Drivers in North Carolina are enjoying some of the lowest gas prices in the nation as Labor Day weekend approaches. The statewide average for a gallon of unleaded fuel is $2.86—roughly 30 cents below the national average of $3.16, according to the American Automobile Association (AAA).
Compared to a year ago, North Carolina motorists are saving even more. Last year, the state average was $3.11, while diesel prices have also dropped from $3.64 to $3.45. The national average for diesel currently stands at $3.68.
North Carolina continues to benefit from relatively low fuel costs despite seasonal regulations. Under Environmental Protection Agency rules, gas stations are required to sell a less volatile summer fuel blend from June 1 to September 15. This typically adds 10 to 15 cents per gallon, but state averages remain well below much of the country.
Among the state’s major metro areas, Fayetteville offers the cheapest gas at $2.76 per gallon. Durham-Chapel Hill has the highest at $2.92. Diesel is most affordable in the Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton area at $3.29.
Electric vehicle charging costs are also below the national average. North Carolina’s average is 33.2 cents per kilowatt-hour compared to 36.3 cents nationally. The state has more than 100,000 zero-emission vehicles registered.
Ten states have lower average gas prices than North Carolina, while 14 have cheaper diesel, and seven offer lower electric charging rates.
North Carolina’s motor fuel tax is 40.3 cents per gallon, lower than states like California (59.6 cents), Pennsylvania (57.6), and New Jersey (44.9). Fuel tax revenues fund the state’s transportation infrastructure, supporting the Highway Fund and the Highway Trust Fund.
