Driving Cost from Durham, New Hampshire to Methuen, Massachusetts

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost-Effective Journey from Durham, New Hampshire to Methuen, Massachusetts Based on Current Gas Prices

Planning a road trip from Durham, New Hampshire, to Methuen, Massachusetts, requires not only excitement for the journey but also budget considerations. In this article, we will take a closer look at various routes, calculate the associated costs based on gas prices, and recommend the best option for your trip.

Distance and Travel Time Overview

Before delving into route specifics, let’s establish the distance and travel time between Durham and Methuen. The distance between these two locations is approximately 60 miles. Depending on traffic, weather conditions, and your chosen route, you can expect a travel time of about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Current Gas Prices

As of October 2023, the national average gas price hovers around $3.50 per gallon. However, prices can fluctuate based on location, local taxes, and supply-demand dynamics. For the sake of this trip analysis, we'll use this average to calculate the gas cost for various routes.

Possible Routes

Let's explore the main driving routes from Durham to Methuen, detailing both the distance and estimated fuel costs.

Route 1: Via I-95 S and I-495 S

  • Distance: Approximately 60 miles
  • Travel Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Estimated Gas Cost: 2 gallons

This route primarily follows I-95 South before merging onto I-495 South. The highway offers a relatively straightforward path with minimal turns, making it popular among travelers. Using an average vehicle fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, the cost calculation would be:

[ \text = \frac{\text}{\text} \times \text ] [ = \frac{60 \text}{25 \text} \times 3.50 = $8.40 ]

Route 2: Via US-4 W and I-93 S

  • Distance: Approximately 60 miles
  • Travel Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Estimated Gas Cost: 2 gallons

This route starts on US-4 West, taking you through some scenic landscapes before you join I-93 South. While this path offers beautiful views, it features more traffic lights and stops, potentially adding to your travel time. Using the same cost calculation:

[ \text = \frac{60 \text}{25 \text} \times 3.50 = $8.40 ]

Route 3: Via NH-125 S

  • Distance: Approximately 52 miles
  • Travel Time: About 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Estimated Gas Cost: 2 gallons

Taking NH-125 South might seem attractive due to its shorter distance. However, the road’s characteristics include more winding roads and less predictable traffic. The calculation remains the same:

[ \text = \frac{52 \text}{25 \text} \times 3.50 = $7.28 ]

Summary of Costs

Route Distance Estimated Travel Time Estimated Gas Cost
I-95 S and I-495 S 60 miles 1 hour 15 min $8.40
US-4 W and I-93 S 60 miles 1 hour 30 min $8.40
NH-125 S 52 miles 1 hour 10 min $7.28

After considering distance, travel time, and fuel costs, the best route for your trip from Durham to Methuen is NH-125 S. This route not only minimizes the distance to 52 miles but also provides a slightly quicker travel time of 1 hour and 10 minutes, along with the lowest estimated gas cost of around $7.28. If you prefer less traffic and more scenic views, NH-125 S could also offer charming aesthetics that enhance your journey.

Final Considerations

Before embarking on your trip, take into account the factors influencing gas prices. Fluctuating prices can lead to varying overall trip costs. Also, factor in any potential tolls along the route you select, as they can add to your overall expenses. Choosing NH-125 S not only provides a cost-effective solution but also allows you to enjoy a pleasant drive through New Hampshire’s picturesque landscapes.

Conclusion

Traveling from Durham, New Hampshire, to Methuen, Massachusetts, via NH-125 S is a great option for budget-conscious travelers. Covering a distance of approximately 52 miles, the journey takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes while costing around $7.28 in gas. Opt for this route for a scenic, efficient, and cost-effective trip!