Fuel prices in the 10 states with the highest concentration of Dominicans in the United States continue to rise, putting pressure on the family budgets of more than 2 million compatriots. According to data from the American Automobile Association (AAA), which updates daily figures via the Oil Price Information Service (OPIS), the national average reflects tensions due to geopolitical conflicts and seasonal demand.
New York and northeastern states lead costs
In New York, home to 848,560 Dominicans, regular gasoline costs $4.18 per gallon, premium $5.05, and diesel $5.91. New Jersey (380,143 Quisqueyan residents) records $4.08, $4.86, and $5.66 respectively. These fuel prices have risen by about 17% since February, driven by tensions in the Middle East, according to recent reports.
Variations in the South and other key states
- Florida (312,604 Dominicans): regular 3.94, premium 4.72, diesel 5.30.
- Pennsylvania (191,094): 4.16, 4.96, 5.96.
- Texas (44,807): the lowest at 3.68, 4.51, and 4.97.
- North Carolina (39,464): 3.88, 4.71, 5.55.
Others such as Connecticut (65,132), Massachusetts (183,910), and Rhode Island (68,937) range between 4.04 and 5.11 for gasoline, with diesel above 5.80. The Institute of Dominicans Abroad (INDEX) confirms 2,134,651 Dominicans in these states, many of whom are vehicle owners.
Economic context and increased cost of living
The monthly cost to maintain the 2020 standard of living has climbed from $5,100 to $6,400 towards the end of 2025, an increase of $1,300 in essentials such as transportation, according to the Department of Labor and the Center for American Progress. In cities like New York, drivers pay about $20 extra per month, although public transportation mitigates the impact. Historically, similar peaks were seen in 2022 due to the war in Ukraine, and experts foresee stability if tensions with Iran cease.
These fuel prices not only affect Dominican families, but the DR also imports 83% of its hydrocarbons from the US, which links both economies. The value of imports reached $1.163 billion in the third quarter of 2025. Dominicans abroad face this daily reality, adjusting family budgets in the face of persistent energy inflation.
In summary, fuel prices in these 10 states set the tone for the Dominican diaspora, demanding constant vigilance from those who depend on cars to work and live.
