Most Americans Expect Even Higher Gas Prices: Survey

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A new Reuters/Ipsos survey shows that 67% of Americans anticipate gas prices will surge even higher in the U.S. over the next year, with another 12% expecting prices to stay the same. The national gas price average has already increased from $2.98 to $3.32 per regular gallon. These economic concerns come as the U.S. and Israel continue military operations against Iran, which have resulted in 7 U.S. service member deaths so far.

Why it matters

Rising gas prices and economic uncertainty are likely to be major factors in the upcoming midterm elections, with 62% of Americans already disapproving of President Trump's handling of cost of living issues. The survey also revealed a partisan divide on expectations for the duration of the military conflict with Iran.

The details

The Reuters/Ipsos poll found that 60% of respondents do not expect the U.S. military's involvement in Iran to end quickly, while 36% believe it will. This question showed a significant partisan divide, with 62% of Republican respondents saying the U.S. will end its involvement with Tehran quickly, compared to only 22% of Democrats. The president and the Pentagon have offered opposing views on the expected length of the conflict.

• The Reuters/Ipsos survey was conducted online from March 6-9, 2026.
• The national gas price average increased from $2.98 to $3.32 per regular gallon last week.

What they’re saying

What’s next

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