Gas Prices in Banff and Canmore Up to 66 Cents Higher Than at Some Calgary Stations

With the weekend approaching, drivers travelling between Calgary and the Bow Valley could save considerably depending on where they fill up.

Regular gasoline prices were listed at 169.9 cents per litre at all eight gas stations in Banff and Canmore on GasBuddy at the time of publication on Thursday, Nov. 12.

The fuel price tracking platform collects price reports from users across Canada and the United States, prioritizing submissions made through its mobile app to improve accuracy.

Meanwhile, several stations in Calgary were reporting prices below 120 cents per litre, with Costco on Buffalo Run Boulevard listing the lowest price at 103.9 cents per litre.

Even outside the membership-based retailer, prices were considerably lower. A Domo station reported regular gasoline at 114.9 cents per litre, while several Esso locations reported prices of 117.9 cents per litre.

For drivers purchasing 50 litres of gasoline, here's how those prices compare:

The price gap comes as gasoline prices continue to fall nationally.

According to the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA), the national average reached 153 cents per litre on Nov. 12, down 23.5 cents from a month earlier and marking its lowest point in the past month.

Reported prices in Banff and Canmore were nearly 17 cents above that average.

What could be driving the price difference?

According to Natural Resources Canada, local competition, fuel sales volumes, operating costs and transportation expenses can all contribute to price differences between neighbouring communities.

Competition between retailers can drive prices down in some markets, while stations with lower sales volumes may need to charge more to cover operating costs. Those located farther from fuel suppliers may also face higher delivery expenses.

One factor that does not explain the price gap is Alberta's provincial fuel tax.

The Government of Alberta suspended its 13-cent-per-litre provincial fuel tax on gasoline and diesel on Oct. 1. The tax relief applies across the province and will remain in effect until at least Dec. 31, 2026.

While several factors can influence regional gasoline prices, the specific reasons behind the current gap between Calgary and the Bow Valley remain unconfirmed.

Drivers planning to travel this weekend should check for updated prices before heading out.

Gasoline prices reflect the latest available GasBuddy reports as of approximately 10:53 a.m. MST on Nov. 12, 2026. Prices are subject to change and may differ from those at the pump.