The Cost of a Trip from Charlotte, NC to Suwanee, GA

When planning a trip from Charlotte, North Carolina to Suwanee, Georgia, one of the most important factors to consider is the cost. With gas prices fluctuating throughout the year, it’s crucial to know how much you’ll be spending on fuel for the journey. In this article, we’ll break down the cost of a trip between these two locations, exploring the different routes available, and ultimately recommending the best option based on distance and overall cost.

Possible Routes and Costs

Route 1: I-85 S

The most direct route from Charlotte to Suwanee is to take I-85 South. The distance between the two cities via this route is approximately 220 miles, and with the average gas mileage of 25 miles per gallon, you can expect to use around 8.8 gallons of gas for the journey. With the current national average gas price of $3.00 per gallon, this translates to a one-way cost of $26.40 for gas.

Route 2: I-85 S and I-485

Another route to consider is taking I-85 South and then merging onto I-485 before getting back onto I-85 towards Suwanee. This route is slightly longer, coming in at around 230 miles. With the same gas mileage as the previous route, you can expect to use approximately 9.2 gallons of gas, resulting in a one-way cost of $27.60 based on the current gas prices.

Route 3: US-74 W and I-85 S

For those looking to avoid the interstate, US-74 West is an alternative route that connects to I-85 South. While this route is approximately 235 miles long, the gas mileage is slightly less efficient due to the nature of the road. With an estimated gas usage of 9.4 gallons, the one-way cost for gas would be around $28.20.

Route 4: I-77 S and I-85 S

One final route to consider is taking I-77 South before merging onto I-85 towards Suwanee. This route is approximately 240 miles long, and with an estimated gas usage of 9.6 gallons, the one-way cost for gas would be around $28.80, based on the current gas prices.

The Best Route

After comparing the different routes and their associated costs, it is evident that taking I-85 South is the most efficient and cost-effective option. While the other routes may offer some scenic views, the additional mileage and potential for higher gas consumption make I-85 South the best choice for those looking to minimize their travel costs.

Conclusion

Overall, the trip from Charlotte, NC to Suwanee, GA via I-85 South is not only the most direct route, but also the most cost-effective. With an approximate distance of 220 miles and a one-way cost of $26.40 for gas based on current prices, travelers can expect to spend around $52.80 on gas for the round trip. Additionally, with good traffic conditions, the journey can typically be completed in around 3.5 to 4 hours, making it a relatively quick and affordable trip for those looking to travel between these two destinations.