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Let’s face it—gas prices are a love-hate relationship we can’t seem to escape. 

Whether it’s filling up your tank for a weekend getaway or just getting through the daily grind, the reality is we all have to face that dreaded pump price. 

And while you may think you're bracing yourself for another hike, 2024 has some surprises in store. The question is, how much are we really spending on gas each month, and what’s the deal with the fluctuating prices? 

Is it as bad as it seems, or are we starting to get a little relief? 

Spoiler alert: there’s been a shift in how much the average American is forking out for fuel—but there’s more to the story than just a few cents off per gallon. 

Stick around as we break down the numbers, reveal the trends, and help you make sense of those monthly fuel bills. 

The truth might just surprise you!

So, how much does the average American spend on gas per month?

If you think gas is getting too expensive, you’re not alone. In 2023, the average U.S. household spent around $2,780 on gasoline for the year—that’s about $232 a month! 

Considering all the places we drive to—work, school, errands, and the occasional weekend getaway—it’s no surprise that fuel costs quickly add up. 

At an average retail price of $3.51 per gallon, those trips can start to feel like a never-ending drain on your budget, according to the EIA.

But there’s some good news in all of this: in 2023, gasoline expenditures dropped by 12.7%, thanks to lower gas prices, easing some of the strain on our wallets, BLS said. 

Even better, lower-income households, which historically spend a larger portion of their budget on gas, got a bit of relief, according to the ACEEE. 

But don’t get too comfortable—gas prices can still fluctuate, and for those already feeling the pinch, every cent counts. If you’re one of the many people keeping a close eye on the pump, knowing how much you’re really spending each month might just help you take back control over your budget.

In 2024, the average U.S. household spent approximately $2,148 annually on gasoline, which breaks down to about $179 per month. 

While that’s still a significant amount, it’s a slight decrease from previous years, offering some relief to drivers who have been keeping a close eye on fuel costs, The Motley Fool said.

Retail gasoline prices averaged $3.30 per gallon in 2024, a 21-cent decrease from 2023’s average price of $3.51 per gallon. This dip in price certainly helps reduce the overall strain on household budgets, though gas prices can still vary depending on location and market conditions, according to the EIA.

However, lower-income households continue to feel the pinch more than higher-income groups. These households tend to spend a higher percentage of their income on gas, especially in areas where gas prices remain on the higher end. 

This is a reminder that even small price shifts can have a big impact on different segments of the population, the BLS said.

While gas prices have shown some improvement in 2024, it’s clear that they still make up a significant portion of household budgets for many Americans. 

Whether you're feeling the relief of lower prices or still bracing for the next fill-up, it’s important to stay aware of how much gas is impacting your finances. By keeping an eye on spending trends and price fluctuations, you can make smarter choices and find ways to adjust. 

The good news? 

With a little planning and understanding of how these costs fit into your overall budget, you can take control—no matter what the pump throws at you next.