The Cost of Driving from Detroit to Columbus: What You Need to Know Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a road trip from Detroit, Michigan to Columbus, Ohio? It’s a fantastic journey that takes you through some picturesque scenery. However, understanding the cost of the trip is essential to ensure you’re well-prepared. Below, we’ll explore different routes, including distance, estimated travel time, and total cost based on current gas prices.
Route 1: I-75 South to I-70 East
Starting off, the most popular route is I-75 South to I-70 East. This route is straightforward and offers a blend of urban and rural landscapes.
- Distance: Approximately 245 miles
- Time: About 3 hours and 45 minutes
To calculate the cost, let’s look at current gas prices. As of now, the average price per gallon is around $3.50 and your vehicle’s fuel efficiency is about 25 miles per gallon. Therefore, you’ll need about 9.8 gallons of gas for the trip, which translates to a total gas cost of approximately $34.30.
Additionally, you might encounter tolls on this route, especially near Akron. Be sure to factor in around $5.00 in tolls for a quick and smooth journey. So, your total cost for this route would be approximately $39.30.
Route 2: I-96 to I-71 South
Another option is taking I-96 East, transitioning onto I-71 South. This route provides a slightly different view and may add a bit of enjoyment to your trip.
- Distance: Roughly 260 miles
- Time: Approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes
For gas on this route, you’ll still be looking at an average gas price of $3.50. With about 10.4 gallons of gas required for this journey, your gas cost will be around $36.40.
This route also has fewer tolls, which is a bonus. You might only spend around $2.00 in toll fees. Therefore, the total estimated cost for this route will be around $38.40.
Route 3: I-94 to US-23 South
Lastly, consider the scenic route via I-94 to US-23 South. This option may take you through more rural areas, offering quaint stops along the way.
- Distance: About 250 miles
- Time: Approximately 4 hours
With gas prices remaining steady at $3.50 per gallon, you’ll need about 10 gallons of fuel for this leg of the trip, putting your gas cost at $35.00.
Like Route 2, the tolls are minimal on this path, totaling around $3.00. Thus, the total cost for this route would be approximately $38.00.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, there are several routes to take from Detroit to Columbus, each with its unique charm. Depending on your chosen path and the gas prices at the time of travel, you can expect to spend between $38.00 and $39.30 on gas and tolls. So, pack your bags, fill up your tank, and hit the road—adventure awaits!