The Cost of a Trip from Derry, New Hampshire to Milford, Massachusetts: A Gas Price Perspective
Planning a trip from Derry, New Hampshire, to Milford, Massachusetts, involves more than just picking a route. Travelers must consider the cost of fuel, distance, and time. With fluctuating gas prices, this article will help you understand the potential expenses and provide insights into different routes.
Overview of the Trip
Traveling from Derry to Milford covers approximately 60 miles, depending on the route chosen. The journey typically takes about an hour to an hour and a half under normal traffic conditions.
As of October 2023, average gas prices in New England hover around $3.60 per gallon. For our calculations, we will assume your vehicle has a fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon. This will allow us to estimate the cost of trips via different routes.
Route Options
There are three primary routes to consider for this trip: Route 93 to Route 2, Route 101 to Route 146, and the scenic back roads via Route 28. Let’s break down each route in terms of distance, fuel cost, and travel time.
Route 1: Via Route 93 and Route 2
The fastest and most direct route uses Interstate 93 and then transitions to Route 2.
- Distance: Approximately 65 miles
- Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Fuel Cost Calculation:
- Total Miles: 65
- Fuel Efficiency: 25 miles per gallon
- Gallons Needed: 65 / 25 = 2.6 gallons
- Total Fuel Cost: 2.6 gallons × $3.60 = $9.36
Advantages: This route is straightforward, mostly highway driving, which should help maintain a higher average speed. Extra lanes and direct access to major interstates reduce the chances of getting stuck in traffic.
Disadvantages: While it is the fastest, some may find it less scenic and more commercial.
Route 2: Via Route 101 and Route 146
This alternative path takes travelers through Route 101, connecting to Route 146.
- Distance: Approximately 60 miles
- Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Fuel Cost Calculation:
- Total Miles: 60
- Fuel Efficiency: 25 miles per gallon
- Gallons Needed: 60 / 25 = 2.4 gallons
- Total Fuel Cost: 2.4 gallons × $3.60 = $8.64
Advantages: This route offers less highway driving and more local landscapes. Travelers can enjoy the New England scenery, making it a more pleasant trip.
Disadvantages: While the distance is shorter, the travel time is longer due to potential stops and slower-paced driving.
Route 3: Scenic Back Roads via Route 28
If you prefer a more scenic route, consider taking the back roads via Route 28, which meanders through small towns and countryside.
- Distance: Approximately 70 miles
- Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Fuel Cost Calculation:
- Total Miles: 70
- Fuel Efficiency: 25 miles per gallon
- Gallons Needed: 70 / 25 = 2.8 gallons
- Total Fuel Cost: 2.8 gallons × $3.60 = $10.08
Advantages: This route presents the opportunity to enjoy picturesque views, quaint towns, and local eateries. It’s ideal for individuals hoping to take a leisurely drive.
Disadvantages: It’s significantly longer in terms of both distance and travel time.
Comparing the Routes
When considering cost and travel time, here’s a summary of each route's total estimated expenses and times:
| Route | Distance (miles) | Estimated Time | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Via Route 93 & Route 2 | 65 | 1h 15m | $9.36 |
| Via Route 101 & Route 146 | 60 | 1h 30m | $8.64 |
| Scenic Back Roads (Route 28) | 70 | 1h 45m | $10.08 |
Recommended Route
Based on the above comparison, the best route for budget-conscious and time-efficient travelers is Route 101 to Route 146, where you will cover 60 miles at a cost of $8.64 and a driving time of 1 hour 30 minutes. This route balances both travel time and fuel cost effectively.
While Route 93 offers quicker travel, it slightly increases the fuel cost, and if you opt for the scenic Route 28, the extra distance will hit your wallet harder.
Final Thoughts
The trip from Derry, New Hampshire, to Milford, Massachusetts, is relatively short and manageable, with various routes to explore. The journey on Route 101 to Route 146 provides the best balance between efficiency and cost at approximately $8.64. Expect your trip to take about 1 hour and 30 minutes, allowing you plenty of time to enjoy Milford’s attractions or the beautiful local scenery along the way. Whichever route you choose, make sure to drive safely and enjoy the ride!