Full Breakdown
Thanksgiving 2025: Gas Prices and Travel Trends Across the U.S.
11/25/2025, 8:41:17 PM
Rising Gas Prices Ahead of Thanksgiving Travel
As millions of Americans prepare for Thanksgiving travel, gas prices have seen notable fluctuations across various states. In Florida, prices increased by 20 cents per gallon last week, averaging $3.10, which matches the price from Thanksgiving Day 2024. AAA forecasts that approximately 81.8 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more this holiday season, with 90% planning to drive. In Florida alone, over 4.25 million residents are expected to hit the road, particularly during peak travel times on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons.
In South Carolina, gas prices remained stable at an average of $2.71 per gallon, slightly down from last year. GasBuddy reported that the lowest price in the state was $2.36, while the highest reached $3.49. Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, noted that refinery maintenance is concluding, which could lead to further price relief in the coming weeks.
Regional Price Variations
Gas prices in Texas rose by 4.9 cents per gallon to an average of $2.63, reflecting a slight increase compared to both last month and last year. The cheapest gas in Texas was reported at $2.15, while the most expensive was $5.39. In contrast, Wisconsin saw a decrease in average prices, which fell to $2.75 per gallon, while Michigan experienced an increase to $3.10.
In Iowa, the average price rose by 7.8 cents to $2.76 per gallon, although it remains lower than last month. The cheapest gas in the state was $2.29, with a significant spread of $1.20 between the lowest and highest prices. Meanwhile, in Indiana, the average price was reported at $2.892, with some counties exceeding $3 per gallon.
National Trends and Predictions
Nationally, the average price of gasoline remained unchanged at $3.03 per gallon, consistent with last year's holiday prices. GasBuddy predicts that the national average will hold steady around this figure for Thanksgiving Day, marking one of the cheapest holiday averages since 2021. Diesel prices have also seen slight increases, averaging $3.78 per gallon.
Experts suggest that the overall demand for gasoline is low this time of year, contributing to the stabilization of prices despite the holiday rush. Patrick De Haan emphasized that as refinery maintenance wraps up, more relief is expected, particularly in regions like the Great Lakes and West Coast.
Criticism & Opposition
While many travelers may welcome the stabilization of gas prices, some critics argue that the fluctuations still place a financial burden on families during the holiday season. The disparity in prices across states raises concerns about the economic impact on lower-income households, who may struggle with travel expenses.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Mark Jenkins, spokesman for AAA – The Auto Club Group, noted, “Florida gas prices jumped 20 cents last week, following a familiar trend of rising after consistent declines.” — Mark Jenkins, Spokesman for AAA – The Auto Club Group
- “With refinery maintenance wrapping up, we’re likely to see more relief soon, particularly in the Great Lakes and West Coast regions.” — Patrick De Haan, Head of Petroleum Analysis at GasBuddy
As Thanksgiving approaches, travelers are advised to monitor gas prices closely and plan their routes accordingly to maximize savings during this busy travel period.
