Driving from Detroit to Asbury Park: The Cost Breakdown Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a road trip from Detroit, Michigan, to Asbury Park, New Jersey? It’s an exciting journey that blends the charm of the Midwest with the coastal beauty of the East Coast. However, before you hit the road, it’s essential to consider your travel costs. In this post, we’ll break down the different routes, the distance of each, their estimated driving times, and the gas and toll expenses you can expect along the way.
Route 1: The Fastest Path – Via I-80 E
This popular route takes you through Ohio and Pennsylvania before reaching New Jersey. It's a straightforward drive that combines highways and interstates.
- Distance: Approximately 600 miles
- Time: Expect about 9 hours of driving time.
Fuel Cost
As of October 2023, gas prices in the Midwest average around $3.50 per gallon. Assuming your vehicle averages 25 miles per gallon:
- Total gallons needed: 600 miles / 25 mpg = 24 gallons
- Estimated fuel cost: 24 gallons x $3.50 = $84.00
Toll Costs
Additionally, this route includes some tolls, especially in Illinois and along parts of the Pennsylvania Turnpike. Plan for around $50 in tolls.
Total Estimated Cost for Route 1
So, when you combine everything:
- Total fuel cost: $84.00
- Toll costs: $50.00
- Total: $134.00
Route 2: The Scenic Route – Via I-90 E and I-95 S
If you’re looking to enjoy some scenic views, consider this alternative route that takes you along Lake Erie and further south through New York.
- Distance: Approximately 650 miles
- Time: Allow 10.5 hours for this scenic journey.
Fuel Cost
With similar gas prices, let’s calculate for this longer route. If your vehicle still averages 25 miles per gallon:
- Total gallons needed: 650 miles / 25 mpg = 26 gallons
- Estimated fuel cost: 26 gallons x $3.50 = $91.00
Toll Costs
This route also features multiple tolls, especially around New York state. Budget around $60 for toll expenses.
Total Estimated Cost for Route 2
When you add everything together for this more picturesque route:
- Total fuel cost: $91.00
- Toll costs: $60.00
- Total: $151.00
Route 3: The Budget-Friendly Approach – Via I-75 S and I-295 E
For those looking to save a little more, this route might take slightly longer, but it can offer savings on both gas and tolls while still providing a pleasant drive.
- Distance: Approximately 620 miles
- Time: Prepare for about 10 hours on the road.
Fuel Cost
Sticking with the current gas prices:
- Total gallons needed: 620 miles / 25 mpg = 24.8 gallons
- Estimated fuel cost: 24.8 gallons x $3.50 = $86.80
Toll Costs
This route features lower toll fees, roughly around $30 overall.
Total Estimated Cost for Route 3
Putting it all together gives you:
- Total fuel cost: $86.80
- Toll costs: $30.00
- Total: $116.80
Conclusion
In summary, whether you’re looking for the fastest, the most scenic, or the most budget-friendly route, each choice has its benefits. Route 1 sets the stage at around $134.00, while Route 2, the scenic option, rings in at about $151.00. On the other hand, if you're looking to keep your costs down, Route 3 offers a total of $116.80.
No matter which route you choose, remember to enjoy the journey and the exciting sights along the way. Buckle up and have a fantastic trip from Detroit to Asbury Park!