If you’ve been dreaming about a scenic drive, a visit with family, or a relaxing weekend getaway, you might have one more reason to hit the road this Memorial Day—lower gas prices.

For the first time in years, drivers across the country are seeing some relief at the pump just in time for the holiday weekend.

That’s especially welcome news for the nearly 40 million Americans expected to travel by car this year.

And while prices can vary from state to state, the national outlook suggests this could be one of the most affordable Memorial Day travel seasons in quite some time.


According to GasBuddy, the national average for a gallon of regular gas this Memorial Day is expected to be around $3.08—about 50 cents lower than last year’s holiday weekend.

This drop marks the lowest average Memorial Day gas price since 2021, and when adjusted for inflation, it may be the lowest since 2003 (excluding the unusual COVID-related dip in 2020).

The good news may continue through summer!


GasBuddy predicts a national average of $3.02 per gallon through Labor Day, and prices could dip below $3 toward the end of the season—depending on supply and demand trends.

What makes this unusual?

Typically, fuel prices climb in spring and summer due to increased travel and the shift to summer-grade gasoline, which is more expensive to produce under federal environmental regulations.

Historically, the Energy Information Administration reports gas prices in August average 40 cents per gallon higher than in January.


Also read: Memorial Day cookouts could look a little different—shoppers are rethinking old favorites

Where gas is cheapest—and where it’s not

If your Memorial Day plans take you through the South or Midwest, you may find some of the lowest prices in the nation.

According to GasBuddy, these are the 10 cheapest states for gas right now:

• Mississippi: $2.64
• Louisiana: $2.69
• Alabama: $2.72
• South Carolina, Tennessee, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Texas: $2.77
• Kentucky: $2.85
• North Carolina: $2.87

Meanwhile, West Coast and island states continue to top the list for highest average prices:

• California: $4.83
• Hawaii: $4.46
• Washington: $4.37
• Oregon: $3.94
• Nevada: $3.87
• Alaska: $3.59
• Illinois: $3.42
• Arizona: $3.37
• Pennsylvania: $3.31
• Idaho: $3.27

If you’re headed on a long-distance trip, it may be worth plotting your fuel stops accordingly.


Also read: A simple gesture of patriotism is being offered free this Memorial Day—here’s what to know

What’s behind the drop in gas prices?

A few major factors are influencing the lower prices:

• Increased global oil production, particularly from OPEC+ countries, has expanded supply.
• Crude oil prices have dropped by about $20 per barrel since mid-January, according to Goldman Sachs, thanks to both rising supply and softened global demand.
• Uncertainty surrounding current economic policies has contributed to reduced demand expectations, according to GasBuddy.

However, lower fuel costs may not completely offset other economic pressures.

Goldman Sachs researchers note that US tariffs may contribute to inflation in some areas, which could affect the cost of consumer goods and travel-related expenses.

Watch out for rising vacation costs

Even if you're saving on gas, your vacation budget might still feel the pinch.

According to NerdWallet, entertainment costs are up, and dining out is about 4% more expensive than it was a year ago.

So while lower prices at the pump may offer a bit of breathing room, other expenses could chip away at those savings.



Also read: Memorial Day 2025 shopping alert: Which grocery chains are open, closed, or on limited hours

Tips for a budget-friendly road trip

Here are a few ways to make your summer travel more affordable:

1. Use gas price apps like GasBuddy or AAA’s TripTik to find the cheapest fuel along your route.
2. Time your stops to fill up in lower-cost states if your itinerary allows.
3. Drive smart by keeping tires properly inflated, avoiding hard acceleration, and using cruise control.
4. Lighten your load to save on fuel—extra weight burns more gas.
5. Join fuel rewards programs at major gas stations to get discounts and bonuses.

Whether you’re headed to a family barbecue, a beach getaway, or simply enjoying a scenic drive, this year’s lower gas prices offer a welcome opportunity to make the most of Memorial Day weekend without stretching your budget.

Just remember—smart planning can help those savings go even further!

Read next: Celebrate life’s special moments in style with Effy Jewelry’s Memorial Day Sale


Are you planning a getaway this Memorial Day? Have gas prices made a difference in your travel plans? Whether you’re hitting the highway or staying close to home, we’d love to hear your travel tips and stories. Drop a comment and join the conversation—because the best part of any road trip is sharing it with others!