Diesel Prices: Mixed Trends Seen in the Latest EIA Fuel Report

Diesel Prices Show Mixed Trends in Mid-September

National Diesel Prices and Gasoline Shifts

Diesel prices moved lower in mid-September, but costs remain higher than a year ago in the latest EIA fuel report. The national average for on-highway diesel fell to $3.74 per gallon, down about three cents from the previous week. Even with the weekly decline, diesel prices are still more than 21 cents above levels seen in 2024. Gasoline also eased, with the national average for regular gas dropping to $3.17 per gallon, about two cents less than last week.

For truck drivers, the price gap between gasoline and diesel remains critical. Fleets and independent operators continue to pay more for diesel compared with last year, raising overall operating expenses despite recent declines.

Regional Prices and Their Impact

Diesel prices behaved differently across U.S. regions, showing clear contrasts.

• East Coast: Average diesel price stayed just under $3.80 per gallon. The Lower Atlantic area saw the biggest decrease, bringing some relief for drivers moving freight along I-95 and other major routes.
• Midwest: At about $3.70 per gallon, the diesel price in the Midwest recorded one of the largest drops. Strong refinery output has helped keep supply flowing in this region.
• Gulf Coast: This region continues to hold the lowest diesel price in the nation, averaging $3.46 per gallon. Proximity to refineries keeps costs lower and helps drivers cut expenses.
• Rocky Mountains: Diesel price averaged near $3.77 per gallon, down slightly from last week. Because this region has fewer refineries, prices tend to swing more with supply changes.
• West Coast: At $4.26 per gallon, West Coast prices remain the highest. California, in particular, faces strict fuel standards and higher transport costs, which add to the price pressure.

These regional shifts highlight why many carriers watch diesel prices closely when planning fuel stops and calculating trip costs.

Inventory Levels Add Pressure to Diesel Prices

U.S. refinery operations stayed strong at more than 93 percent of capacity, but fuel output still slipped. Gasoline and distillate production both declined compared to last week. Distillate stocks, which include diesel, increased by about 4 million barrels. However, they remain 8 percent below the five-year average.

Crude oil inventories fell sharply, dropping by more than 9 million barrels. At 415 million barrels, crude supplies are 5 percent lower than normal for this season. These tighter stock levels add upward pressure to diesel prices. When supply is already below average, even small disruptions can quickly drive costs higher.

What Higher Diesel Prices Mean for Truck Drivers

Truck drivers face direct challenges from diesel prices that remain elevated year over year. Even with slight weekly declines, fuel bills remain heavier than in 2024. This creates higher surcharges, increased freight costs, and tighter budgets for independent operators.

Regional differences in prices also shape how drivers plan routes. Lower costs in the Gulf Coast and Midwest offer better margins, while higher prices in the West Coast continue to strain budgets. These differences highlight the importance of fuel planning and surcharge adjustments for both large fleets and owner-operators.

Outlook for Diesel Prices Moving Forward

Diesel price will likely remain sensitive as fall approaches. Refinery maintenance, global oil supply decisions, and seasonal demand will all play a role in the weeks ahead. With distillate inventories still below long-term averages, diesel markets could see sudden price swings if supply issues emerge.

For now, the national trend shows slight relief week to week, but diesel prices remain high compared with last year. Truck drivers and carriers will need to continue monitoring costs region by region to manage expenses effectively.

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