Gas Prices in USA Today February 2026: Gasoline prices in the United States aren’t just an issue for vehicles; they directly impact family budgets, daily travel, and business costs. Price differences across states are so significant that even the cost of traveling the same distance changes. For example, in June 2022, gasoline in California reached $6.43 per gallon, a multi-year high, while in April 2018, the price in Wisconsin was recorded at just $1.29 per gallon.
By February 2026, the situation has changed significantly. The national average is approximately $2.81 per gallon, significantly lower than in 2022. Oklahoma is currently the cheapest state, with a price of approximately $2.34, while California remains the most expensive. This difference has significant economic implications for travelers, truck drivers, and businesses.
Price Trends from 2025 to 2026
Fuel prices declined during 2025 primarily due to lower crude oil prices and improved vehicle fuel efficiency. The full-year average was approximately $3.10, falling to $2.89 by the end of the year. It further declined to $2.81 in early 2026.
States with lower prices include southern states like Arkansas and Mississippi, while states with more remote or stricter regulations, such as Hawaii and Washington, tend to have higher prices.
Why is gasoline so cheap in Oklahoma?
There are several strong reasons behind Oklahoma’s low prices. First, the state is located near the Cushing oil hub, a major US oil storage center, which reduces transportation costs. Nearby states like Texas and Louisiana also have large refineries, which maintain a stable supply.
Another reason is low state taxes. While fuel taxes are very high in California, they are significantly lower in Oklahoma. Additionally, low population density and less traffic also limit demand, keeping prices in check.
Why the price differences between states?
Fuel price differences are driven by four main factors: taxes, demand, transportation costs, and environmental regulations. In large and densely populated states like New York, higher demand leads to higher prices. Transportation is expensive in remote states like Alaska.
Stricter environmental regulations also drive up prices. For example, cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco require special fuel blends, making production more expensive.
What to expect for 2026?
Experts expect overall prices to remain relatively low in 2026, provided there are no major supply disruptions. The U.S. Energy Information Administration estimates that energy prices may remain soft, although a temporary increase is possible due to increased summer travel. AAA data also confirms this decline.
Lower gasoline prices mean more savings for consumers, lower operating costs for businesses, and improved competitiveness for the regional economy. Fuel prices are therefore not just limited to the pump, but a key indicator of the overall economy.
FAQs
Q. Which U.S. state has the cheapest gas in 2026?
A. As of February 2026, Oklahoma has the lowest average gas price at about $2.34 per gallon.
Q. Which state has the most expensive gas right now?
A. California remains the most expensive, with prices around $4.50 per gallon.
Q. Why are gas prices lower in some states?
A. Lower fuel taxes, proximity to oil refineries, reduced transportation costs, and lower demand help keep prices down.
