Gas Prices Surge in 20 States Amid Iran Conflict
The ongoing conflict in Iran has triggered a noticeable rise in gas prices across the United States. Since the hostilities commenced on February 28, 2023, gas prices have climbed over $3 per gallon in all 50 states. Analysts attribute the increase to disruptions in global oil supply, particularly through the critical Strait of Hormuz.
Gas Prices Surge in 20 States Amid Iran Conflict
According to AAA’s Fuel Price Tracker, gas prices nationwide have increased by an average of 31.03% over the past month. Comparisons between gas prices on February 18 and March 18 reveal significant hikes, especially in 20 states where price increases are outpacing the national average.
States Experiencing Major Increases
- South Carolina: Average price $3.53 (+32.6% from $2.66)
- Missouri: Average price $3.36 (+33.2% from $2.52)
- Minnesota: Average price $3.44 (+34% from $2.57)
- Wisconsin: Average price $3.42 (+34.4% from $2.55)
- Arkansas: Average price $3.31 (+34.7% from $2.46)
- Alabama: Average price $3.54 (+34.7% from $2.63)
- Florida: Average price $3.93 (+35.1% from $2.91)
- Iowa: Average price $3.35 (+36.9% from $2.45)
- Ohio: Average price $3.71 (+37.1% from $2.70)
- Georgia: Average price $3.73 (+37.5% from $2.71)
- Tennessee: Average price $3.55 (+37.8% from $2.58)
- Mississippi: Average price $3.44 (+38.2% from $2.49)
- Indiana: Average price $3.80 (+38.3% from $2.75)
- Colorado: Average price $3.83 (+38.6% from $2.76)
- Texas: Average price $3.54 (+38.9% from $2.55)
- Arizona: Average price $4.40 (+39.1% from $3.16)
- Louisiana: Average price $3.49 (+39.1% from $2.51)
- Oklahoma: Average price $3.24 (+41.2% from $2.29)
- Kentucky: Average price $3.66 (+41.4% from $2.59)
- New Mexico: Average price $3.79 (+45% from $2.61)
Notably, New Mexico has experienced the highest rise in gas prices, with an increase of 45%. The city of Las Cruces reported prices hitting $3.88 per gallon.
Historical Context
The current surge follows previously recorded highs in 2022, with prices reaching over $4.60 per gallon in several states. As the conflict in Iran continues, consumers remain vigilant about further fluctuations in gas prices, which heavily influence daily expenses and overall economic conditions.
