As gas prices continue to climb, drivers in North Carolina are still catching a bit of a break compared to the rest of the country. The state average currently sits at $3.93 per gallon, below the national average of $4.16.
One consistent factor across the state is North Carolina’s gas tax, which stands at 41 cents per gallon. Beyond that, several variables influence what drivers pay depending on where they fill up.
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Transportation costs, proximity to neighboring states with higher or lower prices, and basic supply and demand all play a role in the fluctuations seen from county to county.
Most expensive counties
In western North Carolina, drivers are paying some of the highest prices in the state. Counties like Macon County and Jackson County are seeing prices exceed $4 per gallon, likely due in part to higher freight and transportation costs.
Closer to the Virginia border, where gas prices tend to run higher, Warren County and Halifax County are just under that mark at $3.99 per gallon. Orange County isn’t far behind, with an average price of $3.98, according to AAA.
Least expensive counties
Meanwhile, some of the lowest prices can be found outside the Triangle. Wilson County and Wayne County are among the most affordable areas for drivers.
The city of Goldsboro currently has the lowest metro average in the state at $3.87 per gallon, according to AAA.
Most expensive metro areas
Among metro areas, Wilmington tops the list at $3.97 per gallon, followed closely by Chapel Hill at $3.96.