North Carolina Gas Prices Surge 80 Cents in a Month

Experts warn of further price hikes as conflict in the Middle East continues to impact fuel supply.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 3:20am

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North Carolina's average gas price has jumped nearly 80 cents in the past month, reaching $3.52 statewide and $3.55 in Raleigh, according to AAA data. Experts from GasBuddy predict prices could rise another 10 cents by the end of the week as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East disrupts global fuel supply. Local businesses and drivers are feeling the financial strain, with one roofing company employee reporting spending $300 on gas in just the past week.

Why it matters

Rising gas prices have a ripple effect on the broader economy, impacting the costs of shipping, groceries, and other consumer goods. The continued conflict in the Middle East, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, is a key driver of these price hikes, which experts warn could persist for at least a month even after the situation stabilizes.

The details

According to GasBuddy petroleum specialist Matt McClain, the conflict with Iran is the primary factor driving up gas prices in North Carolina and across the U.S. He stated that there is no relief in sight yet, as prices are expected to jump another 10 cents by the end of the week. Local businesses like the Berkley and Jensen roofing company are feeling the impact, with one employee reporting spending $300 on gas in just the past week due to the price surge.

  • The average gas price in North Carolina is currently $3.52, up nearly 80 cents from a month ago.
  • Raleigh's average gas price is $3.55 as of March 17, 2026.

The players

Matt McClain

Petroleum Specialist at GasBuddy.

Jacob Sutter

Employee at Berkley and Jensen roofing company.

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What they’re saying

“We're not going [to see a drop in gas prices] until the Strait of Hormuz is somehow magically reopened and that's the problem we have at hand.”

— Matt McClain, Petroleum Specialist

“I would like it to go down.”

— Jacob Sutter, Roofing Company Employee

What’s next

McClain warns that even when the Strait of Hormuz situation stabilizes, it will take at least a month for gas prices to start dropping again.

The takeaway

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East is having a significant economic impact on North Carolina residents and businesses, with gas prices surging nearly 80 cents in just one month. This highlights the vulnerability of the U.S. fuel supply to global geopolitical tensions and the need for greater energy independence and diversification.