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FLORIDA - As of December 23, 2024, Florida's average gas price stands at $2.99 per gallon for regular unleaded, slightly below the national average of $3.04.
Within the state, prices vary significantly. Okaloosa County in northwest Florida reports the lowest average at $2.72 per gallon, followed by Bay County (Panama City) at $2.79, Walton County at $2.81, and Escambia County at $2.83. Conversely, Suwannee County in the Big Bend region records the highest average at $3.22 per gallon, with Madison County close behind at $3.20.
Other areas with elevated prices include Hardee County ($3.18), Palm Beach County ($3.16), and Hendry County ($3.16).
In metropolitan regions, Fort Walton Beach-Crestview offers the most affordable gas at $2.74 per gallon, followed by Panama City at $2.80 and Pensacola at $2.84.
In contrast, West Palm Beach reports the highest metro average at $3.16, with Naples at $3.12 and Gainesville at $3.10.
Other notable metro prices include Miami at $2.98, Tampa at $3.01, Fort Lauderdale at $3.02, Tallahassee at $2.95, Orlando at $2.94, and Jacksonville at $2.97.
Nationally, the most economical gas prices are found in Oklahoma ($2.55 per gallon), Mississippi ($2.60), Arkansas ($2.65), Texas ($2.65), and Kansas ($2.68).
The highest prices are in Hawaii ($4.53), California ($4.34), Washington ($3.91), Nevada ($3.61), and Oregon ($3.46).
These figures highlight the regional disparities in fuel costs, influenced by factors such as distribution logistics, state taxes, and local demand.
Florida's position below the national average offers some relief to motorists during the holiday season, though intrastate variations may impact travel budgets differently across the state.