Driving Cost from Bradenton, Florida to Vero Beach, Florida

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The Cost of a Trip Between Bradenton, Florida and Vero Beach, Florida

Getting from Bradenton, Florida to Vero Beach, Florida can be a bit tricky, mainly because there are multiple routes to take. The best and most cost-effective route is highly dependent on the type of vehicle you’re driving, the amount of fuel you have in your tank, and the gas prices in your area. This article will break down the various possible routes and give you a more accurate sense of what to expect in terms of distance and cost.

Possible Routes

Route 1: Via FL-70 E and Florida’s Turnpike

Going through FL-70 E and Florida’s Turnpike would be a direct route between Bradenton and Vero Beach without stopping. The entire trip is 121.9 miles with an estimated travel time of two hours and ten minutes. However, you will need to pay $4.50 for the Florida Turnpike tolls, and there could be traffic on the highway, which could add a little more time to your travel.

Route 2: Via I-75 S and Florida's Turnpike

The second option is to travel via I-75 S and Florida’s Turnpike. The estimated time of this trip is two hours and forty minutes, with a distance of 158 miles. You will also need to pay $4.50 for Turnpike tolls. The downside to this route is that I-75 S experiences heavy traffic, so you may experience some congestion as you make your way to Vero Beach.

Route 3: Via US-27 S and FL-60 E

If you're looking to avoid tolls, then going through US-27 S and FL-60 E is the best option. Although the total distance is slightly more at 145.1 miles, the total amount of time is longer than the other routes at two hours and fifty-five minutes. You will not have to pay tolls, which can save you some money. There could be traffic in various areas around the route, mainly during peak hours.

Route 4: Via US-301 S and FL-70E

Another option that is toll-free is to take US-301 S and FL-70 E, which is a longer route at 157.4 total miles. The estimated travel time is three hours and five minutes. You will not experience any stoppages or tolls on this route, but you could encounter traffic from time to time, especially during peak hours.

Route 5: Via I-75 S and US-40

Lastly, you can decide to take I-75 S and US-40, even though this route will take you the longest time of all presented routes at three hours and fifty minutes. The total distance covered is 218.5 miles. US-40 will take you through Ocala National Forest, which is a beautiful sight to behold. Also, tolls are not included in this route. However, you will need to be aware of traffic, which can cause your trip to take even longer.

Cost of the Trip

The cost of your trip from Bradenton to Vero Beach will ultimately depend on the fuel efficiency of your vehicle, the gas prices in your area, and the route you decide to take. The gas prices in Florida can vary widely and are subject to both short- and long-term fluctuations. In general, gas prices in Florida tend to be above the national average. Here are some ways to calculate your gas expenses based on the distance you travel:

Average Gas Prices

As of August 2021, the average gas prices in Florida are about $2.99 a gallon, according to the United States Department of Energy. Based on this price, and assuming your car gets 25 miles per gallon (mpg), the fuel costs for the entire trip can be broken down by routes:

  • Route 1 (direct toll route via FL-70 and Florida’s Turnpike): $14.63
  • Route 2 (I-75 toll route): $18.95
  • Route 3 (free route via US-27 and FL-60): $16.54
  • Route 4 (free route via US-301 and FL-70): $18.08
  • Route 5 (free route via I-75 S and US-40): $26.29

High Gas Prices

If the gas prices increase to $3.50 per gallon, then the cost of the trip would be different. Here are the updated costs for the same vehicle that gets 25 mpg on the same routes:

  • Route 1: $17.15
  • Route 2: $22.21
  • Route 3: $19.38
  • Route 4: $21.05
  • Route 5: $30.58

Low Gas Prices

If the gas prices decrease to $2.50 per gallon, then the fuel expenses would be lower. Here are the estimated costs on the same routes:

  • Route 1: $11.10
  • Route 2: $14.34
  • Route 3: $12.51
  • Route 4: $13.59
  • Route 5: $19.73

Best Route

When you consider all the variables, the best route for a trip from Bradenton to Vero Beach is Route 1. Although this route has a toll of $4.50, it’s the shortest direct route, and you’re likely to arrive at Vero Beach in two hours and ten minutes.

As you plan your trip, you should also take advantage of the gas stations along the way to fill up your vehicle or recharge your electric car, especially before you enter the Turnpike. Don't forget to bring snacks or grab a quick meal at one of the many fast-food restaurants along the way.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of your trip from Bradenton to Vero Beach will depend on the type of vehicle you’re driving, the gas prices in your area, and the route you decide to take. The toll road, Route 1, is the best option because it's the shortest and quickest route, even with the tolls taken into account. Compared to the other routes, it’ll save you fuel and time. Don’t forget to account for traffic and additional time if you're driving during weekdays. By following these instructions, your trip from Bradenton to Vero Beach will be both enjoyable and cost-effective.