Gas Prices Today: $4.27 a Gallon, Diesel at $6.30 — Most Expensive October Ever

The national average for a gallon of regular gasoline is $4.27–$4.29 — down about 6 cents in a week, but still more than $1.20 higher than a year ago — while diesel is stuck around $6.30 a gallon. October 2026 is on track to be the most expensive October for fuel in US history, and the pain at the pump has become a central fight in the final days before the November 3 midterms.

Key Facts

• Regular gasoline: about $4.27 a gallon (AAA, week of Oct. 22), down ~6¢ in a week, up ~$1.20 year on year
• Diesel: about $6.30 a gallon — up nearly 75% from a year ago
• Premium: about $5.18; mid-grade about $4.79; E85 about $3.30
• Cheapest states: North Carolina ~$3.55, Georgia ~$3.70, Texas ~$3.76
• Most expensive: California ~$6.08, Hawaii ~$5.65, Washington ~$5.34
• Crude oil: WTI near $99–100 a barrel; Brent around $112–114 after Middle East attack fears

Why are gas prices so high this October?

Crude is the story. Oil supplies about 54% of what you pay per gallon, and crude has surged on fears that US and Israeli strikes on Iran — and attacks around the Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of the world's oil passes — could choke supply. Brent settled at $113.17 on Thursday, its highest since May. Winter-blend gasoline, which is cheaper to produce, is the only reason prices are drifting down at all.

Why is diesel at $6.30 such a big deal?

Diesel moves America's goods. At $6.30 a gallon — nearly double last year's level in percentage terms that dwarf gasoline's rise — trucking, farming and delivery costs feed straight into grocery and goods prices. The administration has announced steps this month, including wider access to red-dyed diesel, temporary easing of restrictions on Russian diesel imports and an $8 billion one-off subsidy for farmers. Analysts quoted in coverage of the measures doubt they will move pump prices meaningfully before election day.

Will prices fall soon?

The Energy Information Administration's projection points to an average of about $3.56 a gallon in 2027, down from an expected $3.91 average across 2026 — but that path assumes oil calms down. With crude hovering near $100 and the Middle East situation unresolved, forecasters warn the next move could be up as easily as down.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average gas price in the USA today?

About $4.27–$4.29 a gallon for regular, per AAA's latest readings this week. Diesel averages about $6.30. Your state can differ by more than $2.50 — from about $3.55 in North Carolina to about $6.08 in California.

Why is diesel so much more expensive than gasoline?

Diesel supplies are tighter globally, refining capacity for diesel is limited, and demand from trucking, agriculture and industry stays strong even when car drivers cut back. This year, geopolitical shocks have hit diesel especially hard.

How much does it cost to fill a tank now?

A typical 14-gallon tank costs about $60 at the national average — roughly $17 more than a year ago. In California the same fill-up runs about $85.

Prices are national averages from AAA/EIA data reported this week and change daily. This article is information only.