California vs Texas gas prices
Regular gas is $2.06 a gallon cheaper in Texas — $30.84 on a 15-gallon fill-up.
| Grade | CA | TX | Diff. | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regular | $5.66 | $3.60 | $2.06TX | Texas |
| Midgrade | $5.89 | $4.08 | $1.81TX | Texas |
| Premium | $6.08 | $4.45 | $1.63TX | Texas |
| Diesel | $6.93 | $5.03 | $1.89TX | Texas |
Where the $2.06 gap actually comes from
34% of it is tax. California charges $0.70 more per gallon in federal and state taxes than Texas. The remaining $1.36 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 $2.06 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 Texas?
Regular gas is cheaper in Texas, at $3.60 a gallon against $5.66 in California — a gap of $2.06, or 57.1%. On a 15-gallon fill-up that is $30.84. Figures are AAA daily state averages for 2026-08-02.
Why is gas more expensive in California?
34% of the $2.06 gap is tax rather than the cost of the fuel. California levies $0.70 more per gallon in federal and state taxes; the remaining $1.36 is a genuine difference in what the fuel, refining and distribution cost.
Is diesel cheaper in California or Texas?
Diesel is cheaper in Texas at $5.03 a gallon, against $6.93 in California — $1.89 a gallon apart.