This is the sole car cost decreasing in 2026, despite Venezuela being involved | Carscoops

      Industry analysts predict that some states may experience gas prices as low as $2.43 per gallon this year.

      Gas prices are anticipated to decline in 2026, despite rising costs for other vehicle expenses.

      Drivers are expected to see the lowest average gas prices since the pandemic, with an average forecasted at $2.97, even amidst political instability.

      Acquiring a new car has reached unprecedented costs, with average transaction prices surpassing $50,000 for the first time in October. Monthly insurance payments can feel burdensome, and repair and maintenance expenses can add up. However, in the midst of these challenges, there is some positive news for American drivers: gas prices are low, and experts predict they will decrease further in 2026.

      Additionally, more Americans are facing monthly car payments exceeding $1,000.

      Analysts estimate that gas prices in 2026 will average $2.97, the lowest annual average since 2020. While this is a minor relief, it feels like a rare victory for those who rely on vehicles amidst rising costs in other areas.

      The $2.97 figure represents the anticipated nationwide average for the year, but the actual price you pay may vary based on the timing of your purchase due to seasonal fluctuations. For instance, prices are projected to reach $3.08 in June and drop to around $2.83 in December.

      There are also regional disparities to consider. In California, prices could range from $4.19 to $4.66, whereas in Mississippi, drivers might only pay between $2.43 and $2.66. Regional taxes, types of fuel, and transportation logistics all contribute to these variations.

      Gas prices surged past $5 a gallon for the first time in 2022, largely due to the impact of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which disrupted energy markets and turned fuel into a prominent symbol of inflation.

      Since then, prices have gradually decreased as supply chains recovered, oil prices fell, and markets stabilized. Although living expenses remain high, gas prices continue to decline.

      GasBuddy predicts that 2026 will mark the fourth consecutive year of decreasing gas prices. Households are estimated to spend about $2,083 on fuel this year, a significant reduction from the inflation peak when expenditures reached $2,715. This difference is significant for families trying to manage car payments, insurance, and grocery expenses.

      It's not only regular unleaded gas that is experiencing lower prices; even diesel, which has consistently been more expensive, is expected to see a drop to $3.55 this year, down from $3.71 in 2025.

      While this analysis took time to prepare, it was completed before President Trump's recent actions regarding Venezuela. Patrick De Haan, GasBuddy’s head of petroleum analysis, indicated to CNN that he does not believe recent events in South America will affect the forecast.

      "In the short term, we see little disruption or change as a result of the events over the last few days," he remarked.

      Moreover, De Haan does not see the falling fuel prices as a warning sign. He noted that demand remains strong and prices are decreasing due to an overall increase in supply, thanks in large part to OPEC boosting output in 2025 under pressure from the Trump administration.

      However, De Haan cautioned that persistently low prices could hinder domestic drilling and shift more influence back to OPEC if U.S. production begins to decline.

      Predicted gas prices for 2026 by state are forthcoming.