EIA Projects U.S. Gasoline Prices Below $3 in 2026 and 2027

Introduction to EIA’s Latest Outlook

The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) has released its most recent Short-Term Energy Outlook (STEO) on January 13, indicating promising forecasts for gasoline prices in the United States. In a significant development, the EIA projects that the average retail price of regular gasoline will fall below $3 per gallon in both 2026 and 2027.

Projected Gasoline Prices

According to the EIA's projections, the national average price for regular gasoline is expected to be $2.92 per gallon in 2026, followed by a slight increase to an average of $2.95 per gallon in 2027. These figures represent a notable decrease compared to the average price of $3.10 per gallon recorded in 2025. This downward trend highlights the EIA’s confidence in stabilizing fuel prices in the coming years.

Quarterly Price Breakdown

A closer examination of the EIA's quarterly breakdown reveals that the projected price for regular gasoline will reach an estimated $2.85 per gallon in the first quarter of 2026. This early prediction suggests that consumers can anticipate lower fuel costs, which may contribute positively to household budgets and the overall economy. The consistent decline in gasoline prices is an encouraging sign for both consumers and businesses that rely on transportation and logistics.

Conclusion

In summary, the EIA’s Short-Term Energy Outlook presents a hopeful perspective on the trajectory of gasoline prices in the United States for the years 2026 and 2027. With average prices projected to maintain below the $3 mark, consumers can expect some financial relief compared to previous years. Such price predictions play a critical role in economic forecasting and planning for both individuals and organizations across the nation.