The Cost of Driving from Columbia, SC to Opelika, AL in 2021

Are you planning a road trip from Columbia, South Carolina to Opelika, Alabama? Before you hit the road, it's important to consider the cost of driving. With fluctuating gas prices and potential tolls, it's a good idea to do some research to budget for your trip. In this blog post, we'll break down the cost of driving from Columbia to Opelika based on current gas prices.

Route 1: I-20 W and I-85 S

Distance: Approximately 190 miles
Time: About 3 hours
Cost: Based on an average gas price of $2.50/gallon, a vehicle with an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon will require around 7.6 gallons of gas for a one-way trip. This would amount to approximately $19 in gas for one-way travel.

Tolls: There are no tolls on this route.

Route 2: US-378 W and US-280 W

Distance: Approximately 215 miles
Time: Around 4 hours
Cost: With the same average gas price and fuel efficiency as above, this route would require roughly 8.6 gallons of gas for one-way travel, totaling approximately $21.50 in gas expenses.

Tolls: There are no tolls on this route.

Ultimately, the total cost for gas on both routes is fairly similar, with Route 1 being slightly cheaper due to the shorter distance. However, Route 2 may offer a more scenic drive and the opportunity to see different areas along the way.

Remember that gas prices can fluctuate, so it's a good idea to check current prices before your trip. Additionally, if you're driving a car with lower fuel efficiency or plan to make stops along the way, you may need to budget for additional gas expenses.

Safe travels and happy road-tripping!