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Gas Prices in Las Vegas Could Reach $5 Per Gallon Amid Iran War
Rising fuel costs could impact tourism and the broader economy in the region.
Mar. 12, 2026 at 9:50pm
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Las Vegas Valley gasoline prices have hit their highest mark in nearly two years, with the potential for $5 per gallon prices approaching as the war in the Middle East continues to affect the oil market. Experts warn that the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which is responsible for moving a fifth of the world's oil, could drive prices even higher in the coming weeks.
Why it matters
Rising gas prices could hurt Las Vegas' tourism-based economy, as travel costs increase for both drivers and airlines. The spike in prices also comes at the start of spring break season, when more drivers typically hit the roads. Higher fuel costs will likely lead to increased costs for goods and services across the region as the impact trickles down through the economy.
The details
The average price for a gallon of regular unleaded gas in Southern Nevada on Thursday was $4.46, the most expensive fuel has been in the Las Vegas Valley since May 2024. Experts predict prices could rise another 10 to 25 cents in the near future, with the potential to reach $5 per gallon if the situation in the Middle East does not change. The price for a barrel of U.S. crude oil jumped back to $100 per barrel on Thursday, with the potential to move toward $150 a barrel as the Strait of Hormuz remains closed.
- On March 2, GasBuddy lead petroleum analyst Patick De Haan said gas prices in Las Vegas could increase as high as 60 cents per gallon by the end of the month.
- Ten days later on March 12, gas prices have already increased by 76 cents per gallon.
The players
Patrick De Haan
GasBuddy lead petroleum analyst who predicted rising gas prices in Las Vegas.
Donald Trump
The former U.S. president who has not indicated an end is in sight to the war with Iran.
Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei
The new supreme leader of Iran who warned of retaliatory strikes and said the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed.
John Treanor
AAA spokesman who commented on the impact of rising crude oil prices on what drivers pay at the pump.
What they’re saying
“It's solidified that the sky could be the limit. Because there's been a doubling down on both Trump's side and the new Ayatollah, signaling that they're going to continue this maximum pressure campaign to push prices up. You could see five bucks in Vegas if things don't change; we're going to head closer to that number.”
— Patrick De Haan, GasBuddy lead petroleum analyst (Las Vegas Review-Journal)
“Gasoline demand increases this time of year as the weather warms up and more drivers hit the road. Crude oil prices play a major role in what drivers pay at the pump, and prices have surpassed the $100/barrel mark multiple times in recent days.”
— John Treanor, AAA spokesman (Las Vegas Review-Journal)
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This situation highlights the significant impact that geopolitical tensions and disruptions to global oil supply can have on everyday consumers, with rising gas prices potentially leading to increased costs for goods, services, and travel across the Las Vegas region.
