The Cost of a Trip from Bridgeville, Pennsylvania to Clarksburg, Maryland: Which Route is the Cheapest Based on Gas Prices?

Are you planning a trip from Bridgeville, Pennsylvania to Clarksburg, Maryland? One of the first things you’ll want to consider is transportation costs, especially when it comes to fuel. While the simplest route between these two locations is a direct drive through Pennsylvania, there are several other potential routes you can take to find the cheapest gas prices. In this article, we’ll take a look at these routes and what you can expect to pay for gas along the way.

Route 1: Direct Drive

The direct drive from Bridgeville to Clarksburg spans 194 miles of interstate highway, with most of the journey spent navigating Interstate 70 in Maryland. If you take this route, you can expect to pay Pennsylvania gas prices initially, since you will be filling up before leaving the state. As of September 2021, the average gas price in Pennsylvania is $3.19 per gallon. Keep this in mind as you make your journey, as leaving Pennsylvania means you’ll also start paying Maryland gasoline rates, which were at an average of $3.03 per gallon in September 2021.

In terms of distance, you will be driving roughly 27 miles in Pennsylvania before crossing over to Maryland, which adds an extra 166 miles of driving to your journey. The total driving time of this route is approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes. If you are looking for a straightforward, direct drive from Bridgeville to Clarksburg, this is the route for you.

Route 2: Take the Scenic Route via WV-7 W

Another route you could try is taking the scenic route via WV-7 W. This route will take you through West Virginia and is 213 miles in length. This route is 19 miles longer than the direct drive but may be worth it if you are trying to save money on gas. The West Virginia countryside offers a breathtaking backdrop for your journey, with rolling hills, winding roads, and some stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains.

In terms of fuel costs, you will be driving across West Virginia, so it is likely that gas prices will be cheaper than those in Pennsylvania and Maryland. In September 2021, the average gas price in West Virginia was $2.97 per gallon. Compared to Pennsylvania, this is a significant savings, with a potential savings of $0.22 per gallon. This could add up to big savings if you are traveling a long distance.

Route 3: I-70 W

Another option is to take I-70 W. This route is the longest of the three, at 226 miles, and will take you through a more northern path of Maryland. This route will take you through cities like Frederick and Hagerstown. In terms of cost, you will likely be paying more in gas, as Maryland gas prices exceed West Virginia’s. In September 2021, the average gas price in Frederick County, Maryland was $3.08 per gallon, while the average in Washington County, Maryland was $3.05 per gallon.

While this option may be slightly more expensive due to gas prices, it could be worth taking if you want to see more of Maryland. There are also several rest areas and rest stops along the way, which can be useful for refueling, resting, or getting a bite to eat.

The Most Cost-Effective Route

So which route is the most cost-effective for your trip? Based on gas prices alone, the WV-7 W route is the most economical, with a potential savings of $0.22 per gallon compared to direct drive. However, if you are looking for a more direct route, or if you want to see more of Maryland, the direct drive or I-70 W routes may be more suitable. Ultimately, the best choice for your trip depends on your priorities - whether it be cost, travel time, or overall driving experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Bridgeville, Pennsylvania, to Clarksburg, Maryland, is a journey of almost 200 miles. If you are budget-conscious, it is important to consider fuel prices when deciding on a travel route. Taking the direct route through Pennsylvania and Maryland will be the quickest and easiest but may also be more expensive for gas. Taking the WV-7 W route through West Virginia may be a better option if you are looking to save some money on fuel, despite being slightly longer. If you have the time, taking the I-70 W route can offer you more to see in Maryland. Whatever route you choose, make sure to have a good map or GPS system, and fill up the tank before leaving town. Safe travels!