As Memorial Day weekend approaches and Florida gas prices hit four-year highs for the holiday period, motorists in the Chipley area can still find relative bargains within an easy drive.
Florida’s statewide average for regular unleaded currently sits at approximately $4.47 per gallon, while Alabama’s average is lower at about $4.17. Local options near Chipley and across the state line in Dothan offer noticeable savings for those willing to travel 30–70 minutes.
The top deals in the region are concentrated at membership-based warehouse clubs and a handful of discount stations. The lowest reported prices right now appear at Sam’s Club locations:
- Panama City Sam’s Club (1707 W 23rd St, Panama City, FL — roughly 50–70 minutes/48–53 miles from Chipley): Regular unleaded at $3.93/gallon (Plus members only; actual pump prices may vary slightly). Diesel is listed around $4.88. The station operates 6 a.m.–10 p.m. daily, with Scan & Go payment options and additional perks for Plus members, including 5% back in Sam’s Cash on qualifying gas purchases with the Sam’s Club Mastercard. samsclub.com
- Dothan Sam’s Club (3440 Ross Clark Cir, Dothan, AL — approximately 40–50 minutes/32–34 miles from Chipley): Recent reports place regular unleaded around $3.97/gallon (membership required). This remains one of the strongest cross-border options for Washington County residents. samsclub.com
In Chipley proper, prices cluster higher but still beat the state average in several cases. The Murphy USA at 1623 Main St (adjacent to Walmart) frequently ranks among the cheapest local options, with recent reports showing regular unleaded near $4.09. Other nearby stations, including Marathon (around 1303 Jackson Ave) and Tom Thumb/Orange Hill Express locations, have been reported in the $4.09–$4.19 range recently.
DeFuniak Springs (Walton County, about 40–50 minutes/39 miles away) has historically offered competitive pricing in the Panhandle, though specific current station-level data is limited in real-time reports. Walton County has previously posted some of the region’s lowest averages.
Key factors and advice for drivers:
- Membership clubs deliver the biggest savings but require a Sam’s Club or similar membership. Non-members will pay more at the pump or may not have access.
- Cash vs. credit and app checks matter — Many stations offer cash discounts, and real-time prices fluctuate hourly. Apps like GasBuddy, the AAA Gas Price Finder, or station-specific tools remain the best way to confirm the latest figures before heading out.
- Drive time vs. savings — A 40–60 minute round trip to Dothan or Panama City could save 40–50 cents per gallon compared with local Chipley averages, which is worthwhile for full-tank fill-ups or multiple vehicles.
- Broader context — Prices have risen in recent weeks due to seasonal demand, refinery maintenance, and global factors. Florida’s average has climbed noticeably heading into the holiday weekend.
Residents are encouraged to fill up early, compare prices via apps, and consider combining trips with errands in Dothan or Panama City to maximize efficiency. For the most accurate information, check GasBuddy or AAA resources directly, as posted prices can change quickly. Safe travels this holiday weekend!
