Above-ground tanks can be appreciably cheaper, mostly due to increased inspection and maintenance requirements for underground tanks due to a history of leakage

Above-ground tanks can be appreciably cheaper, mostly due to increased inspection and maintenance requirements for underground tanks due to a history of leakage problems. That said, the price difference isn't big enough to justify the use of space (especially considering setback requirements) in urban environments. You will still find above ground tanks in newer gas stations in rural environments, though.