Gas Prices in Iowa Today

Gas prices in Iowa are updated weekly. Check back soon for the latest statewide average, or browse our city pages for the most current local data. Historically, Iowa prices track closely with the Midwest regional average.

Iowa charges approximately 30 cents per gallon in state excise taxes on gasoline. The federal gas tax adds another 18.4 cents per gallon, bringing the combined tax burden to roughly 48.4 cents per gallon. Iowa's state tax is below the national average, which helps keep pump prices relatively low.

Nationally, Monday and Tuesday tend to offer the lowest gas prices, while Friday and Saturday are often the most expensive as weekend demand rises. In Iowa, patterns follow similar trends. Prices also fluctuate based on crude oil markets, which reset each week. Checking prices early in the week can save you several cents per gallon.

Iowa borders minnesota, south dakota, nebraska, and prices across state lines can vary by 5–30 cents per gallon depending on each state's gas tax, refinery access, and local competition. Iowa's PADD 2 regional supply chain primarily influences local prices. Drivers near state borders may find it worthwhile to cross state lines for a fill-up if price differentials are significant.

Gas prices in Iowa react to several factors: crude oil futures (the biggest driver), local refinery output, seasonal fuel blend mandates, transportation costs to Des Moines, and local retailer margins. Prices typically update weekly or more frequently when crude markets are volatile. Summer-blend gasoline, which is more expensive to produce, also raises prices from spring through Labor Day.

Use our station finder on any city page to see real-time prices at nearby stations. Apps like GasBuddy can also show crowdsourced prices. In general, warehouse clubs (Costco, Sam's Club) and hypermarket fuel centers (Walmart, Kroger) consistently offer prices 5–15 cents below branded stations in Iowa. Avoid gas stations directly off major interstates, which typically charge a convenience premium.

Some metro areas within Iowa may have seasonal or year-round reformulated gasoline requirements under EPA standards. Check the EPA's RFG locator for specific Iowa counties. Outside designated RFG areas, conventional gasoline is sold at lower cost.

Most vehicles on the road today are designed for regular 87-octane unleaded gasoline. Check your owner's manual — only use premium (91+) if your vehicle requires or recommends it. Using premium when regular is specified wastes money without performance benefit. Midgrade (89 octane) is rarely the optimal choice for any modern vehicle.