Colorado gas prices
Colorado gas prices sit near the national average, sometimes a bit above, sometimes below. The state is in PADD 4, the Rocky Mountain region, which has limited refinery capacity compared to the Gulf Coast or Midwest. Colorado has a couple of refineries near Denver, but the state imports additional supply from other regions.
Denver drives most of the state's demand. Mountain towns and the Western Slope tend to pay more because of the distance from distribution terminals. Colorado's gas taxes are on the lower end nationally, which helps offset some of the transportation costs. The state has been adding clean fuel requirements in recent years, which could push prices up slightly over time.
Price history
Why are Colorado gas prices sometimes higher than neighboring states?
Colorado is in PADD 4, which has the least refining capacity of any US region. When local refineries have maintenance or outages, there isn't much backup supply nearby. Fuel has to come from the Gulf Coast or Midwest, adding transportation costs.
Is gas more expensive in the mountains?
Generally yes. Mountain towns like Vail, Aspen, and Durango are far from distribution terminals and have smaller markets. Prices can run 20 to 40 cents above Denver. Interstate corridor stations tend to be cheaper.
Does altitude affect fuel efficiency in Colorado?
Yes. Cars typically get slightly better fuel economy at altitude because the air is thinner and there's less aerodynamic drag. But turbocharged engines may lose some efficiency. It doesn't affect the price at the pump, just how far a gallon takes you.