American drivers faced one of the most expensive Labor Day holidays in recent years. The average price of regular gasoline in the United States reached $4.14 per gallon on the eve of the holiday, nearly $1 above that recorded in the same period in 2025 and well above the previous holiday record of $3.82, recorded in 2012, according to AAA. Diesel reached $5.85 per gallon, setting a new national record.
The main pressure on prices is related to the war between the United States and Iran, initiated after the February attacks. Since then, oil flow through the strategic Strait of Hormuz has plummeted, while Iran refuses to reopen the important maritime route for oil transport. Drone attacks on Russian refineries and reduced Chinese refinery production also contribute to tightening the global fuel supply.
The United States Secretary of Energy, Chris Wright, acknowledged that gasoline is more expensive than on Labor Day 2025, but stated that the government is working to reduce prices. According to him, futures contracts indicate a possible significant drop in the coming months. American refineries are operating near maximum capacity, while intense heat in Texas and the possibility of hurricanes may affect production and hinder a faster price drop.
The diesel increase may also cause indirect effects on family budgets. Trucks and goods transportation systems depend on the fuel, and the higher freight cost tends to be passed on to consumers at supermarkets and delivery services. Experts recommend that drivers research prices before filling up, as gas stations near interstate highways may charge 10 to 15 cents more per gallon than establishments located just a few minutes away.
