At the time of this writing (May 2026) gas prices across the Ozarks range in price from about $3.60 per gallon to over $5.00 a gallon in outlying areas.
There is talk by President Trump and Governor Kehoe of cutting the gas tax this summer to make gasoline a little more affordable. So far, nothing has happened.
Prices on airfares, taxis, lawncare companies… everything, continue to rise.
It’s understandable that under the present circumstances drivers are tempted to go with the cheapest prices they can find.
The quality of gasoline in the Ozarks varies from station to station. If you always get your gas at the same place you probably know what to expect, but if you’re across town or out of town away from home and need a fill-up, beware the budget-friendly gas prices especially at convenience stores.
Quality control is not the same from station to station which can lead to poor quality fuel for your car. Problems range from rough idle and poor mileage to engine damage.
Not all stations use the same additive package and also the threat of water in your gas is very real, especially at older establishments.
When in doubt, stick with the manufacturer’s recommended grade of gas (87, 89, or 91 octane) and the higher quality fuels are found at name brand stations (Shell, Sinclair, etc.) generally, but look for a label saying “Top Tier” on the gas pump, whatever station you’re at.
Older vehicles, as well as lawnmowers, weed-eaters, tractors, and two-stroke engines will run best and last longest on the 91 octane “non-ethanol” gas. Your car or truck may not quite get the mileage you expect on ethanol mixed fuel.
Gasoline is your car or truck’s food, and for best performance and longevity, feed your vehicle with the best “food” you can afford. You really can’t afford not to.
Photo courtesy 93.3 KWTO)