Gasoline and Diesel Prices Rise as Spring Break Demand Increases

National average gas prices are climbing as the spring break travel season begins, with increased demand putting upward pressure on fuel costs. As of March 18, 2026, the AAA national average for regular gasoline is $3.842 per gallon, up from $3.790 yesterday and $3.578 a week ago. Diesel fuel is also more expensive, averaging $5.068 nationally.

Current Fuel Prices

Here’s a breakdown of current average prices for various fuel types:

• Regular Gasoline: $3.842
• Mid-Grade Gasoline: $4.337
• Premium Gasoline: $4.705
• Diesel: $5.068
• E85: $3.036

Regional Price Variations

Gas prices vary significantly across the United States. As of today, prices range from a low of $3.231 to a high of $5.561 per gallon. Some state averages include:

• Vermont: $3.682
• New Jersey: $3.746
• Delaware: $3.733
• District of Columbia: $3.941
• Hawaii: $5.024

Historical Price Data

The highest recorded average price for regular unleaded gasoline was $5.016 on June 14, 2022, while diesel reached a peak of $5.816 on June 19, 2022. Trading Economics provides historical gasoline price data.

Factors Influencing Prices

Rising pump prices are attributed to higher gas demand as spring break travel ramps up. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), gasoline is the largest single volume refined product sold in the United States, accounting for almost half of national oil consumption.

Recent Market Updates (March 16, 2026)

Data from March 16, 2026, shows the following wholesale and retail prices:

• WTI Crude Oil: $93.39 (down 5.2%)
• Brent Crude Oil: $101.04 (down 2.1%)
• NY Harbor Gasoline (RBOB): $2.99 (down 1.6%)
• Gulf Coast Gasoline (RBOB): $2.95 (down 2.0%)
• U.S. Average Regular Gasoline: $3.79 (up 3.1%)
• U.S. Average Diesel: $5.04 (up 2.1%)

Looking Ahead

Gas prices are expected to remain volatile in the coming weeks, influenced by factors such as crude oil prices, refinery utilization rates, and consumer demand. Continued monitoring of market conditions is crucial for both consumers and industry stakeholders.