Can Charlotte drivers find relief at the pump in South Carolina? Here’s what to know
As the average gas price in Charlotte continues to rise, many drivers are looking for ways to save at the pump.
The average price for a gallon of gas in the Charlotte area is currently $4.52, up from $4.36 a week ago, according to AAA.
However, across the border in Rock Hill, South Carolina -- just 26 miles south of Charlotte -- the average gas price is $4.42. And the difference isn’t only just by a few miles.
Here’s why you can get more for less in South Carolina.
Why is gas cheaper in South Carolina?
State and local taxes contribute to variations in gas prices, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.
North Carolina drivers currently pay 38.5 cents per gallon in taxes, according to the N.C. Department of Revenue. In South Carolina, drivers pay a 26-cent tax on gas, but that rate will go up by two cents on July 1, the S.C. Department of Revenue says.
When factoring in other state taxes and the federal excise tax on gas, North Carolina has the 13th highest tax rate in the nation, charging drivers an extra 57 cents per gallon, according to the American Petroleum Institute. South Carolina drivers pay an extra 45 cents per gallon at the pump, API data show.
S.C. residents didn’t see an increase in state gas taxes for three decades until 2017 when state lawmakers passed a bill to improve the state’s roads and infrastructure, The Island Packet reported.
What is NC gas tax revenue used for?
Similar to South Carolina, revenue from North Carolina state gas tax goes toward road improvements. In the most recent fiscal year, the gas tax generated $2.1 billion for NCDOT, The News & Observer reported.
This story was originally published June 6, 2022 at 11:03 AM.
