South Carolina Gas Prices Have Dropped

The statewide average price fell by 21 cents per gallon this week as costs trended downward across the country.

Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Oil and Gas

Isometric editorial illustration of a heavy metal fuel nozzle resting on a concrete base, representing state fuel market adjustments. — South Carolina drivers experienced a 21-cent decrease in average gas prices this week, falling to $3.87 per gallon as national markets stabilize. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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South Carolina drivers are seeing relief at the pump, with average gas prices decreasing by 21 cents per gallon this week to reach $3.87. This state-level decline surpasses the national average, which saw a 12.5 cent drop to $4.30 per gallon over the same period.

Why it matters

The drop reflects broader market adjustments as refineries near the Strait of Hormuz work to restore product movement, contributing to a nationwide decline in prices. While costs have fallen in 48 states, the current averages remain significantly higher than they were one year ago.

South Carolina gas prices currently average $3.87 per gallon, reflecting a 21-cent weekly decrease drawn from 3,028 surveyed stations. This follows a national trend where 150,000 monitored stations showed an average of $4.30 per gallon.

The details

Local prices in South Carolina ranged from a low of $3.23 per gallon on Sunday to a high of $4.99 per gallon, creating a $1.76 gap across the state. Despite the recent weekly drop, the statewide average remains 15 cents higher than last month and $1.12 above price levels recorded one year ago.

One year ago served as the reference point for the annual price comparison.
One month ago served as the reference point for the monthly price comparison.
The lowest gas price of $3.23 was recorded on Sunday.
The national average of $4.30 was calculated as of Monday.
Price fluctuations are expected to continue into next week in some regions.

Market Landscape

This downward price trend follows the supply volatility patterns established by the 2026 Strait of Hormuz refinery supply disruption. As global infrastructure struggles to normalize, the market remains reactive to production capacity in key energy transit zones.

Drivers should note that although prices are trending downward, they remain significantly higher than they were a year ago. Regional variations mean that motorists may still encounter temporary price hikes at specific stations even as the general statewide trend continues to decline.

The takeaway

While the current 21-cent drop provides immediate relief for household budgets, price volatility remains a factor due to global supply chain constraints. Consumers are encouraged to compare local prices, as the wide $1.76 spread between the lowest and highest rates demonstrates that significant savings are still possible with strategic refueling.