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Kansas Today
By the People, for the People
Gas Prices Surge 50 Cents Per Gallon Across U.S.
Experts warn prices could reach $4 per gallon within a month amid Middle East tensions.
Published on Mar. 9, 2026
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The average price of a gallon of regular gas has risen 50 cents across the U.S. since President Trump attacked Iran over a week ago, with the national average now at $3.478 per gallon. Experts say prices could easily rise another 50 cents before the end of the month if the conflict in the Middle East continues, with the national average potentially reaching $4 per gallon.
Why it matters
The surge in gas prices is being driven by disruptions to oil production and transportation in the Middle East, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil chokepoint. This is impacting fuel costs for consumers and businesses across the country, potentially slowing economic activity.
The details
According to data from AAA, the price of a gallon of regular gas has risen 49.8 cents on average since February 26, two days before the U.S. and Israel launched strikes on Iran. The price of diesel has jumped even more sharply, rising 23.6% to $4.66 per gallon. California currently has the highest average gas price at $5.20 per gallon, followed by $4.63 in Washington state and $4.21 in Nevada. Prices have risen the most in states like Indiana, Florida, Michigan and Ohio, with increases of 55-58 cents per gallon.
- On February 26, the average price of regular gas was $2.98 per gallon.
- As of Monday, March 9, the average price had risen to $3.478 per gallon.
The players
Donald Trump
The President of the United States, who has attacked Iran over the past week, contributing to the surge in gas prices.
AAA
The automotive organization that tracks and reports on gas prices across the United States.
Patrick De Haan
A petroleum analyst at GasBuddy who has provided estimates on how high gas prices could rise in the coming weeks.
What they’re saying
“These ships should go through the Strait of Hormuz and show some guts, there's nothing to be afraid of. (The Iranians) have no navy, we sunk all their ships.”
— Donald Trump (Fox News)
“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”
— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)
What’s next
Finance ministers from the Group of Seven nations spoke on Monday to discuss the possible release of emergency oil reserves in an attempt to stabilize prices, but reportedly there was 'broad consensus' to hold off for now.
The takeaway
The surge in gas prices across the U.S. is a direct result of the ongoing tensions and conflict in the Middle East, particularly the disruption of oil production and transportation through the critical Strait of Hormuz. This is having a significant economic impact on consumers and businesses, and could slow economic activity if prices continue to rise.
