The Cost of Your Trip Between Boston and Westwood
Driving from Boston to Westwood means navigating through a host of bustling streets and highways interspersed with scenic landscapes. The route options can be overwhelming, and choosing the one that suits your preferences and budget can be challenging. To make the best decision, it is crucial to factor in the distance, the time taken to cover the distance, the fuel budget, and any other costs you might incur along the way.
Route Options
Route 1: Via I-95
This route takes you through the suburbs of Boston and Massachusetts's picturesque towns via the I-95 interstate highway. Starting at Boston's city center, you head southwest before joining the I-95 near the Westwood suburbs.
The total distance covered on this route is approximately 20 miles, with an estimated travel time of up to 35 minutes. However, the actual time taken might depend on the traffic flow, your driving speed, and the time of day.
Route 2: Via MA-135
If you are looking to avoid the highway and take a more scenic route, MA-135 might be your best bet. This route navigates the beautiful Charles River and allows you to soak in the serene Massachusetts scenery.
This route starts off at Boston's city center, heading west towards the communities of Newton and Wellesley before arriving at downtown Westwood. The total distance covered is approximately 22 miles, with an estimated travel time between 40-45 minutes.
Route 3: Via I-93 and I-95
This route involves driving through the bustling highways of New England via I-93 and I-95 and can be quite a thrill for anyone seeking to experience the true sense of Massachusetts traffic.
Starting from Boston's city center, you head southwest towards the I-93 and later connect to the I-95 at Westwood. The total distance covered is about 25 miles, with an estimated travel time of up to 40-45 minutes.
Cost Implication
Fuel Cost
The cost of fuel can make up a significant portion of your total travel expenses. While the price of gas varies depending on the location and time of the year, certain prices per gallon are as follows:
- Regular gas: $2.90 per gallon
- Mid-grade gas: $3.34 per gallon
- Premium gas: $3.58 per gallon
Assuming your vehicle has an average fuel economy of 25 mpg, here is a rough estimate of the fuel cost for each route option:
| Route Options | Fuel Cost (Regular gas) |
|---|---|
| I-95 | $2.32 |
| MA-135 | $2.54 |
| I-93 & I-95 | $2.91 |
Tolls
There are usually toll fees to pay when using some highways in Massachusetts. Using I-93 or I-95 might incur some toll fees depending on the exact section of the road you decide to take.
Toll prices vary depending on the vehicle type. For passenger vehicles, it can range from $0.50 to $7.75, and for commercial vehicles, it could be as high as $24.00.
Here is an estimate of the total cost of tolls for each route option:
| Route Options | Tolls Cost |
|---|---|
| I-95 | $0.00 |
| MA-135 | $0.00 |
| I-93 & I-95 | $4.00 - $7.75 |
Parking
If you plan to park your car while in Westwood, it is essential to factor parking fees into your expenses. The cost of parking can vary depending on the duration of your stay, day of the week, and specific parking location.
In Westwood, parking costs can range from $1.50 per hour to $2.00 per hour, with a maximum daily rate of $15.00.
Recommendations
Based on the cost and distance calculations, the I-95 route seems to be the most cost-effective and time-efficient. It is the shortest route, meaning you will consume less fuel and incur zero toll fees.
However, if you are looking for a scenic route, you might prefer the MA-135. It offers serene views and is ideal for a relaxed drive away from the bustling highways.
While the I-93 and I-95 route can offer a unique driving experience and a glimpse into the Massachusetts traffic, it is not recommended if you are traveling on a tight budget. The combination of toll fees and fuel costs might make it the most expensive of the three options.
Conclusion
Your Boston to Westwood trip cost might vary, depending on the route you choose and other incidental expenses like parking and toll fees. However, with a clear understanding of the possible routes and an estimate of the fuel and other costs, you can make a sound decision that will save you money and time.
In general, the I-95 route is the most recommended option, offering a perfect mix of affordability and convenience. With a travel time of up to 35 minutes and a fuel cost of about $2.32, you can complete your journey without incurring exorbitant expenses.