Maryland vs Virginia gas prices
Regular gas is $0.22 a gallon cheaper in Virginia — $3.34 on a 15-gallon fill-up. The two share a border, so that gap is worth knowing before you cross it.
Maryland
Virginia| Grade | MD | VA | Diff. | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regular | $4.15 | $3.93 | $0.22VA | Virginia |
| Midgrade | $4.76 | $4.41 | $0.34VA | Virginia |
| Premium | $5.07 | $4.81 | $0.26VA | Virginia |
| Diesel | $5.43 | $5.32 | $0.11VA | Virginia |
Where the $0.22 gap actually comes from
72% of it is tax. Maryland charges $0.16 more per gallon in federal and state taxes than Virginia. The remaining $0.06 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 Virginia permit them. Pre-tax figures are estimates — see the note below.
What the gap is worth
Based on today’s $0.22 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 Maryland or Virginia?
Regular gas is cheaper in Virginia, at $3.93 a gallon against $4.15 in Maryland — a gap of $0.22, or 5.7%. On a 15-gallon fill-up that is $3.34. Figures are AAA daily state averages for 2026-08-02.
Why is gas more expensive in Maryland?
72% of the $0.22 gap is tax rather than the cost of the fuel. Maryland levies $0.16 more per gallon in federal and state taxes; the remaining $0.06 is a genuine difference in what the fuel, refining and distribution cost.
Is diesel cheaper in Maryland or Virginia?
Diesel is cheaper in Virginia at $5.32 a gallon, against $5.43 in Maryland — $0.11 a gallon apart.
Is it worth crossing from Maryland into Virginia to fill up?
If you are already near the line, yes: a 15-gallon fill saves about $3.34. Driving out of your way for it rarely pays — at $4.15 a gallon and 25 mpg, a 10-mile round trip would eat the whole saving in fuel alone, before your time.