Gas Prices Rise in Texas as Iran Conflict Escalates

AAA reports national average gas price climbs to $3.25 per gallon amid global tensions and seasonal shifts.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Texans are likely to see a rise in gas prices as the ongoing conflict involving Iran continues to rattle global energy markets. According to AAA, the national average for regular gasoline has climbed to $3.25 per gallon, with the statewide average in Texas reaching $2.87 per gallon. Factors behind the increase include rising crude oil prices due to geopolitical tensions and the seasonal switch to summer-blend gasoline as demand increases for spring road trips.

Why it matters

The rise in gas prices can have a significant impact on consumers' budgets and the broader economy, as transportation costs are a major component of household and business expenses. The situation highlights the vulnerability of energy markets to global conflicts and the importance of energy security and diversification.

The details

AAA spokesperson Daniel Armbruster noted that Iran holds a significant position in the global crude oil market, and crude oil is the main component used to produce gasoline. The increase in crude oil prices, coupled with the seasonal shift to summer-blend gasoline and rising demand for road trips, are the primary drivers behind the rise in gas prices across the United States, including in Texas.

  • As of Thursday, the national average for regular gasoline was $3.25 per gallon.
  • The statewide gas price average in Texas is $2.87 per gallon for regular unleaded fuel.

The players

AAA

A non-profit organization that provides travel, automotive, and insurance services, and is a prominent source of information on gas prices and driving trends.

Daniel Armbruster

A spokesperson for AAA Texas, providing insights on the factors driving the rise in gas prices in the state.

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What they’re saying

“Drivers are beginning to see gas prices move higher, and there are a few factors behind the increase. Crude oil prices are rising amid geopolitical tensions overseas, and that's putting upward pressure on gas prices. At the same time, we're entering the time of year when refineries switch to summer-blend gasoline and demand begins to increase as more people take spring road trips.”

— Daniel Armbruster, Spokesperson, AAA Texas (statesman.com)

What’s next

As the conflict involving Iran continues to evolve, energy experts will closely monitor the impact on global crude oil prices and the subsequent effect on gas prices in Texas and across the United States.

The takeaway

The rise in gas prices in Texas highlights the vulnerability of the state's and the nation's energy markets to global conflicts and the importance of energy security and diversification to mitigate the impact of such disruptions on consumers and the broader economy.