Nevada Gas Prices High from California Reliance: Lombardo Forms Solutions Committee
The average gas price in Nevada is $3.70 per gallon for regular unleaded as of February 2026, placing the state fifth highest nationally. Reno prices hover around $4.13. Las Vegas averages $3.70. Rural areas like Elko are around $3.63. The national average stands at $2.98 per gallon.
California tops the nation with the highest average regular unleaded gas price at $4.63 per gallon, followed by Hawaii ($4.40), Washington ($4.18), and Oregon ($3.71).
The lowest prices are in Oklahoma ($2.28 per gallon), followed by Arkansas ($2.45), Kansas ($2.46), Mississippi ($2.49), and Iowa ($2.50).
Nevada's higher gas prices are largely due to its dependence on California for about 86% of its transportation fuel supply. This reliance exposes Nevada to California's market conditions, including strict environmental regulations, reformulated compliant fuel requirements, and refinery maintenance schedules, which increase production costs that are passed on to consumers in the region.
Recent refinery closures and reduced capacity in California have tightened West Coast fuel supply, raising Nevada gas prices.
Governor Joe Lombardo (R) voiced concern that proposed refinery profit caps and related legislation could reduce output or create shortages, driving costs higher in Nevada. “It’s no surprise that California’s fuel policies significantly impact the costs and availability of fuel for Nevada’s residents and businesses,” he said.
Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs (D) joined Gov. Lombardo in sending a joint letter to California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) opposing refinery inventory legislation. They cite a California Energy Commission report warning that the bill could create shortages and raise fuel prices in both states.
Lombardo said, “Nevadans and Arizonans shouldn't pay for California's misguided policies.”
Hobbs added, “Arizonans can't afford another price hike; this threatens our economy.”
They urge Newsom and the California legislature to reconsider, delay action, and include Nevada and Arizona in discussions for regional solutions to lower fuel costs.
Nevada can lessen dependence on California refineries by expanding the UNEV Pipeline from Utah to increase capacity to Las Vegas and add a Reno line, building new pipelines from Texas, boosting local fuel storage, and using rail or truck backups. Faster permitting and regional collaboration would support long-term diversification. To address these issues, Gov. Lombardo established the Fuel Resiliency Committee to strengthen supply chains and reduce reliance on California.
