Iowa vs Minnesota gas prices
Regular gas is $0.13 a gallon cheaper in Iowa — $1.90 on a 15-gallon fill-up. The two share a border, so that gap is worth knowing before you cross it.
Iowa| Grade | IA | MN | Diff. | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regular | $3.83 | $3.95 | $0.13IA | Iowa |
| Midgrade | $4.11 | $4.39 | $0.28IA | Iowa |
| Premium | $4.66 | $4.88 | $0.22IA | Iowa |
| Diesel | $4.98 | $5.07 | $0.09IA | Iowa |
Where the $0.13 gap actually comes from
8% of it is tax. Minnesota charges $0.01 more per gallon in federal and state taxes than Iowa. The remaining $0.12 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 $0.13 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 Iowa or Minnesota?
Regular gas is cheaper in Iowa, at $3.83 a gallon against $3.95 in Minnesota — a gap of $0.13, or 3.3%. On a 15-gallon fill-up that is $1.90. Figures are AAA daily state averages for 2026-08-02.
Why is gas more expensive in Minnesota?
8% of the $0.13 gap is tax rather than the cost of the fuel. Minnesota levies $0.01 more per gallon in federal and state taxes; the remaining $0.12 is a genuine difference in what the fuel, refining and distribution cost.
Is diesel cheaper in Iowa or Minnesota?
Diesel is cheaper in Iowa at $4.98 a gallon, against $5.07 in Minnesota — $0.09 a gallon apart.
Is it worth crossing from Minnesota into Iowa to fill up?
If you are already near the line, yes: a 15-gallon fill saves about $1.90. Driving out of your way for it rarely pays — at $3.95 a gallon and 25 mpg, a 6-mile round trip would eat the whole saving in fuel alone, before your time.