American Automobile Association

Diesel prices in the U.S. rose to $5.34 per gallon in July 2026, nearing a record high due to geopolitical conflicts in the Middle East and supply shortages. The International Energy Agency warns fuel prices will likely continue to rise before stabilizing, while the Federal Reserve maintained steady interest rates amid market volatility.

Gas prices in Michigan increased eight cents since last week, averaging $4.23 per gallon, while metro Detroit saw a 13-cent rise to $4.22. Prices are up 98 cents from this time last year, with Ann Arbor, Benton Harbor, and Lansing reporting the highest averages, and Traverse City, Marquette, and Grand Rapids the lowest.

Gas prices in Michigan have dropped below $4/gallon for the first time since April, averaging $3.96 for regular unleaded fuel, down 14 cents from last week. Metro Detroit's average is $4.01, down 13 cents weekly but up 81 cents annually.

Chicago is preparing for its busiest Fourth of July travel period with 2 million airport passengers and 4.29 million Illinois road travelers. Air travel at O'Hare and Midway airports is projected to increase by 7%, while gas prices in Illinois are higher than last year, averaging $4.35 per gallon.

Michigan gas prices increased by 9 cents since last week, averaging $4.10/gallon for regular unleaded fuel. Prices are up 82 cents compared to this time last year, with a 15-gallon tank now costing $62 on average. Metro Detroit prices rose to $4.14/gallon, while areas like Marquette remain the cheapest at $3.72/gallon.

Metro Detroit drivers face higher gas prices compared to last year, deterring out-of-town travel for the Fourth of July. Prices have decreased slightly from Memorial Day levels but remain a financial burden, with experts citing refining issues, potential Midwest weather disruptions, and geopolitical factors like the Strait of Hormuz reopening as influences on future costs.

Over 2.6 million Michiganders are expected to travel at least 50 miles during the Fourth of July period (June 27-July 5), with most driving, marking a 1% increase from last year and setting a record. Gas prices in Michigan have risen to $4.15 per gallon, up 98 cents from this time last year, and AAA recommends leaving before noon to avoid congestion.

AAA projects a record 45 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles during Memorial Day weekend (May 21-25), with 39.1 million traveling by car. Heavy traffic congestion is expected between 3-6 p.m. on May 21-22 and 12-5 p.m. on May 25, with gas prices at their highest since summer 2022.

The average price of regular gas has exceeded $4 in all 50 US states and Washington, D.C., according to AAA. This surge comes as the US conflict with Iran approaches its three-month mark, causing oil and gas prices to spike due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The situation is affecting the oil industry significantly.

Georgia voters cite rising costs of groceries, gas, and housing as key factors influencing their voting decisions. Grocery prices increased 2.9% year-over-year, gas prices rose to $60.24 for a 15-gallon tank, and the Consumer Price Index has risen nearly 30% since April 2020. Voters report making difficult trade-offs between essentials like food, medicine, and fuel.

The average gas price in California rose to $6.06, the highest level in four years, with the national average hitting $4.39. Exxon and Chevron reported quarterly earnings declines despite soaring oil prices, while AAA noted a 27-cent national price increase this week.