Diesel Prices Drop 20 Cents Across U.S. Last Week

Diesel Prices Drop Sharply Across U.S. Last Week

Diesel prices moved lower across the country during the week ending April 20, 2026, with a noticeable drop in fuel costs for truck drivers. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the national average for on-highway diesel fell to $5.403 per gallon, down 20.5 cents from the previous week.

This marks one of the larger weekly declines in recent weeks, offering some short-term relief for carriers managing high fuel expenses.

National Diesel Prices See Significant Weekly Decline

The U.S. average dropped from $5.608 to $5.403 per gallon week over week. This 20.5-cent decrease reflects a broad decline across nearly all regions.

Compared to one year ago, diesel price is still higher by $1.869 per gallon. Over two years, prices have risen by $1.411 per gallon, showing that fuel costs are still elevated despite the recent weekly drop.

Regional Diesel Prices Show Broad Declines

East Coast Diesel Prices Fall Across All Subregions

On the East Coast (PADD1), prices decreased by 18.0 cents to $5.494 per gallon. All subregions reported declines:

• New England dropped 16.2 cents to $5.862
• Central Atlantic fell 7.2 cents to $5.924
• Lower Atlantic saw a larger drop of 22.1 cents to $5.297

These decreases reflect easing prices across major freight lanes along the East Coast.

Midwest and Gulf Coast Lead Weekly Declines

The Midwest (PADD2) posted a 21.7-cent drop, bringing diesel prices to $5.165 per gallon. The Gulf Coast (PADD3) saw the largest regional decrease, falling 24.1 cents to $5.069 per gallon.

These regions often influence national freight costs due to their role in agriculture, manufacturing, and energy distribution.

Rocky Mountain Region Sees Smaller Change

The Rocky Mountain region (PADD4) recorded a smaller decline of 4.3 cents, with prices averaging $5.213 per gallon.

While still a decrease, the change was less significant compared to other parts of the country.

West Coast Diesel Prices Remain Highest

The West Coast (PADD5) continues to report the highest diesel prices nationwide, even after a 20.2-cent drop to $6.620 per gallon.

Prices excluding California averaged $6.010 per gallon, down 17.3 cents. In California, diesel prices fell 23.4 cents to $7.325 per gallon, remaining well above the national average.

Higher fuel costs in this region continue to impact carriers operating near major ports and distribution hubs.

Diesel Prices Still Higher Than Last Year

Despite the weekly decline, diesel prices remain significantly higher compared to last year across all regions.

For example:

• East Coast prices are up $1.880 year over year
• Midwest prices are up $1.690
• Gulf Coast prices are up $1.874
• West Coast prices are up $2.370

These increases highlight the ongoing pressure fuel costs place on trucking operations.

What Lower Diesel Prices Mean for Truck Drivers

The recent drop may help reduce operating costs in the short term. A decrease of more than 20 cents per gallon can lead to noticeable savings over long hauls and multiple fill-ups.

For many carriers, fuel remains one of the largest expenses. Lower diesel prices can impact fuel surcharges, improve margins, and provide some flexibility in pricing.

However, regional differences still matter. Drivers operating in high-cost areas like the West Coast may not see the same level of relief as those in the Gulf Coast or Midwest.

Fuel Market Conditions Remain Uncertain

Even with last week’s decline, diesel remains elevated compared to previous years. Fuel markets continue to respond to supply conditions, refinery activity, and global energy trends.

These factors can lead to rapid price changes, meaning weekly declines may not always signal a long-term trend.

For now, the latest data shows a broad drop in diesel prices, offering some relief for truck drivers while fuel costs remain a key factor in the overall trucking market.