Tennessee Slips Again in Gas Price Rankings — And Williamson County Wins the 'Most Expensive' Trophy

Williamson County drivers pay 47 cents more per gallon than Rutherford County residents, while Tennessee falls to 11th cheapest gas in the country.

Feb. 23, 2026 at 5:03pm

Tennessee has slipped back to 11th place for cheapest gas in the country, with the statewide average for regular unleaded at $2.55 per gallon. Meanwhile, Williamson County continues to have the highest gas prices in the state, with an average of $3.02 per gallon - 47 cents more than neighboring Rutherford County. This price difference can add up to significant savings for drivers, with a full tank costing $8.93 more in Williamson County compared to Rutherford County for a 2025 Toyota 4Runner.

Why it matters

Gas prices have a significant impact on household budgets, especially for those with longer commutes or who drive larger vehicles. The wide disparity in prices between neighboring counties like Williamson and Rutherford highlights how geography and local market conditions can dramatically affect what drivers pay at the pump. This is an important economic indicator for the region.

The details

Tennessee has fallen from 8th and 9th place for cheapest gas in the country down to 11th place, with the statewide average for regular unleaded at $2.55 per gallon. Neighboring states like Iowa ($2.54) and Texas ($2.55) have edged ahead. In the Middle Tennessee region, Rutherford County drivers are paying the same $2.55 per gallon average, while those in Williamson County are paying $3.02 per gallon - a 47 cent difference. Even Nashville drivers are saving 42 cents per gallon compared to Williamson County.

  • As of Monday, February 23, 2026 at 9 a.m.

The players

Tennessee

The state of Tennessee, which has slipped in the rankings for cheapest gas prices in the country.

Williamson County

A county in Middle Tennessee that continues to have the highest gas prices in the state, with an average of $3.02 per gallon for regular unleaded.

Rutherford County

A neighboring county to Williamson that has an average gas price of $2.55 per gallon, 47 cents cheaper than Williamson.

Nashville

The capital city of Tennessee, where drivers are paying $2.60 per gallon, 42 cents less than Williamson County.

AAA

The automobile association that provided the data on gas prices across Tennessee and the country.

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The takeaway

This report highlights the significant regional disparities in gas prices that can exist even within the same state. Drivers in Williamson County are paying a premium compared to their neighbors, which can add up to substantial costs over time, especially for those with larger vehicles or longer commutes. Understanding these local price differences can help consumers make more informed decisions about where to fuel up.