Chicago Drivers Frustrated by High Gas Prices as Oil Futures React to Strait of Hormuz Closure

Uncertainty over the conflict in the Middle East keeps gas prices elevated, impacting commuters and household budgets.

Apr. 20, 2026 at 12:58am

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A geometric abstract illustration using bold shapes and primary colors to represent the rising cost of gasoline and its impact on the economy.As the price of gas continues to climb, Chicago drivers struggle to balance their budgets and commuting needs.Chicago Today

Drivers in the Chicago area are feeling the strain of high gas prices, with many only filling up about half their tanks due to the frustration. The national average gas price is just below $4.05 per gallon, while in Illinois it's $4.31. Oil futures are rising in response to the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil chokepoint, with no clear resolution in sight. U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright warned that gas prices may not fall below $3 per gallon until next year.

Why it matters

The high gas prices are impacting household budgets and spending habits across the Chicago region, forcing drivers to make difficult choices about their commutes and other expenses. The uncertainty over the situation in the Middle East is contributing to volatility in the global oil market, which directly affects consumers at the pump.

The details

Some Chicago drivers have been limiting their fill-ups to about half a tank due to the high gas prices. The national average gas price is just below $4.05 per gallon, while in Illinois it's $4.31. Oil futures are rising in response to the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil chokepoint, with no clear resolution in sight. U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright warned that gas prices may not fall below $3 per gallon until next year.

  • On Sunday, U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright warned that gas prices may not go below $3 a gallon until next year.
  • On Sunday, oil futures were rising in reaction to the Strait of Hormuz remaining closed with no clear path ahead for a resolution.

The players

Chris Wright

The U.S. Energy Secretary who warned that gas prices may not go below $3 a gallon until next year.

Trac

An Indiana resident who was forced to fill up some gas in Chicago, where prices are much higher than she's used to across state lines.

Abraham Velezquez

A Chicago resident who said the high gas prices are already impacting his own spending habits and causing him to work more.

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What they’re saying

“I think I'm gonna have to start riding my horse or a bike, because we can't afford to keep driving at these prices. Hopefully we'll make it back to Indiana and fill up the rest there.”

— Trac, Indiana Resident

“The mortgage is already high and you got bills to pay, kids need to go to college, so need to take care of all those bills, and it makes it hard for everyone.”

— Abraham Velezquez, Chicago Resident

What’s next

The U.S. and global leaders will continue to monitor the situation in the Strait of Hormuz and work towards a resolution that could help bring down oil and gas prices.

The takeaway

The high gas prices in the Chicago area are putting a significant strain on household budgets, forcing drivers to change their commuting and spending habits. The uncertainty over the conflict in the Middle East is a major factor contributing to the volatility in the global oil market, and it may take until next year before drivers see relief at the pump.