Gas Prices by State: Where It’s Cheapest (and Why You’re Overpaying)
Last updated 07/02/2025 by
SuperMoney TeamEdited by
Andrew LathamSummary:
Gas prices vary widely by state due to taxes, supply chains, local demand, and regional regulations. This guide breaks down the latest gas prices by state using AAA data, shows you how to find the cheapest local gas, and offers simple strategies to save at the pump.
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Why gas prices vary by state
Have you ever wondered why gas costs so much more in California than in Texas? Gas prices aren’t just about the cost of crude oil. State taxes, refinery locations, environmental regulations, and demand all play a role. For example, West Coast states often have higher prices due to stricter fuel standards and fewer refineries. In contrast, states like Texas benefit from nearby refineries and lower fuel taxes.
Current gas prices by state (AAA data)
According to the latest AAA data, here are the average prices per gallon of regular gas by state:
| Alaska | $3.714 | $3.916 | $4.149 | $3.928 |
| Alabama | $2.791 | $3.229 | $3.624 | $3.428 |
| Arkansas | $2.793 | $3.239 | $3.610 | $3.359 |
| Arizona | $3.242 | $3.590 | $3.907 | $3.539 |
| California | $4.573 | $4.805 | $4.981 | $5.121 |
| Colorado | $3.063 | $3.455 | $3.776 | $3.373 |
| Connecticut | $3.172 | $3.755 | $4.110 | $3.821 |
| District of Columbia | $3.351 | $3.825 | $4.310 | $3.858 |
| Delaware | $3.191 | $3.748 | $4.047 | $3.800 |
| Florida | $3.125 | $3.574 | $3.891 | $3.640 |
| Georgia | $2.926 | $3.378 | $3.770 | $3.581 |
| Hawaii | $4.475 | $4.730 | $4.964 | $5.256 |
| Iowa | $2.978 | $3.224 | $3.763 | $3.568 |
| Idaho | $3.428 | $3.699 | $3.975 | $3.812 |
| Illinois | $3.445 | $4.037 | $4.501 | $3.737 |
| Indiana | $3.181 | $3.737 | $4.232 | $3.744 |
| Kansas | $2.902 | $3.234 | $3.563 | $3.438 |
| Kentucky | $2.866 | $3.419 | $3.837 | $3.394 |
| Louisiana | $2.787 | $3.228 | $3.596 | $3.295 |
| Massachusetts | $3.073 | $3.663 | $4.048 | $3.856 |
| Maryland | $3.238 | $3.819 | $4.127 | $3.829 |
| Maine | $3.090 | $3.625 | $4.097 | $3.888 |
| Michigan | $3.205 | $3.781 | $4.335 | $3.669 |
| Minnesota | $3.019 | $3.402 | $3.841 | $3.629 |
| Missouri | $2.845 | $3.209 | $3.529 | $3.362 |
| Mississippi | $2.712 | $3.166 | $3.527 | $3.266 |
| Montana | $3.278 | $3.585 | $3.916 | $3.658 |
| North Carolina | $2.892 | $3.339 | $3.731 | $3.505 |
| North Dakota | $2.961 | $3.286 | $3.651 | $3.432 |
| Nebraska | $2.960 | $3.159 | $3.649 | $3.431 |
| New Hampshire | $3.031 | $3.600 | $4.019 | $3.815 |
| New Jersey | $3.150 | $3.699 | $3.941 | $3.725 |
| New Mexico | $2.908 | $3.296 | $3.596 | $3.429 |
| Nevada | $3.779 | $4.079 | $4.350 | $3.884 |
| New York | $3.204 | $3.716 | $4.092 | $3.934 |
| Ohio | $2.931 | $3.469 | $3.975 | $3.605 |
| Oklahoma | $2.751 | $3.143 | $3.436 | $3.242 |
| Oregon | $4.037 | $4.278 | $4.523 | $4.473 |
| Pennsylvania | $3.353 | $3.795 | $4.168 | $4.033 |
| Rhode Island | $3.044 | $3.765 | $4.116 | $3.814 |
| South Carolina | $2.831 | $3.286 | $3.660 | $3.496 |
| South Dakota | $2.995 | $3.173 | $3.645 | $3.348 |
| Tennessee | $2.767 | $3.219 | $3.619 | $3.425 |
| Texas | $2.735 | $3.190 | $3.547 | $3.205 |
| Utah | $3.331 | $3.601 | $3.833 | $3.548 |
| Virginia | $3.096 | $3.567 | $3.950 | $3.660 |
| Vermont | $3.140 | $3.693 | $4.103 | $3.841 |
| Washington | $4.419 | $4.695 | $4.919 | $4.944 |
| Wisconsin | $2.958 | $3.484 | $3.972 | $3.499 |
| West Virginia | $3.082 | $3.509 | $3.956 | $3.622 |
| Wyoming | $3.151 | $3.426 | $3.711 | $3.523 |
These prices can change daily, so for the most accurate info, visit AAA’s interactive map.
Use this tool to find the cheapest gas near you
The best way to save on fuel is by comparing prices in your area. Use the official FuelEconomy.gov price finder. It lets you search by zip code and shows real-time prices at local stations. You might be surprised how much you can save by driving just one mile further.
Tips to save money on gas
- Use gas rewards apps: Apps like GasBuddy, Upside, and even grocery store rewards can offer cash back or discounts.
- Drive efficiently: Avoid sudden stops and starts, and don’t idle too long.
- Maintain your car: Keep tires inflated and get regular oil changes to boost fuel efficiency.
- Plan smart routes: Combine errands to reduce miles driven.
- Go easy on the AC: Using air conditioning constantly can lower your miles per gallon.
How taxes affect gas prices
Each state adds its own tax on top of the federal gas tax (18.4 cents per gallon). States like Pennsylvania and California have the highest fuel taxes, often adding over 50 cents per gallon. These taxes fund road repairs and infrastructure, but they also raise your fuel bill. Knowing your state’s fuel tax can help you understand why you’re paying more—or less—at the pump.
Why AAA data is the gold standard
AAA tracks daily fuel price averages across the U.S. using a combination of credit card transactions, direct reports, and station surveys. It’s trusted by news outlets and analysts for a reason. It also updates regularly, making it ideal for anyone who wants to stay ahead of price hikes.
Frequently asked questions
Why are gas prices higher in some states?
Several factors play a role, including state fuel taxes, distance from refineries, local demand, and environmental regulations.
Where can I check the latest gas prices?
The best sources are AAA and FuelEconomy.gov.
Are gas price apps reliable?
Yes. Apps like GasBuddy and Upside crowdsource data and offer discounts or cash back.
What time of day is cheapest to buy gas?
Usually early in the week and early in the day—Monday mornings often have lower prices than weekends.
Can I save money by crossing state lines for gas?
Yes, especially if you’re near a state with lower taxes. Use price-finding tools to check before you go.
Key takeaways
- Gas prices vary significantly by state due to taxes and supply factors
- AAA and FuelEconomy.gov offer real-time tools to check local prices
- Apps and smart driving habits can lower your fuel bill
- State taxes play a big role in how much you pay at the pump
- Staying informed helps you make better fuel budgeting decisions
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