Gas Prices Rise Again in Rhode Island and Massachusetts

Continued global tensions drive up costs at the pump, with no relief in sight

Mar. 30, 2026 at 7:51pm

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An abstract geometric illustration using bold shapes and muted colors to conceptually represent the rising cost of gasoline and the global factors impacting oil prices.Geometric visualization of the economic forces driving up gas prices across the region and nation.Providence Today

Gas prices in Rhode Island and Massachusetts have continued to rise over the past week, with the average price in Rhode Island going up by $0.06 and the average price in Massachusetts increasing by $0.07. This is part of a broader trend of rising gas prices across the United States, driven by ongoing geopolitical tensions and their impact on global oil markets.

Why it matters

Rising gas prices have a significant impact on household budgets and the overall cost of living, especially for lower-income families who spend a larger portion of their income on transportation. This trend also affects businesses that rely on transportation, potentially leading to higher prices for consumers.

The details

According to AAA Northeast, the combination of continued attacks on infrastructure across the Persian Gulf and Iran's grip on the Strait of Hormuz is raising prices of oil and gas both in the U.S. and around the world. While the pace of price increases has slowed slightly in some markets, oil and gas markets remain unsettled, and war and higher oil prices will ultimately continue to be the primary driver of prices at the pump.

  • As of March 30, 2026, the average gas price in Rhode Island went up by $0.06 over the last week.
  • As of March 30, 2026, the average gas price in Massachusetts went up by $0.07 compared to the previous week.
  • The national average gas price went up by $0.04 as of March 30, 2026.

The players

AAA Northeast

A regional branch of the American Automobile Association (AAA) that provides automotive, travel, and insurance services in the Northeastern United States.

Jillian Young

The Director of Public Relations for AAA Northeast.

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What they’re saying

“While the pace of price increases at U.S. gas pumps slowed in many markets last week — and some areas even saw slight declines of a penny or two — oil and gas markets remain unsettled. War and higher oil prices will ultimately continue to be the primary driver of prices at the pump.”

— Jillian Young, Director of Public Relations, AAA Northeast

What’s next

Analysts will continue to monitor the global oil market and geopolitical tensions that are driving up gas prices, with the expectation that prices at the pump will likely remain elevated in the near future.

The takeaway

The ongoing rise in gas prices is a significant burden on households and businesses, highlighting the need for long-term solutions to address the volatility of global energy markets and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Policymakers and industry leaders will need to work together to find ways to mitigate the impact of these price increases on consumers.