to pay a $0.55 toll at Exit 18 on MA-24 South.

Adding up all the toll fees, this route will cost you a total of $4.05 (assuming you have an E-ZPass transponder). However, since this route avoids the heavy traffic on I-93, you'll likely save more on gas than Route 1 during peak traffic hours.

Route 3: MA-3 South and MA-27

A third possible route between Boston and Brockton is via MA-3 South and MA-27. This route takes a more southerly path and is a better option if you have to drive during peak traffic hours. You'll depart from downtown Boston and drive along the Southeast Expressway towards Braintree. From there, you'll continue south on MA-3 until you reach the exit for MA-27 in Brockton. The total distance on this route is approximately 30 miles, with an estimated travel time of around 45 minutes.

In terms of cost, this route does not require any tolls. However, since this route is not a direct highway, you may encounter more traffic as you pass through various towns and cities along the way. Additionally, you'll spend more time on this route than Routes 1 and 2, which could also increase your gas expenses.

Recommended Route: I-95 and MA-24 South

Based on the above analysis, the recommended route between Boston and Brockton is via I-95 and MA-24 South. This route provides a balance between the total cost and travel time, while avoiding the heavy traffic on I-93. With a total cost of $4.05 in toll fees, this route is also the most budget-friendly option. However, depending on your specific travel needs, Route 3 via MA-3 South and MA-27 may be a better option if you're driving during peak traffic hours.

Conclusion

When planning a trip between Boston and Brockton, it's important to consider the cost of the route, including toll fees and gas expenses. By comparing the different possible routes - I-93 and MA-24 South, I-95 and MA-24 South, and MA-3 South and MA-27 - you can choose the route that best fits your budget and schedule. The recommended route for most travelers is I-95 and MA-24 South, which provides a balance between cost and travel time. With a total distance of 34 miles and expected travel time of 40 minutes, this route is the most efficient and budget-friendly option for your next trip between Boston and Brockton.