The Cost of a Trip from Bridgewater, MA to Manchester, NH Amidst Fluctuating Gas Prices

In a world of ever-fluctuating gas prices, it can be hard to plan a road trip without breaking the bank. Whether you're visiting family or exploring new sights, it's important to consider the cost of a trip before hitting the open road. Let's take a closer look at the cost of a trip from Bridgewater, Massachusetts to Manchester, New Hampshire, including the different possible routes and their associated costs.

Route 1: Taking I-95 North and I-93 North

This is the most popular route for those traveling from Bridgewater to Manchester. Starting off on I-95 North, drivers will pass through cities like Boston and Salem before merging onto I-93 North and eventually reaching Manchester. The distance of this route is approximately 112 miles.

But how much does it cost to take this route? Let's do the math. According to GasBuddy, as of February 2021, the average gas price in Massachusetts was $2.49 per gallon, while in New Hampshire it was $2.35 per gallon. Assuming a vehicle with a 15-gallon tank and an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, the total cost of gas for this trip would be $31.65. This cost does not include any tolls that drivers may encounter along the way, such as the Tobin Bridge toll of $5.75.

Route 2: Taking I-495 North and NH-101 West

For those looking to avoid the often congested highways of Boston, I-495 North is a popular alternate route. Drivers can take this highway until they reach NH-101 West, which will lead them straight to Manchester. The distance of this route is slightly longer at approximately 120 miles.

But how much does it cost to take this route? Again, let's do the math. Assuming the same vehicle and fuel efficiency as before, the total cost of gas for this trip would be $34.56, based on the same gas prices listed above. However, this route does not have any tolls, so the total cost of the trip remains the same.

Route 3: Taking MA-24 North and I-93 North

For those located closer to the Bridgewater area, MA-24 North can provide a more direct route to I-93 North. Drivers can take this highway until they reach I-93 North and eventually reach Manchester. This route is slightly shorter than Route 1, with a distance of approximately 108 miles.

But how much does it cost to take this route? Using the same vehicle and fuel efficiency assumptions as before, the total cost of gas for this route would be $30.24. However, this route does have a toll at the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority of $1.30.

Recommendation: Route 1

Based on the above calculations, Route 1 seems to be the most cost-effective option when factoring in both gas prices and tolls. Despite the Tobin Bridge toll of $5.75, Route 1 has the shortest distance and the lowest gas cost of the three possible routes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a trip from Bridgewater, Massachusetts to Manchester, New Hampshire can vary greatly depending on which route you take. While Route 1 may have tolls to consider, it seems to be the most cost-effective option overall when factoring in gas prices and distance. With the average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon and gas prices as of February 2021, this trip can cost approximately $31.65 in gas alone if taking Route 1. However, it's important to keep in mind that gas prices may change at any time, so be sure to check them before hitting the road. Safe travels!