The Cost of a Trip Between Braintree and Scituate Based on Current Gas Prices
When travelling between Braintree and Scituate, there are several possible routes to take. The cost of the trip can vary depending on the route, mode of transportation, and current gas prices. In this article, we will explore the different options for travelling between these two Massachusetts towns and highlight the cost and distance of each one.
Route One - Taking the Highway
One of the most straightforward ways to travel between Braintree and Scituate is to take the highway. The distance between the two towns is approximately 15 miles, and the estimated travel time is about half an hour, depending on traffic. If you have access to a car, this is likely the most convenient option.
Assuming that gas prices are around $2.70 per gallon (the average price of gas in Massachusetts in early 2021), a car that gets 25 miles per gallon would require around 0.6 gallons of gas to make the trip. This would result in a cost of approximately $1.62 in gas.
Tolls are also a factor to consider when taking the highway. The total cost for tolls when driving from Braintree to Scituate would be $1.60 each way, making the total cost for the round trip $3.20.
Therefore, the total cost for gas and tolls for a round trip from Braintree to Scituate would be around $4.82.
Route Two - Taking Public Transportation
Another option for travelling between Braintree and Scituate is to take public transportation. One way to do this is to take the MBTA Commuter Rail from Braintree to Greenbush Station, which is located in Scituate. The trip takes approximately 43 minutes and costs $7.25 each way, making the total cost for a round trip $14.50.
This option may be more cost-effective if you do not have access to a car or if you prefer not to drive. However, it is important to note that the commuter rail schedule may not be as frequent as the highway, and the travel time may be longer.
Route Three - Taking a Taxi or Rideshare Service
Another option for travelling between Braintree and Scituate is to take a taxi or rideshare service. This may be a convenient option if you do not have access to a car, but it can be more expensive than taking public transportation or driving.
Assuming that the cost of a ride is approximately $2.75 per mile (based on rates for Uber and Lyft in Boston), the cost for a one-way ride from Braintree to Scituate would be around $41.25. This would make the total cost for a round trip $82.50.
Route Four - Biking or Walking
Finally, for those who enjoy biking or walking, it is possible to make the trip from Braintree to Scituate using non-motorized modes of transportation. However, this option would be most feasible for those who are physically fit and capable of making the trip, as it is a distance of 15 miles each way.
Assuming that gas prices are around $2.70 per gallon and a bike averages 25 miles per gallon for the purpose of this calculation, a bike trip would require around 0.6 gallons of gas to make the round trip. This would result in a cost of approximately $1.62 in gas.
If you plan to walk or bike, you also have the added benefit of avoiding tolls and parking fees. However, this option is not suitable for everyone and may not be practical for those who need to travel long distances or have limited mobility.
Recommended Route
Based on the cost considerations and time taken, it seems that the most cost-effective and practical option for travelling between Braintree and Scituate is taking the highway. Driving enables you to have more flexibility and is likely the quickest option, as it takes only around half an hour each way.
However, if you do not have access to a car or prefer not to drive, public transportation is a viable alternative. The MBTA Commuter Rail offers a reliable and affordable way to travel between the two towns, although the travel time may be longer.
Conclusion
Travelling between Braintree and Scituate can be done through various modes of transportation, each with its pros and cons. If you have access to a car, driving is the most practical option and can be cost-effective, as gas and toll costs are relatively low. However, those who do not have access to a car or prefer not to drive can opt to use public transportation or ridesharing options. Ultimately, choosing the best option for you will depend on your budget, time, and personal preferences. Regardless of which option you choose, the trip between Braintree and Scituate is relatively short and won't take up too much of your day once you arrive at the destination.