The Cost of Driving from Charleston, SC to Athens-Clarke County, GA: A Breakdown

If you're planning a trip from Charleston, South Carolina to Athens-Clarke County Unified Government, Georgia, you're likely wondering about the cost and logistics of driving. This post will break down the cost of each route, including gas prices and tolls, to help you determine the most affordable option.

Route 1: I-26 W and I-85 S

The first route departs from Charleston and takes I-26 W and I-85 S, covering a distance of roughly 233 miles. The entire journey can take up to 3 hours and 45 minutes, depending on traffic and speed.

To calculate the cost of gas, we'll use the average rate of $2.60 per gallon for regular unleaded fuel. Assuming your car gets 30 miles per gallon, you'll need just over 7 gallons for the entire trip. So, the cost of gas alone would be approximately $19.21.

If you decide to take this route, there are no tolls. However, keep in mind that you may need to budget for food stops along the way.

Route 2: US-17 ALT S and GA-17 N

The second route is a bit longer, but may be more scenic as it follows coastal highways. It starts by taking US-17 ALT S towards Savannah, then switching to GA-25 S and GA-17 N. The total distance is roughly 231 miles, with the entire trip taking approximately 4 hours.

To calculate the cost of gas for this trip, we'll again use an average rate of $2.60 per gallon. Assuming your vehicle gets 30 miles per gallon, gas prices would total about $19.40.

Like the first route, there are no tolls on this trip. However, you may incur additional costs for snacks and stops along the way.

Route 3: I-95 S and GA-416 W

The third and final route departs from Charleston and takes I-95 S before switching to GA-416 W. This route is slightly longer than the others, covering about 246 miles. The journey can take up to 3 hours and 50 minutes depending on traffic.

For gas prices, we'll again use the rate of $2.60 per gallon and assume a fuel economy of 30 miles per gallon. The total cost of gas for this trip would be around $21.32.

In addition to gas, you'll need to budget for tolls on this route. The only toll on this route is the Georgia State Route 400 toll, which costs $1.50.

Choosing the Right Route

Ultimately, the right route for your trip will depend on your priorities. If you're looking for the most affordable option, Route 1 is your best bet. However, if you're looking to enjoy the scenery, Route 2 may be the way to go. Finally, if you're looking for the fastest route, Route 3 may be your best bet.

No matter which option you choose, be sure to plan ahead and budget for any necessary stops along the way. Safe travels!