Why gas prices vary so much across the US

(NewsNation) — Gas is back above $4 a gallon nationally for the first time since 2022 amid the ongoing Iran conflict, but drivers in some states are paying far more than others.

The national average for a gallon of regular gas is now $4.06, up from $2.98 before the conflict, according to AAA.

In California, the average price is $5.89 per gallon, the highest in the country. Washington and Hawaii are also above $5, while Oregon and Nevada are close behind.

Meanwhile, states across the Midwest, including Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska and Iowa, are still seeing prices below $3.50 per gallon. Gulf Coast states like Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi are also cheaper than the national average.

That variation isn’t random. Gas prices differ widely based on factors like state and local taxes, access to supply, local competition and operating costs.

Why gas prices vary by state

State gas taxes........

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