Summary
Washington has surpassed California as the state with the highest average gas prices in the U.S. Several factors, including refinery maintenance and tax changes, have contributed to higher gas prices in Washington. The situation may improve as the state switches to less expensive winter-blend fuel.
Key Facts
- Washington now has the highest average gas price at $4.658 per gallon, surpassing California.
- California's average gas price is slightly lower at $4.653 per gallon.
- Washington's gas tax increased to 55.4 cents per gallon as of July 1, 2023.
- Planned and unplanned refinery maintenance is a key reason for high gas prices in Washington.
- The Olympic Pipeline, important for fuel transport, has had outages affecting supply.
- Lower gas demand and the switch to winter-blend fuel may help reduce prices soon.
- AAA reports that CO2 emissions taxes and California refinery issues also impact gas prices.
