California vs Washington gas prices
Regular gas is $0.53 a gallon cheaper in Washington — $7.95 on a 15-gallon fill-up.
| Grade | CA | WA | Diff. | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regular | $5.66 | $5.13 | $0.53WA | Washington |
| Midgrade | $5.89 | $5.40 | $0.50WA | Washington |
| Premium | $6.08 | $5.67 | $0.42WA | Washington |
| Diesel | $6.93 | $6.18 | $0.75WA | Washington |
Where the $0.53 gap actually comes from
70% of it is tax. California charges $0.37 more per gallon in federal and state taxes than Washington. The remaining $0.16 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 $0.53 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 Washington?
Regular gas is cheaper in Washington, at $5.13 a gallon against $5.66 in California — a gap of $0.53, or 10.3%. On a 15-gallon fill-up that is $7.95. Figures are AAA daily state averages for 2026-08-02.
Why is gas more expensive in California?
70% of the $0.53 gap is tax rather than the cost of the fuel. California levies $0.37 more per gallon in federal and state taxes; the remaining $0.16 is a genuine difference in what the fuel, refining and distribution cost.
Is diesel cheaper in California or Washington?
Diesel is cheaper in Washington at $6.18 a gallon, against $6.93 in California — $0.75 a gallon apart.