The Cost of a Trip from Brighton to Royal Oak: Finding the Cheapest Route with Current Gas Prices

For those who are planning a trip from Brighton to Royal Oak, Michigan, there are a few things to consider. One of the most important is the cost of gas, as it can have a significant impact on your budget. In this article, we will explore the various routes you can take and the estimated cost for each, based on the current gas prices.

The Different Routes

Route 1: Via I-96 W and I-275 S

This is the most direct route, covering a total distance of 37.8 miles. To start, head north on Main St. toward Grand River Ave. Turn left onto Grand River Ave. before taking the ramp onto I-96 W toward Lansing. Continue for 10.6 miles, then take the I-275 S exit toward Toledo. Stay on I-275 S for 16.2 miles before taking the I-696 W exit toward Lansing. Continue for 5.4 miles before taking the Woodward Ave exit toward Birmingham. Turn right onto Woodward Ave, then left onto E 12 Mile Rd. Finally, turn right onto N Vermont Ave and you will have arrived at your destination.

Route 2: Via US-23 S and I-696 W

This route is a bit longer, covering a total distance of 42.6 miles. Start on Main St. in Brighton by heading north toward Grand River Ave. Turn right onto Grand River Ave, then merge onto US-23 S toward Ann Arbor. Follow this road for 16.3 miles before taking the exit onto I-696 W toward Lansing. Continue for 16.4 miles before taking the Woodward Ave exit toward Birmingham. Turn right onto Woodward Ave, then left onto E 12 Mile Rd. Finally, turn right onto N Vermont Ave and you will have arrived at your destination.

Route 3: Via M-5 S and I-696 E

This route is the longest of the three, covering a total distance of 47.6 miles. Start on Main St. in Brighton by heading north toward Grand River Ave. Turn right onto Grand River Ave, then merge onto US-23 S toward Ann Arbor. Follow this road for 10.7 miles before taking the M-14 W exit toward Pontiac. Continue for 8.4 miles before taking the M-5 S exit toward Farmington Hills. Stay on M-5 S for 10.2 miles before taking the I-696 E ramp toward Port Huron. Finally, take the Woodward Ave exit toward Birmingham and turn left onto Woodward Ave. Turn left onto E 12 Mile Rd, then right onto N Vermont Ave to reach your final destination.

The Cost Estimates

To estimate the cost of each route, we used the average gas price in Michigan, according to AAA's Daily Fuel Gauge Report - currently priced at $2.80 per gallon for regular gasoline, although gas prices can vary depending on the station and demand. We also based our calculations on a vehicle with an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, and the assumption that the trip would require one full tank of gas (estimating 13 gallons per tank).

Route 1: $13.64

Based on our calculation, taking Route 1 will require approximately 1.5 gallons of gas, making for a total cost of $13.64.

Route 2: $15.60

Taking Route 2 will require slightly more gas than Route 1, totaling approximately 1.75 gallons, with an estimated cost of $15.60.

Route 3: $17.08

Route 3 is the longest of the three routes, and as a result, will require approximately 1.95 gallons of gas, making for a total cost of $17.08.

The Recommended Route

Based on the above calculations, Route 1 is the most cost-effective choice, priced at $13.64. While it may not be the shortest route, it is the most direct, taking only 37.8 miles and an estimated 1.5 gallons of gas. While Route 3 would be the costliest, it may provide a more scenic or comfortable drive that's worth the extra expense for the unique sights, scenery, eateries, and rest stops along the way.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a trip from Brighton to Royal Oak will vary depending on the route you choose. While Route 1 is the cheapest option, it's not the only one. Make sure to consider all of the different routes available, and weigh the pros and cons against any other factors, such as time or convenience. And don't forget to keep an eye on gas prices, which can fluctuate frequently - so we recommend checking local fuel prices to find the best deal. By doing your research beforehand, you can make the most out of your trip without breaking your budget in the process.