The average price of gasoline in the United States has climbed to 3.70 dollars per gallon, the highest level recorded since April 2024, according to the most recent data published by the American Automobile Association (AAA).
The rise reflects the increase in the price of oil in international markets in recent weeks, in a context of high geopolitical tension in the Middle East and of volatility in global energy markets.
According to AAA's daily indicator, which compiles prices from thousands of gas stations nationwide, the national average price of regular gasoline stood around $3.69-$3.70 per gallon, consolidating a rebound that has accelerated since late February.
Oil pressure and seasonal factors
The increase occurs in parallel with the rebound in crude oil prices in international markets. Brent Crude Oil, the global oil benchmark, has registered strong fluctuations in recent weeks given the risk of interruptions in energy supply from the Middle East.
To this factor are added seasonal elements typical of the US market. In spring, refineries begin to produce the so-called summer gasoline blend, required by environmental regulations and more expensive to produce, which usually causes temporary increases in consumer prices.
In addition, the start of the spring holiday period and the increase in road mobility raise the demand for fuel in several states.
Rapid rise in a few weeks
The rebound has occurred rapidly. At the end of February, the national average price of gasoline was below 3 dollars per gallon, while in just a few weeks it has exceeded 3.60 dollars, reaching the vicinity of 3.70 dollars currently.
The regional differences remain significant. States like California or Washington maintain prices much higher than the national average, while in oil-producing regions in the center of the country the cost of fuel continues to be significantly lower.
Impact on consumption and inflation
The rising cost of fuel once again places the price of gasoline at the center of the economic debate in the United States. The evolution of this indicator is especially sensitive for American households and usually has a direct impact on the perception of inflation and on consumer spending.
The evolution of the conflict in the Middle East and the stability of the global oil supply will be determining factors to know if gasoline in the United States continues to rise or manages to stabilize in the coming weeks.