If you’re planning on taking a road trip this summer. Be ready for the pain at the pump. According to AAA, the average price of a regular gallon of unleaded gas is $4.97. So, which states are paying the most for gas right now. Let’s take a look at the top 10.
California Has The Most Expensive Gas Prices
According to AAA, California has the highest gas prices right now with regular unleaded sitting at $6.403. That’s over a dollar higher than the national average. And, it doesn’t look like prices are going to come down anytime soon.
Nevada
In second place is Nevada with regular unleaded costing $5.587 per gallon on average. That’s about $.50 more than the national average price of gas.
Washington, Alaska, and Illinois Round Out The Top Five
Rounding out the top five most expensive states for gas are Washington ( $5.511), Alaska ($5.510), and Illinois ($5.550). So, if you’re planning on road tripping to any of these states this summer, be prepared to pay a little extra at the pump.
The Rest Of The Top Ten
The remaining states in the top ten are as follows: Oregon ($5.508), Hawaii($5.499), Arizona ($5.264), Indiana ($5.238), and Michigan ($5.214).
What’s causing gas prices to be so high?
There are a few factors that contribute to high gas prices. One is the price of crude oil, which has been on the rise in recent months. Another factor is the summer travel season. As more people hit the road for vacations, demand for gas goes up and prices go up along with it. Add inflation into the mix and it’s a recipe for continued pain at the pump.
What can you do to save money on gas?
If you’re looking to save money on gas this summer, there are a few things you can do. One is to carpool or ride share when possible. Another is to plan your route ahead of time and take the most direct route possible. You can also look for gas stations that offer discounts for cash or loyalty programs. For example, Costco sells gas at rates that are significantly lower than most local competition.
Other great ways to save money on gas including using receipt scanning apps like Upside or Fetch – which will credit you cash back or points if you scan your gas receipts. Finally, you might save a bit of money by buying your gas early in the morning when cooler temperatures compress the volume of gas being sold.
Do you have any tips for saving money on gas? Let us know in the comments below.
Tamila McDonald is a U.S. Army veteran with 20 years of service, including five years as a military financial advisor. After retiring from the Army, she spent eight years as an AFCPE-certified personal financial advisor for wounded warriors and their families. Now she writes about personal finance and benefits programs for numerous financial websites.
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