Driving Cost from Delaware to Maryland

A picture depicting a gas pump

The Cost of Traveling from Delaware to Maryland: A Comprehensive Guide Based on Current Gas Prices

Traveling between Delaware and Maryland can be an enjoyable journey filled with scenic views and rich history. However, understanding the cost of your trip, especially related to gas prices, helps you budget more efficiently. In this article, we'll break down the different routes available, calculate the expected costs based on current gas prices, and recommend the best option for your trip.

Current Gas Prices

As of October 2023, average gas prices in the mid-Atlantic region hover around $3.50 per gallon. These prices may fluctuate, but we'll use this average for our calculations throughout the article. We will also base our trip calculations on a vehicle that has an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon.

Route Options

There are several popular routes to take when traveling between Delaware and Maryland, particularly if starting from Wilmington, DE, and heading to Salisbury, MD. Let’s explore the three most common routes, their distances, and the associated costs.

Route 1: I-95 to US-13

  • Distance: Approximately 115 miles
  • Estimated Driving Time: 2 hours
  • Route Description: Begin on I-95 towards the south, then choose US-13 for a more scenic route through rural Delaware. This route takes you alongside the Delmarva Peninsula and ends in southern Maryland.

Cost Calculation:

  1. Total miles: 115 miles
  2. Fuel consumption: 115 miles / 25 miles per gallon = 4.6 gallons
  3. Total gas cost: 4.6 gallons x $3.50 = $16.10

Route 2: US-301

  • Distance: Approximately 115 miles
  • Estimated Driving Time: 2 hours to 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Route Description: This route takes you through Maryland's heartland via US-301. It passes through several small towns and provides a direct connection without much traffic.

Cost Calculation:

  1. Total miles: 115 miles
  2. Fuel consumption: 115 miles / 25 miles per gallon = 4.6 gallons
  3. Total gas cost: 4.6 gallons x $3.50 = $16.10

Route 3: I-495 to I-95

  • Distance: Approximately 120 miles
  • Estimated Driving Time: About 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Route Description: This route takes I-495 around Washington, D.C., then merges onto I-95 South, which can experience heavy traffic. Despite being slightly longer, it can sometimes be faster depending on the time of day.

Cost Calculation:

  1. Total miles: 120 miles
  2. Fuel consumption: 120 miles / 25 miles per gallon = 4.8 gallons
  3. Total gas cost: 4.8 gallons x $3.50 = $16.80

Comparison of Costs and Distances

Route Distance Estimated Time Gas Cost
I-95 to US-13 115 miles 2 hours $16.10
US-301 115 miles 2 hours to 2 hours 15 minutes $16.10
I-495 to I-95 120 miles 2 hours 15 minutes $16.80

Best Route Recommendation

The most cost-effective and time-efficient route for traveling between Delaware and Maryland remains EITHER I-95 to US-13 or US-301, both leading to approximately 115 miles and $16.10 in gas costs. Both routes allow you to travel comfortably without breaking the bank. If time is a key factor, US-301 might be the best option due to its lower likelihood of traffic issues compared to I-495.

Additional Costs to Consider

While gas expenses significantly impact your budget, several other costs may arise during your trip:

Tolls

If you opt for the I-495 to I-95 route near Washington, D.C., you should also account for tolls, which can vary based on the time of day and payment methods. Expect to pay about $2 to $5 in tolls each way.

Food and Beverages

If your trip lasts over a few hours, you might want food and beverages—adding another $10 to $20 depending on your preferences. Fast food chains along the routes could offer cost-effective options.

Miscellaneous Fees

Think of parking fees ($5 to $20 depending on your destination), restroom breaks, or any additional sightseeing fees! It is wise to budget some extra cash for such incidents.

Conclusion

Traveling from Delaware to Maryland offers various scenic routes and relatively low gas costs. By choosing to follow either the I-95 to US-13 or US-301, you can complete the journey in about 2 hours while only spending around $16.10 on fuel. Enjoy the beautiful landscape while keeping your budget in check, and explore the various attractions that await you in both states. Safe travels!