Missouri Gas Prices Jump Nearly 16 Cents Per Gallon

Global tensions and market forces drive up fuel costs in the Show-Me State

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Missouri drivers are paying significantly more at the pump as gas prices in the state rose nearly 16 cents per gallon this week, reaching an average of $2.68. This increase continues a trend that has pushed Missouri fuel prices nearly 16 cents higher than a month ago, with the national average also rising about 5 cents per gallon to $2.94.

Why it matters

The jump in gas prices is being driven by a combination of seasonal refinery patterns and global market forces, including concerns over key transit routes and broader instability in the Middle East following recent U.S.-Iran attacks. This is adding further cost pressures for consumers and the supply chain, with diesel prices also on the rise.

The details

According to GasBuddy's latest survey, the average price of gas in Missouri jumped from $2.52 per gallon a month ago to $2.68 this week, a nearly 16-cent increase. The national average also rose about 5 cents per gallon to $2.94. Experts say oil prices have firmed as traders assess the potential for further escalation of tensions in the Middle East, bringing "fresh uncertainty" to global energy markets.

  • Missouri gas prices averaged $2.85 per gallon in 2025.
  • Missouri gas prices averaged $2.99 per gallon in 2024.
  • Missouri gas prices averaged $3.00 per gallon in 2023.
  • Missouri gas prices averaged $3.43 per gallon in 2022.
  • Missouri gas prices averaged $2.49 per gallon in 2021.

The players

GasBuddy

A company that provides real-time gas price information and data to consumers and businesses.

Patrick De Haan

Head of Petroleum Analysis at GasBuddy.

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What they’re saying

“Looking ahead, markets will now begin reacting to this weekend's U.S.–Iran attacks, which have elevated geopolitical risk premiums even in the absence of immediate supply disruption.”

— Patrick De Haan, Head of Petroleum Analysis (GasBuddy)

“Oil prices have firmed as traders assess the potential for further escalation.”

— Patrick De Haan, Head of Petroleum Analysis (GasBuddy)

What’s next

De Haan expects upward pressure on gasoline prices to continue in the coming week, with the national average likely to reach $3 per gallon for the first time this year.

The takeaway

The jump in Missouri gas prices is being driven by a combination of seasonal refinery patterns and global market forces, including concerns over key transit routes and broader instability in the Middle East. This is adding further cost pressures for consumers and the supply chain, with diesel prices also on the rise.