If there’s one expense that American drivers can commiserate over, it’s higher gas prices compared to previous years.
The average annual retail price of gasoline has skyrocketed since 2002, from $1.36 to as high as $4.09 in 2022, based on data from the U.S. Department of Energy.
Unfortunately for millions of Americans, some states have much higher gas prices than others. In 2026, gas prices range from $2.26 a gallon to a whopping $4.58 a gallon, according to recent AAA data. These prices could potentially increase later in the year.
Which states have the most expensive gasoline prices in 2026 thus far?
The 5 states with the highest gas prices in 2026
Perhaps unsurprisingly, the state with the highest gas price this year is California.
State taxes and fees, environmental regulations and limited in-state production are all contributing factors to California’s status as the state with the highest gas prices in the country. Many drivers have switched to hybrid and electric vehicle ownership to save on fuel costs in the state.
States with the 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 “distance from supply” as well as “supply disruptions” and “retail competition” as reasons for higher gasoline prices in some regions. You may not have an impact on gas prices as a consumer, but you can make the decision to save money and choose the most fuel-efficient vehicle possible with the right information.
The most efficient cars to buy in states with high gas prices
If you reside in a state with especially high gas prices compared to the national average ($2.92 according to AAA), fuel economy is a huge factor to consider when purchasing a used or new vehicle. Some cars, trucks and SUVs boast exceptional gas mileage that can save their drivers big bucks at the pump.
Cars with the best gas mileage for 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 midsize cars with hybrid powertrains typically achieve the highest gas mileage. The higher the gas mileage, the more a vehicle can travel on a single gallon of gasoline.
Some cars like the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid have high gas mileage and large gas tanks, resulting in amazing driving range. The Sonata Hybrid is capable of traveling for over 620 miles on a single tank of gas, making it a great choice for drivers who want exceptional fuel economy.
The most expensive cars to own in states with high gas prices
Some of the most expensive vehicles to own in states with high gas prices are trucks and SUVs with large engines. Full-size SUVs and full-size pickup trucks tend to be the least efficient new vehicles on the market due to their large bodies.
Cars with the worst gas mileage for 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 in search of a full-size truck or SUV with a large gasoline engine (six or eight cylinder), chances are its fuel economy won’t be stellar. There are plenty of mild-hybrid and diesel SUV and truck options on the market that achieve better gas mileage than typical massive gas vehicles. There’s plenty to love about the SUVs and trucks listed above, but don’t expect low fuel costs from them.
Should you switch to a hybrid or electric vehicle to save money on gas?
High fuel costs can make vehicles with electrified powertrains such as hybrids or EVs tempting, but alternatives may have hidden costs of ownership depending on which you choose. Hybrids are typically more expensive to buy than their gas equivalents. EVs can also be more expensive, and they can be incredibly difficult to charge publicly, depending on your home state.
You shouldn’t consider switching to a hybrid or electric vehicle until weighing the costs of ownership of each powertrain against each other. Hybrid ownership is a good middle ground between gas and EV ownership because drivers can still rely on gasoline and get more mileage out of their vehicle with electric motors that aid gas engines.
If you live in a state with sky-high gas prices, hybrid vehicles are worth extra research when considering your next new ride.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 5 states with the highest gas prices and what to do about it
Reporting by Charles Singh , USA TODAY / USA TODAY
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
