Fuel prices — especially gasoline — are always a hot topic in major cities. Sometimes they rise, sometimes the quality is lacking... So what about in America?
American Butler will tell you the whole story — how much gas costs in the U.S., whether owning a car is expensive in the long run, where to refuel, and share plenty of tips to save on already affordable fuel. We've conducted thorough research and are ready to provide firsthand information.
Gas Stations in the USA
Living in any country involves the daily practicalities — stores, cafes, transportation, and public places. In the USA, where cars are a central part of life, one of the main focuses is gas stations.
A typical American gas station generally includes pumps for gasoline, diesel, and gas. Separate lanes are usually designated for trucks and buses. Some modern stations even offer electric charging stations, but they are often located separately.
Most stations have a small convenience store for essentials and automotive goods, and restrooms are available. Many are also accompanied by fast food restaurants. At some stations, you'll find coffee shops where you can not only purchase drinks but also fill up a cup with hot water to brew your own tea or coffee.
Process of Refueling a Car in America
Self-service rules on U.S. gas stations. Payment terminals are built into the pump itself, and most payments are made by card, although cash is also accepted.
Paying with cash often saves you 10-15 cents per gallon. The process goes something like this:
- 01.Prepayment
You enter your card details, and the terminal deducts $1. It might also ask for a ZIP code. If you don’t know it, you can enter a random 5-digit code. If that doesn't work, you'll have to go to the cashier to pay. - 02.Choosing Fuel
Choose the fuel option. The pump will calculate how much fuel has been dispensed, either until the tank is full or a preset amount. - 03.Refueling
Once done, the full fuel amount will be charged, and you’ll receive a receipt.
Types of Gasoline in the USA
Fuel is marked differently in the U.S. compared to other countries. Instead of the 92, 95, and other octane levels familiar in Europe, the U.S. uses the following system:
- 87 (Regular or Unleaded) — Similar to 92 in Europe. About 90% of cars in the U.S. use this fuel.
- 89 (Mid-Grade or Plus) — Comparable to 95.
- 92 (Premium or Supreme) — High-performance fuel, similar to 98 in Europe.
Diesel is also popular but mostly for trucks and SUVs. Gas is less common, and electric charging stations are still relatively rare.
When buying or renting a car in the contract it is necessary to indicate what type of fuel should be used with this model of car. If suddenly this item is not present, then you should choose the 87th for refueling.American Butler
Gas Prices in the USA
The price of gasoline in the U.S. depends on the state. The further away you are from populated areas, the more expensive it is. Similarly, gas tends to be relatively expensive in densely populated places like New York or California. The highest fuel prices are usually found at gas stations located in natural reserves, national parks, or near major tourist attractions, where the cost can be 1.5 to 2 times higher than average.
Liquid fuel is measured in gallons. One gallon equals 3.8 liters. The average price for a gallon of gasoline is $2.50 to $3.00. In Russian terms, that’s roughly 70-80 rubles per liter. Diesel fuel is around 100 rubles per liter.
Additionally, on the fuel gauge in American cars, there’s always a small arrow next to the fuel icon. This arrow shows which side of the car the gas tank is on, helping drivers quickly figure out how to pull up to the pump.
Which gas stations are best?
The quality of fuel in the U.S. is generally consistent regardless of the gas station brand, but prices can vary significantly. The most expensive stations are those owned by big players like Chevron and Shell — their stations are frequently marked along highways with signs like “Next gas in … miles.” Gasoline and diesel at these stations are considered to be of higher quality, but in practice, they’re not much different from what you’d find at smaller network stations. According to last year’s data, popular stations aside from the big players include Liberty and Love’s.
If you carefully study the exits along the roads you frequently drive on, you may find excellent low-cost gas stations that don’t charge extra for branding. There are also websites like Gas Cost or GasBuddy that show all nearby stations with their current prices. These services also help calculate how much fuel will be consumed during a specific trip and how much it will cost.
Loyalty programs and discounts
Many gas station chains, such as Shell, ExxonMobil, BP, and Chevron, offer loyalty programs and discounts when using special cards or mobile apps. Some major retailers, like Costco and Walmart, also offer their customers significant discounts on fuel.
Why do gas prices fluctuate in the U.S.?
Fuel prices in the U.S. are relatively low compared to average wages, allowing for more freedom in daily car use. Another nice bonus for vehicle owners is the regular decrease in fuel prices when global oil prices drop.
The more actively alternative energy sources are developed, the cheaper gasoline becomes. According to scientists, the first discovery of an artificial or renewable energy source will immediately crash oil prices, leading to a further reduction in gas prices.
Tipping at gas stations
Tipping is not required at self-service gas stations, which is the standard in most states. However, in Oregon and New Jersey, where gas is pumped by an attendant, it is customary to leave a small tip of $1–2, especially if additional assistance was provided.
Charging stations for electric vehicles
With the growing popularity of electric cars like Tesla, networks of charging stations are being actively developed across the U.S. Tesla Supercharger stations and other similar networks are located along major highways, making road trips in electric vehicles convenient and comfortable.
Gas stations in the U.S. are a part of daily life, and once you start using them, you quickly get the hang of it. This is something many people who have traveled to America can confirm. If you also want to cruise down the American highways, you're now theoretically equipped with the knowledge you need — all that's left is to pack your bags and make your way to the U.S.
At American Butler, we’re here to offer all the assistance you might need. We know everything about American culture and lifestyle, and we’re happy to share our experience, helping you organize tours or even relocate to the U.S.
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