### Gas Prices Set to Plummet: A Historic Decline in 2026 The latest forecasts from GasBuddy indicate a significant drop in gasoline prices for 2026, with the national average expected to fall below $3 per gallon for the first time since 2020. This anticipated decline is attributed to increased refinery output and a moderation in demand, marking the fourth consecutive year of decreasing prices at the pump. The projected average price of $2.97 per gallon represents a 13-cent reduction from the 2025 average of $3.10, providing much-needed relief for American households facing rising costs in other areas of their budgets [https://www.legitpolitic.com/post/gasbuddy-forecast-signals-continued-relief-at-the-pump-after-years-of-elevated-fuel-costs]. ### Breakdown of the Gas Price Forecast 1. **Projected Price Decline**: - GasBuddy forecasts the national average price of gasoline to be **$2.97 per gallon** in 2026, the lowest since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic [https://www.newsweek.com/gas-prices-five-year-low-2026-11319653]. 2. **Factors Influencing Prices**: - The decline is primarily due to **higher refinery output** and **moderating demand**, which are expected to stabilize prices at the pump [https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/national-international/average-nationwide-gas-prices-will-dip-gasbuddy/6440685]. 3. **Historical Context**: - This forecast marks the **fourth consecutive year** of declining gas prices, a trend that has not been seen since the pandemic began [https://www.news5cleveland.com/politics/economy/why-gasbuddy-says-cheap-gas-could-stick-around-in-2026]. 4. **Regional Variations**: - While the national average is expected to remain below $3, some regions, such as Michigan, may experience higher prices due to local market conditions [https://www.wzzm13.com/article/traffic/gas-prices/gasbuddy-2026-gas-price-outlook/69-b0efe03c-d850-42fa-8d48-d8af04b95991]. ### Supporting Data and Evidence - **Average Price Projections**: - 2026 National Average: **$2.97 per gallon** - 2025 National Average: **$3.10 per gallon** - Price Reduction: **13 cents** from the previous year [https://www.ktvb.com/article/traffic/gas-prices/national-gas-price-average-may-sit-under-3-all-of-2026/277-882a63a4-5a1c-4a9c-8235-aee88f50d390]. - **Household Spending**: - The average household is expected to spend approximately **$2,083** on gasoline in 2026, reflecting the lower prices [https://www.gasbuddy.com/go/2026-fuel-price-outlook]. ### Conclusion: A Positive Outlook for Consumers In summary, the GasBuddy 2026 Fuel Price Outlook presents a **promising scenario for American drivers**, with gas prices projected to fall below $3 per gallon for the first time in years. This trend is driven by increased refinery output and a decrease in demand, leading to a projected average price of **$2.97 per gallon**. 1. **Price Decline**: Gas prices are set to decrease, providing relief to consumers. 2. **Factors**: Increased refinery output and moderated demand are key drivers. 3. **Historical Significance**: This marks the fourth consecutive year of declining prices. 4. **Regional Differences**: Some areas may see higher prices despite the national trend. Overall, this forecast signals a significant shift in the fuel market, offering a much-needed respite for American households amid ongoing economic challenges [https://www.cheapism.com/low-gas-prices-in-2026].