Driving Cost from Charlotte, North Carolina to Waxhaw, North Carolina

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The Cost of a Trip Between Charlotte and Waxhaw, North Carolina: Evaluating Routes and Gas Prices

Introduction

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or simply commuting between Charlotte and Waxhaw, North Carolina, it's important to consider the cost of the trip. With fluctuating gas prices and several possible routes, the expenses can quickly add up. In this article, we will explore the various routes available between these two cities, highlighting both the distance and cost associated with each option. By the end, we will recommend the best route to take based on current gas prices.

Route 1: Via Providence Road South (NC-16 S)

  • Distance: 17.8 miles
  • Expected Travel Time: 27 minutes

Starting from Charlotte, one of the most direct routes to Waxhaw is via Providence Road South (NC-16 S). This route offers a relatively short distance of approximately 17.8 miles. Gas prices in North Carolina, as of the time of writing, average at $2.75 per gallon.

To calculate the estimated cost of this route, let's consider an average car's fuel efficiency at 25 miles per gallon. Dividing the distance of 17.8 miles by 25, we find that this route would consume 0.712 gallons of gas. Multiplying this by the average gas price, the estimated cost of Route 1 amounts to $1.96.

Route 2: Via I-485 Outer

  • Distance: 25.4 miles
  • Expected Travel Time: 32 minutes

Another commonly taken route is to travel via I-485 Outer. This route covers a greater distance of approximately 25.4 miles compared to Route 1. The travel time is estimated to be around 32 minutes. Given the same fuel efficiency assumption, the fuel consumption for this route would be approximately 1.016 gallons of gas. Considering the average gas price of $2.75, the estimated cost of Route 2 amounts to $2.80.

Route 3: Via Johnston Road (NC-521 S)

  • Distance: 23.1 miles
  • Expected Travel Time: 37 minutes

Johnston Road, also known as NC-521 S, offers an alternative route between Charlotte and Waxhaw. This route is slightly shorter compared to Route 2, with a distance of 23.1 miles. However, the expected travel time is slightly longer, estimated to be 37 minutes. Using the same fuel efficiency assumption, the fuel consumption for this route is approximately 0.924 gallons of gas. With the average gas price, the estimated cost of Route 3 is $2.54.

Route 4: Via US-521 S

  • Distance: 26.7 miles
  • Expected Travel Time: 40 minutes

The final route we will consider is traveling via US-521 S, which covers a distance of 26.7 miles. This route is the longest among the options discussed so far. The expected travel time for this route is estimated to be around 40 minutes. Following our fuel efficiency assumption, the fuel consumption for Route 4 would be approximately 1.068 gallons of gas. At the current gas prices, the estimated cost of this route amounts to $2.93.

Route Recommendation

Considering both the distance and cost associated with each route, Route 1 via Providence Road South (NC-16 S) appears to be the most favorable option. Not only is it the shortest distance, but it also has the lowest estimated cost at $1.96. Though Route 2 via I-485 Outer may be a popular choice due to its direct connection to major highways, the additional distance and cost make it less attractive in this comparison.

While Route 3 via Johnston Road (NC-521 S) is shorter than Route 2, it still falls short in terms of distance and cost compared to Route 1. Lastly, Route 4 via US-521 S covers the greatest distance and requires the highest estimated cost. Therefore, unless there are specific factors that favor one of the other routes, Route 1 would be the recommended choice.

Conclusion

In conclusion, traveling between Charlotte and Waxhaw, North Carolina, can be accomplished via several different routes. After evaluating the various options based on distance and estimated cost, Route 1 via Providence Road South (NC-16 S) stands as the recommended route. This route offers the shortest distance and the lowest estimated cost when considering the current gas prices. When making travel plans or calculating expenses, it is essential to take into account gas prices and the distances involved to make an informed decision. By choosing Route 1, you can save both time and money while enjoying a comfortable trip between these two cities.