Gas prices across Southwestern Pennsylvania surged again this week, landing just below the $4-per-gallon mark and squeezing motorists already contending with higher living expenses.

AAA East Central attributes the sharp increase mainly to the ongoing conflict in Iran, which has disrupted global oil markets and sent crude prices soaring. Roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route off Iran’s coast. With tankers facing delays or blockages there, supply chains have tightened worldwide.

Before the conflict began in late February, crude oil averaged between $65 and $70 per barrel. That figure has since jumped to between $95 and $100 per barrel, representing a $26 increase. Historically, the highest recorded price for crude oil was $147 per barrel in July 2008.

Crude oil typically accounts for 50% to 60% of the price of a gallon of gasoline, meaning that any spike in global oil costs has a near-immediate effect at the pump.

Other Factors Behind Rising Prices

AAA analysts also point to two seasonal contributors to the current price hike: increased travel during spring break and refineries switching to summer-blend gasoline.

The travel surge traditionally bumps up fuel demand, while summer gasoline blends cost more to refine because they require additives that reduce evaporation in warmer weather. This seasonal blend change generally adds between five and seven cents per gallon, though regional variations exist.

Prices Across Southwestern Pennsylvania

In the Pittsburgh metro area, the current average price for regular fuel sits at $3.798 per gallon, up four cents from Monday and nearly 60 cents higher than a month ago. A year ago, the local average was $3.455. The region’s record high remains $5.054, reached in June 2022.

County-level AAA data show Beaver County leading the region with the highest current average at $3.811, followed closely by Butler, Allegheny, Washington, and Fayette counties. Westmoreland County ranks just below that group with an average of $3.783. Indiana and Armstrong counties remain slightly lower, both averaging in the mid-$3.70s.

Statewide, Chester County tops Pennsylvania’s price chart at $3.832 per gallon. The state’s record high, also recorded in June 2022, stands at $5.071.

Pennsylvania vs. National Averages

According to AAA, gas prices in Pennsylvania and nationally are nearly aligned. The statewide average for regular fuel stands at $3.758, compared with the national figure of $3.790. Both numbers are significantly higher than a month or year ago, reflecting a consistent upward trend tied to global market instability and seasonal demand.

Looking Ahead

Forecasting the direction of fuel prices remains difficult. Much will depend on how long the conflict in Iran continues and whether additional supply disruptions occur. Historically, spring and early summer bring price increases regardless of global events, but analysts say this year’s spikes are especially sharp.

As part of an effort to ease pressure at the pump, President Donald Trump recently authorized the release of 172 million barrels of oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve — a move designed to boost supply and help stabilize market prices.