Wisconsin gas prices
Wisconsin gas prices usually run near the national average. The state is in PADD 2 with pipeline access from the Gulf Coast and the BP Whiting refinery in neighboring Indiana. Milwaukee requires reformulated gasoline, which costs a bit more than the conventional fuel used in the rest of the state.
Gas taxes are moderate. Milwaukee and Madison have the most competitive pricing due to station density. Northern Wisconsin and rural areas pay a bit more. The state has a minimum markup law that prevents stations from selling gas below cost, which keeps prices slightly higher than they might otherwise be during price wars.
Price history
What is Wisconsin's minimum markup law?
Wisconsin requires gas stations to sell fuel above their wholesale cost. The law was designed to protect small independent stations from being undercut by large chains. It means Wisconsin prices rarely drop as low as neighboring states during temporary price dips.
Why is gas more expensive in Milwaukee than the rest of Wisconsin?
Milwaukee requires reformulated gasoline to meet EPA air quality standards. This blend costs more to produce than the conventional gasoline sold in the rest of the state. The price difference is usually 5 to 10 cents per gallon.
How do Wisconsin prices compare to Minnesota and Illinois?
Wisconsin is usually similar to Minnesota and cheaper than Illinois (especially Chicago). All three states are in PADD 2 with similar supply access, but Illinois's high Chicago-area taxes push its average well above Wisconsin's.