States You'll Cross Driving from New Jersey to Florida

The Classic East Coast Road Trip: NJ to FL

Driving from New Jersey to Florida takes you through six states along the I-95 corridor, offering a cross-section of the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast. The journey spans approximately 900–1,100 miles depending on your exact start and end points.

States in Order (North to South)

1. Delaware – Brief 15-mile crossing via I-95 or US-40
2. Maryland – ~50 miles including Baltimore beltway
3. Virginia – Longest stretch (~180 miles) through Richmond
4. North Carolina – ~180 miles via Raleigh, Fayetteville
5. South Carolina – ~160 miles through Florence, Savannah River
6. Georgia – ~110 miles to the Florida border

Route Options

I-95 (Coastal Route): Most direct, passes major cities. Expect traffic around DC, Richmond, Savannah.

I-85/I-75 (Inland Alternative): From Petersburg, VA take I-85 south to I-75 at Atlanta. Longer but sometimes faster.

US-17/US-301 (Scenic): Slower, more small towns, less congestion.

Key Considerations

• Tolls: Delaware Turnpike ($4), Baltimore tunnels ($4), various VA/NC/SC/GA express lanes
• Traffic Hotspots: DC beltway, Richmond, Fayetteville NC, Savannah GA, Jacksonville FL
• Rest Stops: Well-spaced service plazas on I-95 in DE, MD, VA, NC, SC
• Time Zones: All Eastern Time – no clock changes

Sample Drive Times

• Newark, NJ → Miami, FL: ~15 hours (1,080 miles)
• Atlantic City → Orlando: ~14 hours (950 miles)
• Trenton → Jacksonville: ~12 hours (830 miles)

Plan for 2–3 fuel/food stops. Overnight in Virginia or the Carolinas breaks it comfortably.