Anyone who owns a vehicle knows the frustration of gas prices surging just as you’re about to fill up. This unexpected hit to your wallet can seriously impact your overall spending, gradually challenging your budget.

To shed light on why gas prices fluctuate so dramatically, CheapInsurance.com delved into the factors influencing these changes. They also pinpointed the most economical gas stations in Orlando, utilizing data from Gas Buddy, accurate as of October 23, 2025.

Several elements contribute to the ebb and flow of gas prices. Chief among them is the cost of crude oil, the primary component of gasoline. Additionally, market supply and demand dynamics play a role. Price hikes can occur if oil costs rise, a significant refinery halts operations, or there’s an uptick in motorists on the roads.

The first half of 2022 witnessed an unusual set of circumstances that propelled gas prices upward. The aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic saw increased demand, compounded by geopolitical tensions from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and a deceleration in oil production. These factors pushed the national average price to an unprecedented $4.93 per gallon in June 2022.

Seasonal shifts also sway gas prices. In winter, demand typically wanes, leading to lower prices. This is partly because gas stations switch to a winter blend of gasoline, which is better suited for cold conditions and is less expensive to produce.

Geography plays a crucial role in pricing disparities. Generally, the South and Midwest boast the lowest gas costs, whereas the West, including Hawai’i, faces higher prices. Californians endure some of the steepest prices due to several factors: high state excise taxes, logistical challenges from its distance to major pipelines, and stringent environmental regulations requiring a pricier, eco-friendlier blend of gasoline.

No matter where you live, read on to see if you can get a deal on gas near you.

#1. Sam’s Club
– Address: 755 N US 27-441, Lady Lake, FL
– Price: $2.59

#2. Costco
– Address: 2101 Water Bridge Blvd, Orlando, FL
– Price: $2.63

#2. Costco (tie)
– Address: 4696 Gardens Park Blvd, Orlando, FL
– Price: $2.63

#2. Sam’s Club (tie)
– Address: 9498 S Orange Blossom Trl, Orlando, FL
– Price: $2.63

#2. Al’s (tie)
– Address: 626 W Gore St, Orlando, FL
– Price: $2.63

#6. Amoco
– Address: 843 S Orange Blossom Tr, Orlando, FL
– Price: $2.65

#7. Costco
– Address: 4610 Collina Terrace, Clermont, FL
– Price: $2.67

#7. BJ’s (tie)
– Address: 2577 S US-27, Clermont, FL
– Price: $2.67

#7. BJ’s (tie)
– Address: 4697 Millenia Plaza Way, Orlando, FL
– Price: $2.67

#10. Amoco
– Address: 3498 E Semoran Blvd, Apopka, FL
– Price: $2.69

This story was produced by CheapInsurance.com and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.