Driving Cost from Duluth, Georgia to Buford, Georgia

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The Cost of a Trip from Duluth to Buford: Navigating Routes and Gas Prices

Traveling between proximity cities like Duluth and Buford, Georgia, offers not only an enjoyable journey but also a chance to assess costs, including fuel expenditures. With fluctuating gas prices, planning your route effectively can help save money. In this article, we'll explore different possible routes, discuss their distances, and give a detailed overview of expected travel costs.

Overview of Duluth and Buford

Duluth and Buford are located in Gwinnett and Hall counties, respectively. Although only about 15 miles apart, the journey involves several options depending on traffic conditions, road works, and personal preferences. As of current gas prices, which fluctuate around $3.20 per gallon, we’ll break down the costs associated with these routes.

Routes from Duluth to Buford

Route 1: I-85 N and GA-20 W

Distance: Approximately 18 miles
Estimated Time: 25-30 minutes (depending on traffic)
Cost of Fuel: $2.89

Taking the I-85 North exit is one of the most straightforward routes from Duluth to Buford. Start by heading west along GA-120 and merging onto I-85 N. This route runs alongside several shopping areas and offers easy access to amenities should you wish to make a pit stop.

Cost Breakdown:

  • Average fuel efficiency for a common vehicle (25 MPG)
  • Fuel needed = Distance / Fuel Efficiency = 18 miles / 25 MPG = 0.72 gallons
  • Cost = Fuel Needed * Gas Price = 0.72 gallons * $3.20/gallon = $2.30

Route 2: Peachtree Industrial Blvd

Distance: Approximately 17 miles
Estimated Time: 25-30 minutes (light traffic)
Cost of Fuel: $3.29

The Peachtree Industrial Boulevard route is slightly shorter but can be subject to stoplights and urban traffic, which may affect overall travel time. It's a more scenic route, featuring local parks and small businesses along the way.

Cost Breakdown:

  • Average fuel efficiency for a common vehicle (25 MPG)
  • Fuel needed = 17 miles / 25 MPG = 0.68 gallons
  • Cost = 0.68 gallons * $3.20/gallon = $2.17

Route 3: GA-13 N

Distance: Approximately 20 miles
Estimated Time: 30-35 minutes (more time during congested hours)
Cost of Fuel: $3.10

Using GA-13 N provides an alternative for those looking to avoid highway travel while still maintaining a relatively direct route. This road is slightly longer but allows for a more relaxed drive away from the interstates.

Cost Breakdown:

  • Average fuel efficiency for a common vehicle (25 MPG)
  • Fuel needed = 20 miles / 25 MPG = 0.8 gallons
  • Cost = 0.8 gallons * $3.20/gallon = $2.56

Summary of Costs and Times

When analyzing the routes mentioned, here’s a summary of the costs you can expect at the current gas prices:

  1. I-85 N and GA-20 W:

    • Distance: 18 miles
    • Estimated Time: 25-30 minutes
    • Fuel Cost: $2.30

  2. Peachtree Industrial Blvd:

    • Distance: 17 miles
    • Estimated Time: 25-30 minutes
    • Fuel Cost: $2.17

  3. GA-13 N:

    • Distance: 20 miles
    • Estimated Time: 30-35 minutes
    • Fuel Cost: $2.56

After examining the various routes between Duluth and Buford, the Peachtree Industrial Blvd route stands out as the optimal choice. Although it shares a similar time frame with the I-85 route, its shorter distance and scenic stops provide an enjoyable drive. Moreover, it also offers the lowest fuel cost of approximately $2.17, making it economical as well.

Additional Considerations

While fuel costs are a significant factor, other considerations during your trip may include:

  • Traffic Conditions: At different times of the day, traffic can heavily influence travel time. Monitoring real-time traffic updates can help you make smarter decisions regarding the best time to depart.
  • Weather Conditions: Rainy days may necessitate slower speeds, increasing travel time and potentially affecting fuel efficiency.
  • Vehicle Efficiency: The calculations provided are based on average fuel efficiency. A more fuel-efficient vehicle could yield even lower costs.

Conclusion

The trip from Duluth to Buford, primarily taking the Peachtree Industrial Blvd, should take around 25-30 minutes and costs approximately $2.17 in fuel under current gas prices. This route showcases local attractions, offers a pleasant atmosphere, and minimizes your fuel expenses. With such a short distance and manageable travel time, this trip becomes a seamless part of daily life in Georgia—a balance of efficiency, cost, and enjoyment.