Gasoline prices in the United States surged to record levels during the Labor Day weekend, according to a report by CNBC. The national average price reached $4.1474 per gallon on September 4, 2026, as reported by AAA, marking the highest ever for this holiday period. This increase surpasses the previous record of $3.82 per gallon set in 2012. The rise in gasoline prices is attributed to crude oil prices hovering around $90 per barrel, with ongoing volatility in the Strait of Hormuz contributing to the pressure on prices. Diesel prices have also reached unprecedented levels, with a national average of $5.8500 per gallon.
Key Takeaways
- The record-high gasoline prices appear to suggest increased demand and potential supply constraints.
- Market pricing implies that participants view the current situation as potentially leading to new highs in crude oil prices.
- The upward trend in gasoline and diesel prices is consistent with scenarios where global oil demand increases and supply challenges persist.
What to Watch
Market participants are closely monitoring the developments in the Strait of Hormuz, as any disruption could further affect oil prices. Key actors such as OPEC’s Mohammad Sanusi Barkindo and Saudi Arabia’s Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud may influence future pricing through production decisions. As the market approaches the September 30 deadline, any geopolitical tensions or changes in oil supply could significantly impact the likelihood of crude oil reaching an all-time high.
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Disclosure: This article was edited by Estefano Gomez. For more information on how we create and review content, see our Editorial Policy.

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