Regan Brown
The price of car fuel in the USA has been subject to fluctuations in recent years, impacted by various factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, and the country's economic sanctions against Russia. In 2023, the average price of gasoline in the US was $3.52 per gallon, a decrease from $3.95 in 2022. The cost of filling up a car varies depending on the model, with the Ram 2500 being the most expensive at $106.12 in 2024. The price of car fuel also differs across states, with California, Nevada, and Indiana experiencing notable increases in 2025.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| National average gas price (as of Apr. 03, 2025) | $3.22 per gallon |
| Previous week's average gas price (as of Mar. 27, 2025) | $3.13 per gallon |
| Annual average gas price (2025) | $3.10 |
| Most expensive week to buy gas in 2025 | Apr. 03, 2025 ($3.22 per gallon) |
| Cheapest state to buy gas (as of Apr. 03, 2025) | Hawaii ($2.80 per gallon) |
| Second cheapest states to buy gas (as of Apr. 03, 2025) | Tennessee ($2.81 per gallon) |
| Second cheapest states to buy gas (as of Apr. 03, 2025) | Oklahoma ($2.81 per gallon) |
| Average gas price over the last seven years | $3.05 per gallon |
| Average monthly gas cost across the 50 US states | $177.85 |
| Most expensive model to fill up (2024) | Ram 2500 ($106.12) |
| Most expensive SUVs to fill up | Jeep Grand Cherokee ($81.50) |
| Most expensive SUVs to fill up | Toyota 4Runner ($81.50) |
| Most expensive sedan to fill up | Toyota Camry ($52.39) |
| Cheapest model to fill up | Honda Civic ($41.12) |
| Second cheapest model to fill up | Toyota Corolla Cross ($41.12) |
| Third cheapest model to fill up | Mazda CX-30 ($42.11) |
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What You'll Learn
Electric cars are cheaper to run than gas-powered cars
The cost of running a car in the USA depends on a variety of factors, including the type of car, the state, and the cost of fuel. As of April 2025, the national average gas price is $3.22 per gallon, with prices varying across states. For instance, gas prices in California are higher than in Tennessee or Oklahoma.
When comparing electric cars with gas-powered cars, it is important to consider not only the upfront cost but also the long-term running costs. Electric vehicles (EVs) are generally cheaper to run than gas-powered cars, offering significant savings on fuel costs. A 2018 study by the University of Michigan's Transportation Research Institute found that the average cost to fuel an electric car was $485 a year, while a gas-powered vehicle cost $1,117. Additionally, a 2020 Consumer Reports study showed that EV drivers spend about 60% less on fuel each year compared to drivers of gas-powered cars.
The cost of charging an electric car depends on various factors, such as the charging method, location, and electricity rates. Charging an EV at home may cost around $40 per month, assuming an average home electricity cost of 14 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh) and a mileage of 14,000 miles per year. However, charging at a Level 3 fast-charging station could be more expensive, with providers like EVgo charging $0.25 per kWh, plus a $7 monthly subscription fee.
While the price of electricity can vary across states and cities, it is worth noting that gas costs are almost always higher than electricity costs. Even in a worst-case scenario, gas costs double the price of electricity. Furthermore, the growing EV market is driving down prices, with automakers offering reduced prices and federal incentives for eligible buyers.
When considering the overall cost of ownership, depreciation is a critical factor. EVs tend to depreciate faster than gas-powered cars due to their initially higher cost. However, as the technology advances and becomes more affordable, this gap is expected to narrow. Additionally, factors such as financing options, loan terms, and insurance costs can impact the total cost of ownership for both EV and gas-powered vehicles.
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Gas prices vary across US states
Gas prices in the US vary across different states and regions. As of April 2025, the national average gas price is $3.22 per gallon, up from $3.13 the week before. This is higher than the annual average for 2025, which stands at $3.10.
Gas prices are influenced by various factors, including local and state taxes, environmental regulations, reliance on local production or imports, and the proximity of refineries. For instance, in 2023, Georgia had the cheapest fuel prices as the state government had suspended gas tax to help residents cope with inflation. States close to refineries, such as Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama, often benefit from lower gas prices. On the other hand, West Coast states typically have higher gas prices.
The cost of gas also depends on the distance it needs to be transported, with higher transportation costs leading to higher retail prices. Events that disrupt gasoline production or supply can cause prices to rise. For example, in the week of June 16, 2022, gas prices hit a record high of $4.99 per gallon nationwide, with Californians paying $6.43 per gallon.
The type of vehicle also impacts fuel costs. For instance, the most expensive model to fill up in 2024 was the Ram 2500, costing $106.12 at the pump, while the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla Cross cost around $41 for a full tank. Switching to a fully electric vehicle can result in significant savings, with estimates ranging from $105 to $138 in monthly fuel cost savings.
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Gas prices in 2025 are higher than the seven-year average
Gas prices in the United States have been steadily increasing, with the national average gas price rising from $3.13 per gallon on 27 March 2025 to $3.22 per gallon on 3 April 2025. This increase of $0.09 per gallon or about 3% has impacted 49 out of the 51 states. The current national average cost of gas in the US is $3.22 as of 3 April 2025, with the annual average for 2025 being $3.10. This is higher than the seven-year average of $3.05 per gallon.
The price of gas varies across different states. For instance, California, Nevada, and Arizona typically experience higher gas prices due to their geographic isolation and stricter regulations. In April 2025, California saw an increase of $0.25, while Nevada and Indiana experienced rises of $0.22 and $0.19, respectively. On the other hand, Tennessee and Hawaii witnessed slight decreases in gas prices.
Several factors contribute to the fluctuations in gas prices. One significant factor is the transition refineries make each year from winter-blended gasoline to a less polluting summer blend. This transition can add about 15 to 20 cents to the price per gallon due to the oxygenates used in the summer blend. Additionally, refinery closures or reductions in refinery production can impact gas prices. For example, the expected closure of LyondellBasell's Houston refinery in the first quarter of 2025 and the planned shutdown of Phillips 66's Los Angeles refinery by the end of 2025 are anticipated to contribute to increasing gas prices.
The increase in gas prices has had a noticeable impact on consumers. Motorists have expressed concerns about the rising costs, with some stating that they expect improvements from the current presidential administration. The higher gas prices have also encouraged a shift towards electric vehicles, as consumers can save between $105 to $138 per month on fuel costs by choosing a fully electric vehicle over a gas-powered one.
Despite the current upward trend, forecasts for 2025 and 2026 predict a decrease in gasoline prices due to lower crude oil prices. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) anticipates that lower crude oil prices will be the primary driver of reduced gasoline prices in the coming years.
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The most expensive car to fill up with gas is the Ram 2500
The cost of car fuel in the USA has been a topic of concern for many, with prices rising over the years. In April 2025, the national average gas price was $3.22 per gallon, up from $3.13 the week before. This is higher than the seven-year average of $3.05 per gallon.
The cost of filling up varies across different vehicles, with the most expensive model to fill up being the Ram 2500. In 2024, filling up the Ram 2500 cost around $106.12, while in 2023, it would have cost $113.40 to top off the tank. This is a significant expense, especially when compared to more fuel-efficient vehicles like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla Cross, which cost around $41.12 and $42.11 to fill up, respectively.
The Ram 2500 is a large and imposing vehicle, and its fuel requirements contribute to its high filling cost. It has a large fuel tank capacity, and diesel fuel is required, which tends to be more expensive than gasoline. The Ram 2500's diesel engine option has a displacement of 6.4 liters and is available for an additional $9,795 on top of the starting price of the truck.
While the Ram 2500 may be expensive to fill up, it's important to consider the trade-offs between diesel and gasoline-powered vehicles. Diesel engines typically offer better fuel efficiency and have a longer range per tank, which can result in cost savings over time. Additionally, diesel-powered vehicles may require fewer fill-ups, reducing the frequency of visits to the gas station.
To save money on fuel costs, consumers can consider fuel-efficient vehicles, such as those with smaller engines or hybrid options. Additionally, driving habits can impact fuel economy, so driving smoothly and obeying speed limits can help maximize fuel efficiency. Furthermore, discount programs, membership clubs, and loyalty programs offered by gas brands can provide opportunities for savings at the pump.
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Gas prices fluctuate
Gasoline prices tend to increase when the available supply decreases relative to real or expected demand or consumption. Even when crude oil prices are stable, gasoline prices can fluctuate due to seasonal changes in demand and specifications. For example, gasoline sold in the summer must be less prone to evaporation during warm weather, leading to the use of more expensive components. As a result, retail gasoline prices gradually rise in the spring and peak in late summer when people drive more frequently.
Economic disruptions, such as the pandemic and Russia's invasion of Ukraine, have also contributed to the surge in gas prices since 2021, with prices 35% higher than six years ago. The cost of oil typically accounts for more than half of the cost of a gallon of gasoline, so elevated oil prices are a significant factor in high gas prices. Additionally, the U.S. imports about 40% of its domestically refined crude oil, making it vulnerable to global supply and demand dynamics.
The average gas price per state varies, with the most expensive state typically costing about $2 more per gallon of regular gasoline than the least expensive state. Gas stations engage in competitive pricing, aiming to sell at marginal cost to attract customers while making profits from other items. This results in frequent price changes, with stations adjusting their prices based on replacement cost models and the need to avoid "losing" when prices drop.
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Frequently asked questions
As of April 3, 2025, the national average cost of gas in the USA is $3.22 per gallon, up from $3.13 the week before.
This depends on the make and model of the car. The most expensive model to fill up in 2024 was the Ram 2500, costing $106.12. The cheapest models to fill up are the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla Cross, costing $41.12 for a full tank.
Gas prices in the USA are significantly lower than in many other countries. For example, in October 2022, gas prices in Norway were around $8.1 per gallon.
A fully electric vehicle could save you between $105 to $138 per month on fuel costs compared to a gas-powered vehicle.
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