Driving Cost from Dover, New Hampshire to Springfield, Massachusetts

A picture depicting a gas pump

Calculating the Costs: A Trip from Dover, New Hampshire to Springfield, Massachusetts

Planning a road trip between Dover, New Hampshire, and Springfield, Massachusetts can bring excitement but also raises questions about costs, routes, and travel times. With current gas prices fluctuating, understanding the financial implications of your journey is crucial for budgeting. This comprehensive guide will take you through the different routes available, their associated costs, and the best option for your trip.

Overview of the Journey

Dover, a charming city in New Hampshire, is located approximately 90 miles from Springfield, Massachusetts. The journey offers both scenic viewpoints and quaint roadside attractions. However, the route you choose can significantly affect travel time, gas consumption, and overall expenses.

Current Gas Prices

As of October 2023, the average price for a gallon of regular gasoline hovers around $3.30. However, prices may vary based on location, station, and local taxes. For the purpose of this trip, we'll use this average to provide a detailed estimate of gas expenses associated with different routes.

Route Options

Route 1: I-95 South to I-495 South

Distance: Approximately 95 miles
Driving Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Gas Cost: Approximately $11.00

Description:
This route kicks off by taking I-95 South from Dover, then merging onto I-495 South. It showcases a convenient and direct path to Springfield, featuring well-maintained highways. The route passes through several smaller towns, offering quick access to amenities as needed.

Cost Breakdown:

  1. Total Distance: 95 miles
  2. Mileage: The average car achieves about 25 miles per gallon.
  3. Gas Needed: 95 miles / 25 mpg = 3.8 gallons
  4. Gas Expense: 3.8 gallons x $3.30 = $12.54 (approximately)

Route 2: Route 16 to I-95 South

Distance: Approximately 97 miles
Driving Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Gas Cost: Approximately $11.20

Description:
This route utilizes Route 16 before connecting to I-95 South. While slightly longer in distance, this path can be visually appealing, especially if you appreciate coastal views. You will drive through areas with more natural scenery compared to the highways.

Cost Breakdown:

  1. Total Distance: 97 miles
  2. Mileage: The average car achieves about 25 miles per gallon.
  3. Gas Needed: 97 miles / 25 mpg = 3.88 gallons
  4. Gas Expense: 3.88 gallons x $3.30 = $12.78 (approximately)

Route 3: I-93 to I-90 West

Distance: Approximately 103 miles
Driving Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Gas Cost: Approximately $12.50

Description:
Traveling via I-93 and then I-90 represents a classic New England road trip. While it is the longest route, traffic conditions often dictate travel time more than the distance itself. The beautiful countryside and quaint towns along the way can enhance the overall journey, making it pleasant despite the extra miles.

Cost Breakdown:

  1. Total Distance: 103 miles
  2. Mileage: The average car achieves about 25 miles per gallon.
  3. Gas Needed: 103 miles / 25 mpg = 4.12 gallons
  4. Gas Expense: 4.12 gallons x $3.30 = $13.60 (approximately)

Route 4: Scenic Route through NH Route 125

Distance: Approximately 100 miles
Driving Time: 2 hours
Gas Cost: Approximately $12.00

Description:
Choosing a scenic route via NH Route 125 may add travel time but rewards you with stunning New England landscapes and charming farms. Although this route entails more turns and potentially slower speeds, it’s ideal for those who want to enjoy the scenery rather than simply reaching their destination quickly.

Cost Breakdown:

  1. Total Distance: 100 miles
  2. Mileage: The average car achieves about 25 miles per gallon.
  3. Gas Needed: 100 miles / 25 mpg = 4.0 gallons
  4. Gas Expense: 4.0 gallons x $3.30 = $13.20 (approximately)

After analyzing these various options, the best route from Dover to Springfield is I-95 South to I-495 South. It balances both time and cost effectively. It is the shortest drive distance and should take approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, allowing for stops and the occasional traffic delay, which is typical in New England.

Final Costs and Considerations

Based on the recommended route, the total estimated cost of fuel will be around $12.54. However, it’s prudent to factor in additional expenses such as tolls, food, or tourist stops, which can elevate your trip cost.

Conclusion

Traveling from Dover, New Hampshire, to Springfield, Massachusetts, offers a chance to explore scenic New England while enjoying a relatively inexpensive road trip. With the most efficient route taking about 1 hour and 45 minutes and an estimated gas expense of approximately $12.54, you can embark on this journey with confidence. Prepare your vehicle, plot updates for gas prices, and enjoy the ride!