The Cost of Traveling from Charleston, West Virginia to Lacey Township, New Jersey

Traveling between Charleston, West Virginia and Lacey Township, New Jersey can be a long and expensive trip. With gas prices constantly fluctuating, it can be difficult to predict the exact cost of the journey. However, by analyzing different routes and considering current gas prices, we can estimate the total cost of the trip. In this article, we will break down the different options for travel and recommend the best route based on cost and distance.

The Routes

When considering the best route to take, there are several options available. Each route has its own pros and cons, and the one you choose may depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Route 1: I-64 E and I-81 N

This route takes you through Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania before reaching New Jersey. The total distance is approximately 597 miles and takes about 9 hours and 30 minutes to complete.

Route 2: I-77 N and I-79 N

This route takes you through Ohio and Pennsylvania before reaching New Jersey. The total distance is approximately 665 miles and takes about 10 hours and 30 minutes to complete.

Route 3: I-64 E, I-81 N, and I-78 E

This route takes you through Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey before reaching Lacey Township. The total distance is approximately 645 miles and takes about 10 hours and 15 minutes to complete.

Route 4: US-35 E and I-68 E

This route takes you through Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Maryland before reaching West Virginia. From there, you can take I-70 E and I-76 E to reach New Jersey. The total distance is approximately 743 miles and takes about 12 hours and 15 minutes to complete.

The Cost

To estimate the cost of the trip, we will consider the average gas prices for each state on our selected routes as of August 2021. According to GasBuddy, gas prices in West Virginia are currently averaging at $2.91 per gallon. In Virginia, the price is a bit higher at $2.97 per gallon. Maryland's average gas price is $3.06 per gallon, while Pennsylvania's is at $3.16 per gallon. The highest gas prices of the states we will be traveling through is in New Jersey, which currently has an average gas price of $3.22 per gallon.

Route 1: I-64 E and I-81 N

According to Google Maps, driving from Charleston, West Virginia to Lacey Township, New Jersey via Route 1 would require about 17 gallons of gas. At an average of $2.91 per gallon in West Virginia and $3.16 per gallon in Pennsylvania, the total gas cost for this route would be approximately $86.68.

Route 2: I-77 N and I-79 N

Driving via Route 2 would require about 19 gallons of gas. At the same average gas prices as Route 1, the total gas cost for this route would be approximately $99.64.

Route 3: I-64 E, I-81 N, and I-78 E

Driving via Route 3 would require about 18 gallons of gas. At an average of $2.97 per gallon in Virginia and the same prices as Route 1 in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, the total gas cost for this route would be approximately $94.98.

Route 4: US-35 E and I-68 E

Driving via Route 4 would require about 22 gallons of gas. At an average of $2.91 per gallon in West Virginia, $3.06 per gallon in Maryland, and the same prices as Route 1 in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, the total gas cost for this route would be approximately $109.28.

The Best Route

Based on the calculations above, Route 1, I-64 E and I-81 N, appears to be the most cost-effective route with a gas cost of $86.68. While this route may be slightly longer than others, it will save you money on gas.

However, it is important to note that gas prices fluctuate frequently and the cost of the trip may vary depending on the time of your travel.

Conclusion

Traveling from Charleston, West Virginia to Lacey Township, New Jersey can be a long and expensive journey. By considering different routes and current gas prices, we can estimate the cost of the trip and recommend the most cost-effective route. Route 1, I-64 E and I-81 N, proved to be the cheapest option with a gas cost of $86.68. It is important to note that travel times and total cost may vary depending on traffic conditions and gas prices at the time of your travel.