Gas Prices Surge Across New York, Expected To Get Much Worse

Experts warn the spike in gas prices may just be getting started as tensions with Iran disrupt global oil supply.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Gas prices have surged across New York state, with the statewide average for regular gasoline jumping to about $3.16 per gallon, up sharply from around $3.00 just a week ago. Prices have spiked even higher in some areas, with stations in New York City already charging more than $4.00 per gallon. Analysts say the increases are being driven by escalating tensions involving Iran, which have disrupted oil tanker traffic through the critical Strait of Hormuz and sent crude oil prices climbing toward $100 per barrel.

Why it matters

The sharp rise in gas prices is putting a strain on New York drivers, especially as the spring travel season approaches. If tensions in the Middle East continue, experts warn that motorists across the state may soon see another 20 to 30 cent increase at the pump, further impacting household budgets.

The details

According to AAA, the statewide average for regular gasoline has jumped to about $3.16 per gallon, up sharply from around $3.00 just a week ago. In some areas, prices reportedly surged 9 to 10 cents overnight. On Long Island, gas is averaging about $3.07 per gallon, which is 21 cents higher than last week. In New York City, some stations are already charging more than $4.00 per gallon. Other regions are also seeing significant increases, with the Utica/Rome area averaging about $3.27 and drivers in Rockland County paying around $3.23 per gallon.

  • Just after the U.S.-Israeli attack on Iran last weekend, Gov. Kathy Hochul warned New Yorkers that she expects gas prices to rise because of the attack.
  • One major issue is escalating tensions involving Iran, which has disrupted oil tanker traffic through the critical Strait of Hormuz.

The players

Kathy Hochul

The governor of New York who warned that gas prices would rise due to the U.S.-Israeli attack on Iran.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

Analysts say if tensions in the Middle East continue, drivers could soon see another 20 to 30 cent increase at the pump.

The takeaway

The sharp rise in gas prices across New York is putting a strain on drivers, and the situation could get even worse if tensions with Iran persist, leading to further disruptions in global oil supply and additional price hikes at the pump.