Why are Tulsa drivers paying more at the pump than Oklahoma City?

While gas prices across the country are lower than they were this time last year, Oklahoma drivers are noticing some local disparities—particularly between Tulsa and Oklahoma City. A growing number of drivers in Tulsa are raising concerns over why they're consistently paying more at the pump than those just a few hours away.

Drivers Speak Out

For Tulsa resident Jerry Callum, the price difference became clear during a recent trip down the turnpike.

“The gas prices are vastly different, anywhere from 10 to 15 cents,” Callum said. “Last week we were there on a Wednesday—it was like $2.41 in OKC, and here it was $2.89 when we got back.”

Callum isn’t alone. Charlie Brown of Broken Arrow shared a similar experience after a recent drive.

“It was, at the time, $2.60 a gallon [in OKC], and so I come back here and it was $2.85,” said Brown. “I’m going, well, that’s interesting.”

No Clear Market Explanation

To understand the price discrepancy, News On 6 reached out to Tom Seng, Assistant Professor of Professional Practice in Energy at Texas Christian University, who had a long career in the Oil & Gas sector.

Seng says the price gap isn’t likely due to differences in supply, demand, or transportation costs between the cities.

“I can't explain why there's a difference other than the retail outlets in the other areas and the prices that they choose,” Seng said.

He pointed out that Oklahoma City’s larger population might suggest higher demand, but that still doesn’t justify the higher prices in Tulsa.

“I don’t see that Oklahoma City has a logistics advantage,” he said. “Plus, given the metroplex, they have a higher demand. So it’s hard to come up with a reason—specifically—[why].”

Still Waiting for Answers

Some Tulsa residents are growing increasingly frustrated, asking why they’re paying more when no clear economic explanation is available.

“If we are paying considerably more than everyone else in the state, then I have to ask—why?” said Brown.

News On 6 reached out to QuikTrip, the dominant gas retailer in the Tulsa area, for comment on pricing differences. As of this report, the company has not provided a response.