Gas prices across the United States jumped by 9 cents overnight, pushing the national average to $4.39 per gallon on Friday, according to AAA. This marks the highest level since the summer of 2022 and represents a 33-cent increase from just a week ago. The surge is driven by ongoing conflict between the U.S. and Israel against Iran, which has disrupted global oil markets.
Highest Gas Prices by State
California, traditionally the state with the highest fuel costs, saw prices soar to $6.06 per gallon on Friday, AAA data shows. Following closely are Hawaii at $5.64, Washington at $5.61, Oregon at $5.21, and Nevada at $5.15. Even states accustomed to cheaper gas experienced sharp increases, with Indiana rising by $1.06 to $4.80, Ohio climbing 94 cents to $4.83, and Michigan up 88 cents to $4.86.
Midwest Refinery Issues Exacerbate Price Hikes
The Midwest has been particularly hard hit, with refinery problems compounding the price surge. Patrick DeHaan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, noted on X that Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin have all reached 2026 highs. The national average had fallen to $2.82 in December, the lowest in nearly five years, but has steadily climbed since the war with Iran began 60 days ago.
Impact of Iran Conflict on Oil Markets
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of global oil is shipped, has been a key factor. Oil prices surged past $100 per barrel after the U.S. attacked Iran on February 28, pushing gas above $4 for the first time in nearly four years. A brief ceasefire announcement by President Donald Trump on April 7 caused oil prices to plummet, but prices rebounded as the administration weighed further strategies.
Mixed Messages from the White House
President Trump has offered conflicting statements on fuel costs. In early March, he told Reuters he was unconcerned about rising prices, stating the war was "far more important than having gasoline prices go up a little bit." By mid-April, he claimed prices were "not very high" despite remaining above $4. On Thursday, he predicted that once the war ends, gas prices will "drop like a rock."
