The Cost of Driving From Darien, Connecticut to Mahwah, New Jersey: Your Budget-Friendly Guide
Planning a road trip can be both exciting and a little daunting, especially when it comes to budgeting for gas and tolls. If you’re wondering how much it will cost to drive from Darien, Connecticut, to Mahwah, New Jersey, you’ve come to the right place! Let’s break down the trip using a couple of popular routes, taking into account current gas prices and toll costs.
Route 1: I-95 and I-287
This is perhaps the most straightforward route, combining scenic views with a smooth drive.
- Distance: 40 miles
- Estimated Time: 50 minutes (depending on traffic)
- Gas Prices: As of now, the average gas price in this area is around $3.50 per gallon. Assuming your vehicle gets about 25 miles per gallon, you’ll need approximately 1.6 gallons of gas, which brings the cost to about $5.60.
- Toll Costs: This route includes a toll of around $6.50 for the George Washington Bridge toll.
So, for Route 1, your total cost comes to roughly $12.10. Not too bad for a fairly quick trip!
Route 2: Merritt Parkway to I-287
If you prefer a more picturesque drive, Route 2 takes you along the Merritt Parkway before hopping onto I-287.
- Distance: 42 miles
- Estimated Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
- Gas Prices: Using the same current gas price of $3.50 per gallon and considering the same fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, you’ll consume roughly 1.68 gallons, which totals about $5.88.
- Toll Costs: This route also incurs a toll fee of around $6.50 for crossing the bridge.
For Route 2, your total cost rounds up to approximately $12.38. Although it takes a bit longer, many find the extra miles worthwhile for the beautiful views.
Additional Considerations
While we've focused on gas and toll costs, it's essential to remember that other factors can influence your total expenses. Things like snacks, stops, and unforeseen traffic conditions may add to your expenditures.
Additionally, if you're traveling on weekends or during peak hours, you might want to factor in some extra time—traffic can get dense around the city!
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, whether you take the straightforward route along I-95 or opt for the scenic Merritt Parkway, your trip from Darien to Mahwah will cost you between $12.10 and $12.38 in gas and tolls. Remember to check for the latest gas prices and toll rates before you hit the road. Safe travels, and enjoy your trip!