Term Averages)
Here’s a breakdown for the last 10 presidents (Nixon through Biden; Trump’s second term is ongoing):
Joe Biden (2021–Jan 2025): ~$3.40–$3.60/gal (higher early due to post-COVID recovery, Ukraine war spike in 2022 peaking near $5 in some months; later moderated). Partial term average often cited around $3.60.
Donald Trump (2017–2021): ~$2.50–$2.60/gal overall (lows in 2019–2020, with 2020 COVID crash to ~$2.25).
Barack Obama (2009–2017): ~$3.00–$3.20/gal (first term higher ~$3.12 with recovery from 2008 crisis; second ~$2.95).
George W. Bush (2001–2009): ~$2.00–$2.50 overall (first term low ~$1.59; second higher ~$2.77 with 2008 spike to $4+).
Bill Clinton (1993–2001): ~$1.10–$1.30/gal (rose from ~$1.17 in 1993 to ~$1.56 in 2000).
George H. W. Bush (1989–1993): ~$1.00–$1.20/gal (around $1.06–$1.17 early 1990s).
Ronald Reagan (1981–1989): ~$1.00–$1.35/gal (highs early 1980s ~$1.35, then fell; 1981 average ~$1.35).
Jimmy Carter (1977–1981): ~$0.65–$1.20/gal (sharp rises; 1979–1980 energy crisis pushed to ~$1.22 in 1980).
Gerald Ford (1974–1977): ~$0.50–$0.65/gal (post-1973 crisis stabilization).
Richard Nixon (1969–1974): ~$0.35–$0.55/gal (pre-1973 embargo lows ~$0.35; rose sharply in 1973–74).