California vs Florida gas prices
Regular gas is $1.82 a gallon cheaper in Florida — $27.26 on a 15-gallon fill-up.
| Grade | CA | FL | Diff. | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regular | $5.66 | $3.84 | $1.82FL | Florida |
| Midgrade | $5.89 | $4.29 | $1.60FL | Florida |
| Premium | $6.08 | $4.63 | $1.45FL | Florida |
| Diesel | $6.93 | $5.35 | $1.57FL | Florida |
Where the $1.82 gap actually comes from
28% of it is tax. California charges $0.51 more per gallon in federal and state taxes than Florida. The remaining $1.31 is a real difference in what the fuel, refining and distribution cost — refinery proximity, pipeline access and state fuel-blend rules.
Fuel, refining, distribution and marginFederal and state taxes Local county and city fuel taxes are not included, and Florida permit them. Pre-tax figures are estimates — see the note below.
What the gap is worth
Based on today’s $1.82 per-gallon difference, which moves week to week. Use the fuel cost calculator for your own mileage and vehicle.
Prices by metro area
State averages hide a lot. These are the cheapest metros AAA reports on each side.
Other comparisons
Frequently asked questions
Is gas cheaper in California or Florida?
Regular gas is cheaper in Florida, at $3.84 a gallon against $5.66 in California — a gap of $1.82, or 47.3%. On a 15-gallon fill-up that is $27.26. Figures are AAA daily state averages for 2026-08-02.
Why is gas more expensive in California?
28% of the $1.82 gap is tax rather than the cost of the fuel. California levies $0.51 more per gallon in federal and state taxes; the remaining $1.31 is a genuine difference in what the fuel, refining and distribution cost.
Is diesel cheaper in California or Florida?
Diesel is cheaper in Florida at $5.35 a gallon, against $6.93 in California — $1.57 a gallon apart.