Washington State Gas Prices Reach Highest in the Nation

Washington State, September 15, 2025

News Summary

Washington State has recorded the highest gas prices in the U.S., averaging $4.66 per gallon for regular gasoline. This surpasses both the national average and California’s prices, with Seattle metro hitting $4.81. Contributing factors include a new gas tax and costs related to climate initiatives. Questions are raised about the implications for families and holiday travel as fuel prices continue to escalate.

Washington State is experiencing the highest gas prices in the nation, with an average cost of $4.66 per gallon for regular gasoline as reported by AAA. This average is notably higher than the national average of $3.18 per gallon, marking a significant disparity in fuel costs. Washington has now surpassed California, a state typically known for its elevated gas prices, which currently average $4.64 per gallon.

In the Seattle metropolitan area, the situation is even more alarming, where gas prices are averaging $4.81 per gallon. Factors contributing to these elevated prices include Washington’s historically high gas taxes, which have been further exacerbated by recent climate initiatives.

A new gas tax that took effect on July 1 has increased the tax rate on unleaded gasoline from 49.4 cents to 55.4 cents per gallon, adding an additional 6 cents to the price. Moreover, future adjustments to gas prices are anticipated, with unleaded gas prices projected to rise by 2% annually to keep pace with inflation. Diesel prices will see an increase of 3 cents in two years and thereafter, an annual increase of 2% starting in 2028.

Mixed opinions are emerging among Seattle residents regarding the justifications for these price increases. While some drivers express dissatisfaction over what they perceive as a lack of visible improvements to the city’s infrastructure despite rising costs, others note the similarity of Washington’s gas prices to those in California, suggesting an unsettling trend.

Some residents have begun actively seeking areas where gas prices may be more affordable, particularly as reports indicate that gas prices were close to $5 per gallon at certain stations before the new tax was implemented. Furthermore, concerns are growing about how increasing fuel prices may impact holiday travel plans for many families in the state.

In addition to the newly imposed gas tax, the state’s CO2 emissions tax resulting from the Climate Commitment Act has also contributed an extra 6 cents per gallon to the cost of gas. Certain critics have attributed the rising gasoline prices to this Climate Commitment Act, though the Washington State Department of Ecology has clarified that it is not the primary cause of price increases. The Department has detailed that the recent upward movement of just over 3 cents per gallon aligns with broader national trends.

The revenue generated from the CO2 emissions tax has been focused on reducing carbon emissions, enhancing rural public transit, and supporting individuals living with disabilities. Since its establishment two and a half years ago, the Climate Commitment Act program has produced approximately $3.2 billion in revenue for these initiatives.

As Washingtonians continue to navigate this era of unprecedented fuel costs, experts urge caution and awareness regarding the long-term implications of these financial burdens on families and individuals alike.

FAQ

Key Features of Washington State Gas Prices

• Current Average Price: $4.66 per gallon
• National Average Price: $3.18 per gallon
• Seattle Average Price: $4.81 per gallon
• Gas Tax Increase: From 49.4 cents to 55.4 cents per gallon
• Future Unleaded Price Increase: +2% annually
• CO2 Emissions Tax Increase: +6 cents per gallon
• Total Revenue from the Climate Commitment Act: Approximately $3.2 billion

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• KOMO News: Washington State Hits Highest Gas Prices in the Country
• Wikipedia: Gasoline
• King 5 News: Washington Gas Prices Spike
• Google Search: Washington gas prices
• KIRO 7: How Gas Prices Have Changed in Seattle
• Google Scholar: Gas Prices Washington
• Kitsap Sun: Price of Gas Going Up in Washington
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Gas Prices

Author: STAFF HERE MISSION VIEJO WRITER

MISSION VIEJO STAFF WRITER The MISSION VIEJO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMissionViejo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Mission Viejo, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Oso Fit 5K Fun Run and Community Health Fair, Walk Against Drugs & Community Fair, and National Night Out. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Mission Viejo Chamber of Commerce and Providence Mission Hospital Mission Viejo, plus leading businesses in retail and education that power the local economy such as The Shops at Mission Viejo, Capistrano Unified School District, and Amazon Delivery Station. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.