US Gas Prices Near $4 Average
AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough, File
Gas prices across the United States are climbing rapidly and are approaching the $4-per-gallon mark nationwide. On Thursday, AAA reported the national average for regular gasoline at $3.88 per gallon. That figure has risen by nearly a dollar in roughly a month and marks the highest national average since 2022, according to Newsweek.
Energy analysts believe the upward trend may continue. Patrick De Haan of GasBuddy estimates there is about a 90 percent chance the national average will reach $4 per gallon before the end of the month.
Several factors are driving the surge. The ongoing conflict involving Iran, disruptions affecting the Strait of Hormuz, and crude oil prices moving above $100 per barrel have all contributed to higher costs. Seasonal demand from spring travel is also adding pressure.
The increase presents a challenge for President Trump, who has pledged to reduce the cost of living for Americans, including fuel prices. Rising gas costs could also influence political dynamics as the country heads toward this year’s midterm elections. As Axios noted, many Americans may view the price at their local gas station as a visible measure of how the conflict involving Iran is unfolding.
Vice President JD Vance addressed the issue earlier this week, describing the spike in fuel prices as “a temporary blip.” President Trump has also downplayed concerns about the increase. Earlier this month he said that if prices rise, they are likely to fall quickly once the situation stabilizes.
Gas prices have increased in every state. California currently has the highest average price, with drivers paying about $5.62 per gallon.
In response, the administration has announced measures intended to reduce pressure on fuel markets. These include plans to release 172 million barrels of oil from the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve and a 60-day waiver of the Jones Act to make it easier to transport fuel by sea.
Officials maintain that the price spike should be short-lived. However, analysts say the outlook will largely depend on whether shipping through the Strait of Hormuz returns to normal. The situation in the region remains tense. On Wednesday, President Trump warned that the United States could destroy a major Iranian gas field in response to an attack on infrastructure in Qatar.
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