Gasoline Prices Surge: National Average Hits $4.08 Amidst Monthly Hikes
Gasoline prices across the United States have increased over the past month, with the national average for regular gas reaching $4.08 per gallon. Seven specific states recorded the most substantial monthly price hikes, while other states continue to report the highest overall per-gallon costs. A commodity specialist forecasts potential further increases by the Memorial Day holiday weekend, a period typically associated with increased road travel.
National and State Price Increases
According to data compiled by AAA, the national average price for a gallon of regular gasoline increased by $1.08 over the past month, reaching $4.08 per gallon.
The states experiencing the most significant monthly increases in regular gas prices include:
- Utah: +$1.46 per gallon
- Arizona: +$1.37 per gallon
- Florida: +$1.35 per gallon
- Idaho: +$1.30 per gallon
- Kentucky: +$1.27 per gallon
- Nevada: +$1.24 per gallon
- Tennessee: +$1.23 per gallon
Highest Absolute Prices
Despite the recent increases across these states, the highest absolute prices for a gallon of regular gas continue to be observed in other regions.
These states include:
- California: $5.89
- Hawaii: $5.55
- Washington: $5.37
- Oregon: $4.97
Future Outlook and Public Sentiment
Bob Yawger, a commodity specialist at Mizuho Securities, stated:
"Delays in resolving the energy situation could lead to gas prices potentially reaching $4.50 or $5 per gallon by the Memorial Day holiday weekend."
Memorial Day is scheduled from May 22 through May 25 this year and typically marks the beginning of the summer driving season, a period when many Americans travel by road.
A CNN poll indicated that 76% of Americans disapprove of President Trump's handling of gas prices.