Gas Prices Surge Past $4 a Gallon in 18 States

Seven more states are within 10 cents of crossing the $4 threshold, raising concerns about the impact on consumers.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 6:52pm

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An abstract illustration composed of overlapping triangles and rectangles in shades of blue, gray, and green, conveying the complex, interconnected nature of rising fuel costs and their broader economic impact.As gas prices surge across the U.S., the economic ripple effects are felt by consumers and businesses alike.Washington Today

Gas prices have spiked by more than $1 a gallon in 30 states over the last month, with 18 states now averaging over $4 per gallon for regular gasoline. California, Hawaii, and Washington remain the only states where the average price has crossed $5 per gallon. Seven additional states are within 10 cents of the $4 mark, including Vermont, Indiana, Rhode Island, North Carolina, Maine, West Virginia, and Kentucky.

Why it matters

The sharp rise in gas prices is putting a significant strain on household budgets, particularly for lower-income families who spend a larger portion of their income on transportation costs. This could lead to reduced consumer spending in other areas of the economy, potentially slowing economic growth. The price hikes also raise concerns about the impact on businesses that rely heavily on transportation, such as logistics and delivery companies.

The details

The national average for a gallon of regular gasoline currently sits at $4.081, up from $3.981 a week ago. California has the highest statewide average at roughly $5.89 per gallon, just 11 cents shy of its record high. Hawaii is close behind at $5.503 per gallon, 12 cents away from its previous record. Oregon is the most expensive state outside of California and Hawaii, with an average of $4.961 per gallon. The price increases are largely driven by the rising cost of crude oil, which accounts for about half the price at the pump.

  • Gas prices have spiked by more than $1 a gallon in 30 states over the last month.
  • The national average for a gallon of regular gasoline currently sits at $4.081, up from $4.064 yesterday and $3.981 a week ago.

The players

AAA

A non-profit organization that provides automotive and travel services, including monitoring and reporting on gas prices nationwide.

Jeff Lenard

Vice president at the National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS), a trade group representing gas station and convenience store owners.

Patrick De Haan

Head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, a company that provides real-time gas price information and analysis.

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What they’re saying

“If I was selling a house today, I'd be beholden to whatever the housing market is. That's the same for gas station owners. Whatever the price of oil and gasoline are, they are a price taker, not maker.”

— Patrick De Haan, Head of petroleum analysis

“After expenses, stations may keep roughly 15 cents per gallon.”

— Jeff Lenard, Vice president

What’s next

Analysts will continue to monitor the situation closely, as further increases in gas prices could have significant economic implications. Policymakers may consider measures to provide relief to consumers, such as temporary tax cuts or subsidies, though the long-term solution likely lies in addressing the underlying factors driving the price hikes.

The takeaway

The rapid rise in gas prices across the country is putting a significant financial strain on households and businesses, raising concerns about the broader economic impact. While gas station owners have little control over the prices they charge, the situation highlights the vulnerability of the U.S. economy to fluctuations in the global energy market.