The Cost of Driving From Chattanooga, Tennessee to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Are you planning a road trip from Chattanooga, Tennessee to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania? If so, it's essential to consider the cost of the journey, especially with fluctuating gas prices and toll fees. In this blog post, we will explore different routes to Pittsburgh, the distance of each route, the time it takes, and the cost associated with each option. Let's dive in!

Route 1: The I-75 N and I-71 N

The most direct route from Chattanooga to Pittsburgh is to take the I-75 N and then the I-71 N. This route covers a distance of 537 miles and takes approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes to complete.

To calculate the cost of this route, we need to consider gas prices and any toll fees along the way. As of today, the average gas price in both Tennessee and Pennsylvania is around $2.50 per gallon. With an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, we can approximate the number of gallons needed for this journey.

The total cost of fuel for this route would be (537 miles / 25 miles per gallon) * $2.50 per gallon which equals around $107.40.

While there are no tolls along this specific route, it's worth noting that you might encounter toll roads in neighboring states. Be sure to have some cash or an electronic tolling device, such as E-ZPass, to avoid any delays!

Route 2: The I-75 N and I-70 W

Another popular route to Pittsburgh is by taking the I-75 N and then switching to the I-70 W. This alternative route spans a distance of 555 miles and has an estimated travel time of 8 hours and 45 minutes.

Using the same gas price estimation as before, we can calculate the approximate fuel cost for this route. Considering an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, the cost of fuel would be (555 miles / 25 miles per gallon) * $2.50 per gallon, totaling approximately $122.50.

While there are no tolls along the I-75 N and I-70 W route, it's again advisable to check for any potential toll roads in other states.

Route 3: The Scenic Route via State Highways

For those who enjoy a more scenic drive, taking state highways can be a fantastic choice. From Chattanooga, you can take TN-153 N, TN-111 N, and US-127 N to reach Pittsburgh. This route covers a distance of 557 miles and will take slightly longer due to the lower speed limits on state highways, around 9 hours and 15 minutes.

Using the same fuel price assumptions, the fuel cost for this route would be (557 miles / 25 miles per gallon) * $2.50 per gallon, reaching approximately $124.90.

While state highways usually do not have tolls, it's always a good practice to check for any unexpected toll roads along the way.

Conclusion

When planning your road trip from Chattanooga, Tennessee to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, keep in mind the different routes available, the associated distances, travel times, and costs. Although Route 1 (I-75 N and I-71 N) seems to be the most direct and cost-effective, it's always good to explore alternatives and consider the scenic beauty offered by state highways.

Remember to check gas prices, both local and along your route, as they can fluctuate. Lastly, stay prepared for any tolls by carrying some cash or obtaining an electronic tolling device. These small details can help ensure a smooth and budget-friendly journey. Safe travels!