The Geography of Gas Prices: Why They Vary So Much
The disparity in gasoline prices across different states and even within cities has long been a source of frustration for drivers. For instance, as of November 2025, a gallon of gas costs an average of $4.65 in California compared to just $2.53 in Oklahoma, representing a significant difference that can affect daily budgets.One major factor driving this variability is state tax rates, which vary widely from one region to another. In California, the tax burden is particularly high at over 61 cents per gallon, while Alaska imposes only 9 cents per gallon. This discrepancy alone accounts for nearly a dollar difference in cost between these two states.Additionally, geographic factors play a crucial role. The proximity of gas stations to oil refineries significantly impacts transportation costs...