Drivers Enjoy Lower Gas Prices This Holiday Season

Holiday travelers across the United States are benefiting from a notable decrease in gasoline prices. As of December 25, 2025, the national average for unleaded fuel has consistently stayed below the $3 per gallon threshold since early December. This trend represents the most affordable December for gas prices since 2020, offering financial respite to consumers.

The current affordability at the pump is attributed to robust supply levels and relatively mild crude oil prices, with West Texas Intermediate trading below $60 per barrel for most of December. This provides a stark contrast to other areas of consumer spending where inflation and tariffs have led to increased costs for groceries and holiday gifts.

Despite the positive news on fuel costs, broader economic concerns persist. Consumer prices in November saw a 2.7% year-over-year increase, exceeding the Federal Reserve's target, with economists cautioning that a recent federal shutdown may have skewed the data. Consumer confidence also dipped in December, reflecting ongoing anxieties about the cost of living and the job market.