The national average gasoline price reached a record $4.056 per gallon in August 2026, exceeding the 2022 record of $3.940. Americans spent an additional $10.51 billion on gasoline compared with August 2025, according to gas analyst Patrick De Haan. All states have experienced higher prices since the war in Iran began months ago, while the 15 states with the largest increases since Feb. 28, 2026, include six in the Rockies and four in New England. The article says distance from major refining locations and higher transportation costs likely contributed to the regional impact. President Donald Trump met oil executives on Tuesday and sought more oil from Venezuela as oil prices rose following news of new United States attacks on Iran. De Haan predicts Labor Day will bring further gasoline price records, with no major easing in sight. Consumers are reducing spending on groceries and restaurant meals and visiting Costco and Sam's Club more often for discounted fuel. The United States Oil Fund (USO), an oil-price-linked exchange-traded fund, rose 5.3% to $140.75 on Tuesday.