Driving Cost from Columbia, South Carolina to Jacksonville, Florida

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The Cost of a Trip between Columbia, SC and Jacksonville, FL

When planning a trip between Columbia, South Carolina and Jacksonville, Florida, one of the most important factors to consider is the cost. With gas prices fluctuating regularly, it's essential to understand how much you'll be spending on fuel for the journey. In this article, we'll take a look at the different possible routes between these two destinations, highlight the cost and distance of each one, and recommend the best route based on current gas prices.

Possible Routes and Costs

Route 1: I-95 S

The most direct route between Columbia and Jacksonville is via I-95 S. This route covers a distance of approximately 300 miles and takes around 4.5 to 5 hours to drive. At the current average gas price of $2.75 per gallon, and assuming a car that gets 25 miles per gallon, the cost of fuel for this route would be roughly $66 round trip.

Route 2: I-20 W to I-26 S to I-95 S

Another possible route is to take I-20 W to I-26 S, which then connects to I-95 S. While this route covers a longer distance of around 340 miles and takes approximately 5 to 5.5 hours to drive, it may offer some scenic views along the way. With the same average gas price and fuel efficiency as Route 1, the estimated cost of fuel for this route would be about $82 round trip.

Route 3: US-301 S to I-10 W to I-295 S

For those looking for a more unconventional route, US-301 S to I-10 W to I-295 S is an option. This route covers a distance of approximately 310 miles and takes around 5 to 5.5 hours to drive. The estimated cost of fuel for this route would also be around $82 round trip, based on the same gas price and fuel efficiency.

Considering both the cost and distance of each route, I-95 S is the most efficient and budget-friendly option for traveling between Columbia and Jacksonville. Not only is it the most direct route, but it also offers the lowest estimated fuel cost at $66 round trip. Additionally, the driving time of 4.5 to 5 hours is relatively reasonable compared to the other routes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while there are several possible routes to choose from when traveling between Columbia, South Carolina and Jacksonville, Florida, taking I-95 S is the most cost-effective and efficient option. With an estimated fuel cost of $66 round trip and a driving time of 4.5 to 5 hours, this route provides a balance of affordability and convenience. As always, it's essential to consider current gas prices and fuel efficiency when planning your trip to ensure an accurate cost estimate. Safe travels!