Driving Cost from Carlisle, Massachusetts to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of a Trip Between Carlisle, Massachusetts and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

When planning a trip from Carlisle, Massachusetts to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the cost of transportation is an important factor to consider. With current gas prices, the price of fuel can significantly impact the overall cost of the journey. In this article, we will explore the different possible routes for this trip, highlight the cost and distance of each one, and recommend the best route based on these factors.

Route 1: I-95 South

One of the most popular routes to travel between Carlisle and Philadelphia is taking I-95 South. This route covers a total distance of approximately 385 miles and typically takes around 6 hours and 30 minutes to complete. However, it's important to note that the duration can be longer due to traffic conditions along this heavily-traveled highway.

In terms of cost, the main expense to consider is the fuel consumption. The average gas mileage for a standard car on the highway is around 25 miles per gallon (MPG). Therefore, for a 385-mile trip, you would need approximately 15.4 gallons of gas. With the current average gas prices in the United States hovering around $3.00 per gallon, the estimated cost for fuel on this route would be around $46.20.

Route 2: I-90 West and I-276 South

Another option is to take I-90 West and then connect to I-276 South. This route covers a longer distance of approximately 415 miles, but it may offer different scenery and potentially fewer traffic congestions compared to the I-95 route. The estimated duration for this route is approximately 7 hours and 15 minutes.

To calculate the cost, we consider the same average fuel consumption rate of 25 MPG. With a total distance of 415 miles, around 16.6 gallons of gas would be needed. Hence, the estimated fuel cost for this route would be approximately $49.80.

Route 3: Backroad Route via Route 9

For those looking for a more scenic and potentially less congested journey, an alternative is to take the backroad route via Route 9. This route covers a longer distance of approximately 420 miles, and the estimated duration is around 7 hours and 30 minutes.

With the same average fuel consumption rate of 25 MPG, we can estimate that around 16.8 gallons of gas would be required for this journey. Considering the current gas prices, the estimated fuel cost for this route would be roughly $50.40.

Comparing the Costs and Distances

Let's summarize the costs and distances of the three routes mentioned above:

  1. I-95 South:

    • Distance: 385 miles
    • Fuel Cost: $46.20

  2. I-90 West and I-276 South:

    • Distance: 415 miles
    • Fuel Cost: $49.80

  3. Backroad Route via Route 9:

    • Distance: 420 miles
    • Fuel Cost: $50.40

Based on the costs alone, it appears that the I-95 South route is the least expensive option. However, it's important to consider other factors such as traffic conditions, preferred scenery, and personal preferences when selecting the best route.

Considering the overall cost, distance, and estimated travel time, the recommended route between Carlisle, Massachusetts and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is the I-95 South route. It offers the shortest distance among the mentioned routes and has the lowest estimated fuel cost. However, it's always a good idea to check for real-time traffic updates and plan your journey accordingly, as traffic conditions can significantly impact travel time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a trip between Carlisle, Massachusetts and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania depends on various factors, primarily the fuel cost and the route chosen. The I-95 South route emerges as the most cost-effective option in terms of estimated fuel expenses. With a distance of approximately 385 miles, this route typically takes around 6 hours and 30 minutes to complete. However, always stay informed about traffic conditions and plan accordingly to make the most of your trip. Safe travels!