Statewide average updated daily • Source: AAA
Iowa gas prices typically run near the national average, occasionally dipping slightly below it in the Des Moines metro area and along major interstate corridors. Iowa occupies a middle position in the Midwest fuel market with a moderate tax structure and reasonable pipeline access. Iowa is notable as one of the largest ethanol producing states in the country — the corn ethanol blended into gasoline sold across America often originates in Iowa — giving the state a unique relationship with the fuel supply chain that goes beyond just consuming gasoline.
Iowa’s state gas tax is approximately 30 cents per gallon, near the national median. The state has a conventional flat-rate structure without the variable components that cause effective rates to fluctuate in states like Indiana and Nebraska.
Iowa is served by pipeline connections from the broader Midwest distribution network and benefits from proximity to both Kansas City and Chicago area fuel terminal infrastructure. Des Moines serves as the primary distribution hub for the state. The I-80 corridor running east-west and I-35 running north-south through Des Moines generate competitive interstate fuel markets at their intersection.
Iowa’s ethanol industry is a notable factor — the state has over 40 ethanol plants producing billions of gallons annually, and this local production reduces the state’s dependence on imported fuel components. Iowa stations are among the most likely in the country to offer E15 and E85 ethanol blends at lower prices than conventional gasoline, giving Iowa drivers more fuel choice than most states offer.
Did you know? Iowa produces more corn ethanol than any other state — over 4 billion gallons per year from more than 40 ethanol plants — making it the single largest contributor to the domestic ethanol supply blended into gasoline sold across the entire country. Iowa has more E85 fueling stations per capita than almost any other state, driven by the agricultural community’s support for domestic ethanol and availability of locally produced fuel. The Iowa State Fair — one of the largest in the country with over a million attendees — features extensive exhibits on biofuel technology that reflect the state’s central role in American fuel supply.
Compare today’s average in Iowa with nearby states to understand regional price differences.
Learn more about what drives gas prices across the United States.
Crude oil prices are the biggest driver of what you pay at the pump. For U.S. and global crude oil production data updated from EIA figures, see Oil Production Live.