Best Day to Buy Gas Varies by State

Sunday is the cheapest day to fill up in most states, but price cycles create opportunities to save in some regions.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

A new GasBuddy analysis found that Sunday is the most consistently affordable day to buy gas in 41 states, while Monday, Saturday, and even Tuesday are the best days in several others. Filling up midweek, especially Wednesday through Friday, tends to be more expensive. In states that experience 'price cycling,' drivers can save up to 45 cents per gallon by waiting several days after a price spike before filling up.

Why it matters

Knowing the best day to buy gas in your state can lead to significant savings, especially for drivers in regions with predictable price fluctuations. This information empowers consumers to time their fill-ups strategically and avoid paying the highest prices.

The details

GasBuddy's analysis looked at statewide average gas prices over the past year to identify the cheapest and most expensive days to fill up in each state. They found that Sunday is the best day in 41 states, while Monday, Saturday, and even Tuesday are the cheapest in several others. Midweek, especially Wednesday through Friday, tends to be the most expensive time to buy gas. In states that experience 'price cycling,' such as Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Florida, Texas, and parts of the West Coast, drivers can save up to 45 cents per gallon by waiting several days after a price spike before filling up.

  • GasBuddy analyzed statewide average gas prices over the past year.

The players

GasBuddy

A company that provides real-time gas price information and analysis to help consumers save money at the pump.

Patrick De Haan

The head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, who provided insights on the predictable price patterns in certain states.

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What they’re saying

“In most states, prices gradually rise through the week before easing into the weekend, creating a reliable window for motorists to save simply by adjusting the timing of their fill-up.”

— Patrick De Haan, Head of Petroleum Analysis, GasBuddy

“If drivers notice a big jump, patience can pay off.”

— Patrick De Haan, Head of Petroleum Analysis, GasBuddy

What’s next

Drivers can check the GasBuddy website for the best and worst days to buy gas in their state, and plan their fill-ups accordingly to maximize savings.

The takeaway

Knowing the optimal day to buy gas in your state can lead to significant savings, especially in regions with predictable price cycles. By timing their fill-ups strategically, consumers can avoid paying the highest prices and take advantage of the most affordable days to fill up.