Average Gas Price In Montana: The Data Surprises Experts
- 01. Average gas price in Montana: the data surprises experts
- 02. Current Montana Gas Price Breakdown by Fuel Grade
- 03. Historical Price Trends and Seasonal Patterns
- 04. County-Level Price Variations Across Montana
- 05. National Context and Ranking
- 06. Market Intelligence Implications for LNG Industry Stakeholders
Average gas price in Montana: the data surprises experts
As of May 30, 2026, the average price of regular unleaded gasoline in Montana is $4.546 per gallon according to AAA, which is 19 cents higher than the national average of $4.356. This represents a significant year-over-year increase of $1.338 per gallon (41.7%) from the year-ago average of $3.208.
Current Montana Gas Price Breakdown by Fuel Grade
The Montana fuel price spectrum reveals substantial variation across octane grades, with diesel commanding the highest premium in the state's energy market landscape.
| Fuel Grade | Current Average (MT) | Yesterday's Average | Year Ago Average | YoY Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Unleaded | $4.546 | $4.548 | $3.208 | +41.7% |
| Mid-Grade | $4.914 | $4.907 | $3.537 | +38.9% |
| Premium | $5.240 | $5.232 | $3.844 | +36.3% |
| Diesel | $5.345 | $5.360 | $3.458 | +54.6% |
These price differentials reflect broader global LNG market dynamics influencing refined product costs across the Northern Plains region.
Historical Price Trends and Seasonal Patterns
Montana's gas price trajectory has experienced dramatic volatility over the past 24 months. In January 2026, the statewide average was just $2.73 per gallon-13 cents below the national rate at that time. By August 2023, prices had already neared $4.00 per gallon with Park County reaching $4.12. The current price surge marks the highest level recorded in Montana's modern pricing history.
- January 2026: $2.73/gallon (13 cents below national average)
- September 2025: Prices began rising after remaining steady since September 2, 2025
- August 2023: $3.96/gallon (13 cents above national average)
- March 2024: $3.51/gallon (12.5% increase over previous month)
- May 2026: $4.546/gallon (41.7% year-over-year increase)
This upward price momentum aligns with LNG feedstock competition driving crude refining margins higher across North America.
County-Level Price Variations Across Montana
Statewide regional price gaps remain substantial, with county averages ranging from $2.96 to $3.40 in earlier measurement periods. Powder River County historically recorded the highest prices at $3.75 per gallon, while McCone County maintained the lowest averages at $3.24. The cheapest station identified was $2.88 per gallon, while the most expensive reached $4.11.
- Cascade County: $2.96/gallon (cheapest in state during lower-price period)
- Missoula County: $3.02/gallon average, with some stations at $2.99
- Park County: $4.12/gallon (highest in southwest Montana)
- Power River County: $3.75/gallon (highest statewide in March 2024)
- McCone County: $3.24/gallon (lowest statewide in March 2024)
These localized premiums reflect transportation logistics and refinery supply chain constraints unique to Montana's geography.
National Context and Ranking
Montana currently ranks 12th highest in the United States for average gas prices, improving one spot from the previous week. The statewide premium of 19 cents above the national average positions Montana among the higher-cost states in the Mountain West region.
"Average gasoline prices in Montana are unchanged in the last week, averaging $4.546 per gallon today," said AAA Mountain West spokesperson Julian Paredes, noting the stabilization pattern after recent volatility.
The national price baseline of $4.356 reflects broader crude oil market fundamentals influenced by OPEC+ production decisions and global LNG export demand.
Market Intelligence Implications for LNG Industry Stakeholders
Rising transportation fuel costs directly impact LNG logistics economics, including trucking costs for feedstock delivery and distributed LNG distribution networks. The 41.7% year-over-year increase suggests sustained pressure on energy-intensive supply chains throughout the Montana operating region.
Executives monitoring regional fuel economics should note that diesel's 54.6% year-over-year increase ($5.345 vs. $3.458) particularly affects heavy haul transportation critical to LNG infrastructure projects.
Key concerns and solutions for Average Gas Price In Montana Just Broke A Record
What is the current average gas price in Montana?
The current average price of regular unleaded gasoline in Montana is $4.546 per gallon as of May 30, 2026, according to AAA data.
How does Montana's gas price compare to the national average?
Montana's average gas price is 19 cents higher than the national average of $4.356 per gallon, ranking 12th highest among U.S. states.
What is the year-over-year change in Montana gas prices?
Montana gas prices have increased $1.338 per gallon (41.7%) from the year-ago average of $3.208 to the current $4.546.
Which Montana county has the cheapest gas?
Cascade County had the cheapest gas at $2.96 per gallon during the last measured low-price period, while McCone County recorded $3.24 in March 2024.
Which Montana county has the most expensive gas?
Powder River County has the most expensive gas at $3.75 per gallon (March 2024), with Park County reaching $4.12 in southwest Montana during August 2023.
What is the average diesel price in Montana?
The average diesel price in Montana is $5.345 per gallon, representing a 54.6% year-over-year increase from $3.458.
Are Montana gas prices expected to decline soon?
Prices have remained unchanged in the last week as of May 2026, with no immediate decline expected barring major geopolitical developments affecting global oil markets.
