North Dakota Drivers Feeling the Pinch—But Not the Worst in the U.S.

It might feel like gas prices are skyrocketing with no end in sight—but here in North Dakota, drivers are actually faring better than much of the country.

According to a recent report from SmartAsset, North Dakota ranks 38th in the nation when it comes to gas prices, with an average of $3.99 per gallon as of early May 2026. While that price may still cause some sticker shock at the pump, it’s relatively lower compared to many other states.

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How Gas Prices Impact Drivers in North Dakota and Montana

The study goes beyond just the price per gallon—it also looks at how those prices impact your wallet. In North Dakota, the cost to fill up a standard 15-gallon tank amounts to about 3.79% of the median weekly household income. For those earning minimum wage, that same fill-up takes a much bigger bite, accounting for 20.66% of a week’s pay.

Just across the border in Montana, drivers are feeling a bit more pressure. Montana ranks 19th in the nation, with an average gas price of $4.32 per gallon. That translates to 4.24% of median weekly household income and 14.94% of weekly minimum wage for a full tank. While the percentages differ, the bottom line is the same—fuel costs are making an impact everywhere.

Read More: Why North Dakota Is Taking It Slow On Mortgage Debt

How The Numbers Add Up

So how were these numbers calculated? The analysis used average retail gasoline prices reported by AAA as of May 3, 2026. These figures were then compared to estimated current median household incomes, adjusted using data from the U.S. Census Bureau and wage growth tracked by the U.S. Department of Labor. Weekly income estimates were used to determine how much a 15-gallon fill-up costs relative to what people earn.

With summer travel season just around the corner, these numbers are worth keeping in mind. Road trips, weekend getaways, and long drives to the lake all add up quickly when fuel prices are high. Even though North Dakota sits in a better position than many states, planning ahead and budgeting for fuel could make a big difference.