The Cost of a Road Trip between Canton, Ohio and St. Joseph, Missouri: Navigating the High Gas Prices

Gas prices can be unpredictable, making it difficult to budget for a long-distance road trip. If you're planning a trip from Canton, Ohio to St. Joseph, Missouri, you'll need to factor in the distance, gas prices, and the different routes available to you. In this article, we'll explore the cost of a road trip between these two cities, including the various routes and their corresponding expenses.

Route Options and Distances

The most direct route between Canton, Ohio, and St. Joseph, Missouri, is via I-70W, which is approximately 630 miles. This route will take you across Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Missouri. Depending on your starting point in Canton, you may also be able to take I-71S and I-64W to cut through Kentucky and Illinois to reach Missouri.

Another option is to take a more scenic route by driving through southern Ohio and into Kentucky via US-50W. From there, you can continue on I-64W into Illinois and Missouri. This route adds another 100 miles to your journey, but it may be worth it if you want to enjoy some beautiful scenery along the way.

Finally, if you're traveling from the northeastern part of Ohio, you can consider taking I-80W into Indiana, and then connect to I-74W toward Illinois. This route will add about 70 miles to your trip, but it may be a more convenient option depending on your starting point.

Gas Prices and Costs

Gas prices can vary widely depending on the state, city, and even the time of year. As of July 2021, the average gas price in Ohio is around $3.05 per gallon, while the average price in Missouri is roughly $2.80 per gallon. To estimate the total cost of your road trip, you'll need to consider the gas prices along your chosen route.

Assuming your car gets an average of 25 miles per gallon, you'll need 25.2 gallons of gas to travel the 630 miles via I-70W. Multiply this by the average gas prices in Ohio and Missouri, and you're looking at a total gas cost of approximately $76.86. If you decide to take the longer route via US-50W, you'll need approximately 26.8 gallons of gas, bringing your total gas cost to around $80.59. Taking I-80W into Indiana may require about 26.6 gallons of gas, costing around $81.03.

Remember that gas prices can change frequently, so it's always a good idea to check the latest prices before hitting the road.

The Best Route

The best route for your road trip from Canton, Ohio, to St. Joseph, Missouri, depends on your priorities. If you're looking for the most direct and efficient route, I-70W is the way to go. However, if you're interested in scenic drives and don't mind adding a bit of extra time and distance to your journey, you may want to consider US-50W or I-80W into Indiana. Both of these options offer beautiful landscapes and historic landmarks along the way.

Conclusion

The cost of a road trip between Canton, Ohio, and St. Joseph, Missouri, varies depending on the route you choose and the current gas prices. While the most direct route via I-70W is the most efficient, it may not always be the most cost-effective. By considering the different routes available and checking gas prices along the way, you can plan a road trip that fits your budget and preferences. Whichever route you choose, be sure to take your time and enjoy the journey, as the Midwest region has much to offer in terms of scenery and attractions. Safe travels!