(TestMiles) - In 2025, the landscape of fuel prices in the United States is set to remain a topic of heated debate and economic impact. Despite earlier political promises of sub-$2-per-gallon gas, industry experts predict the average price will stay comfortably above $3 per gallon. Let’s dive into the key factors shaping this forecast, what it means for Americans, and why we may never see the fabled “cheap gas” era again. What are the predictions for 2025? According to GasBuddy, a trusted source for fuel price analysis, the national average gas price in 2025 is expected to drop slightly to $3.22 per gallon—an 11-cent decline from 2024’s average of $3.33 per gallon. The trend marks the third consecutive year of declining prices since gas peaked at an eye-watering $5 per gallon in 2022. However, don’t celebrate just yet. Despite the modest drop, prices will remain stubbornly above the $3 threshold, dashing hopes for the kind of budget-friendly fuel many were promised during political campaigns. Why isn’t gas getting cheaper? Several factors play into this. For starters, historical data shows that while gas prices have been declining since 2022, the drop is gradual, reflecting broader market trends rather than a dramatic overhaul of the energy sector. Meanwhile, geopolitical factors and potential policy changes loom large over the market. President-elect Donald Trump’s proposal to impose a 25% tariff on imports from Mexico and Canada is a major wildcard. These tariffs could disrupt current forecasts, potentially leading to higher fuel costs. According to Patrick De Haan, GasBuddy’s Head of Petroleum Analysis, such policy moves could “negate anticipated savings for American consumers.” How does this impact American wallets? The good news is that Americans are projected to spend $115 billion less on fuel in 2025 compared to 2024. But before you rush to plan a road trip, remember that this figure is relative to previous years when prices were significantly higher. Moreover, while December 2025 is predicted to bring the year’s lowest gas prices at an average of $2.81 per gallon, experts warn against expecting these dips to last. Economic analysts highlight that achieving sub-$2-per-gallon prices would require either a seismic shift in global oil markets or aggressive domestic energy policies—neither of which appear on the horizon. Why are tariffs such a big deal? The proposed 25% tariffs on imports from neighboring countries could act as a wrench in the gears of fuel pricing. Mexico and Canada are major suppliers of crude oil to the U.S., and tariffs would likely increase costs for refiners, who would pass the added expense onto consumers at the pump. While proponents argue these measures could bolster domestic production, critics counter that they risk destabilizing the market and inflating prices across the board. Could gas prices drop below $2 again? In a word: unlikely. The combination of inflation, supply chain complexities, and the energy transition to renewables makes sub-$2-per-gallon prices more of a nostalgic memory than a realistic future. De Haan points out that while the market’s current trajectory supports moderate price declines, “we’re not heading back to the early 2000s.” What should drivers do? While the forecasts are largely positive for 2025, with GasBuddy predicting prices won’t exceed $3.50 per gallon at any point during the year, consumers are encouraged to stay vigilant. Policy changes, particularly tariffs, could still impact the market in unexpected ways. The Bottom Line As we head into 2025, the fuel price outlook offers a mix of optimism and caution. Yes, gas prices are trending downwards, but they’re unlikely to hit rock-bottom levels. For most Americans, the days of filling up for under $2 per gallon are firmly in the rearview mirror. Instead, it’s time to focus on the broader economic and policy factors that continue to shape the cost of fuel—and prepare for a future where even $3 per gallon might seem like a bargain.