Rhode Island gas prices
Rhode Island gas prices usually track with the rest of southern New England. Prices are above the national average but typically a few cents cheaper than Connecticut and Massachusetts. The state is small enough that prices are fairly uniform everywhere.
Rhode Island has no refineries and imports all fuel via tanker and pipeline. Being a tiny state with a small market means it doesn't have much pricing power. Gas taxes are moderate for the Northeast. Providence is essentially the only market that matters, and stations there compete actively enough to keep prices from getting out of hand.
Price history
How do Rhode Island gas prices compare to Connecticut and Massachusetts?
Rhode Island is usually a few cents cheaper than both. Connecticut has higher taxes, and Massachusetts has higher overall costs. The differences are typically 3 to 8 cents per gallon.
Does Rhode Island's small size affect gas prices?
Somewhat. The state's small market means it doesn't get the same volume discounts as larger states. But being compact also means low distribution costs since every station is close to the port terminals in Providence.
Does Rhode Island have any fuel blend requirements?
Rhode Island uses reformulated gasoline to meet EPA air quality standards. This blend costs slightly more to produce than conventional gasoline, adding a small premium to pump prices.