Do you live in a state with historically high gas prices?
Daytona Beach drivers react to Florida gas price changes
Johnny Frisbie, a visitor from Tulsa wearing a “Gasoline Forever” T-shirt, comments on Florida’s latest gas price hikes Monday, Jan. 26, 2026.
- Gasoline prices in the United States have increased significantly, with some states experiencing much higher costs than others.
- Large SUVs and trucks generally have the worst gas mileage.
If there’s one expense that American drivers can’t spare, it’s that gas prices are higher than they were last year.
The average annual retail price of gasoline has skyrocketed since 2002, rising from $1.36 to as much as $4.09 in 2022, according to U.S. Department of Energy data.
Unfortunately for millions of Americans, gas prices are much higher in some states than in others. According to recent AAA data, gas prices in 2026 will range from $2.26 per gallon to a whopping $4.58 per gallon. These prices are likely to rise later this year.
Which state will have the highest gas prices ever in 2026?
5 states with the highest gas prices in 2026
Perhaps unsurprisingly, the state with the highest gas prices this year is California.
State taxes and fees, environmental regulations, and limits on in-state production all contribute to California’s status as the nation’s most expensive state for gasoline. To save on fuel costs across the state, many drivers are switching to owning hybrid or electric vehicles.
States with highest gas prices in 2026, according to AAA
- California: $4.58 per gallon
- Hawaii: $4.40 per gallon
- Washington: $4.15 per gallon
- Oregon: $3.69 per gallon
- Nevada: $3.63 per gallon
The U.S. Energy Information Administration also cites “supply disruptions,” “retail competition,” and “distance from supply” as reasons for soaring gasoline prices in some regions. As a consumer, you may not be able to influence gas prices, but with the right information you can make decisions to save money and choose the most fuel-efficient car possible.
The most efficient car to buy in states with high gas prices
If you live in a state where gas prices are particularly high compared to the national average ($2.92 according to AAA), fuel economy is a big factor to consider when buying a used or new car. Some cars, trucks, and SUVs have exceptional gas mileage and can save drivers a lot of money at the pump.
Most fuel efficient cars in 2026
- 2026 Toyota Prius: Up to 57 miles per gallon combined
- 2026 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid: Up to 54 miles per gallon combined
- 2026 Kia Niro: Up to 53 miles per gallon combined
- 2026 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid: Up to 51 miles per gallon combined
Small and medium-sized cars with hybrid powertrains typically offer the best fuel economy. The higher the gas mileage, the more the vehicle can travel on each gallon of gas.
Some cars, like the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, are highly fuel efficient and have large gas tanks that give them impressive range. The Sonata Hybrid can travel more than 620 miles on a single tank of gas, making it ideal for drivers looking for great fuel economy.
The most expensive car to own in states with high gas prices
Some of the most expensive vehicles to own in states with high gas prices include trucks and SUVs with larger engines. Due to their large bodies, full-size SUVs and full-size pickup trucks tend to be the least efficient new vehicles on the market.
Worst fuel-efficient cars in 2026
- 2026 Cadillac Escalade V: 13 miles per gallon combined
- 2026 Chevrolet Suburban: 17 miles per gallon combined
- 2026 Chevrolet Tahoe: 17 miles per gallon combined
- 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer: 19 miles per gallon combined (estimated)
If you’re looking for a full-size truck or SUV with a large gasoline engine (six or eight cylinders), its gas mileage may not be great. There are many options on the market for mild hybrid and diesel SUVs and trucks that offer better fuel economy than typical heavy-duty gasoline vehicles. There’s a lot to like about the SUVs and trucks listed above, but don’t expect low fuel costs.
Should you switch to a hybrid or electric car to save money on gas?
High fuel costs can make vehicles with electric powertrains like hybrids and EVs more attractive, but depending on the vehicle you choose, there may be hidden costs of ownership. Hybrids typically cost more to purchase than comparable gasoline vehicles. EVs can be even more expensive, and depending on your state, it may be very difficult to charge them in public.
Don’t consider switching to a hybrid or electric vehicle until you weigh the cost of ownership of each powertrain against each other. Hybrid ownership is a great middle ground between gas and EV ownership. This is because drivers will still rely on gasoline and can increase the vehicle’s range by using an electric motor to supplement the gas engine.
If you live in a state where gas prices are very high, it’s worth considering hybrids further when considering your next new vehicle.
