Colorado, Texas, and the Midwest Lead Nation in Cheapest Gas Prices as Hawaii and California Remain the Most Expensive
UNITED STATES — Gas prices across the country continue to show a sharp regional divide, with much of the Midwest, Plains, and South-Central states enjoying some of the cheapest fuel prices in the nation, while Hawaii, California, and the Northeast remain significantly more expensive at the pump.
New state-by-state pricing data reveals that drivers in several central U.S. states are paying well under $2 per gallon, while coastal and non-contiguous states are seeing prices climb toward or beyond the $3 mark.
Where Gas Is Cheapest Right Now
The lowest prices are heavily concentrated in the Mountain West, Plains, and parts of the Midwest, where fuel distribution costs are lower and state taxes remain modest.
- Colorado currently leads the nation at $1.49 per gallon, the lowest average price reported.
- Texas follows at $1.77, benefiting from strong refining capacity and proximity to oil production.
- Oklahoma and Wyoming are tied at $1.84, with Iowa and Missouri close behind at $1.88.
Much of the Midwest — including Kansas, Nebraska, Ohio, Minnesota, Missouri, and Wisconsin — remains comfortably below the national average, making road travel notably cheaper across the region.
Midwest and South-Central States Dominate the Under-$2 Range
A large cluster of states are sitting at or just below $2.00 per gallon, including:
- Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Minnesota at $1.99
- South Dakota at $2.00
- North Dakota at $2.01
- Illinois at $2.23, slightly higher but still below many coastal states
For Midwest drivers, these prices translate to meaningful savings, especially for commuters, touring musicians, and road-trip travelers heading between cities.
Where Drivers Are Paying the Most
At the other end of the spectrum, non-contiguous states and coastal markets continue to see the highest fuel costs.
- Hawaii tops the list at $3.48 per gallon
- California follows at $2.99
- Alaska sits at $2.95
The Northeast also remains expensive, with states like Vermont ($2.65), Pennsylvania ($2.53), Connecticut ($2.47), and New Jersey ($2.41) well above Midwest averages.
Why Prices Vary So Widely by State
Several factors contribute to the wide price gap:
- State fuel taxes and environmental regulations
- Distance from refineries and pipelines
- Seasonal demand and regional supply constraints
- Local competition and distribution costs
States with major refining infrastructure or lower tax burdens tend to see cheaper prices, while isolated or highly regulated markets face higher costs.
What This Means for Travelers and Touring Acts
Lower gas prices across the Midwest and South make long-distance travel more affordable for touring musicians, festival crews, and road-trippers, while higher prices on the coasts can significantly increase travel budgets.
For Chicago-area drivers in particular, Illinois remains cheaper than most coastal states, reinforcing the Midwest’s reputation as one of the most affordable regions for road travel.
Stay connected with ChicagoMusicGuide.com for updates on travel costs, regional trends, and how changing prices impact touring, festivals, and life on the road. If gas prices are affecting your plans or upcoming trips, share your thoughts and join the conversation with our readers.