As the summer travel season kicks off, many Americans are gearing up for road trips across the country. For those who rely on their vehicles for vacation travel, the rising cost of gas is a crucial consideration. While gas prices have been relatively low on a national scale, the prices vary significantly across the United States. As of mid-July 2025, the national average for regular gasoline is hovering around $3.16 per gallon. However, in certain states, drivers may find themselves paying considerably more.
The summer months, with their high demand for gasoline due to vacation travel, have historically seen an uptick in fuel prices. Understanding where gas prices are the most expensive—and where they are more affordable—can help drivers make informed decisions about their travel plans. This article takes a closer look at the states where gas prices are currently the highest and offers some practical tips for saving on fuel this summer.
States with the Highest Gas Prices This Summer
California has earned the unenviable title of having the highest gas prices in the U.S. in the summer of 2025. With regular gasoline prices averaging $4.50 per gallon, it is clear why California has remained at the top of the list for expensive fuel. The state is known for its strict environmental regulations, including higher fuel taxes and an overall higher cost of living, all of which contribute to the inflated fuel prices.
Not far behind California is Hawaii, which tops the list for premium fuel prices, with a gallon reaching $4.48. In addition, Hawaii also has the highest diesel prices in the country, putting a strain on both personal and commercial drivers. Other states that consistently rank among the highest for fuel prices include Washington ($4.39), Oregon ($3.99), and Nevada ($3.76). These states are not only geographically isolated, with limited access to low-cost crude oil, but they also face higher state taxes on gasoline, further driving up the price at the pump.
The Impact on Popular Travel Destinations
Some of the most popular vacation destinations in the United States, such as Florida, New York, and Colorado, are notably absent from the top 10 list of states with the highest gas prices. For budget-conscious travelers, this is good news. States like Florida and Colorado offer a more affordable option for those embarking on summer road trips, where gas prices are lower than the national average, making them ideal destinations for cost-conscious tourists.
For example, Florida has an average price of $3.30 per gallon, while New York averages $3.30 as well. These lower prices can make a significant difference for travelers planning long road trips, as the cost of fueling a vehicle for a 3,000- to 4,000-mile journey can quickly add up. With gas prices playing a major role in the overall cost of a vacation, selecting destinations in states with lower fuel prices can offer significant savings.
Tips for Saving on Gas During Your Road Trip
While some states are more expensive than others, there are still several ways to save money on gasoline during the summer months. One of the simplest ways to improve fuel efficiency is to ensure that your vehicle’s tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires cause more friction with the road, reducing gas mileage and leading to higher fuel consumption. Additionally, aggressive driving, such as rapid acceleration, speeding, and hard braking, can waste fuel. Driving at a consistent speed and using cruise control on highways can help save fuel.
Another effective way to save on gas is by using gas price apps like GasBuddy to identify stations with the lowest prices along your route. These apps provide real-time data on fuel prices and can help drivers avoid paying higher prices in areas where fuel costs are inflated. It’s also a good idea to avoid idling your car, as leaving your engine running while stationary consumes fuel without moving the vehicle. Furthermore, removing any unnecessary weight from your vehicle and avoiding carrying excess cargo can reduce fuel consumption, as the engine works harder to move the vehicle with extra weight.
The Role of External Factors in Gas Prices
The price of gasoline is influenced by more than just state taxes and regional supply factors. Global events, such as fluctuations in oil production by OPEC nations, can affect the price of crude oil, which directly impacts the price at the pump. Tropical storms and other natural disasters can disrupt oil production and refinery operations, leading to temporary spikes in gas prices. Additionally, global economic shifts, such as recessions or booms, can affect demand for oil and ultimately influence fuel prices across the U.S.
Tropical activity, in particular, poses a risk to gas prices during hurricane season, as refineries in the Gulf of Mexico—an area crucial to U.S. fuel production—can be temporarily shut down. This has the potential to disrupt supply and drive up gas prices, especially in coastal regions. Travelers heading into areas vulnerable to such disruptions should plan for potential price hikes if severe weather events impact oil supply chains.
By understanding where gas prices are high, using smart travel and driving strategies, and being aware of external factors, travelers can make informed decisions about their road trips and fuel costs this summer.
