California vs New York gas prices
Regular gas is $1.43 a gallon cheaper in New York — $21.47 on a 15-gallon fill-up.
| Grade | CA | NY | Diff. | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regular | $5.66 | $4.22 | $1.43NY | New York |
| Midgrade | $5.89 | $4.76 | $1.13NY | New York |
| Premium | $6.08 | $5.15 | $0.93NY | New York |
| Diesel | $6.93 | $5.63 | $1.30NY | New York |
Where the $1.43 gap actually comes from
29% of it is tax. California charges $0.42 more per gallon in federal and state taxes than New York. The remaining $1.01 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 Pre-tax figures are estimates — see the note below.
What the gap is worth
Based on today’s $1.43 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 New York?
Regular gas is cheaper in New York, at $4.22 a gallon against $5.66 in California — a gap of $1.43, or 33.9%. On a 15-gallon fill-up that is $21.47. Figures are AAA daily state averages for 2026-08-02.
Why is gas more expensive in California?
29% of the $1.43 gap is tax rather than the cost of the fuel. California levies $0.42 more per gallon in federal and state taxes; the remaining $1.01 is a genuine difference in what the fuel, refining and distribution cost.
Is diesel cheaper in California or New York?
Diesel is cheaper in New York at $5.63 a gallon, against $6.93 in California — $1.30 a gallon apart.