Gas Prices Surge Past $5 Per Gallon in Boston

Drivers feel the pinch as conflict in Middle East disrupts fuel supply

Apr. 7, 2026 at 10:04pm

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An abstract geometric illustration using bold red, orange, and gray shapes to symbolize the rising cost of gasoline and its economic impact on the state.Soaring fuel costs strain Massachusetts households and businesses as the war overseas disrupts global energy markets.Boston Today

Gas prices in Boston have reached record highs, with one Mobil station charging over $5 per gallon for regular and diesel nearing $6.70. The average price in Massachusetts has increased by $1.04 per gallon since the start of the conflict in the Middle East, and analysts warn prices could continue climbing in the coming weeks as the summer driving season approaches.

Why it matters

Rising gas prices have a ripple effect on the broader economy, driving up costs for everyday goods and services. Consumers are feeling the strain, and businesses may need to adjust pricing and operations to account for the higher fuel expenses.

The details

At a Mobil station in Boston's South End, regular gas was priced at over $5 per gallon, while diesel approached $6.70. One driver reported paying around $90 to fill up, compared to $50 previously. The average gas price in Massachusetts has increased by $1.04 per gallon since the start of the conflict in the Middle East, and analysts expect further increases as the summer driving season approaches and the region transitions to more expensive summer-blend gasoline.

  • The conflict in the Middle East began six weeks ago.
  • Prices are expected to continue climbing over the next few weeks.

The players

Alex Gomez

A driver who stopped to fill up at the Mobil station in Boston's South End.

Mark Schieldrop

A spokesperson for AAA Northeast, who provided analysis on the rising gas prices and their potential impact.

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What they’re saying

“I think I was filling up at around $50 and now I'm a little bit over $90 I guess. It's insane how these prices have gone.”

— Alex Gomez

“Prices are likely to continue climbing over the next few weeks, especially if the headlines about the war continue to show signs of increasing escalation.”

— Mark Schieldrop, AAA Northeast spokesperson

What’s next

Analysts will continue to monitor the situation in the Middle East and the impact on global oil supplies, which will determine if and when gas prices in Boston and across Massachusetts may stabilize or decline.

The takeaway

The surge in gas prices is putting a significant financial strain on consumers and businesses, highlighting the vulnerability of the economy to geopolitical conflicts and supply chain disruptions. As the summer driving season approaches, the rising costs could force some drivers to reconsider their travel plans and lead to broader economic adjustments.