Driving Cost from Bridgewater, Massachusetts to Northbridge, Massachusetts

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Trip between Bridgewater and Northbridge, Massachusetts: A Comparison of Route Options Based on Current Gas Prices

When planning a trip between Bridgewater and Northbridge, Massachusetts, there are several route options to choose from. However, which route is the most cost-effective based on current gas prices? In this article, we will compare the cost and distance of each route and recommend the best option.

Route Options

There are four main routes one could take from Bridgewater to Northbridge:

  • Route 146
  • I-495
  • Route 122
  • I-95 and I-495

Each of these routes has its pros and cons. Let's take a closer look at the cost and distance of each option.

Route 146

Going north on Route 24, then west on Route 146 is a common route. However, it is not the most cost-effective due to the tolls on Route 146, which can add to the cost of the trip. Additionally, Route 146 is a somewhat winding road that goes through urban areas, which may slow down some drivers. Despite this, Route 146 is still a popular option as it is relatively straightforward.

  • Cost: $9.15 in tolls (according to MassDOT) and around 54 miles.
  • Travel time: approximately 1 hour.

I-495

Taking I-495 is another option, and it might be the best route to take based on cost, considering that there are no tolls along the way. While it adds some extra distance compared to Route 146, it ultimately saves money on tolls.

  • Cost: no tolls and approximately 56 miles.
  • Travel time: also approximately 1 hour.

Route 122

Another option to consider would be to take Route 138 north and branch off onto Route 122, which takes you through Worcester, an urban center featuring many historic sites and entertainment options. This route may be slower than other routes, but it could provide the best scenery.

  • Cost: no tolls and around 73 miles.
  • Travel time: approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.

I-95 and I-495

Although it takes an hour and a half to travel this route, taking I-95 north to Route 495 could also be an option to consider, as it avoids any tolls along the way. While Route 122 may offer more scenic views, taking this route solely for cost efficiency may be the best option.

  • Cost: no tolls and around 84 miles.
  • Travel time: approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.

Based on a comparison of the cost and distance of each route option, it would be best to take I-495 between Bridgewater and Northbridge. The route is the most cost-effective option, with no tolls. Although it adds some extra distance compared to other options, it ultimately saves money on tolls. Additionally, this route offers a more direct and straightforward path between two locations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when planning a trip between Bridgewater and Northbridge, Massachusetts, there are several route options to choose from. However, based on our analysis and comparison of each route's cost and distance, taking I-495 between the two cities is the most cost-effective option. The route avoids any tolls, and although it adds some extra distance compared to other options, it saves money in that regard. It would roughly take one hour to complete the journey.