Driving Cost from Decatur, Georgia to McDonough, Georgia

A picture depicting a gas pump

Understanding the Cost of a Trip from Decatur, Georgia to McDonough, Georgia Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip from Decatur to McDonough, Georgia? Not only will you enjoy the scenic beauty and local culture, but you’ll also want to consider the cost associated with your journey—primarily, the expense of fuel. By evaluating various routes, gas prices, and vehicle fuel efficiency, you can estimate the overall cost of your trip effectively. This article breaks down the different routes you can take, the associated costs, and ultimately recommends the best path for your travel.

Overview of the Journey

The trip from Decatur to McDonough covers a distance of approximately 30 to 40 miles, depending on the route chosen. Georgia's Interstate highways and local roads present several options. Before determining the best course, let’s explore some of the common routes and their costs in detail.

Current Gas Prices

As of October 2023, the average gas price in Georgia hovers around $3.40 per gallon. Given this figure, calculating the cost of fuel for your trip is essential. The actual cost will depend on your vehicle's miles per gallon (mpg) rating. Many compact cars achieve around 30 mpg, while larger vehicles, such as SUVs and trucks, often yield only about 20 mpg.

Route Options

Route 1: I-285 S and I-75 S

One of the most frequently taken routes from Decatur to McDonough is via I-285 S and I-75 S. This route spans approximately 37 miles and usually takes about 45 minutes during non-peak hours.

  • Distance: 37 miles
  • Estimated Driving Time: ~45 minutes
  • Gas Cost Calculation:
    • For a vehicle that gets 30 mpg:
      • Fuel needed: 37 miles / 30 mpg = 1.23 gallons
      • Cost of fuel: 1.23 gallons x $3.40 = approximately $4.18
    • For a vehicle that gets 20 mpg:
      • Fuel needed: 37 miles / 20 mpg = 1.85 gallons
      • Cost of fuel: 1.85 gallons x $3.40 = approximately $6.29

Route 2: US-278 W

Another option is to take US-278 W. This route is slightly shorter, running about 34 miles, and typically takes around 40 minutes, making it a good choice if you want to skip some highway driving.

  • Distance: 34 miles
  • Estimated Driving Time: ~40 minutes
  • Gas Cost Calculation:
    • For a vehicle that gets 30 mpg:
      • Fuel needed: 34 miles / 30 mpg = 1.13 gallons
      • Cost of fuel: 1.13 gallons x $3.40 = approximately $3.84
    • For a vehicle that gets 20 mpg:
      • Fuel needed: 34 miles / 20 mpg = 1.70 gallons
      • Cost of fuel: 1.70 gallons x $3.40 = approximately $5.78

Route 3: I-20 E

The third option involves taking I-20 E, which stretches approximately 39 miles and can take around 50 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. While this route is longer in theory, it could offer a different landscape and a more relaxed drive.

  • Distance: 39 miles
  • Estimated Driving Time: ~50 minutes
  • Gas Cost Calculation:
    • For a vehicle that gets 30 mpg:
      • Fuel needed: 39 miles / 30 mpg = 1.30 gallons
      • Cost of fuel: 1.30 gallons x $3.40 = approximately $4.42
    • For a vehicle that gets 20 mpg:
      • Fuel needed: 39 miles / 20 mpg = 1.95 gallons
      • Cost of fuel: 1.95 gallons x $3.40 = approximately $6.63

Route 4: Local Roads

Using local roads is another alternative route that combines routes with side streets, taking approximately 30 miles but potentially more time-consuming, especially during peak hours due to stop lights and residential areas. Estimated time could vary significantly based on traffic and road conditions.

  • Distance: 30 miles
  • Estimated Driving Time: ~60 minutes
  • Gas Cost Calculation:
    • For a vehicle that gets 30 mpg:
      • Fuel needed: 30 miles / 30 mpg = 1.00 gallons
      • Cost of fuel: 1.00 gallon x $3.40 = approximately $3.40
    • For a vehicle that gets 20 mpg:
      • Fuel needed: 30 miles / 20 mpg = 1.50 gallons
      • Cost of fuel: 1.50 gallons x $3.40 = approximately $5.10

Based on a combination of distance and fuel cost, taking Route 2: US-278 W is the most economical choice for traveling from Decatur to McDonough. It combines a shorter distance with a reasonable fuel expenditure, allowing you to enjoy your trip with less monetary concern. The cost of fuel for compact vehicles is approximately $3.84, while larger vehicles will spend around $5.78.

Alternative option, Route 1 (I-285 S and I-75 S), although longer in distance, doesn’t offer notable savings either, with costs of about $4.18 and $6.29 respectively for the two types of vehicles. While efficiency varies with traffic, Route 2 offers a good balance of time and expense.

Conclusion

Traveling from Decatur to McDonough, Georgia, involves a few route considerations and cost evaluations. The journey typically spans about 30 to 40 miles, and by choosing the right route, you can keep your fuel costs manageable. In about 40 minutes on US-278 W, you can enjoy a smooth drive and a delightful time exploring McDonough. With current gas prices factored in, choosing your route wisely enables you to make the most of your trip without breaking the bank. Safe travels!