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U.S. Average Gas Price Drops Below $3 for First Time Since 2021 — Which States Still Pay More?

10:35 PM, 12/04/2025
U.S. Average Gas Price Drops Below $3 for First Time Since 2021 — Which States Still Pay More?

AAA reports the U.S. average price for a gallon of regular gasoline is $2.999 — the first sub-$3 reading since May 2021. Lower crude prices, weaker demand and the seasonal switch to winter-blend fuel have pushed averages down. Oklahoma and Texas rank among the cheapest states, while California, Hawaii and Washington top the list for the highest statewide averages. Local prices still vary widely, and experts say prices are often lowest at the start of the week.

National Gas Average Falls Below $3

AAA reports the national average price for a gallon of regular gasoline has slipped to $2.999 — the first time the U.S. average has been below $3 since May 2021. The decline reflects lower crude oil costs, softer demand and the seasonal shift to winter-blend gasoline, which is generally cheaper to produce than summer formulations.

Where Gas Is Cheapest and Most Expensive

On average, drivers in Oklahoma are paying the least for regular gas at about $2.40 per gallon, followed by Texas at $2.53. Overall, 32 states report average regular-gasoline prices under $3.

At the high end, California remains the most expensive state with a statewide average of $4.51 per gallon (slightly down from $4.56 a week earlier but higher than $4.39 at this time last year). Only Hawaii ($4.44) and Washington State ($4.14) join California with statewide averages above $4.

States And Jurisdictions With Average Prices At Or Above $3

  • Alaska: $3.68
  • Arizona: $3.27
  • California: $4.51
  • Connecticut: $3.07
  • District of Columbia: $3.20
  • Hawaii: $4.44
  • Idaho: $3.19
  • Illinois: $3.12
  • Maine: $3.01
  • Massachusetts: $3.02
  • Nevada: $3.68
  • New Jersey: $3.00
  • New York: $3.12
  • Oregon: $3.75
  • Pennsylvania: $3.20
  • Utah: $3.02
  • Vermont: $3.11
  • Washington: $4.14

Local Variation And Tips For Drivers

Regional and city-level prices can differ significantly from state averages. For example, AAA lists Decatur, Illinois, at about $2.73 per gallon, while Vail, Colorado, shows an average pump price of $3.35, above Colorado’s statewide average of $2.99. If you’re looking to save, experts often recommend filling up early in the week, when prices tend to dip relative to weekend rates.

Note: Figures are AAA averages reported recently; local station prices may vary. Check local listings or fuel apps for the most current pump prices in your area.

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