Gasoline In Puerto Rico: The Island Price Gap
As of May 29, 2026, regular gasoline in Puerto Rico costs **$4.29 per gallon** (USD 1.13 per liter), while premium gasoline averages **$4.87 per gallon** (USD 1.28 per liter), according to the Department of Consumer Affairs (DACO). These retail pump prices include all taxes and fees and represent the highest island-wide averages since early 2022, driven by geopolitical tensions and crude oil market volatility.
Current Gasoline Prices by Grade and Brand
Puerto Rico's fuel market is tightly monitored by DACO, which publishes daily wholesale and retail price data for all major brands. The table below shows the most recent pump prices per liter in USD, converted to per-gallon equivalents for U.S. market comparability:
| Brand | Regular (USD/L) | Regular (USD/Gal) | Premium (USD/L) | Premium (USD/Gal) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Gas | $1.077 | $4.08 | $1.157 | $4.38 |
| ULTRA TOP FUEL | $1.077 | $4.08 | $1.197 | $4.53 |
| 76 | $1.077 | $4.08 | $1.217 | $4.60 |
| Gulf | $1.087 | $4.12 | $1.227 | $4.65 |
| Puma | $1.117 | $4.23 | $1.317 | $4.99 |
| Total | $1.117 | $4.23 | $1.287 | $4.87 |
| Island Average | $1.130 | $4.29 | $1.280 | $4.87 |
Price variations across brands reflect distribution costs, station location, and wholesale contract terms. American Gas and ULTRA TOP FUEL currently offer the lowest regular gasoline prices, while Puma charges the premium tier maximum.
Historical Price Context and Trends
Puerto Rico's gasoline prices have experienced significant volatility over the past decade. The long-term average since 1998 is approximately $2.77 per gallon, but recent geopolitical events have pushed prices well above this baseline:
- March 30, 2020: Lowest recorded price at $1.97/gallon (USD 0.52/L) during global demand collapse
- June 6, 2022: Peak price at $5.49/gallon (USD 1.45/L) amid post-pandemic supply constraints
- August 2023: Stabilized at $3.37/gallon (USD 0.89/L) as markets normalized
- April 27, 2026: Rose to $4.32/gallon (USD 1.142/L) due to U.S.-Iran tensions
- May 29, 2026: Current average of $4.29/gallon after slight moderation
- Crude oil price fluctuations on global markets
- Shipping and transportation costs to island infrastructure
- Federal and territorial taxes on fuel products
- Refining capacity constraints in the Caribbean region
- Geopolitical events affecting Middle East supply chains
The island's limited public transportation increases gasoline demand relative to population, creating inelastic consumption patterns that amplify price volatility.
Comparison to U.S. Mainland and Global Prices
Puerto Rico's gasoline prices consistently exceed the U.S. national average due to import dependency and maritime logistics costs. As of May 2026:
| Region | Regular Gasoline (USD/Gal) | Variance vs. Puerto Rico |
|---|---|---|
| Puerto Rico | $4.29 | - |
| U.S. National Average | $3.45 | -$0.84 (-19.6%) |
| World Average | $5.53 | ++$1.24 (+28.9%) |
| Florida (nearest mainland state) | $3.38 | -$0.91 (-21.2%) |
Puerto Rico's prices are 19.6% higher than the U.S. average but remain 22.4% below the global average, reflecting its unique position as a U.S. territory with island logistics constraints.
For executives and investors monitoring Caribbean energy markets, Puerto Rico's gasoline pricing serves as a leading indicator of supply chain resilience and regional fuel security dynamics within the broader LNG value chain ecosystem.
Key concerns and solutions for How Much Is Gasoline In Puerto Rico Today
How is gasoline price measured in Puerto Rico?
Gasoline prices in Puerto Rico are officially reported per liter by DACO, but consumers often convert to gallons using the standard U.S. measurement: 1 US gallon = 3.785 liters. To calculate price per gallon, multiply the per-liter price by 3.785.
Why is gas more expensive in Puerto Rico than mainland U.S.?
Gasoline costs more due to maritime shipping expenses, limited refining infrastructure on the island, higher distribution costs, and the Jones Act requirements for U.S.-flagged vessels transporting fuel. These factors add approximately $0.70-$0.95 per gallon compared to mainland states.
Which gas station brand is cheapest in Puerto Rico?
As of May 29, 2026, American Gas and ULTRA TOP FUEL offer the lowest regular gasoline at $1.077/L ($4.08/gallon), while Puma charges the highest at $1.117/L ($4.23/gallon) for regular.
Does DACO regulate gasoline prices in Puerto Rico?
Yes, the Department of Consumer Affairs (DACO) monitors retail fuel prices daily and ensures they remain within reasonable parameters. DACO publishes wholesale and retail price data for all major brands on its official website.
How do gasoline prices relate to LNG market dynamics?
While gasoline is refined from crude oil, LNG substitution trends in power generation and heavy transport indirectly affect regional fuel demand. Puerto Rico's energy transition toward LNG import terminals could reduce overall petroleum consumption long-term, potentially moderating gasoline price volatility.
