Gas Guzzlin': Are You Paying More or Less Than the National Average at the Pump? (2024)

Mississippi seems to have a more comfortable price range. The lowest gas price today can be attributed to thissouthern state.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.05

According to a local Mississippi news station, WJTV, stable oil prices have kept gas prices in check. A decline in demand at gas pumps has also played into the low prices, but that might not last for long. The upcoming summer travel season could bring in tourists nationwide.

Placing third among the top five states with the lowest gas prices is “The Natural State.” This is most compelling to Arkansans who love to drive and experience the state's abundant parks and wilderness.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.11

While the current gas prices are low, Arkansas may experience an unfortunate increase. According to K8 News, refinery maintenance, the switch to summer gasoline, and a rise in demand all influence gas prices, which could factor into future cost increases.

Louisiana places in the top five states with the lowest gas prices. That would put a smile on anyone's face.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.13

According to a Louisiana news station, KLFY, the state does a lot of refinery for oil. This practice essentially makes gas so the fuel doesn’t have much distance to travel, and there is no extra cost involved, which keeps gas prices at a minimum. What a win for Louisianans!

The last state in the top five with the lowest gas prices is Kansas. “The Sunflower State” is fortunate to have one of the lowest gas prices in America.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.14

Like the other states with low gas costs, Kansas is close to fuel supply and has lower taxes. However, like the other states in its rank, Kansas can also experience a rise in gas prices due to the change in season, refinery maintenance, or high demand.

Tennessee isn't in the top five lowest but is still a state with low gas prices. That's perfect for a day trip to Nashville or the Great Smoky Mountains!

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.16

According to Clarksville Now, the state is experiencing a slack in demand for gas pumps, and oil prices have remained stable. Tennessee haskept its gas prices low, withno anticipation of an increase. Doesn't that make you want to drive and discover what your state has to offer?

Similar to Tennessee, the southeastern state endures fairly low gas prices because of the same reasons: low demand and low crude oil prices.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.20

According to the news station WVTM 13, high inflation could keep lower prices at the pump in action. This isideal for any citizenswho plan to travel to Alabama.

The Palmetto State has lower gas costs because of taxes, or rather a lack thereof. I would say low taxes are two words everyone wants to see.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.20

South Carolina refused to increase the gas tax for several decades. According to The Island Packet, the state has a below-average gas tax, which makes gas more affordable for citizens.

Rhode Island is the smallest state in the United States and is one of the most densely populated. Naturally, there will be a high demand for fuel.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.56

However, with a high demand comes a restricted supply of fuel. Theselimitations have created an uptake in fuel prices.

Nevada is the fifth state with the highest gas price and hasseen a slight decrease. This decline is perfect for anyone wishing to visit the wonderful state.

• Avg. Gas Price: $4.36
• Avg. Gas Price Last Week: $4.62

Travelers who seek Las Vegas or the desert terrain are in for a treat when hitting Nebraska’s state line. Although the gas prices are still quite high, Nevada residents can appreciate the dwindled costs during the current price uptake at the pump.

The Carolinas' gas prices aren’t too high, but one exceeds the other. At an immense 15-cent difference, North Carolina gets the short end of the stick.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.35

Once again, these gas prices can be traced back to the change in seasons. According to The Bladen Journal, it’s not the summer gas blends causing these prices. Rather, it’s the transformation from an above-average winter supply to a summer one. North Carolina also has a higher gas cost because the state has a higher tax rate than its southern counterpart. What an unfortunate end for those who want to visit the coastal state.

Iowa is another state with low gas prices, but that doesn’t prevent it from seeing an increasein the future.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.19

Gas prices have continued to decrease in Iowa, but recently, there has been a rebound due to oil costs. According to the Des Moines Register, oil costs are a significant factor in gas prices;when oil costs rise,so do fuel costs.

While South Dakota’s fuel may be more costly than that ofthe southern states, it is much more affordablethan that ofstates nationwide.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.26

A trend among the previous states is that these high/low gas prices are due to ethanol production, pipeline access, and the state of demand. According to The Argus Leader, these same factors can be said for South Dakota’s gas prices.

Oregon is fourth among the states with the highest gas prices. The Beaver State is home to many tourist attractions, and numbers at the pump might not satisfy travelers.

• Avg. Gas Price: $4.37

The multitude of tourist activities brings in abundant traffic and high fuel demand. Oregon is also far from locations that specialize in oil drilling, which makes transportation costly and affects gas prices.

Coming in second for the lowest gas prices is Oklahoma. At only four cents more than Mississippi, “The Sooner State” has Americans leaving the gas pumps with a little change left in their pockets.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.05

Why might Oklahoma continuously have one of the lowest gas prices? According to The Oklahoman, the state houses several refineries and has lower fuel taxes, which keeps the gas prices at a low, stable cost

While Minnesota gas prices might appear to be on the cheap side, Minnesotans disagree. There is evidence of a rapid strike in gas costs across the state.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.23

According to Kare 11 News, attacks on Russian refiners, the unforeseen shutdown of a fuel facility, and season changes have contributed to the rise in gas prices. This is not ideal for driving to hockey games or visiting the many parks.

Missouri has an average gas price. The pleasing view of these prices will definitely appeal to anyone wishing to visit Branson, Missouri.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.20

According to Thompson Sales Company, the state has four major factors influencing its gas prices: oil and refining costs, taxes, and distribution and marketing. Even though Missouri appears to have more components to its gas costs, the state still has some of the lowest gas prices in the United States.

Nebraska has seen a fortunate decrease in gas prices.Last week, fuel was set at $3.40. Residents arelikely happy for the small reprieve in high fuel costs.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.27

The low costs across the state are perfect for citizens who wish to drive through its agricultural lands and wide plains.

Want to visit New Mexico? Well, the state's gas prices may or may not deter you.New Mexico has seen a rise in fuel costs and one reason for this is international supply and demand.

• Avg. Gas Prices: $3.33

According to TLC Plumbing, a limited supply and high demand worldwide are affecting the state's gas prices. Since New Mexico is at the mercy of nationwide prices, so are its citizens.

Colorado has experienced an alarming increase in gas rates. Last week, average gas prices were $3.18. That is out of this world!

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.35

Much like New Mexico, the reasons for this uptake in fuel costs is because of strong demand and limited supply. But another factor comes into play here: the transportation of gas. The effort it takes to bring fuel to rural or mountainous areas can cause price discrepancies, according to The Summit Daily.

Wyoming is very similar to Colorado in terms of gas prices. Both states are rural and mountainous, which affects fuel costs in many ways, so if you live in Wyoming for its environment, be prepared to pay quite a bit at the pump.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.32

The state has seen a slight decline in fuel prices: a six-cent decrease. Even though this difference might not seem much, Wyoming citizens might appreciate it to save money when visiting its many parks, mountains, and wild buffalos.

The Bluegrass State hasn’t seen a drastic change in gas prices. Last week, the state’s prices were only one cent less than today’s, and last month, they were merely two cents more.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.33

The underwhelming change in fuel prices can be related to the high demand yet limited supply. According to a public radio station in Kentucky, Morehead State, there are various recipes for summer and winter blends that serve to limit pollution and helpthe ozone layer. This important concern affects the average cost of gas.

Recently, Georgia experienced a significant price drop in fuel. What a fortunate outcome!

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.38

The AAA spokeswoman, Montrae Waiters, claimed the price decrease “was a welcome relief to Georgians.” While demand is low at the moment, the upcoming Memorial Day weekend may prompt higher demand, which will increase gas prices.

At ten cents more than its other half, West Virginia has gas prices that aren’t too breathtaking for its residents. However, the small difference might seem like a large sum to West Virginians, and they could wonder why their state has higher gas prices than Virginia.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.50

There are a few reasons the Mountain State has more costly gas prices: refinery and distribution problems. According to the West Virginia Oil Marketers and Association, fuel “delivered to the state has to come by barge and truck”. This is a pricey transportation method. Apparently, West Virginia pays more tax on each gallon of gas than the national average, which isn't good when driving is needed every day.

Several previous states had seasonal changes as one factor in their gas prices, but what exactly does that mean? According to the State Corporation Commission, the weather affects usage volatility or how easily gas evaporates in the air.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.40

Virginia is another state whose gas prices suffer fromthe current weather changes. At the moment, Virginians are witnessing the highest gas prices in three months!

Massachusetts has beautiful nature and charming towns, and fuel costs won't prevent you from seeing them.The state’s gas prices are not too shocking and won't take your breath away when you see the number at gas stations.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.56

Massachusetts and its surrounding states have somethingin common: the new and formidable summery mix affects their gas prices.

Floridians are among the lucky few to experience a reprieve in pump prices. According to CBS News Miami, “Pump prices are drifting lower.”

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.44

The stable gas prices in Florida are welcomed among its citizens, especially for the upcoming Memorial Day weekend.

The northern state is another that hasn’t seen much difference in its gas prices. Montana sits far from large refinery operations, so gasoline must be brought in all the way from Canada, according to The Missoulian.

• Avg. Gas Prices: $3.47

Along with the manymiles fuel has to travel, Montana’s gas prices are higher than others because it has access to smaller refineries than larger ones.

The Grand Canyon State has seen a welcoming decrease in gas prices. Arizona has seen an almost one-dollar decrease at the pump!

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.90
• Avg. Gas Price Last Week: $4.12
• Avg. Gas Price Last Month: $4.63

Even though prices declined, fuel remains expensive in Arizona. High demand, refinery maintenance, and oil prices again revealed themselvesas the reasons for the increase.

Once again, the scorching heat of summer comes into play here. Our climate's rapid change to the warm season prompts a different blend of gas, which raises fuel prices. Not only is the heat scorching, but so is the amount at the pumps!

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.45

Delaware is no exception, and the state is currently experiencing higher gas prices due to the new blend being put into effect across the nation.

The reason for the northeast state’s gas prices is similar to most others (the summer blend). However, in this instance, New Hampshire presents itself with a unique factor in determining thevalue of its fuel: peak-shaving gas plants.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.50

According to the New Hampshire Department of Energy, these gas plants are “located strategically on their distribution systems.” The innovative plants are used as a last resort when more traditional gas supply means are unavailable, and all costs associated with them go into the state’s fuel prices.

Maine is a state of wonder and beauty. It hasbreathtaking scenic views, wonderful coastlines, and many historic sites!However, to witness this charm, gas is needed to get to the destination.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.56

Luckily, Maine’s gas prices are not out of this world expensive. The world, or state, is your oyster!

Residing next to the city that never sleeps, New Jerseyendures massive amounts of travel around holidays.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.52

Summer travel and the predicted high demand at the pump are key reasons for the state’s higher gas prices.

The Big Apple is known for its approach to convenient walking all across the vast city. So why would fuel costs matter to a city that thrives in non-stop moving? As a metropolis that thrives at all times of the day,fuel costs will be important for all of its residents.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.70

The city's celebrity-like nature doesn’t exclude it from the other states across the nation. New York also has higher gas prices because of the summer blend and refinery maintenance.

Framing four of the Great Lakes, citizens residing in Michigan require fuel not just for cars, but boats as well. Gas prices hold great value in the northern state.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.55

Michigan has two forms of transportation that requirequality fuel, which increases demand yet limits supply.

Wisconsin’s fuel costs are cheaper than the national average yet more costly than those of many southern states.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.38

The states neighboring Wisconsin are much higher or lower, with Illinois’s average at $3.74 and Minnesota’s at $3.17, according to theMilwaukee Journal Sentinel. It is expected for Wisconsin’s gas prices to eventually decline in due time.

Last week, gas prices in Maryland were $3.77. The significant difference in prices will stop you in your tracks!

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.54

Maryland residents are probably yelling with joy at the decrease in fuel prices. It wasexpected for the numberto rise, but Maryland is experiencing the opposite and continues to see lower prices at the pump.

Vermont is victim to anincrease in fuel costs. Increasing by twelve cents might not seem much, but when put into perspective for every gallon, the number adds up quickly.

• Avg. Gas Price Today: $3.61
• Avg. Gas Price Last Month: $3.49

As previously stated, refinery maintenance has caused a surge in fuel costs, and Vermont has been affected by this fuel preservation.

The beautiful fall foliage in Connecticut might be tempting to see in the heart of the warm and comfortable summer season, but the gas prices are far from consoling.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.68

Residents of Connecticut can thank high demand, the costly and new summer blend, and higher oil prices for the rise in fuel costs.

The Keystone State has much higher fuel costs than the states surrounding Pennsylvania. A few of these reasons are the same that have affected states across the country, but there is one other factor that has a hand in the above number: taxes.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.76

According to ABC News Channel 6, Pennsylvania has gas taxes that exceed the rate of other states.

Washington has gas prices at an alarming number. Almost five dollars for every gallon!

• Avg. Gas Price: $4.60

The reasons are the same as most other states (the summer season, refineries, etc.). Filling up the gas tank empties the pockets of American citizens living in the presidential state.

Want to see the buckeye trees in Ohio? Don't forget to stop and get gas!

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.59

The West coast is undergoing refinery maintenance that has caused an increase in fuel prices. Only a select few states have witnessed a decline in prices, and Ohio is lucky to be one of them. Last week the average cost of fuel was $3. 65. The welcoming declineis a wonderful sightfor Ohioans.

Compared to some other states, Texas gas prices are much more agreeable.Butthere is still a chance that Texasgas prices will rise.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.14

According to a news release from AAA, the current change to the warmer seasons, higher oil costs, and refinery maintenance all factor into the increasing gas prices. Texas is such a large state, and the many counties it has can be overwhelming. However, the range of locations creates fuel costs that might please or disappoint Texans.

Another North American state facing the brunt of bad luck is North Dakota. Like North Carolina, North Dakota endures higher gas prices than its southern equivalent.

• Avg. Gas Price:$3.32

Like the other states, higher demand factors into North Dakota’s gas prices, but this state has a couple of different reasons for its fuel costs. According to KX News, extreme heat and hurricanes can impact gas prices, and this hurricane season is expected to be ruthless. It looks like North Dakotanswonder ifnorthern states have bad luck withgas prices.

Whether you’re going to see the Indy 500, attending one of the esteemed colleges, or visiting for agricultural purposes fuel is important forany one of these. While the activities may be fun, the enjoyment might disappear when you see the prices for gas.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.60

Indiana is experiencing rising gas taxes, according to the Daily Journal. Despite the rising fuel costs there are ways to save money, such as downloading gas apps and joininggas rewards, that will give you the benefit of the doubt when visiting or living in the midwestern state.

Utah gas prices have remarkably declined since last month. At $0.42 cents short, Utah residents have seen blissful prices at the pump!

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.68
• Avg. Gas Price Last Week: $3.93
• Avg. Gas Price Last Month: $4.10

According to a news station in Utah, Fox 13, there is weak demand and lower oil costs currently present in the state. Utah residents can use the lower fuel costs to their advantage.

At a startling 12-cent increase to its neighbor Utah, Idaho’s gas prices are more on the expensive side. It must be all of those potatoes they’re harvesting!

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.80

Whether you’re a farmer in Idaho or simply a tourist, fuel is important for your everyday adventures. But don’t let the high number intimidate you. Besides gas apps and rewards programs, you can save money on gas with a rewards credit card.

Illinois has seen a slight decrease in fuel prices, but not enough that it satisfies citizens. Gas prices are still high and breaking the bank!

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.90
• Avg. Gas Price Last Week: $3.94
• Avg. Gas Price Last Month: $3.93

However, the high prices could be short-lived: Illinois can expect a decline in fuel costs, according to the Rockford Register Star.

What an alarming number to see at gas pumps! Alaskans witness high numbers for fuel due to two reasons: small oil refineries and high energy costs.

• Avg. Gas Price: $4.33

According to Alaska Public Media, gas stations in the colder state are supplied through smaller refineries, which requires costly energy. So, if you’ve planned a trip to see the northern lights, be sure to consider the cost of fuel.

Hawaii lands second place for the state with the highest gas prices. What an unexpected outcome!The state is surrounded by water, so why would a need for fuel be so important?

• Avg. Gas Price: $4.80

The reason for the costly fuel is importation. According to Hawaii. gov, Hawaii is very dependent on imports to meet its energy levels. This has caused the Aloha State to have one of the most expensive gas prices in America.

Washington, D.C., home of the U.S. Capitol, has gas prices that fall in the middle. They aren’t extremely expensive, but they’re also not cheap.

• Avg. Gas Price: $3.58

However, the difference in fuel costs between the District of Colombia and Washington State is drastic. Residents blissfully know they don’t have to spend almost five dollars a gallon on much-needed fuel.

Have you seen California's gas prices? The number is outrageous! The reason for this price is that Californians have access to a special blend that might be more efficient butcostly to produce.

• Avg. Gas Price: $5.20

Besides the special gas blend, California imposes high taxes on its residents to reduce carbon emissions. It's a noble wayto prevent further deterioration of Earth, but Californians are leaving gas stations with empty pockets.