U.S. gas prices surge past $4 mark, reaching 4-year high

• U.S. gas prices top $4 per gallon for first time since 2022 amid Middle East conflict and supply disruptions.

For the first time since the summer of 2022, American drivers are facing a national average gas price of over $4 per gallon. According to data released by AAA on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, the average price for regular-grade gasoline has hit $4.02, marking a significant psychological and economic milestone for the nation.

The current average is now higher than at any point during President Donald Trump’s two terms, surpassing the previous peaks seen during his administration.

Middle East Conflict Drives Spikes

The primary catalyst for the recent surge is the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Since the outbreak of hostilities involving the U.S., 'Israel', and Iran in late February, global energy markets have been in a state of high volatility.

Key developments affecting the pump include:

• Rapid Gains: Prices have climbed by approximately $1 per gallon in just the last month.
• Strait of Hormuz Disruption: Market analysts point to the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for one-fifth of the world’s oil supply, as the main driver behind skyrocketing crude costs.
• Oil Benchmarks: U.S. crude oil (WTI) settled above $100 per barrel on Monday for the first time in nearly four years, while global benchmark Brent crude crested at $113 last week.

Historical Context

The last time Americans saw prices this high was in August 2022, following the global energy crisis triggered by Russia's invasion of Ukraine. While the all-time record of $5.01 set in June 2022 has not yet been reached, experts warn that continued instability could push prices toward those levels as the summer driving season approaches.

Economic Ripples

The $4 average is expected to weigh heavily on consumer spending. Economists warn that higher transportation costs will likely trickle down into the price of groceries and other delivered goods, adding fresh pressure to domestic inflation.

"The national average is just that—an average," noted a AAA spokesperson. "In many parts of the country, particularly on the West Coast, drivers have already been paying well over $4.50 for weeks. Seeing the national number cross this line signals a broad, nationwide impact."

As of Tuesday morning, state-level averages ranged from under $3.60 in parts of the Gulf Coast to over $5.20 in California and Washington.