8 Towns With the Cheapest Gas in Virginia

Often thought of as “the birthplace of a nation,” Virginia is home to some amazing sights. Whether you’re looking to get outdoors and explore, or whether you’d prefer to stay in the metro areas and take in the art scene, Virginia has something for you.

One of the best ways to get around this expansive state is by car. But in these times, road trips can be pricy! Scoping out the towns and cities with the cheapest-priced gas can be a great way to save a few bucks while you explore.

Gas prices in Virginia are well below the average price of American gas in the first place. In September 2023, the average gallon of gas in Virginia was about $3.57. The average gallon in the United States costs $4.00! This list will have you saving even more per gallon so that you can use your hard-earned cash on fun things, instead of gasoline.

There’s a lot to see in Virginia. Virginia’s home to loads of history, along with some absolutely beautiful outdoor sights. Head to the coast or move towards Washington D.C. as you adventure through the Old Dominion.

1. Danville

Danville is one of the cities in Virginia that offers, by far, the cheapest gas in the state. As of September 2023, you can expect to save about fifty cents on the state average. With prices of $3.09 per gallon, you can save quite a bit by filling a full tank in Danville!

Danville is a mid-sized city with a population of just over 40,000 residents, located right on the Virginia-North Carolina border. If you’re coming up to visit from Virginia from the southern states, Danville will be a great city to hit first!

If you’re looking to gain some knowledge on your road trip, Danville is home to some fantastic museums and learning centers. The Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History has a wide array of exhibitions and collections to view giving you ample opportunity to learn about the region. If you’d like to dive deeper into science, head to the Danville Science Center. This science center has loads of interactive exhibits, so if you’re traveling with young ones, it’ll be a perfect stop.

2. South Hill

East of Danville, still fairly close to the North Carolina border, you’ll find South Hill. South Hill is a small town with close proximity to some great excursions. Roll into town and fill your tank with gas at a price of $3.17 per gallon! While not quite as discounted as Danville’s gas, South Hill’s gas prices still beat the state and national averages by a lot.

South Hill has a population of just over 4,000 residents and a rich history. South Hill is known for its historical involvement in the tobacco industry and is still one of the largest producers in Virginia. While the town itself is fairly small, it’s in close proximity to some epic outdoor exploring.

Just under 20 miles away from South Hill is Buggs Island Lake. Buggs Island Lake spans 50,000 acres, and there are over 800 miles of shoreline to walk and explore. Also known as Kerr Reservoir, this lake offers a fantastic opportunity to cool off in some beautiful freshwater. Take your boat out or go for a swim in this spectacular water body just south of South Hill!

3. Emporia

Continue east from South Hill and you’ll drive right into Emporia, Virginia. Emporia is another small city, coming in with a population of just under 6,000. Gas in Emporia is $3.18 a gallon as of September 2023, providing great savings as you head toward the coastline of Virginia.

Despite its small size, Emporia has a big reputation! It’s known for being the hometown of iconic NASCAR brothers, Elliott and Hermie Sadler. These brothers grew up in Emporia and raced just twenty minutes out of town at the Southhampton Motor Speedway. Despite the reputation for speed on the track, Emporia is also known for speeding tickets so, as always, drive responsibly while you’re in town!

Truthfully, there’s not a lot else going on in the city of Emporia. But its location is perfect if you’re heading to Virginia Beach, or even if you’re about to head north to Richmond! Sometimes, all you need is a fill-up to make a stop worthwhile.

4. Midlothian

Heading north from our last few destinations, we reach the unincorporated area of Midlothian! Midlothian is in the suburbs of Richmond, Virginia, and is home to almost 70,000 residents. They have some of the best gas prices near Richmond, with gallons costing $3.19 a piece. If you want to check out the metro areas Virginia has to offer, definitely skirt through Midlothian on your way into town.

Midlothian has some phenomenal opportunities to get outside and stretch your legs. The Robious Landing Park is one of them, with spots to swim, hike, kayak, and more. The park is 102 acres and is an absolutely brilliant example of the beauty Virginia has to offer. For an outdoor excursion with a historical twist, hit the Mid-Lothian Mines and Railroad. This park was one of the first industrial sites in the United States. It’s now a wonderful preserve worth a stroll!

Midlothian is also home to a really epic climbing gym called Peak Experiences. Get on the ropes and learn a new skill! If you’re a seasoned climber, you’re sure to find some challenging routes at Peak Experiences. This place offers the best indoor climbing in Virginia, with routes appropriate for all levels.

5.Winchester

The city of Winchester is located near the northern Virginia-West Virginia border. If you’re heading north on your trip, you’ll certainly want to swing through Winchester and pick up some gas for $3.21 per gallon. At well below the national and state average, Winchester gasoline is sure to save you a few bucks.

Snuggled in the northern Shenandoah Valley, the city of Winchester has a lot to offer. The city has a population of just under 30,000 residents and a rich history to accompany it. George Washington’s Office is in Winchester! This office was set while Fort Loudoun was being constructed, and the space and its artifacts date back to 1755. It’s not often that you can stroll into the workspace of America’s original president.

Winchester also has a charming, fabulous downtown area. Old Town Winchester is home to quaint shops, fabulous restaurants, and like much of Virginia… history! The area is full of landmarks to explore. Old Town Winchester is also always hosting events, so check the city calendar before you come to town in case there’s something fun going on! Save a buck on a tank and spend it shopping in Old Town.

6. Stafford

Located right by the Potomac River, not far from Washington D.C., is Stafford, Virginia. This census-designated place is small in size but mighty in gas prices! With gallons for $3.30 apiece, Suffolk has some of the cheapest gas in this area of Virginia. Virginia locals know that the closer you get to D.C., the more expensive things get! So fill up your tank while you can!

Without a doubt, when you’re in Stafford, you need to head to Widewater State Park. Widewater is beautiful, expansive, and absolutely worth a trip. This park is over 1,000 acres in size and is home to some stunning views. No matter your preferred outdoor activity, you can certainly do it at Widewater! It’s a great place to fish, so expect to snag some catfish and bass!

If sitting back and relaxing is more your style, you need to check out the gorgeous Potomac Point Winery & Vineyard. For folks who can indulge in wine, Potomac Point is a total dream come true. This Tuscan-style is sure to transport you across the pond as you sip yummy beverages and look out over the vineyards. Potomac Point is what vacation is for!

7. Suffolk

The largest city on our list is Suffolk, Virginia. Suffolk is an expansive city with a population of almost 100,000 residents. It’s located on the eastern side of the state, near Norfolk and Chesapeake. With gas prices of $3.32, Suffolk can certainly save you a dime as you head towards the coast! Suffolk is in great proximity to fun nearby but has some wonderful things to offer within its city limits.

Suffolk is home to the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. This preserve spans over 110,000 acres and provides protection to hundreds of types of flora and fauna. Virginia was once covered with a massive swamp, and the Great Dismal Refuge is the largest portion still remaining to visit. The refuge protects American black bears and is also home to the rare Atlantic white cedar.

Suffolk also offers some great opportunities to learn about history. For some edible history, head to Planters Peanut Center. Planters Peanuts were born in Suffolk, Virginia! You can also stop by the Riddicks Folly house for a look at a home from the mid-1800s. You’ll have a lot to explore over the four floors of the home. See if you can spot all sixteen fireplaces!

8. Hudgins

Located in Mathews County, neighboring the Chesapeake Bay, is the unincorporated area of Hudgins. This little area isn’t home to much, but it does house some fantastic gas prices. For $3.35 a gallon, you’ll be able to fill your tank as you head to the Virginia coastline. Hudgins is situated around some Virginia highlights, so you’ll not want to miss this spot!

Head just a few miles north and you’ll hit Queens Creek Marina. This Hudgins marina is a perfect place to stroll around, taking in the beautiful sailboats from around the country who have parked here for the season. The marina is just off the Piankatank River, providing a great opportunity to take in the water nearby.

If you’re looking for a beach environment, you only need to drive a few miles south to Diggs, Virginia. A 15-minute drive will get you to the coast of the Chesapeake Bay, where you’ll find the stunning Haven Beach. Haven Beach is a hidden gem, offering uncrowded opportunities to bask in the beauty of the Virginia coastline.

Virginia is full of some beautiful things to explore. From parks to beaches to lakes, Virginia has it all. Not only that, Virginia is home to some of the most amazing historical sights in America. As one of the original colonies, Virginia holds a special place in the hearts of many.

Hop in your car, grab some cheap gas, and explore all that this incredible state has to offer.