# Map: US gas price disparities across states West Coast states struggle with highest prices nationwide. - **Source:** [Business Insider](https://www.businessinsider.com) - **Published:** 2026-07-20 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/12847259-6cc0-4905-ac78-55a3aff18eb3 ## Gas price volatility US gas prices have fluctuated significantly this year. The national average rose from $2.98 per gallon in late February to over $4 by March end. After peaking at $4.50 in mid-May, prices retreated to $3.70 in July but have recently spiked again due to renewed tensions. ## Regional price map Business Insider's interactive map reveals stark regional disparities. West Coast states like California, Hawaii and Alaska face the highest prices, while central states like Oklahoma and Kansas maintain relatively lower costs despite the nationwide surge. ## Global supply chain pressures Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and Ukrainian attacks on Russian refineries are disrupting global oil supply. This critical waterway, which carries 20% of world's oil, directly impacts US pump prices through market psychology and actual supply constraints. ## Seasonal fuel blend transition The annual switch to more expensive summer fuel blends coincides with recent Midwest refinery outages, creating a perfect storm for price hikes. Great Lakes region has been particularly affected by localized supply tightness. ## US production paradox Despite being the world's top oil producer, US prices remain subject to global market forces. Experts note record exports are diverting domestic supply, illustrating how integrated the oil market has become in the era of free trade. ## Consumer impact Rising prices disproportionately affect West Coast residents. Analysts warn prices may climb further as summer travel demand peaks and geopolitical risks persist, potentially slowing discretionary consumer spending in affected regions. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.businessinsider.com/map-compares-gas-price-state-us-2026-5 — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._