Which States Make You Pay the Most for Gas?

Additional Coverage:

10 States With the Highest Gas Taxes in the Country (financebuzz.com)

Pumping Pennies: Where Gas Taxes Hit Your Wallet Hardest

Feeling the pinch at the pump? You’re not alone!

Gas taxes can take a hefty chunk out of your budget, depending on where you live and how much of each gallon lines the state’s coffers. If you’re a car owner looking to make some smart money moves, understanding these costs is key.

You might need to adjust your driving habits or find other areas to save, but a little knowledge goes a long way.

Let’s take a look at the top 10 states with the highest gas taxes in the nation, so you can see if your car budget needs a serious tune-up.

10. Oregon: 40 cents per gallon

Oregon ranks among the pricier states for gas, largely due to its significant gas tax. However, there’s a silver lining for residents: Oregon is one of only five states without a state sales tax, which could offer some relief to your overall tax bill.

9. North Carolina: 41 cents per gallon

Planning a road trip? You might want to top off your tank before cruising into North Carolina to avoid its higher gas tax. Neighboring states like Tennessee, South Carolina, and Virginia offer a more budget-friendly fill-up.

8. New Jersey: 49.1 cents per gallon

New Jersey has a couple of unique quirks that make a gallon of gas more expensive. Beyond the high tax rate, the Garden State is one of only two states (Oregon being the other) where you can’t pump your own gas-it’s full-service all the way!

7. Maryland: 46 cents per gallon

Maryland’s gas tax isn’t static; it fluctuates with the inflation rate, thanks to state legislature. While the current rate is still on the higher side, it’s actually seen a slight decrease compared to the previous year.

6. Michigan: 51 cents per gallon

Michigan recently revamped its fuel tax system. The state has eliminated its sales tax on fuel, opting instead to increase the state fuel tax.

5. Indiana: 36 cents per gallon

While Indiana is famous for the fast speeds of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, drivers might find themselves slowing down when they consider the state’s gas taxes. The good news? The average cost per gallon in the Hoosier State remains below the national average, at approximately $2.80.

4. Washington: 55.4 cents per gallon

Washington’s substantial tax rate is a key reason why filling up your tank in the Pacific Northwest can be so expensive. With an average price of around $4 per gallon, Washington currently holds the unenviable position of the third-most expensive state for gas, according to AAA.

3. Pennsylvania: 57.6 cents per gallon

Pennsylvania is a vast state, making it challenging to bypass its nearly 60-cent gas tax by simply crossing its borders. Adding to the cost, drivers may also encounter tolls on the Pennsylvania Turnpike, which spans major interstates from west to east.

2. Illinois: 48.3 cents per gallon

Drivers in Illinois should brace their wallets, as the state is a pricey stop when it comes to road-related taxes. It boasts the second-highest gas tax in the country, compounded by a significant state sales tax that further inflates costs. Illinois’ sales tax is one of the nation’s highest, making even a quick stop for snacks or a meal an expensive proposition.

1. California: 61.2 cents per gallon

California’s substantial tax rate is a major contributor to its high gas prices, making it the most expensive state in the nation for a gallon of gas. The average price per gallon hovers around $4.37, making California one of only two states in the U.S. (Hawaii is the other) where the average cost exceeds four dollars, according to AAA.

The Bottom Line

Living in a state with a high gas tax can certainly strain a tight budget. However, car owners have other avenues to save money.

Developing an estimated budget that accounts for gas, repairs, and maintenance is a smart first step. Additionally, if you already own a vehicle, it’s always wise to shop around for car insurance to potentially save hundreds of dollars.