Gas Price Inflation: What You Pay at the Pump (2015–2026)
Track gas price inflation from 2015 to 2026. See how gas prices have changed, what drives prices at the pump, and historical gas price data from the EIA.
Last updated: · Data through September 4, 2026
Gas prices are the most visible inflation indicator right now. AAA put the U.S. regular average near $4.15/gal on Labor Day weekend 2026 — the first Labor Day ever above $4, and about 36% above our January baseline. Diesel hit an all-time record at $5.85/gal the same day. See the Gas Prices by State map, Diesel by State Ranked, Gas Prices Since Iran, and our Labor Day / diesel record posts.
The Gas Pump Index: 2015–2025
U.S. regular unleaded gasoline, annual average price per gallon
Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA)keepingupwithinflation.com
Then (2020)
$2.19/gal
Now (2025)
$3.22/gal
Change
+47%
Gas Prices Since Iran: Jan–Sep 4
U.S. regular unleaded national average at each 2026 snapshot (Jan → Sep 4)
Source: AAA Daily Fuel Gauge / Keep Up With Inflation state gas datasetkeepingupwithinflation.com
Then (Jan 2026)
$3.06/gal
Now (Sep 4, 2026)
$4.15/gal
Change
+36%
Gas Prices: 2019 to Today
From $2.60/gallon in 2019 to $3.95 in 2022 (peaking at $5.02 in June) to $3.22 in 2025. The correction has been meaningful but prices remain well above pre-pandemic levels.
What Drives Gas Prices
Crude oil costs (50-60%), refining margins (15-20%), federal and state taxes (15-20%), and distribution (5-10%). Geopolitical events, hurricane season, and seasonal driving demand all cause short-term swings.
The Outlook
Record U.S. domestic production (13+ million barrels/day), tepid global demand, and early EV adoption are structural tailwinds. But OPEC cuts and geopolitical risk remain wild cards.
Related Statistics
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