Gas prices drop 8 cents in Akron, up slightly in Cleveland

GasBuddy addresses potential impacts after attacks in Iran

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Gasoline prices in Akron have dropped by 8.7 cents per gallon over the past week, bringing the average to $2.80. However, prices in Cleveland have seen a slight increase of 0.5 cents, now averaging $2.87 per gallon. The national average price has risen by 5.6 cents to $2.94 per gallon. GasBuddy's head of petroleum analysis, Patrick De Haan, warns that prices are likely to face heightened upward pressure due to seasonal trends and the evolving geopolitical landscape following the recent U.S.-Iran attacks.

Why it matters

Fluctuations in gas prices can have a significant impact on consumer spending and the overall economy. The potential for further instability and supply disruptions in the wake of the U.S.-Iran attacks adds an element of uncertainty that could lead to higher prices at the pump.

The details

According to the data from GasBuddy, the average gas price in Akron has dropped by 8.7 cents per gallon over the past week, now standing at $2.80. In contrast, the average price in Cleveland has seen a slight increase of 0.5 cents, bringing the city's average to $2.87 per gallon. The national average price has risen by 5.6 cents to $2.94 per gallon.

  • The gas price data is current as of March 2, 2026.

The players

Patrick De Haan

The head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy.

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What they’re saying

“The national average price of gasoline has climbed for a fourth straight week, driven primarily by seasonal tightening and broader market dynamics.”

— Patrick De Haan, Head of petroleum analysis (GasBuddy)

“Looking ahead, markets will now begin reacting to this weekend's U.S.–Iran attacks, which have elevated geopolitical risk premiums even in the absence of immediate supply disruption. Oil prices have firmed as traders assess the potential for further escalation, and while fundamentals such as inventories and refinery activity remain important anchors, the risk of broader instability— particularly involving key transit routes— has injected fresh uncertainty into energy markets.”

— Patrick De Haan, Head of petroleum analysis (GasBuddy)

“In the week ahead, gasoline prices are likely to face heightened upward pressure as seasonal trends continue and markets navigate this evolving geopolitical landscape, with the national average poised to reach the $3-per-gallon mark for the first time this year.”

— Patrick De Haan, Head of petroleum analysis (GasBuddy)

What’s next

Analysts will continue to monitor the situation in the Middle East and its potential impact on global oil supplies and prices. Consumers may want to consider adjusting their driving habits and budgets to prepare for the possibility of higher gas prices in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

The recent attacks in Iran have added an element of uncertainty to the energy markets, which could lead to higher gas prices for consumers in the near future. However, the underlying fundamentals of supply and demand, as well as seasonal trends, will continue to play a significant role in determining the direction of gas prices in the weeks and months ahead.