Is Gas Always More Expensive in Western Colorado?

Living in Colorado ain't cheap, and neither is driving across it. Most of us have asked out loud, "Why is gas always more expensive in Western Colorado?"

Read More: Colorado's Steepest Roads: Grades Up To 12% Challenge Drivers

Western Slope residents know we get the shaft when it comes to gas prices in the Centennial State. When was the last time you looked at a map of gas prices by county? Well, get ready.

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Why Does Gas Cost More on the Western Slope?

At the end of April 2025, WTI crude oil is priced at $62.79 per barrel. It was $80 last August. So gas prices should be falling, right? Well, they seem to be. In every place but Western Colorado. Blue counties are all below the $

April gas price comparisons at Gasbuddy.com show prices under $3 a gallon in Denver, Colorado Springs, and Pueblo. Prices remain well over $3 for cities like Grand Junction, Rifle, Glenwood Springs, and Salt Lake City.

If the gas were closer, we would not have to pay so much for it. Refineries in Texas and North Dakota are farther away from Western Colorado, and crossing the mountains to deliver gas West of the Rockies only adds to the cost at the pump. Lower population numbers on the Western Slope can mean less competition. Fewer gas stations mean less leverage on prices.

Saving On Gas in Western Colorado

Apps that help you find cheap gas can go a long way to save you money, especially during the summer months when Coloradans are on the go even more.

• GasBuddy App: Users can search by location, filter by cheapest stations, and even get price predictions. You can earn points for reporting prices and enter daily prize drawings.
• Upside App: Offers cash back at certain gas stations when you check in and pay with a linked card. It’s stackable with rewards cards or store loyalty programs.

Read More: The Story Behind Grand Junction's Lettered and Numbered Roads

Local Gas Loyalty Programs Worth Checking Out

Sinclair’s DINOPAY App: Save up to $0.10 per gallon when paying through the app at Sinclair's throughout the Rockies.

City Market Fuel Points (Kroger): Earn fuel points by shopping at City Market and redeem them at participating Shell or City Market Fuel Centers.

Maverik Adventure Club Card: Save $0.02 per gallon instantly, and earn points on every purchase that can be redeemed for fuel or snacks.