Gas Prices Reach $4 Per Gallon Nationwide

Rising fuel costs driven by global supply disruptions and geopolitical tensions

Mar. 31, 2026 at 9:39am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The average price of a gallon of gas in the United States has surpassed $4 for the first time in over 3 years, according to the American Automobile Association (AAA). This sharp increase in gas prices has been driven by a combination of global supply chain issues and geopolitical events, including the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil chokepoint.

Why it matters

High gas prices have a significant impact on consumer budgets and the broader economy, as transportation and fuel costs are a major component of household and business expenses. This latest spike in prices comes as many Americans are still recovering from the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, potentially creating additional financial strain.

The details

The national average gas price currently stands at $4.018 per gallon, up from just $2.98 a month ago. Prices vary significantly across different regions, with some states like California and Oregon nearing $5 per gallon, while others like Texas are closer to $3.67. The White House has responded by ordering releases from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve and temporarily lifting restrictions on higher ethanol fuel blends to increase supply.

  • On February 28, 2026, Operation Epic Fury began, contributing to the rise in global energy prices.
  • In June 2022, gas prices in the US first surpassed the $5 per gallon mark, just months after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
  • The current national average gas price of $4.018 per gallon is the highest seen since August 2022.

The players

American Automobile Association (AAA)

A non-profit organization that provides automotive and travel services, including monitoring and reporting on gas prices nationwide.

Karoline Leavitt

The White House Press Secretary, who stated that the administration is working to address the short-term fluctuations in gas prices.

Lee Zeldin

The Environmental Protection Agency Administrator, who announced waivers to allow the sale of higher ethanol fuel blends to increase supply.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“As for the temporary short-term fluctuation in gas prices, the president has said that once these combat operations are over, this administration is going to continue to unleash energy dominance.”

— Karoline Leavitt, White House Press Secretary

“This emergency action will provide American families with relief by increasing fuel supply and consumer choice.”

— Lee Zeldin, Environmental Protection Agency Administrator

What’s next

The White House has ordered 173 million barrels of oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve and is temporarily lifting restrictions on E10 and E15 gasoline, which will come into force on May 1 and remain in place until May 20. These actions are intended to increase fuel supply and provide relief to American consumers.

The takeaway

The sharp rise in gas prices nationwide is a significant economic challenge, driven by a combination of global supply chain disruptions and geopolitical tensions. While the White House has taken steps to increase fuel supply and provide temporary relief, the long-term stability of energy prices remains a key concern for policymakers and consumers alike.