Generally, those in Southern states consumed more gas while those in the Northeast and West utilized less gas.

Montana maintained the highest gas sales at 1.9 gallons per person per day in 2021. It was followed closely by Wyoming (1.7 gallons), with Louisiana, Kansas, and Rhode Island rounding out the top five (1.5 gallons).

Montana and Wyoming, neighboring states in the U.S. mountain region, have similarities contributing to higher gas consumption. They are two of the nation's least densely populated states, with above-average rates of commuting by car and a lower prevalence of remote work. EVs remain unpopular, and charging infrastructure is sparse. Public transit usage ranks in the bottom 15 nationwide, according to U.S. News & World Report—as it does for Louisiana and Kansas. The latter two states also have extremely low gas prices, likely contributing to higher sales rates.

Rhode Island stands out among the high-consumption states as a small, densely packed state with decent transit ridership. Relatively low gas prices may contribute to increased usage.

Meanwhile, several other Northeastern states saw the lowest gas sales per capita: Washington D.C., New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Massachusetts, states with high population density and high ridership rates on robust public transportation systems. What's more, the average income of residents in these states is higher than national averages, making it more feasible to purchase newer, more fuel-efficient cars and EVs. Plus, with shorter travel distances and relatively dense—and expanding—EV charging infrastructure in these metro areas, typical drawbacks of EVs, such as a limited driving range or lack of charging stations, aren't as relevant.

Compounding factors, including density, public infrastructure, gas prices, and average income, affect gas use across geographies. Continued advancements in fuel-efficient transportation technology and the adoption of alternative-fuel vehicles like EVs will likely continue chipping away at gas consumption in years to come.

This story features data reporting and writing by Paxtyn Merten and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 50 states and Washington D.C.