The Cost of a Trip Between Boston and Groton Based on Current Gas Prices
Traveling from Boston to Groton may seem like a short trip, but expenses can add up quickly. There are several factors to consider, including distance, fuel prices, and possible routes. This article will provide an overview of the costs associated with a trip between Boston, Massachusetts and Groton, Massachusetts.
Possible Routes
Before diving into the costs, it's essential to understand the different routes you can take to go from Boston to Groton. The shortest distance between both locations is approximately 39 miles, and the safest route that avoids highways will take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to drive.
Shortest Route
The quickest way to get from Boston to Groton is via I-93 S and I-495 N. The distance is approximately 43.2 miles, and without any stops, it could take you 49 minutes to arrive at your destination. However, it's worth noting that this route is heavily traffic dependent, so you might experience delays when driving during busy times.
Best Route
If you prefer to avoid any potential highway traffic delays, taking MA-2 W may be the best route to take. While it's slightly longer than the primary highway route, this drive will take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. This route is around 42.4 miles, so only slightly less direct than the main route.
Avoiding Tolls Route
Suppose you're looking to save money on tolls while experiencing scenic sideroads through historic Massachusetts towns. In that case, you might consider taking MA-2 W and MA-111 S from Boston to NH/MA border, then continue on MA-111S turned into MA-119 into Groton that wont affect the extra mile traveled.
With a total of 53.7 miles and without any stops, it could take you 1 hour and 20 minutes. The major advantage of this route is that you'll avoid I-93 S and I-90 W which both have tolls and potentially traffic congestions.
Gas Prices
As fuel is one of the most significant expenses related to a road trip, it's vital to understand current gasoline prices in Massachusetts. As of June 2021, the average gas price in Massachusetts is around $3.00 per gallon.
Assuming an average gas mileage of 22 miles per gallon, here's an estimate of how much you can expect to spend on gas alone for each of the three routes mentioned:
Shortest Route
With a total distance of 43.2 miles, you would need approximately two gallons of gas to complete the trip. This means that you could spend around $6.00 on gas.
Best Route
With a total distance of 42.4 miles, you would need approximately two gallons of gas to complete the trip. This means that you could spend around $6.00 on gas, the same amount as the shortest route.
Avoiding Tolls Route
With a total distance of 53.7 miles, you would need approximately two and a half gallons of gas to complete the trip. This means that you could spend around $7.50 on gas.
Other Expenses
The cost of gas is just one of the expenses you need to consider when planning your trip. Depending on your travel style and the time you have available, you may also need to factor in other costs such as food, lodging, and parking fees.
If you're planning a day trip from Boston to Groton, you're unlikely to incur any significant expenses outside of gas. However, if you plan to spend a few days in Groton, you'll find that there are several affordable hotels in the area to choose from.
Conclusion
Overall, the cost of traveling from Boston to Groton isn't too expensive. The gas prices are relatively average, and depending on your route choice, you could spend as little as $6.00 on gas alone. Based on the potential traffic congestion on the shortest route, the most effective route is taking MA-2 W, even though it adds an extra 4 miles in comparison to the shortest route. Going with taking MA-111 S followed by MA-119 is great if you're up to a more extended scenic route avoiding tolls.
The duration of your trip will depend on the route you choose and traffic conditions during your trip. If you take into account stops, the driving time for all the routes mentioned should be around the same, at just over an hour. Overall, plan for your stops and routes carefully and always make time to enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way.