Driving Cost from Dover, New Hampshire to Westborough, Massachusetts

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of Driving from Dover, NH to Westborough, MA: A Comprehensive Breakdown

Planning a road trip from Dover, New Hampshire to Westborough, Massachusetts can be exciting, but understanding the costs involved is essential for budgeting. In this article, we will explore various routes, analyze the distances and travel costs, and offer recommendations for the most economical option.

Current Gas Prices

As of October 2023, the average gas price in New England hovers around 3.50 USD per gallon. These prices fluctuate daily, and local variations can significantly impact the total cost of your trip. To provide a comprehensive analysis, we’ll estimate gas costs based on fuel efficiency and average distances for several routes.

Route Overview

When driving from Dover to Westborough, you have multiple options. The two primary routes are:

  1. Route via I-495 South (approximately 71 miles)
  2. Route via I-93 and I-90 (approximately 78 miles)
  3. Scenic Route via NH-125 and MA-85 (approximately 75 miles)

Let’s break down the specifics of each route.

Route 1: Via I-495 South

  • Distance: 71 miles
  • Estimated Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Route Details:
    • Start on US-4 W
    • Merge onto I-95 S
    • Take exit 4B to merge onto I-495 S
    • Then take exit 21 to merge onto MA-9 W
  • Gas Cost Estimate:
    • Average fuel efficiency: 25 miles per gallon
    • Total gallons required: 71 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 2.84 gallons
    • Total cost: 2.84 gallons × 3.50 USD = 9.94 USD

Route 2: Via I-93 and I-90

  • Distance: 78 miles
  • Estimated Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Route Details:
    • Start on US-4 W
    • Merge onto I-95 S
    • Take exit 19B to merge onto I-93 S
    • Merge onto I-90 W
  • Gas Cost Estimate:
    • Average fuel efficiency: 25 miles per gallon
    • Total gallons required: 78 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 3.12 gallons
    • Total cost: 3.12 gallons × 3.50 USD = 10.92 USD

Route 3: Scenic Route via NH-125 and MA-85

  • Distance: 75 miles
  • Estimated Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
  • Route Details:
    • Start on US-4 W
    • Take NH-125 S
    • Merge onto MA-85 S
  • Gas Cost Estimate:
    • Average fuel efficiency: 25 miles per gallon
    • Total gallons required: 75 miles ÷ 25 mpg = 3 gallons
    • Total cost: 3 gallons × 3.50 USD = 10.50 USD

Cost Comparison

Summary of Distance and Cost

Route Distance Estimated Time Gas Cost
I-495 South 71 miles 1 hr 30 min 9.94 USD
I-93 and I-90 78 miles 1 hr 45 min 10.92 USD
Scenic Route via NH-125 75 miles 1 hr 40 min 10.50 USD

Best Route Recommendation

Among the three options, the I-495 South route stands out as the most cost-effective choice. With a distance of 71 miles and the lowest gas cost at 9.94 USD, this route not only saves you money but also minimizes your driving time.

Other Considerations

While cost is a primary factor, it’s also essential to consider traffic and road conditions. The I-495 South route generally avoids major cities and is less likely to have heavy traffic compared to the I-93 and I-90 route. For travelers who prefer a scenic drive, the linkage of NH-125 and MA-85 offers a pleasant experience at a slightly higher cost.

Additional Travel Costs

Beyond fuel expenses, consider other potential costs that you might incur on your trip:

  • Tolls: If you take the I-93 route, be prepared to pay tolls, especially when traveling via I-90. Tolls can vary based on specific routes and vehicles, so check local resources for accurate rates.
  • Food and Snacks: Plan for meal breaks, refreshments, and snacks during your journey. This could add 10 to 30 USD depending on personal preferences.
  • Vehicle Wear and Tear: While less tangible, every trip contributes to the overall maintenance costs of your vehicle (oil changes, tire wear, etc.). Factor in an estimated cost of 0.05 USD per mile for a more comprehensive budget.

Conclusion

The trip from Dover, NH, to Westborough, MA, offers a range of options from direct routes to scenic alternatives. Opting for the I-495 South route not only saves on gas but also provides a quicker travel time. The drive typically takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it ideal for a day trip or a quick getaway. With a total travel cost of approximately 9.94 USD, this route presents the most efficient way to reach your destination, allowing you to enjoy your journey without breaking the bank.