Gas Prices Rise Amid Mideast Tensions, But Remain Relatively Stable

National average for regular gas hits $3.45 per gallon, up 38 cents from a year ago

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Gas prices in the U.S. have risen in recent weeks due to escalating tensions in the Middle East, with the national average for regular gas reaching $3.45 per gallon as of March 8, 2026. This is about 38 cents higher than a year ago, but still well below the price spikes seen during previous crises like the 2022 Russia-Ukraine conflict. Experts say the large amount of oil in storage has helped prevent more dramatic price increases so far.

Why it matters

Rising gas prices can have a significant impact on consumer budgets and the broader economy, affecting everything from commuting costs to the prices of goods and services. However, the current price increases appear more moderate compared to past disruptions, suggesting the market may be better equipped to handle the situation in the Middle East.

The details

The national average price for a gallon of regular gas has risen by about 50 cents over the past week to $3.45, according to GasBuddy and AAA. This is 37-38 cents higher than a year ago. The highest prices are in California and parts of Washington state, reaching up to $4.48 per gallon, while the cheapest gas can be found in Eureka County, Nevada at under $2.32 per gallon. The price increases are attributed to the escalating conflict in the Middle East, where tensions between the U.S., Israel, and Iran have disrupted oil production and shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

  • On March 8, 2026, the national average price for a gallon of regular gas was $3.45.
  • Ten days ago, before the current conflict began, Brent Crude oil was trading at $64 per barrel. On March 8, it was at $107 per barrel.

The players

GasBuddy.com

A gas price tracking website that provides real-time data on fuel prices across the United States.

AAA

A non-profit federation of motor clubs that provides roadside assistance, travel planning, and other automotive-related services.

David Butter

An energy expert on the Middle East at the Chatham House think tank.

Robin Mills

The chief executive of Qamar Energy, a consulting firm in Dubai.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“From the way prices have moved, there seems to be a reaction in the market based on an expectation that things are going to wind down in a few weeks.”

— David Butter, Energy expert on the Middle East at the Chatham House think tank (LA Times)

“Given what's going on, it's surprisingly relaxed. And I would say it's incorrectly relaxed. This is far more serious, and the long-term consequences could be a lot worse, and yet the price has only gone up bit by bit.”

— Robin Mills, Chief executive of Qamar Energy (The Times)

What’s next

Experts will continue to monitor the situation in the Middle East and its impact on global oil production and prices. If the conflict escalates or drags on, gas prices could rise more sharply in the coming weeks and months.

The takeaway

While gas prices have risen in response to the tensions in the Middle East, the increases have so far been relatively moderate compared to past crises. This suggests the market may be better equipped to handle supply disruptions, though the long-term consequences of the conflict remain uncertain.