If you're planning a road trip or simply looking to fill up your tank without breaking the bank, knowing which US states have the cheapest gas prices can save you real money. As of June 2026, five states consistently stand out for their affordable fuel prices — all well below the national average of $4.44 per gallon.
Regular unleaded: $4.44/gallon · Source: EIA.gov weekly survey · Updated every Monday
The 5 Cheapest States for Gas in 2026
Louisiana consistently ranks as the cheapest state for gasoline in the United States. The state benefits from its proximity to Gulf Coast oil refineries, which dramatically reduces transportation and distribution costs. Louisiana also has one of the lowest state fuel taxes in the nation at just 20 cents per gallon, compared to California's 68 cents. The combination of low taxes and cheap distribution makes Louisiana a paradise for drivers at the pump.
Mississippi regularly competes with Louisiana for the title of cheapest gas state. With a state fuel tax of just 18 cents per gallon — the lowest in the country — Mississippi drivers enjoy significant savings at the pump. The state's southern location also provides relatively easy access to Gulf Coast refined fuel, keeping distribution costs manageable.
Oklahoma is a major oil-producing state, and that advantage translates directly to lower fuel prices for residents. The state produces significant amounts of crude oil, and its central location gives it excellent access to multiple refineries across the south-central United States. Oklahoma's fuel tax of 19 cents per gallon keeps prices competitive.
Texas is the largest oil-producing state in the US, and home to the massive refinery complex along the Gulf Coast. With a fuel tax of just 20 cents per gallon and massive local refinery capacity, Texas drivers enjoy some of the lowest gas prices in the country. Cities like Houston and Beaumont, located right next to major refineries, often see the lowest pump prices in the entire nation.
Arkansas rounds out the top five cheapest states with prices just under $3.00 per gallon. The state's location between Texas and the Southeast gives it good access to Gulf Coast refined fuel. Arkansas maintains a relatively low fuel tax of 24.7 cents per gallon, helping keep pump prices affordable for its residents.
Why Are These States So Cheap?
The cheapest gas states all share common characteristics that explain their low prices:
- Low state fuel taxes — Southern states typically charge 18-25 cents/gallon vs 50-68 cents in expensive states
- Proximity to Gulf Coast refineries — Short distribution distance means lower transportation costs
- No special fuel blend requirements — Unlike California, these states use standard gasoline formulations
- No carbon taxes — None of these states have cap-and-trade or carbon fee programs
- Lower cost of living — Lower overall operating costs for fuel retailers
Cheapest vs Most Expensive States — Full Comparison
| State | Regular Price | vs National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Louisiana | $2.72 | -$1.72 |
| Mississippi | $2.91 | -$1.53 |
| Oklahoma | $2.94 | -$1.50 |
| Texas | $2.97 | -$1.47 |
| Arkansas | $2.99 | -$1.45 |
| National Average | $4.44 | — |
| California | $5.97 | +$1.53 |
The difference between filling up in Louisiana vs California is staggering. For a 15-gallon tank, a Louisiana driver pays about $40.80 while a California driver pays $89.55 — a difference of nearly $49 per fill-up. Over a year of weekly fill-ups, that's a difference of over $2,500.
Want to see live current prices for all 50 states? Check our live gas price tracker updated every Monday from EIA.gov.