Gas Prices Inch Up Nationally, Remain Below $4 Per Gallon

The national average for a gallon of regular gas rose slightly last week after a steep March increase.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 12:27pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A minimalist abstract illustration using bold geometric shapes and primary colors to conceptually represent rising gasoline and diesel prices as an economic trend.As fuel costs climb, the economic ripple effects are felt across supply chains and household budgets.Washington Today

The national retail average for a gallon of regular gasoline increased by just a few cents over seven days after rising more than a dollar within three weeks. The national average on Monday was $3.990 per gallon, up 1 cent from the prior Sunday. Diesel prices also rose by just a penny, with the national average at $5.416 per gallon.

Why it matters

The rise in gas and diesel prices is driven by higher crude oil costs, which have surpassed $100 per barrel several times in recent weeks. This is leading to higher transportation and supply chain costs that could push up prices for goods across the economy.

The details

Prices began to rise sharply after the U.S. and Israeli attack on Iran on Feb. 28, which led to escalating tensions and military conflicts across the Middle East, where a large majority of global oil is sourced and distributed. The Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly 20% of global oil passes, was effectively closed off by Iran's military for several days.

  • The national average on Monday for a gallon of regular gasoline was $3.990, up 1 cent from Sunday's average.
  • The national average last Monday was $3.956.

The players

Donald Trump

The U.S. President who has threatened military action against Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The rise in gas and diesel prices is putting pressure on household budgets and supply chains, underscoring the economic impact of geopolitical tensions and the volatility of global oil markets.